Jan 31 Sermon
One of the great struggles for many believers today involves self-esteem. Not the self-esteem or ego we see so prevalent today, but asking the question in our spirit of how well am I doing as a follower of Christ. But What I mean by this struggle we question what it means to be an effective and satisfactory believer as we walk day by day supposedly in faith? Maybe we are continually asking what do I need to be doing for and in the name of the Lord Jesus today? Perhaps as we compare ourselves with the godly men and women in the Bible, it always seems we are nowhere close to the examples of faith and dedication that they lived. Part of this may be because we do not really understand it is what God has done for us through the life, death , burial resurrection and ascension of the Lord Jesus. We may also be bombarded with what the world considers is essential for Christians to be doing, which causes confusion between that and the standard provided in the Bible. So today let’s see how Paul chose to encourage the Corinthian church in their walk of faith and perhaps that will give us insight for our own walk and provide a greater understanding of what God has done in us who now walk by faith and not by sight. (2nd Cor.5:7)
Let’s pray and ask God for the Holy Spirits leading and teaching as we seek to know the fulness of God’s salvation in our lives. God send your Holy Spirit to mine and direct our hearts Lord in your truth. Thank you for what you have done in Jesus for us. Amen
Read now from 2nd Cor. Chapter 5:13-21
13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not [d]imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and to our understanding and application -Amen
Let us begin with this understanding that those men and women God chooses to use in the Bible we read about were just plain, ordinary men and women until God came to them. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Ruth, Esther, Moses, Matthew, Mary, Paul, Timothy and the lot became extraordinary when God came to them. He made them extraordinary and He stimulated their faith. This is the same way He works in our lives today. Oh yes, many were of good character, but some were not. We have murderers, liars, prostitutes and all were sinners by nature who God came to and changed for His purposes. So you see that individual encounters with God changes everything.
So as we look at this Word, let’s parse the scripture and see what happens when God comes.
13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. The background preceding this verse is that the church at Corinth had some come apostate persons come in behind Paul since his last missionary journey and have been boasting about their credentials. They stated what Paul had been teaching was not true. Let us now being to refute this beginning in verse 13. Paul used this expression of almost insanity < beside ourselves > to describe himself as one dogmatically devoted to truth. In this way, he was answering his critics who claimed he was nothing more than an insane fanatic devoid of reason. <of sound mind>. The original word meant to be moderate, sober minded, and in control of one’s self. Paul‘s behavior modeled this among the Corinthians as he defended his integrity and communicated God’s truth.
So what motivated Paul to minister to these people? We get the answer when we look at verses 14 and 15. 14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
When Paul encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus and met the Living Christ, everything Paul had seen and believed to that point as a Jew and a Pharisee had been changed. The phrase the love of Christ is a reference to Christ’s love for Paul and all believers for all time which occurred at the cross. Christ’s loving, substitutionary death motivated Paul’s service to Jesus. Actually it compels him to serve. This refers to a pressure that creates and causes action in a person. Paul uses this phrase to emphasize the strength of his desire to offer his life to the Lord. One died for all. This phrase tells of Christ’s substitutionary death and here the preposition “for” indicates Jesus died “in instead of,” or “in place of” all sinners who would be saved. This truth is the heart of the gospel and is the doctrine of salvation. God’s wrath against sin required death of the sinner. Jesus took that wrath upon Himself at the cross and died in each sinner’s place. Thus He took away God’s wrath and satisfied God’s justice as the perfect sacrifice. <then all died.> Everyone who dies in Christ receives the benefits of His substitutionary death (see notes on Rom. 3:24–26; 6:8). Paul was overwhelmed with Christ’s love and was so amazed that Jesus would make him, the chief of all sinners, a part of the “all” who died in Him. So then in verse 15, Paul could no longer live for self as He was living, but had to live and serve the one who died for Him and rose again. The encounter on the road to Damascus proved to Paul the authenticity of the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, otherwise how could it be, unless God ordained and sanctioned it.
Now to verse 16, 16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. This radical transformation of heart and soul and mind and spirit, caused by the encounter with Christ, meant he could no longer look at things and people the way he had previously. He now had to look at others spiritually.
Verse 17 is the heart of this passage and we may have to park here to fully unfold this message of the assurance. Our assurance is in what Christ has done, and what He is continuing to do to fully mature you and I who believe and trust in Him. Now to verse 17, 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
I know we apply this verse repeatedly but if you need assurance of what God is doing it pays for us to parse this verse in depth.
“ in Christ.” These two words are a deep and wonderful statement of the inexhaustible supply and significance of a believer’s redemption. This statement “in Christ” encompasses the following:
1) a believer’s absolute security in Christ, who bore in His body God’s judgment against sin; <John 14:6, Christ is the only way> John 6:37, All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
2) a believer’s acceptance in Him with whom God alone is well pleased; <Resurrection and ascension of Jesus to the right hand of the Father- Hebrews 10:12, But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God,>
3) a believer’s future assurance in Him who is the resurrection and the eternal life and the sole guarantor of the believer’s inheritance in heaven; John 14: I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am ye may be also.
4) the believer’s participation in the divine nature of Christ, the everlasting Word (cf. 2 Pet. 1:4). new creation. This describes something that is created at a qualitatively new level of excellence. It refers to regeneration or the new birth, see (cf. John 3:5, born of water and the Spirit; Eph 2:4-10, 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
We are created by God and have been born again of the Spirit, transformed into new people. These words of Paul demonstrate the Christian’s forgiveness of sins paid for in Christ’s substitutionary death (cf. Gal. 6:15; Eph. 4:24). Now listen to this expression old things have passed away. After a person is regenerate, that is made new. The old value systems, priorities, beliefs, loves, and plans should be gone because you now have a spiritual nature which has been reborn-
Good news of great joy, you have been redeemed and have been changed by God. (Immanuel is in us) Evil and sin may still be present, but the transformed believer sees things differently. And this world should no longer control them. all things become. . . new. Notice the grammar and wording here. It indicates that this newness is a continuing condition and a fact of their new creation. The believer’s new spiritual perception of everything is a constantly with him, and he/she now lives for eternity, not earthly things. James identifies this transformation as a faith that produces works, see Eph. 2:10; for we are His workmanship both in you and because of you; and (James 2:14–25;) James writes in verse 24, 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.
The remainder of the passage is about the scope and depth of Christ’s reconciliation of men. And at Jesus’ ascension, He gave the great commission to go and make disciples of all nations to men and not to angels. And the delivery of the gospel to men is a further action of reconciliation and has become our ministry.
The biblical definition of reconciliation is, the overcoming of enmity <God’s hatred of sin>and alienation <separation caused by sin>, between God and man and is reflected in the restoration of peace between God and man. This only comes by salvation. So that is what we are to do. One final point – and the verse says it all 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Be assured Jesus is working in you. Amen
.
One of the great struggles for many believers today involves self-esteem. Not the self-esteem or ego we see so prevalent today, but asking the question in our spirit of how well am I doing as a follower of Christ. But What I mean by this struggle we question what it means to be an effective and satisfactory believer as we walk day by day supposedly in faith? Maybe we are continually asking what do I need to be doing for and in the name of the Lord Jesus today? Perhaps as we compare ourselves with the godly men and women in the Bible, it always seems we are nowhere close to the examples of faith and dedication that they lived. Part of this may be because we do not really understand it is what God has done for us through the life, death , burial resurrection and ascension of the Lord Jesus. We may also be bombarded with what the world considers is essential for Christians to be doing, which causes confusion between that and the standard provided in the Bible. So today let’s see how Paul chose to encourage the Corinthian church in their walk of faith and perhaps that will give us insight for our own walk and provide a greater understanding of what God has done in us who now walk by faith and not by sight. (2nd Cor.5:7)
Let’s pray and ask God for the Holy Spirits leading and teaching as we seek to know the fulness of God’s salvation in our lives. God send your Holy Spirit to mine and direct our hearts Lord in your truth. Thank you for what you have done in Jesus for us. Amen
Read now from 2nd Cor. Chapter 5:13-21
13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not [d]imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and to our understanding and application -Amen
Let us begin with this understanding that those men and women God chooses to use in the Bible we read about were just plain, ordinary men and women until God came to them. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Ruth, Esther, Moses, Matthew, Mary, Paul, Timothy and the lot became extraordinary when God came to them. He made them extraordinary and He stimulated their faith. This is the same way He works in our lives today. Oh yes, many were of good character, but some were not. We have murderers, liars, prostitutes and all were sinners by nature who God came to and changed for His purposes. So you see that individual encounters with God changes everything.
So as we look at this Word, let’s parse the scripture and see what happens when God comes.
13 For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. The background preceding this verse is that the church at Corinth had some come apostate persons come in behind Paul since his last missionary journey and have been boasting about their credentials. They stated what Paul had been teaching was not true. Let us now being to refute this beginning in verse 13. Paul used this expression of almost insanity < beside ourselves > to describe himself as one dogmatically devoted to truth. In this way, he was answering his critics who claimed he was nothing more than an insane fanatic devoid of reason. <of sound mind>. The original word meant to be moderate, sober minded, and in control of one’s self. Paul‘s behavior modeled this among the Corinthians as he defended his integrity and communicated God’s truth.
So what motivated Paul to minister to these people? We get the answer when we look at verses 14 and 15. 14 For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
When Paul encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus and met the Living Christ, everything Paul had seen and believed to that point as a Jew and a Pharisee had been changed. The phrase the love of Christ is a reference to Christ’s love for Paul and all believers for all time which occurred at the cross. Christ’s loving, substitutionary death motivated Paul’s service to Jesus. Actually it compels him to serve. This refers to a pressure that creates and causes action in a person. Paul uses this phrase to emphasize the strength of his desire to offer his life to the Lord. One died for all. This phrase tells of Christ’s substitutionary death and here the preposition “for” indicates Jesus died “in instead of,” or “in place of” all sinners who would be saved. This truth is the heart of the gospel and is the doctrine of salvation. God’s wrath against sin required death of the sinner. Jesus took that wrath upon Himself at the cross and died in each sinner’s place. Thus He took away God’s wrath and satisfied God’s justice as the perfect sacrifice. <then all died.> Everyone who dies in Christ receives the benefits of His substitutionary death (see notes on Rom. 3:24–26; 6:8). Paul was overwhelmed with Christ’s love and was so amazed that Jesus would make him, the chief of all sinners, a part of the “all” who died in Him. So then in verse 15, Paul could no longer live for self as He was living, but had to live and serve the one who died for Him and rose again. The encounter on the road to Damascus proved to Paul the authenticity of the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, otherwise how could it be, unless God ordained and sanctioned it.
Now to verse 16, 16 Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. This radical transformation of heart and soul and mind and spirit, caused by the encounter with Christ, meant he could no longer look at things and people the way he had previously. He now had to look at others spiritually.
Verse 17 is the heart of this passage and we may have to park here to fully unfold this message of the assurance. Our assurance is in what Christ has done, and what He is continuing to do to fully mature you and I who believe and trust in Him. Now to verse 17, 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
I know we apply this verse repeatedly but if you need assurance of what God is doing it pays for us to parse this verse in depth.
“ in Christ.” These two words are a deep and wonderful statement of the inexhaustible supply and significance of a believer’s redemption. This statement “in Christ” encompasses the following:
1) a believer’s absolute security in Christ, who bore in His body God’s judgment against sin; <John 14:6, Christ is the only way> John 6:37, All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
2) a believer’s acceptance in Him with whom God alone is well pleased; <Resurrection and ascension of Jesus to the right hand of the Father- Hebrews 10:12, But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God,>
3) a believer’s future assurance in Him who is the resurrection and the eternal life and the sole guarantor of the believer’s inheritance in heaven; John 14: I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am ye may be also.
4) the believer’s participation in the divine nature of Christ, the everlasting Word (cf. 2 Pet. 1:4). new creation. This describes something that is created at a qualitatively new level of excellence. It refers to regeneration or the new birth, see (cf. John 3:5, born of water and the Spirit; Eph 2:4-10, 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
We are created by God and have been born again of the Spirit, transformed into new people. These words of Paul demonstrate the Christian’s forgiveness of sins paid for in Christ’s substitutionary death (cf. Gal. 6:15; Eph. 4:24). Now listen to this expression old things have passed away. After a person is regenerate, that is made new. The old value systems, priorities, beliefs, loves, and plans should be gone because you now have a spiritual nature which has been reborn-
Good news of great joy, you have been redeemed and have been changed by God. (Immanuel is in us) Evil and sin may still be present, but the transformed believer sees things differently. And this world should no longer control them. all things become. . . new. Notice the grammar and wording here. It indicates that this newness is a continuing condition and a fact of their new creation. The believer’s new spiritual perception of everything is a constantly with him, and he/she now lives for eternity, not earthly things. James identifies this transformation as a faith that produces works, see Eph. 2:10; for we are His workmanship both in you and because of you; and (James 2:14–25;) James writes in verse 24, 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.
The remainder of the passage is about the scope and depth of Christ’s reconciliation of men. And at Jesus’ ascension, He gave the great commission to go and make disciples of all nations to men and not to angels. And the delivery of the gospel to men is a further action of reconciliation and has become our ministry.
The biblical definition of reconciliation is, the overcoming of enmity <God’s hatred of sin>and alienation <separation caused by sin>, between God and man and is reflected in the restoration of peace between God and man. This only comes by salvation. So that is what we are to do. One final point – and the verse says it all 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Be assured Jesus is working in you. Amen
.
Jan 22 Sermon
Do you have hope in your heart today? Is that why you came today to worship? Or do you really know why you came to join us in worship today? Maybe by the time we leave here today you will better understand the urgings of your heart which brought you here to meet, not with this pastor, or with these people you see among you; but to actually seek and hear from the God of Heaven, who made you and loves you and has sent His Son for you?
I ask you again do you have hope in your heart or what brought you to this place today? Some people believe hope is defined as some indistinct feeling or longing which claims some undefined future benefit because you believe in it. Now if that sounds like fuzzy thinking or logic, you are correct and you should not really depend upon it.
Now that is not the hope which a believer should have in their heart. We sing often –
My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus Christ, my righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
What might these words mean and so where does this hope come from which Christians believe by faith?
Well according to God’s Word -
Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Rom 10:17). His Word also says, God’s grace through Jesus Christ saves us - By Grace are you save through faith and that not of your own it is the gift of God not of works lets any man should boast (Eph 2:8-9). So by the grace of God and in the works of Jesus, He saves you and makes you part of His family which we call Christians.
Now the outcome of that decision to trust Jesus Christ, to the ones who have actually been born from above, not just those who say they are believers. But to those who actually have become true followers, He provides this definition of the transformation in Galatians Chapter 2 , verse 20, I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. This is downright direct and personal to everyone who has been born from above, or as we say been born again. We become transformed by the renewing power of the love of God and He puts the knowledge of His hope within us. 1 John 5:13 says, 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, [e]and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.
This is faith and this is the blessed hope which lives within us, given to us by God.
So the true believer’s hope, which lives within us, is not an indistinct, undefined and amorphous type of hope. It is a hope which trusts or has faith in the promises of the living God. Faith and hope in the one who sent His Son to save us and lives within us moment by moment and eternally through His Holy Spirit.
So what is it about this hope that we need to know about today? Well our hope is not amorphous, undefined and indistinct. Because of our hope in God which we have received our lives should be different and reflect the change God has made. His life in us should result in our behavior and attitudes being different
Let’s begin with a single verse of scripture to guide us which Paul wrote to the believers in Rome. Go to Romans 15:4 4 For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the [a]patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.
What is scripture? If you believe that it is the revealed, active, inspired word of God and that it is inerrant and infallible then you are on the right track. And if you believe that whatever things were written before were written for our learning, you are closer to the truth. But the purpose of the written word and the truths in the bible should lead us to “know” the Author and His Son that we might have hope in our God. Hope in Him not just for today, but for today, tomorrow and for eternity. The simple truth is God has a plan for your welfare in life and not for calamity, to give you a future and a hope. His way of doing that was to send His Son to make a payment which you and I as sinners could never pay and to put our trust in Him. He then produces hope in our lives. The Scriptures then give us a reference to lead and guide us onward.
His hope should produce fruit for our living.
Let’s examine this concept and see how God might instruct us concerning the hope which lives within us.
Lets’ begin our study in 1 Peter 3:14-16, 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 15 But [a]sanctify [b]the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
So according to Peter and he would know about suffering, he says the following:
a. even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. Wow you mean even in the midst of suffering for Christ for His righteousness sake I am blessed? That is correct. What a concept you are blessed when God calls you to suffer for His sake
b. do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled. Now this is a challenge for our hearts, but this is learning to walk in the will of God and having (Hope) (faith) (confidence) in the God who has called you. This is outrageous faith and walking in confidence in His truth.
c. sanctify the Lord in your heart – meaning keep the sanctuary of your heart must remain tender and confident in the Lord God Almighty. Remember out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks
d. Always be prepared to give a defense for the reason for the hope that is within you, not boastfully but in humble meekness and adoration for the one who loves you. Because of the hope and the love of Christ which is being nurtured and set apart {sanctified} within your heart, your heart is able to testify to that provision which God has place there by faith in the Lord Jesus. Remember you have been bought with a price therefore glorify God in your body.
e. As result of the working of God in you through His Son and the hope He instills in your heart, you testimony, your life will provide the evidence needed to refute what evildoers say about you, your life and your faith in Christ. And if it were possible to cause them to be ashamed.
II. Now go to Hebrews, chapter 10, verse 22 -24: 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works,
This verse is important because of the hope which is come to us when we believe in Christ. What then should be the result of this hope? This verse implies because of our hope, which is enabled by faith, we can draw near to the very throne room of heaven. And because of our hope through faith in Christ, He cleanses our hearts, our lives and our consciences with the pure water of the Word. And again because of our hope we receive a full assurance of faith which the world does not know. And this faith is only given to true believers. Our cleansing comes by the washing of the water of the Word. The world dismisses it as fantasy and says it is not true.
So God enables us to trust in Christ and to be born from above, which enables the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The Spirits working in our lives strengthens us to hold fast to the confession of our hope in Jesus without wavering. Then His stirring in us should motivate us to want to stimulate good works in other believers.
III. There is a third verse which we should study which describes how hope works in us and it is Titus 2:12-14, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.
His Hope within us should change how we live in this present age and in ages to come. First, we should deny ungodliness and the lusts of the eye, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life. And we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.
Next, we should have a future perspective anticipating His future coming, {the rapture} and the glorious return to earth of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. His life, His sacrifice on the cross, leading to His payment of our eternal sin debt, redeems us from all lawless deeds, creating for Himself a people zealous and anxious for good works. Does His hope for you produce these outcomes or are you still unconvinced and unchanged and you really don’t have this type of hope within you?
Do you need to come to faith today in Jesus Christ, and are you truly saved? If not, then perhaps God is speaking to your heart with that little want to right now? Do not deny His calling, seek the Lord while He may be found, this could be your last opportunity. He will save you, He will save you. He will save you now. Only seek Him now. AMEN
Sanctity of Life Sunday, the Lord and giver of life
Genesis 2:7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.
Genesis 18:14
Is anything too hard for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.”
Deuteronomy 30: 19 I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; 20 that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them.”
Psalm 139:13
For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
The Lord open and closes wombs – Mary, Elizabeth, Hannah, Sarah, Ruth,
Do you have hope in your heart today? Is that why you came today to worship? Or do you really know why you came to join us in worship today? Maybe by the time we leave here today you will better understand the urgings of your heart which brought you here to meet, not with this pastor, or with these people you see among you; but to actually seek and hear from the God of Heaven, who made you and loves you and has sent His Son for you?
I ask you again do you have hope in your heart or what brought you to this place today? Some people believe hope is defined as some indistinct feeling or longing which claims some undefined future benefit because you believe in it. Now if that sounds like fuzzy thinking or logic, you are correct and you should not really depend upon it.
Now that is not the hope which a believer should have in their heart. We sing often –
My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus Christ, my righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
What might these words mean and so where does this hope come from which Christians believe by faith?
Well according to God’s Word -
Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Rom 10:17). His Word also says, God’s grace through Jesus Christ saves us - By Grace are you save through faith and that not of your own it is the gift of God not of works lets any man should boast (Eph 2:8-9). So by the grace of God and in the works of Jesus, He saves you and makes you part of His family which we call Christians.
Now the outcome of that decision to trust Jesus Christ, to the ones who have actually been born from above, not just those who say they are believers. But to those who actually have become true followers, He provides this definition of the transformation in Galatians Chapter 2 , verse 20, I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. This is downright direct and personal to everyone who has been born from above, or as we say been born again. We become transformed by the renewing power of the love of God and He puts the knowledge of His hope within us. 1 John 5:13 says, 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, [e]and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.
This is faith and this is the blessed hope which lives within us, given to us by God.
So the true believer’s hope, which lives within us, is not an indistinct, undefined and amorphous type of hope. It is a hope which trusts or has faith in the promises of the living God. Faith and hope in the one who sent His Son to save us and lives within us moment by moment and eternally through His Holy Spirit.
So what is it about this hope that we need to know about today? Well our hope is not amorphous, undefined and indistinct. Because of our hope in God which we have received our lives should be different and reflect the change God has made. His life in us should result in our behavior and attitudes being different
Let’s begin with a single verse of scripture to guide us which Paul wrote to the believers in Rome. Go to Romans 15:4 4 For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the [a]patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.
What is scripture? If you believe that it is the revealed, active, inspired word of God and that it is inerrant and infallible then you are on the right track. And if you believe that whatever things were written before were written for our learning, you are closer to the truth. But the purpose of the written word and the truths in the bible should lead us to “know” the Author and His Son that we might have hope in our God. Hope in Him not just for today, but for today, tomorrow and for eternity. The simple truth is God has a plan for your welfare in life and not for calamity, to give you a future and a hope. His way of doing that was to send His Son to make a payment which you and I as sinners could never pay and to put our trust in Him. He then produces hope in our lives. The Scriptures then give us a reference to lead and guide us onward.
His hope should produce fruit for our living.
Let’s examine this concept and see how God might instruct us concerning the hope which lives within us.
Lets’ begin our study in 1 Peter 3:14-16, 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 15 But [a]sanctify [b]the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
So according to Peter and he would know about suffering, he says the following:
a. even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. Wow you mean even in the midst of suffering for Christ for His righteousness sake I am blessed? That is correct. What a concept you are blessed when God calls you to suffer for His sake
b. do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled. Now this is a challenge for our hearts, but this is learning to walk in the will of God and having (Hope) (faith) (confidence) in the God who has called you. This is outrageous faith and walking in confidence in His truth.
c. sanctify the Lord in your heart – meaning keep the sanctuary of your heart must remain tender and confident in the Lord God Almighty. Remember out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks
d. Always be prepared to give a defense for the reason for the hope that is within you, not boastfully but in humble meekness and adoration for the one who loves you. Because of the hope and the love of Christ which is being nurtured and set apart {sanctified} within your heart, your heart is able to testify to that provision which God has place there by faith in the Lord Jesus. Remember you have been bought with a price therefore glorify God in your body.
e. As result of the working of God in you through His Son and the hope He instills in your heart, you testimony, your life will provide the evidence needed to refute what evildoers say about you, your life and your faith in Christ. And if it were possible to cause them to be ashamed.
II. Now go to Hebrews, chapter 10, verse 22 -24: 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works,
This verse is important because of the hope which is come to us when we believe in Christ. What then should be the result of this hope? This verse implies because of our hope, which is enabled by faith, we can draw near to the very throne room of heaven. And because of our hope through faith in Christ, He cleanses our hearts, our lives and our consciences with the pure water of the Word. And again because of our hope we receive a full assurance of faith which the world does not know. And this faith is only given to true believers. Our cleansing comes by the washing of the water of the Word. The world dismisses it as fantasy and says it is not true.
So God enables us to trust in Christ and to be born from above, which enables the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The Spirits working in our lives strengthens us to hold fast to the confession of our hope in Jesus without wavering. Then His stirring in us should motivate us to want to stimulate good works in other believers.
III. There is a third verse which we should study which describes how hope works in us and it is Titus 2:12-14, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.
His Hope within us should change how we live in this present age and in ages to come. First, we should deny ungodliness and the lusts of the eye, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life. And we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.
Next, we should have a future perspective anticipating His future coming, {the rapture} and the glorious return to earth of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. His life, His sacrifice on the cross, leading to His payment of our eternal sin debt, redeems us from all lawless deeds, creating for Himself a people zealous and anxious for good works. Does His hope for you produce these outcomes or are you still unconvinced and unchanged and you really don’t have this type of hope within you?
Do you need to come to faith today in Jesus Christ, and are you truly saved? If not, then perhaps God is speaking to your heart with that little want to right now? Do not deny His calling, seek the Lord while He may be found, this could be your last opportunity. He will save you, He will save you. He will save you now. Only seek Him now. AMEN
Sanctity of Life Sunday, the Lord and giver of life
Genesis 2:7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.
Genesis 18:14
Is anything too hard for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.”
Deuteronomy 30: 19 I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; 20 that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them.”
Psalm 139:13
For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
The Lord open and closes wombs – Mary, Elizabeth, Hannah, Sarah, Ruth,
Jan 15 Sermon
Ezekiel 22:22-31, Isaiah 59:14-16, The Bible presents a sad tale about the condition of a certain land, its rulers, its spiritual leaders, its priests and the supposed people of God. All have been corrupted by what 1st John 2:16 says, For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
This is a terrible story of people of the flesh falling away from the One who loves them. Go with me to Ezekiel 22;23-31 where it says, 23 And the word of the Lord came to me,<Ezekiel> saying, 24 “Son of man, say to her: ‘You are a land that is not [d]cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.’ 25 The conspiracy of her [e]prophets in her midst is like a roaring lion tearing the prey; they have devoured [f]people; they have taken treasure and precious things; they have made many widows in her midst. 26 Her priests have [g]violated My law and profaned My holy things; they have not distinguished between the holy and unholy, nor have they made known the difference between the unclean and the clean; and they have hidden their eyes from My Sabbaths, so that I am profaned among them. 27 Her princes in her midst are like wolves tearing the prey, to shed blood, to destroy [h]people, and to get dishonest gain. 28 Her prophets plastered them with untempered mortar, seeing false visions, and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord God,’ when the Lord had not spoken. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. 30 So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. 31 Therefore I have poured out My indignation on them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; and I have recompensed their deeds on their own heads,” says the Lord God.
We have just read a testimony about the prophets, the priests, the princes and the people where God our Father rejected them because of their sins of conspiring to rebel against Him. Further in Isaiah Chapter 59, God provides greater clarity for us so we might understand what is happening in their nation as well being able to apply this description to our own nation– Read with me please, beginning at the end of verse 12 - And as for our iniquities, we know them:
13 In transgressing and lying against the Lord, And departing from our God,
Speaking oppression and revolt,
Conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood.
14 Justice is turned back,
And righteousness stands afar off;
For truth is fallen in the street,
And equity cannot enter.
15 So truth fails, And he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.
Then the Lord saw it, and [c]it displeased Him, That there was no justice.
16 He saw that there was no man,
And wondered that there was no intercessor;
Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; And His own righteousness, it sustained Him.
Lying and falsehoods are part and parcel of what we see in America in 2023 and what do these indicate? Truth has fallen in the street. Let’s now examine our own hearts and read again the Word of God from Isaiah, beginning in verse 13 In transgressing and lying against the Lord, And departing from our God,
Speaking oppression and revolt,
Conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood. {Lies such as: there is no God, He will approve of our behavior, life style, abortions}{trying to justify lies as the truth contrary to the Word of God, demeaning His law and Himself as the Law giver}
Then we see in verse 14 the results of our actions:
14 Justice is turned back,
And righteousness stands afar off;
For truth is fallen in the street,
And equity cannot enter. {you want to talk about equity in America today, there can be no equity without God’s justice and righteousness present}
This applies to what we read in Ezekiel about corrupt princes or in today’s terms, our leaders. The corrupt pastors are the modern priests, and they are part of the corrupt forecasters of the future or prophets (refers to pastors who mishandle the foretelling of the Word.) These are people all committed to lying and denying the truth. Truth has departed from them and the nation. <any parallels here with today?>These same truths hold fast for us as well as for historic Israel. Because God is immutable, He never changes.
Now what results from this evil in the leadership of the nation politically, morally and spiritually? The result is the people become depraved and they fall away.
Going back to Ezekiel we find these series of verses which we read, beginning in Chapter 22 verse 26. - so that I am profaned among them. 27 Her princes in her midst are like wolves tearing the prey, to shed blood, to destroy [h]people, and to get dishonest gain. 28 Her prophets plastered them with untempered mortar, seeing false visions, and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord God,’ when the Lord had not spoken. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger.
Notice the starting point of all this activity is in verse 26, so when I am profaned among them. When men have a low opinion of God and have no fear of Him, we fall away and depart leading to great sin. Read this again, so when I am profaned among them. When God is profaned among them. This profaning of God and His benefits began far earlier but in great earnest after WW II. With great victory comes great temptation and so it was, God gave us great victory and with it our leadership and our people became prideful, arrogant and forgot that the victory was the Lord’s not our great army, navy and air corps. We began to trust more in technology, technical means, education and the strength of our arms than in the God of heaven. With that loss of the fear of God came the beginning of a decline in the morals and ethics of the princes, the priests, and those who were looking in the future. Looking more at what people could do rather than cultivating a relationship with God. Oh yes, this was not a great slide all in one day, but you saw this great birth of sinfulness in the 60s & 70’s with the hippies and the love generation. Blatant drugs, sexuality, immorality and the destruction of moral leaders which included Martin Luther King. Abortion, the pill, free sex, and no condemnation all these themes bubbled to the surface and took root in our universities, colleges which produced the intellegencia which began indoctrinating the following generations in our public schools. This same groupings of educated elites also infiltrated our seminaries. So today we have the result - the God is dead movement, CRT, BLM, abortion on demand and the like – all the moral decay in society. And we have seminarians teaching and learning heresy.
This results in our people fulfilling what is says in verse 29 of Chapter 22 of Ezekiel- 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger.
So do you wonder why we need Jesus in 2023? The Princes running wild, with no oversight, penalizing any opposition to the truth; accusing citizens who want to do the right thing for their children and their children’s children of being domestic terrorists. There is more that moral decay in America, there is rottenness of sin in our Princes. Our priests deny the truth of God’s word teaching heresies. {} So if the prophets, the priests, the princes and now the people are divergent from God do you see why Jesus if needed in 2025??
We need to relate to what God did in Israel to Eli the priest because of his moral failure in restraining his sons from profaning the temple worship and in failing to teach truth to the people about God. {You can find this story in 1st Samuel Chapter 3)Eli was the high priest and was the teacher of all the priests and High priest to the people, interceding between God and the people. Eli was not willing to punish and reprimand his sons for gaining sexual favors from the women who came to the temple and who also took the best of the offerings for themselves instead of giving first fruits to God. God told Eli 13 … that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not [b]restrain them. And He added there was no atonement for his sins. Wow no way out. So God destroyed his sons. Eli fell and broke his neck upon hearing of the defeat of the people and the loss of the Ark of the Covenant. Great judgement fell upon the nation, upon the leadership – the priests the princes, as well as the people because they had all departed from God’s commands. If this has happened to the nation of Israel do you think God’s not going to bring the same judgement upon these United States? Do you see why we might just need Jesus in 2023??
Here is the truth -Romans 3: 10 As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; 11 There is none who understands;
There is none who seeks after God.
Verse 23 says, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified [g]freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as a [h]propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, 26 to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
These verses are true and we definitely need a savior. Yes there is none righteous, no not one, no not one. And all have sinned. Notice God sent Jesus to be a propitiation, a payment for our sin. By Jesus blood God demonstrates His forbearance <restraint, patience> by forgiving and passing over our sins which we previously committed. He casts out our sin as far as the east is from the west. God is the just one and by His Son’s sacrifice and our faith in Jesus, He has provided justification and thereby salvation for our sins by Jesus’ perfect sacrifice. You and I don’t want to be where Eli was when God told him there was no sacrifice for his sin and God would destroy all of his house.
Jesus came saying, 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Enter by the door of Jesus today and be save. He tells all who would hear – Come.
AMEN
Ezekiel 22:22-31, Isaiah 59:14-16, The Bible presents a sad tale about the condition of a certain land, its rulers, its spiritual leaders, its priests and the supposed people of God. All have been corrupted by what 1st John 2:16 says, For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
This is a terrible story of people of the flesh falling away from the One who loves them. Go with me to Ezekiel 22;23-31 where it says, 23 And the word of the Lord came to me,<Ezekiel> saying, 24 “Son of man, say to her: ‘You are a land that is not [d]cleansed or rained on in the day of indignation.’ 25 The conspiracy of her [e]prophets in her midst is like a roaring lion tearing the prey; they have devoured [f]people; they have taken treasure and precious things; they have made many widows in her midst. 26 Her priests have [g]violated My law and profaned My holy things; they have not distinguished between the holy and unholy, nor have they made known the difference between the unclean and the clean; and they have hidden their eyes from My Sabbaths, so that I am profaned among them. 27 Her princes in her midst are like wolves tearing the prey, to shed blood, to destroy [h]people, and to get dishonest gain. 28 Her prophets plastered them with untempered mortar, seeing false visions, and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord God,’ when the Lord had not spoken. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. 30 So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. 31 Therefore I have poured out My indignation on them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; and I have recompensed their deeds on their own heads,” says the Lord God.
We have just read a testimony about the prophets, the priests, the princes and the people where God our Father rejected them because of their sins of conspiring to rebel against Him. Further in Isaiah Chapter 59, God provides greater clarity for us so we might understand what is happening in their nation as well being able to apply this description to our own nation– Read with me please, beginning at the end of verse 12 - And as for our iniquities, we know them:
13 In transgressing and lying against the Lord, And departing from our God,
Speaking oppression and revolt,
Conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood.
14 Justice is turned back,
And righteousness stands afar off;
For truth is fallen in the street,
And equity cannot enter.
15 So truth fails, And he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.
Then the Lord saw it, and [c]it displeased Him, That there was no justice.
16 He saw that there was no man,
And wondered that there was no intercessor;
Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; And His own righteousness, it sustained Him.
Lying and falsehoods are part and parcel of what we see in America in 2023 and what do these indicate? Truth has fallen in the street. Let’s now examine our own hearts and read again the Word of God from Isaiah, beginning in verse 13 In transgressing and lying against the Lord, And departing from our God,
Speaking oppression and revolt,
Conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood. {Lies such as: there is no God, He will approve of our behavior, life style, abortions}{trying to justify lies as the truth contrary to the Word of God, demeaning His law and Himself as the Law giver}
Then we see in verse 14 the results of our actions:
14 Justice is turned back,
And righteousness stands afar off;
For truth is fallen in the street,
And equity cannot enter. {you want to talk about equity in America today, there can be no equity without God’s justice and righteousness present}
This applies to what we read in Ezekiel about corrupt princes or in today’s terms, our leaders. The corrupt pastors are the modern priests, and they are part of the corrupt forecasters of the future or prophets (refers to pastors who mishandle the foretelling of the Word.) These are people all committed to lying and denying the truth. Truth has departed from them and the nation. <any parallels here with today?>These same truths hold fast for us as well as for historic Israel. Because God is immutable, He never changes.
Now what results from this evil in the leadership of the nation politically, morally and spiritually? The result is the people become depraved and they fall away.
Going back to Ezekiel we find these series of verses which we read, beginning in Chapter 22 verse 26. - so that I am profaned among them. 27 Her princes in her midst are like wolves tearing the prey, to shed blood, to destroy [h]people, and to get dishonest gain. 28 Her prophets plastered them with untempered mortar, seeing false visions, and divining lies for them, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord God,’ when the Lord had not spoken. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger.
Notice the starting point of all this activity is in verse 26, so when I am profaned among them. When men have a low opinion of God and have no fear of Him, we fall away and depart leading to great sin. Read this again, so when I am profaned among them. When God is profaned among them. This profaning of God and His benefits began far earlier but in great earnest after WW II. With great victory comes great temptation and so it was, God gave us great victory and with it our leadership and our people became prideful, arrogant and forgot that the victory was the Lord’s not our great army, navy and air corps. We began to trust more in technology, technical means, education and the strength of our arms than in the God of heaven. With that loss of the fear of God came the beginning of a decline in the morals and ethics of the princes, the priests, and those who were looking in the future. Looking more at what people could do rather than cultivating a relationship with God. Oh yes, this was not a great slide all in one day, but you saw this great birth of sinfulness in the 60s & 70’s with the hippies and the love generation. Blatant drugs, sexuality, immorality and the destruction of moral leaders which included Martin Luther King. Abortion, the pill, free sex, and no condemnation all these themes bubbled to the surface and took root in our universities, colleges which produced the intellegencia which began indoctrinating the following generations in our public schools. This same groupings of educated elites also infiltrated our seminaries. So today we have the result - the God is dead movement, CRT, BLM, abortion on demand and the like – all the moral decay in society. And we have seminarians teaching and learning heresy.
This results in our people fulfilling what is says in verse 29 of Chapter 22 of Ezekiel- 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger.
So do you wonder why we need Jesus in 2023? The Princes running wild, with no oversight, penalizing any opposition to the truth; accusing citizens who want to do the right thing for their children and their children’s children of being domestic terrorists. There is more that moral decay in America, there is rottenness of sin in our Princes. Our priests deny the truth of God’s word teaching heresies. {} So if the prophets, the priests, the princes and now the people are divergent from God do you see why Jesus if needed in 2025??
We need to relate to what God did in Israel to Eli the priest because of his moral failure in restraining his sons from profaning the temple worship and in failing to teach truth to the people about God. {You can find this story in 1st Samuel Chapter 3)Eli was the high priest and was the teacher of all the priests and High priest to the people, interceding between God and the people. Eli was not willing to punish and reprimand his sons for gaining sexual favors from the women who came to the temple and who also took the best of the offerings for themselves instead of giving first fruits to God. God told Eli 13 … that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not [b]restrain them. And He added there was no atonement for his sins. Wow no way out. So God destroyed his sons. Eli fell and broke his neck upon hearing of the defeat of the people and the loss of the Ark of the Covenant. Great judgement fell upon the nation, upon the leadership – the priests the princes, as well as the people because they had all departed from God’s commands. If this has happened to the nation of Israel do you think God’s not going to bring the same judgement upon these United States? Do you see why we might just need Jesus in 2023??
Here is the truth -Romans 3: 10 As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; 11 There is none who understands;
There is none who seeks after God.
Verse 23 says, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified [g]freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as a [h]propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, 26 to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
These verses are true and we definitely need a savior. Yes there is none righteous, no not one, no not one. And all have sinned. Notice God sent Jesus to be a propitiation, a payment for our sin. By Jesus blood God demonstrates His forbearance <restraint, patience> by forgiving and passing over our sins which we previously committed. He casts out our sin as far as the east is from the west. God is the just one and by His Son’s sacrifice and our faith in Jesus, He has provided justification and thereby salvation for our sins by Jesus’ perfect sacrifice. You and I don’t want to be where Eli was when God told him there was no sacrifice for his sin and God would destroy all of his house.
Jesus came saying, 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Enter by the door of Jesus today and be save. He tells all who would hear – Come.
AMEN
Jan 8 Sermon
Who will be first in your life in 2023? Yourself or will you allow Christ to be on the throne of your heart?
The believer who wrote the words of the text we will be reading today did not always live for Jesus Christ. He only began to do so when God in Jesus convicted him of His great sin; and when by grace he was brought to see the living eternal Savior who had made a lifesaving gift of paying for his sin and his guilt. From the moment of declaring himself a sinner, repenting and then receiving the new heavenly birth from above, this man began to live a new life beginning at that moment and for eternity in Jesus Christ. This person was the apostle Paul.
Jesus is to those who believe and have been born again from above, the pearl of great price. Because of Him and this new life He provides, they have become willing to give up all that have because Jesus is the way the truth and the life. He has or should have so completely won our hearts that now it should beat alone for Him; to His glory we would live, and in defense of His Gospel we would be willing to die to self and for others. He should have become for each believer the pattern of our new life, and the model after which we would sculpture our character.
Paul's words in Philippians 1:21 -mean more than most men think -For to me to live is Christ. They imply that the aim and end of his life is and was Christ. In modern words we might say, he ate and drank and slept Jesus which leads to eternal life. For Paul, Jesus was his very breath, the soul of his soul, the heart of his heart, the life of his life.
Can you say today, as you sit here in Oakland Baptist Church, as a professing Christian, that you are actively living up to this idea? Can you and I honestly say, for you and I to live is Christ and to die is gain ? Is this true in your home, in your weekly activities, in your political or sports discussions, in your business, your coffee breaks —are you doing it all for Him I owe? These activities are not meant to be done for yourself, for family or business advantage? You might be asking yourself, "Is that a bad mean reason?" For those who say and profess Christ it very much is.
If you and I professes to live for Christ alone; how can you and I live for another objective without committing spiritual adultery or making idols instead of worshiping Him?
Now this is the time to be honest with yourself and with God - there are many who carry out this principle to some degree; but who is it who dares to say that he has lived wholly for Christ as the apostle did? Yet this alone is the required measure of a believer or Christian. Jesus must be our source, our sustenance, our fashion, our end, all gathered up in one word—Christ as Lord despite the day and time in which we now live.
Now don’t get discouraged for God is at work in you and has given you and I a new year to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. If He wasn’t in love with you He would not have granted you another day. So then let us we fix our eyes upon Jesus and move ahead. Paul in Chapter 3 gives us some strategic words and hope to move into 2023, despite all the sin which surrounds us and so easily besets us. Read with me from
Paul in Philippians 3:12-14. The Word of God which says, 12 Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have [d]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Wow, Paul says - but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. He adds further on - forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Now that doesn’t mean Paul didn’t learn from or ignore his mistakes, trials and errors, but he continued to press on or move onward toward the goal for the prize of the upward his calling of God in Christ Jesus.
How was or is this possible for Paul or for any of us as believers? First Paul was secure in the fact of His experience in meeting and accepting Jesus Christ as His Lord and Savior. Do you have the same assurance that God has called you and ordained you and set you apart for His purposes? If you don’t have this assurance then you might want to pay attention closely to what is coming next. Just as Jesus told Nicodemus in order to even see or understand the things of God – which He called the Kingdom of Heaven you must be born again. Twice Jesus made these statements: In John 3:3
- Jesus answered and said to Nicodemus, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
- In John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
For Christ to have rule over your life you must have received Him the new birth by faith and asked Him into your life. If you have done so then you and I should pay attention to the firsts which are presented in the Word of God- His Bible. These firsts will guide you. and I into attaining a relationship with Jesus which would mirror Paul’s. But remember this – each of us is different. None of us are exactly the same or exactly a replica of Paul. Paul is an example. God promises to lead you individually to be His child. No two are identical, as each of us has received a special gift employ it as serving one another as the manifold grace of God. So the following are firsts which we should follow to walk closer with Christ and follow His example :
1. Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
If you read the preceding verses you find that Jesus was talking about the cares of this world- food, clothing, shelter and a variety of other things which we can pursue as idols. Our eyes may be fixed upon achieving various life style milestones. Our life style should reflect an absolute emphasis on seeking and keeping our eyes on the Lord. We should not be consumed with self-seeking and being self-oriented but God oriented and listening for His voice. This verse is a parallel to Deuteronomy 10:12. Check it out!
2. In Matthew Chapter 22 Jesus was asked what was the first commandment and here is His reply was - 37 Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
These verses would consume an entire lesson if we were to break out the ideas baked in these verses one by one. This is the same commandment just updated from what God gave to the Jews in Deuteronomy 6: 4 &5 -4 “Hear, O Israel: [b]The Lord our God, the Lord is one! 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.
The verses say exactly what they mean and you should understand them if the Spirit of God is in you for they are clear. Since God in Christ loved you and gave Himself for you – out of the love He has given you and since you have a changed heart you are to love Him back with your entire being. This is meant to be a consuming all-pervasive love and response to God for what He has done in Jesus. There is nothing that can compare to what God and Jesus have given to us. Jesus is worthy of all we can give back. IF that is not your mindset then you need to repent and return to your first love which is Christ.
This Love of Christ must dwell in us richly to accomplish the remaining firsts which follow:
3. Check out Matthew 5 verse 23-24 - 23 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you,24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
This verse talks about interpersonal relationships and your attitude toward God and others. If your relationship with God in Christ is not correct how will you be able to have Godly, Christlike relationships with other. If you are coming in Worship to seek God, how is your heart, mind and soul towards your brother/sister/others? If you are angry, hostile and distressed over them, how can you hear and seek God when you trying to worship Him? Effectively you will not be able to connect. God will not hear your is the bottom line. It says First be reconciled to your brother.
4. Matthew 7:5 goes even further in describing this problem. Here in another first Jesus says, Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
For us to have the perspective we need we must align ourselves with God’s perspective and see His heart about ourselves and others. Many times this requires personal honesty, leading to repentance and tears for we find we have fallen very short of the standards set by Jesus. And we realize how we have disappointed the Lord who loves us so.
5. There is another first in Matthew 20:27
And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave. Many of us may want to achieve great things or be recognized for our Lord. The 12 disciples wanted be important in the Kingdom of God so they were arguing who would be number 1 , 2 etc. Jesus point is God’s grading systems and rewards are the opposite of the worlds. If you want to be counted high in the Kingdom you must be the servant of all, not whom others serve. If you keep this first principle you will be considered by Jesus as first in the Kingdom.
While this next first may be the final first we look at in today’s lesson there are more, both in Old and New Testament. The following first is a big first in many churches and individuals today and requires our examination. What is your attitude toward others and their sin today, do you automatically condemn the actions and motives of others? Do you ever seek after the heart of God to understand that others behavior might be changed if they knew the person you know? 6. Here is another first in John 8:7 - So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.”
If someone is caught in an act sin do you automatically impugn and judge? We are to judge them by their fruit yes but how many times are we required to forgive others for their sins 7 or 70 times 7. If they continue in their sin expel and turn over to Satan, if they repent restore them to fellowship. We should not be ones who cast the first stone since we have been greatly forgiven. So then how should we treat others.
Keeping the first things first and relying on God’s Holy Spirit to teach, guide and direct us should be out path forward. May we look to these and other firsts to guide our path in 2023. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ and have you been born from above? If not, is God’s Holy Spirit asking you to come to Jesus? If so then do not delay for now is the day of repentance. Seek me or one of our members today to know more about following Jesus or seek out the Billy Graham Association today.
Who will be first in your life in 2023? Yourself or will you allow Christ to be on the throne of your heart?
The believer who wrote the words of the text we will be reading today did not always live for Jesus Christ. He only began to do so when God in Jesus convicted him of His great sin; and when by grace he was brought to see the living eternal Savior who had made a lifesaving gift of paying for his sin and his guilt. From the moment of declaring himself a sinner, repenting and then receiving the new heavenly birth from above, this man began to live a new life beginning at that moment and for eternity in Jesus Christ. This person was the apostle Paul.
Jesus is to those who believe and have been born again from above, the pearl of great price. Because of Him and this new life He provides, they have become willing to give up all that have because Jesus is the way the truth and the life. He has or should have so completely won our hearts that now it should beat alone for Him; to His glory we would live, and in defense of His Gospel we would be willing to die to self and for others. He should have become for each believer the pattern of our new life, and the model after which we would sculpture our character.
Paul's words in Philippians 1:21 -mean more than most men think -For to me to live is Christ. They imply that the aim and end of his life is and was Christ. In modern words we might say, he ate and drank and slept Jesus which leads to eternal life. For Paul, Jesus was his very breath, the soul of his soul, the heart of his heart, the life of his life.
Can you say today, as you sit here in Oakland Baptist Church, as a professing Christian, that you are actively living up to this idea? Can you and I honestly say, for you and I to live is Christ and to die is gain ? Is this true in your home, in your weekly activities, in your political or sports discussions, in your business, your coffee breaks —are you doing it all for Him I owe? These activities are not meant to be done for yourself, for family or business advantage? You might be asking yourself, "Is that a bad mean reason?" For those who say and profess Christ it very much is.
If you and I professes to live for Christ alone; how can you and I live for another objective without committing spiritual adultery or making idols instead of worshiping Him?
Now this is the time to be honest with yourself and with God - there are many who carry out this principle to some degree; but who is it who dares to say that he has lived wholly for Christ as the apostle did? Yet this alone is the required measure of a believer or Christian. Jesus must be our source, our sustenance, our fashion, our end, all gathered up in one word—Christ as Lord despite the day and time in which we now live.
Now don’t get discouraged for God is at work in you and has given you and I a new year to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. If He wasn’t in love with you He would not have granted you another day. So then let us we fix our eyes upon Jesus and move ahead. Paul in Chapter 3 gives us some strategic words and hope to move into 2023, despite all the sin which surrounds us and so easily besets us. Read with me from
Paul in Philippians 3:12-14. The Word of God which says, 12 Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have [d]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Wow, Paul says - but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. He adds further on - forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Now that doesn’t mean Paul didn’t learn from or ignore his mistakes, trials and errors, but he continued to press on or move onward toward the goal for the prize of the upward his calling of God in Christ Jesus.
How was or is this possible for Paul or for any of us as believers? First Paul was secure in the fact of His experience in meeting and accepting Jesus Christ as His Lord and Savior. Do you have the same assurance that God has called you and ordained you and set you apart for His purposes? If you don’t have this assurance then you might want to pay attention closely to what is coming next. Just as Jesus told Nicodemus in order to even see or understand the things of God – which He called the Kingdom of Heaven you must be born again. Twice Jesus made these statements: In John 3:3
- Jesus answered and said to Nicodemus, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
- In John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
For Christ to have rule over your life you must have received Him the new birth by faith and asked Him into your life. If you have done so then you and I should pay attention to the firsts which are presented in the Word of God- His Bible. These firsts will guide you. and I into attaining a relationship with Jesus which would mirror Paul’s. But remember this – each of us is different. None of us are exactly the same or exactly a replica of Paul. Paul is an example. God promises to lead you individually to be His child. No two are identical, as each of us has received a special gift employ it as serving one another as the manifold grace of God. So the following are firsts which we should follow to walk closer with Christ and follow His example :
1. Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
If you read the preceding verses you find that Jesus was talking about the cares of this world- food, clothing, shelter and a variety of other things which we can pursue as idols. Our eyes may be fixed upon achieving various life style milestones. Our life style should reflect an absolute emphasis on seeking and keeping our eyes on the Lord. We should not be consumed with self-seeking and being self-oriented but God oriented and listening for His voice. This verse is a parallel to Deuteronomy 10:12. Check it out!
2. In Matthew Chapter 22 Jesus was asked what was the first commandment and here is His reply was - 37 Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
These verses would consume an entire lesson if we were to break out the ideas baked in these verses one by one. This is the same commandment just updated from what God gave to the Jews in Deuteronomy 6: 4 &5 -4 “Hear, O Israel: [b]The Lord our God, the Lord is one! 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.
The verses say exactly what they mean and you should understand them if the Spirit of God is in you for they are clear. Since God in Christ loved you and gave Himself for you – out of the love He has given you and since you have a changed heart you are to love Him back with your entire being. This is meant to be a consuming all-pervasive love and response to God for what He has done in Jesus. There is nothing that can compare to what God and Jesus have given to us. Jesus is worthy of all we can give back. IF that is not your mindset then you need to repent and return to your first love which is Christ.
This Love of Christ must dwell in us richly to accomplish the remaining firsts which follow:
3. Check out Matthew 5 verse 23-24 - 23 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you,24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
This verse talks about interpersonal relationships and your attitude toward God and others. If your relationship with God in Christ is not correct how will you be able to have Godly, Christlike relationships with other. If you are coming in Worship to seek God, how is your heart, mind and soul towards your brother/sister/others? If you are angry, hostile and distressed over them, how can you hear and seek God when you trying to worship Him? Effectively you will not be able to connect. God will not hear your is the bottom line. It says First be reconciled to your brother.
4. Matthew 7:5 goes even further in describing this problem. Here in another first Jesus says, Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
For us to have the perspective we need we must align ourselves with God’s perspective and see His heart about ourselves and others. Many times this requires personal honesty, leading to repentance and tears for we find we have fallen very short of the standards set by Jesus. And we realize how we have disappointed the Lord who loves us so.
5. There is another first in Matthew 20:27
And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave. Many of us may want to achieve great things or be recognized for our Lord. The 12 disciples wanted be important in the Kingdom of God so they were arguing who would be number 1 , 2 etc. Jesus point is God’s grading systems and rewards are the opposite of the worlds. If you want to be counted high in the Kingdom you must be the servant of all, not whom others serve. If you keep this first principle you will be considered by Jesus as first in the Kingdom.
While this next first may be the final first we look at in today’s lesson there are more, both in Old and New Testament. The following first is a big first in many churches and individuals today and requires our examination. What is your attitude toward others and their sin today, do you automatically condemn the actions and motives of others? Do you ever seek after the heart of God to understand that others behavior might be changed if they knew the person you know? 6. Here is another first in John 8:7 - So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.”
If someone is caught in an act sin do you automatically impugn and judge? We are to judge them by their fruit yes but how many times are we required to forgive others for their sins 7 or 70 times 7. If they continue in their sin expel and turn over to Satan, if they repent restore them to fellowship. We should not be ones who cast the first stone since we have been greatly forgiven. So then how should we treat others.
Keeping the first things first and relying on God’s Holy Spirit to teach, guide and direct us should be out path forward. May we look to these and other firsts to guide our path in 2023. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ and have you been born from above? If not, is God’s Holy Spirit asking you to come to Jesus? If so then do not delay for now is the day of repentance. Seek me or one of our members today to know more about following Jesus or seek out the Billy Graham Association today.
Jan 1 Sermon
“Are you ready for God to work in 2023 and whom have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” I hope you have had a good and blessed Christmas and our fellowship in Christ today marks another year in our walk with the Lord. Take a moment with me and let’s thank God for giving us another year.
Father – I thank you for granting us entry into another year in your fellowship. I praise you and thank you for giving us life. I praise and thank you for providing us salvation which is so rich and free, but cost You and Your Son the blood of His prefect sacrifice. Without His perfect life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension back into heaven, we would be without hope and lost forever. Help us this year to treasure your perfect gift more than ever, to love you more dearly and to share Christ more freely than ever before. Amen
2022 has been a challenging year for all of us individually and collectively at Oakland Baptist Church. Rampant inflation and the increasing cost of everything, the invasion across the border, the runaway and reckless spending of government with the continuing spread of lies are just part of the challenges which we faced this past year. Many have been stricken by the loss of loved ones, personal sickness or disease or both; perhaps loss of health, loss of wealth and just the ability to get things done that need to be done. We have heard and seen wars, rumors of wars, plagues and sickness spread across our countries and of course now is coming the next wave of COVID threatening’s being brought to you by foreign intervention in our lives.
It is harder to get everything including health care, medicines, food and basic necessities. Believers are considered enemies and are targeted by our own agencies which we pay for by our tax dollars. But believe it or not these are external threats which have challenged believers at all times in history, since the time of belief in Jesus Christ. Tribulations and persecutions have been part of Jews and Christians since sin entered this creation which God gave us.
So the challenge in 2023 as things tend to unravel and deteriorate further is how should we be prepared. As a good planner each of us should evaluate the threats and provide a strategy of how to respond and still manage to grow in our relationship with God, our savior and to allow the Holy Spirit greater access and influence.
Before we look at the threat arrayed against us, let’s look to determine what sources will we use for our strategic and tactical planning for 2023? If we are using anything other than the Bible and the doctrines, teachings and strategies provided there, we are wasting our time. As I continue to stress, our best and most strenuous and “perfect {should say flawed} thinking is never as good as the one who created us in the beginning. Remember 2 Tim 3:16-17 says, 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [a]instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Using the word of God as our guide, we will now proceed with a threat assessment of what opposes us in 2023. Three thing oppose us in this coming year which are becoming more blatant and overt. They are: Satan, the world and the flesh.
First is the great deceiver, who is a liar from the beginning - Satan. 1 Peter 5:8 says, 8 … your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Since the garden of Eden and the temptation of Adam and Eve he has been at work tripping up the faithful to destroy them causing them to doubt their faith and deny their God.
II. Next enemy is the world, it says in 1 John 2 verses 15 &16: 15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. So when speaking of the world the idea is not just the physical world but the world system. Meaning how things work in the world to drive believers away from the truth of God’s creation. Satan while a defeated enemy, uses the world system to pull us away from our beliefs and truths of Him and our Father. What happens to us – the three temptations get in the way of His truths just like they did with Eve and are replicated in the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness after His baptism. They are again the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
III. Enemy number three is your flesh, no not your physical body although it will eventually betray all of us and die. The flesh is your old sin nature which you were born with on this earth. Remember all have sinned, and the wages of that sin is death from Romans Chapters 3 and 6. Romans 8 says this in verse 12-13 - 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh and verse . Go to verse, 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Satan and the demons use the weaknesses inherent in the flesh to tempt us. This is the great caution which you must apply to our lives individually - to not walk by feelings which are of the flesh and sight. Jesus warned believers about the flesh. He said
Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matt 26.41)
These are the threats, so what is the plan to be overcomers?- Overcomers are those who would overcome Satan, the world and the flesh.
God’s word has the answer but we must walk in the Word by obedience to have them fulfilled in us. Here are the three challenging thing which we need to do.
Step 1 for Satan, according to the Word of God- James 4:7 says, Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and He will flee from you. Closer fellowship with your Lord and your God in submission will allow you to resist evil. Submission is required As you become more committed to serving and living for God, Satan will flee from you. This is absolutely the first necessary step for it puts us in the right relationship with God for Him to work within us.
Step 2. To overcome the world and the world system used by Satan, look to
1 John 5:4 says, For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Faith in Christ is the victory which overcomes the world and secondly to be
be {continually – I inject}transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12.2
Step 3 - the flesh overcomers Jesus tells us in John 3:6&7, 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’
to overcome the flesh you must be born again. To be born again and from above and defeat your flesh you must receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Defeat of this unholy Trinity must be accomplished for you to be an overcomers in 2023.
“Are you ready for God to work in 2023 and whom have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” I hope you have had a good and blessed Christmas and our fellowship in Christ today marks another year in our walk with the Lord. Take a moment with me and let’s thank God for giving us another year.
Father – I thank you for granting us entry into another year in your fellowship. I praise you and thank you for giving us life. I praise and thank you for providing us salvation which is so rich and free, but cost You and Your Son the blood of His prefect sacrifice. Without His perfect life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension back into heaven, we would be without hope and lost forever. Help us this year to treasure your perfect gift more than ever, to love you more dearly and to share Christ more freely than ever before. Amen
2022 has been a challenging year for all of us individually and collectively at Oakland Baptist Church. Rampant inflation and the increasing cost of everything, the invasion across the border, the runaway and reckless spending of government with the continuing spread of lies are just part of the challenges which we faced this past year. Many have been stricken by the loss of loved ones, personal sickness or disease or both; perhaps loss of health, loss of wealth and just the ability to get things done that need to be done. We have heard and seen wars, rumors of wars, plagues and sickness spread across our countries and of course now is coming the next wave of COVID threatening’s being brought to you by foreign intervention in our lives.
It is harder to get everything including health care, medicines, food and basic necessities. Believers are considered enemies and are targeted by our own agencies which we pay for by our tax dollars. But believe it or not these are external threats which have challenged believers at all times in history, since the time of belief in Jesus Christ. Tribulations and persecutions have been part of Jews and Christians since sin entered this creation which God gave us.
So the challenge in 2023 as things tend to unravel and deteriorate further is how should we be prepared. As a good planner each of us should evaluate the threats and provide a strategy of how to respond and still manage to grow in our relationship with God, our savior and to allow the Holy Spirit greater access and influence.
Before we look at the threat arrayed against us, let’s look to determine what sources will we use for our strategic and tactical planning for 2023? If we are using anything other than the Bible and the doctrines, teachings and strategies provided there, we are wasting our time. As I continue to stress, our best and most strenuous and “perfect {should say flawed} thinking is never as good as the one who created us in the beginning. Remember 2 Tim 3:16-17 says, 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [a]instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Using the word of God as our guide, we will now proceed with a threat assessment of what opposes us in 2023. Three thing oppose us in this coming year which are becoming more blatant and overt. They are: Satan, the world and the flesh.
First is the great deceiver, who is a liar from the beginning - Satan. 1 Peter 5:8 says, 8 … your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Since the garden of Eden and the temptation of Adam and Eve he has been at work tripping up the faithful to destroy them causing them to doubt their faith and deny their God.
II. Next enemy is the world, it says in 1 John 2 verses 15 &16: 15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. So when speaking of the world the idea is not just the physical world but the world system. Meaning how things work in the world to drive believers away from the truth of God’s creation. Satan while a defeated enemy, uses the world system to pull us away from our beliefs and truths of Him and our Father. What happens to us – the three temptations get in the way of His truths just like they did with Eve and are replicated in the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness after His baptism. They are again the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
III. Enemy number three is your flesh, no not your physical body although it will eventually betray all of us and die. The flesh is your old sin nature which you were born with on this earth. Remember all have sinned, and the wages of that sin is death from Romans Chapters 3 and 6. Romans 8 says this in verse 12-13 - 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh and verse . Go to verse, 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Satan and the demons use the weaknesses inherent in the flesh to tempt us. This is the great caution which you must apply to our lives individually - to not walk by feelings which are of the flesh and sight. Jesus warned believers about the flesh. He said
Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matt 26.41)
These are the threats, so what is the plan to be overcomers?- Overcomers are those who would overcome Satan, the world and the flesh.
God’s word has the answer but we must walk in the Word by obedience to have them fulfilled in us. Here are the three challenging thing which we need to do.
Step 1 for Satan, according to the Word of God- James 4:7 says, Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and He will flee from you. Closer fellowship with your Lord and your God in submission will allow you to resist evil. Submission is required As you become more committed to serving and living for God, Satan will flee from you. This is absolutely the first necessary step for it puts us in the right relationship with God for Him to work within us.
Step 2. To overcome the world and the world system used by Satan, look to
1 John 5:4 says, For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Faith in Christ is the victory which overcomes the world and secondly to be
be {continually – I inject}transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12.2
Step 3 - the flesh overcomers Jesus tells us in John 3:6&7, 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’
to overcome the flesh you must be born again. To be born again and from above and defeat your flesh you must receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Defeat of this unholy Trinity must be accomplished for you to be an overcomers in 2023.
Dec 24 Sermon
Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 221224_Oakland Baptist Church + Easter 33 “Christmas Eve 2022??” Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 1 Could you actually miss Christmas this year? Many in Bethlehem and in Israel missed Christmas the evening that Jesus was born. Well from the Bible’s telling just about everyone missed the event of all the ages except for a few shepherds, a carpenter named Joseph, his betrothed sweetheart – Mary, who was with child; Zechariah and his wife Mary’s cousin Elizabeth, and their infant baby- John the Baptist. And then of course there is baby Jesus who was just born that blessed morn. These folks didn’t miss Christmas for they were either there or were aware and waiting for the baby’s birth during some night while they were in Bethlehem. The angels in heaven didn’t miss that date either – the heavenly chorus sang to men and praised God with halleluiahs from who all blessing flow; and God the Father and the Holy Spirit didn’t miss Christmas for they had been planning and in the process of executing this event for many years. Actually it was millennia in happening, for it was in God’s plan since the time Adam and Eve sinned and He kicked them out of the Garden of Eden. The Biblical prophets didn’t miss Christmas although they didn’t have the exact day, century or year – oh they weren’t present but they were in heaven celebrating Immanuel – God with us. Isaiah and many of His fellow prophets had been predicting the baby Jesus arrival 700 years before, based upon inspiration from the Holy Spirit. They had been waiting since then in anticipation of this arrival and the blessings He would bring to all people. Isn’t this the message of the angels in Luke 2:9ff of - 9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they (shepherds) were greatly afraid. 10Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a [d]manger.” Now we know the Wise Men weren’t present in Bethlehem on Christmas day, there for the birth of Jesus. But they had not been deluded or unaware of His coming – they saw signs in the sky which pointed to His birth. They had to make a many month’slong trip to get there. They showed up maybe 2 years later but they still celebrated the birthdate of the King of the Jews. So they didn’t miss the Christmas for when they saw the start and its continued leading to the Christ child they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. They rejoiced in God’s fulfillment of His plan as predicted by those prophets 700 years earlier. This is why we call them Wise men Who else didn’t miss Christmas? Well I believe some of the shepherds were not planning to attend a birth but God chose to make the lowliest, most despised and societally uncouth aware of His most glorious gift _ His Son – the Son of Man. Step with into the eternal plan of God for a moment. In Philippians Chapter 2, God uses Paul to tell us about Jesus’ descent from Heaven to a manger stall. Begin with verse 7 and 8, 7 but [c]made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. So , exactly how far was that fall? All the way from heaven. -2 Cor. 5.21 tells us, He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. So why would God honor shepherds with such honor to bless them with an Angelic choir and a visit to the manger to see baby Jesus – making sure they would not miss Christmas? I believe this is the message of Christmas. The gift of new life came in the form of a baby that first Christmas night. When God delivered on His promises to bring salvation to all men. The gift given as said in the angelic message was good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. In a lowly manager symbolizes the length God 221224_Oakland Baptist Church + Easter 33 “Christmas Eve 2022??” Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 221224_Oakland Baptist Church + Easter 33 “Christmas Eve 2022??” Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 2 would go to deliver salvation to all people from the highest to the lowest. Picture this- the plan of God is to allow His salvation for all and to begin by inviting the lowest of the low, those most rejected in all society to come to know God’s savior – Jesus the Christ, the anointed one. God is not willing that any should perish but that all could come to repentant, leading to redemption and salvation in His son. Was and is this not the ministry of Jesus to bring deliverance to all people beginning with the Jews – and they rejected Him. So who missed Christmas who shouldn’t have
Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 221224_Oakland Baptist Church + Easter 33 “Christmas Eve 2022??” Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 1 Could you actually miss Christmas this year? Many in Bethlehem and in Israel missed Christmas the evening that Jesus was born. Well from the Bible’s telling just about everyone missed the event of all the ages except for a few shepherds, a carpenter named Joseph, his betrothed sweetheart – Mary, who was with child; Zechariah and his wife Mary’s cousin Elizabeth, and their infant baby- John the Baptist. And then of course there is baby Jesus who was just born that blessed morn. These folks didn’t miss Christmas for they were either there or were aware and waiting for the baby’s birth during some night while they were in Bethlehem. The angels in heaven didn’t miss that date either – the heavenly chorus sang to men and praised God with halleluiahs from who all blessing flow; and God the Father and the Holy Spirit didn’t miss Christmas for they had been planning and in the process of executing this event for many years. Actually it was millennia in happening, for it was in God’s plan since the time Adam and Eve sinned and He kicked them out of the Garden of Eden. The Biblical prophets didn’t miss Christmas although they didn’t have the exact day, century or year – oh they weren’t present but they were in heaven celebrating Immanuel – God with us. Isaiah and many of His fellow prophets had been predicting the baby Jesus arrival 700 years before, based upon inspiration from the Holy Spirit. They had been waiting since then in anticipation of this arrival and the blessings He would bring to all people. Isn’t this the message of the angels in Luke 2:9ff of - 9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they (shepherds) were greatly afraid. 10Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a [d]manger.” Now we know the Wise Men weren’t present in Bethlehem on Christmas day, there for the birth of Jesus. But they had not been deluded or unaware of His coming – they saw signs in the sky which pointed to His birth. They had to make a many month’slong trip to get there. They showed up maybe 2 years later but they still celebrated the birthdate of the King of the Jews. So they didn’t miss the Christmas for when they saw the start and its continued leading to the Christ child they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. They rejoiced in God’s fulfillment of His plan as predicted by those prophets 700 years earlier. This is why we call them Wise men Who else didn’t miss Christmas? Well I believe some of the shepherds were not planning to attend a birth but God chose to make the lowliest, most despised and societally uncouth aware of His most glorious gift _ His Son – the Son of Man. Step with into the eternal plan of God for a moment. In Philippians Chapter 2, God uses Paul to tell us about Jesus’ descent from Heaven to a manger stall. Begin with verse 7 and 8, 7 but [c]made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. So , exactly how far was that fall? All the way from heaven. -2 Cor. 5.21 tells us, He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. So why would God honor shepherds with such honor to bless them with an Angelic choir and a visit to the manger to see baby Jesus – making sure they would not miss Christmas? I believe this is the message of Christmas. The gift of new life came in the form of a baby that first Christmas night. When God delivered on His promises to bring salvation to all men. The gift given as said in the angelic message was good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. In a lowly manager symbolizes the length God 221224_Oakland Baptist Church + Easter 33 “Christmas Eve 2022??” Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 221224_Oakland Baptist Church + Easter 33 “Christmas Eve 2022??” Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?” 2 would go to deliver salvation to all people from the highest to the lowest. Picture this- the plan of God is to allow His salvation for all and to begin by inviting the lowest of the low, those most rejected in all society to come to know God’s savior – Jesus the Christ, the anointed one. God is not willing that any should perish but that all could come to repentant, leading to redemption and salvation in His son. Was and is this not the ministry of Jesus to bring deliverance to all people beginning with the Jews – and they rejected Him. So who missed Christmas who shouldn’t have
Dec 18 Sermon
Are you experiencing joy this Christmas? Church goers often read from Luke 2:9-11 as part of their Christmas celebrations. Here is what it says, 9 And [a]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Do you have joy today because of your friendship and relationship to the living Son of God? Or is your life drab, dull and depressing and you have no joy. Perhaps you need a checkup this holiday season- a joy check if you will?
There are total of 192 expressions with just the word joy in the Bible - 127 in the Old Testament and 65 times in the New Testament. Many more are there if you expand the search and include the word joyful. Do you suppose God is interested in you experiencing joy?
Now understand this, Joy is not the same as being happy or gleeful or however you define having fun. Joy is a deeper, richer in understanding of the fact God loves you, cares for you and desires to walk with you in all of life’s pleasures, difficulties and distresses. It is a measure of the fulness God. He imparts to human hearts the wonders of His love. It begins with the wonderous moment you believe on the name of the Lord Jesus and receive Him in your heart and will continue through this life and into eternity forever, which is redundant but necessary for you to understand His truth
Here are some verses about joy we hear commonly at Christmas and Easter. In, Matthew 2:10, When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. (This speaks to the Wise men as they departed from Herod to find the Christ child, who I might remind you is now probably a young child.)
Upon Jesus’ ascension into heaven we hear in Luke 24:52 And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. The doubtful disciples worshiped Him now for they had visible evidence that Jesus had ascended into heaven.
Another reference about Joy comes in Galatians 5:22-23, where it says of the Holy Spirit’s presence in the life of the believe He gives fruit into each life Read Galatians 5:22-23, 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 [b]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
Jesus also spoke to joy many several time but this verse relates to everyone who receives the free gift of salvation, Luke 15:7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. This is Jesus finishing the understanding of the shepherd finding the lost sheep and could also refer to the following parable about the Prodigal Son.
So you see Bible is full of references to the Joy that a relationship with God, Christ and indwelling of the Holy Spirit achieves in the life of the believer. God also speaks in many references in the Old Testament about the loss and lack of Joy which comes by rebelling against God, denying His teaching, His commandments and going your own way. Sin compromises your joy and creates enmity {hate} against you from God. This is true in Old and New Testaments despite what some may teach about being under the new covenant. The Judgement of God falls on men and women because of rebellion and sin even in the new covenant relationship, otherwise God would be liar and unjust to those in the Old Testament.
I want to now look at Joy in some more depth parsing some additional texts so you might get a better appreciation for how joy is reflect in the life of the believer. Got to Psalm 16:11, It says there, You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
You will show me the path of life – what path? The path, the narrow path that leads to life everlasting in your Son. Do you know righteousness comes from God and is given to you when you believe? The righteousness of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice and blood covers you, cleanses your sin and brings you into fellowship with God Almighty by His grace, your faith and His good works. This can only be done by God in Christ, you could never attain the works necessary to satisfy a holy God. Let’s pause here – do you really understand and accept this gift from God? It is critical to your life. Joy only comes because of what God does in your life. David tells us in Psalm 51 after he repented of His sin with Uriah’s death and His wife - Psalm 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Thy free Spirit Joy returned for David after he confessed, repented and returned to the Lord. Not before, during or while sinning with Bathsheba until Nathan came there was no joy. You will experience the same lack of Joy and diminished relationship with your Lord until you repent and return as well.
Here is second instance where God brings joy into the lives of those who persist and become dedicated, and separated followers of the Lord. The people in Nehemiah’s day had been apart from Jerusalem and true temple worship in slavery with Nebuchadnezzar for 70 years. God used King Cyrus to release them and sent them back to Jerusalem to reestablish the temple and rebuild the wall. In the seventh month after their return, the priest called a sacred assembly according to the Lords direction and the people read as one from the Book of the Law in the temple square. Nehemiah records in Chapter 8:10 Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
When the people, in true worship, heard the Word of the Law from God and understood their sin versus the promises of God they wanted to weep. The word recorded in that chapter says, “all the people wept.” They wept because the Spirit of the Lord had overcome them and they recognized their sin and repented to tears. But again read verse 10- Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
The people were charged to do what? - rejoice with the joy of the Lord. For the joy of your Lord is your strength. Have you ever understood until this moment that God’s Word is your joy and your strength? Scripture teaches that, Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Your strength in faith is directly influence by how much you saturate your soul, heart and mind in the Word of God.
There is a further promise for those who would come in repentance before the Lord, which is stated in Psalm 126:5 Those who sow in tears Shall reap in joy. Why does repentance seem so odious to believers? I believe it comes because of the harness of our hearts and indifference to suffering and lies which we encounter daily in our world today. Is your heart hear and without joy today?
Third, Jesus spoke clearly to his disciples of one the further outcomes of having fellowship with Him. Read in John 15:11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. 2 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
Jesus here speaks to a specific commandment which, if followed, will sustain the gift of joy which Jesus gives you and His joy in you would be full if obeyed. Did you ever realize that faithful obedience to His Word and teachings produces joy, especially when we love one another even as Jesus loves you? Notice in particular He says that My joy, the joy of Jesus Christ Himself, might remain in you. And that joy remaining in you will produce a joy in you that is full and probably full beyond measure for that is how Jesus does things. Repeat the Joy of the Lord is my strength to underscore this!
Romans 14:17 - for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
There are many more verses which I could blast you with, but I believe maybe you might be getting the point by now about Joy and its relationship to you, your heart and your fellowship with the Lord Jesus.
Let’s sum up todays message is one final verse and spend a moment applying it to our lives. Let’s use Isaiah 61:10 as a summary for today. Read with me please - Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
Because of what God has done in us through Jesus Christ we have been clothed me with the garments of salvation- Jesus paid it all. He has given us all things according to righteousness. He has covered us with the Blood of the Lamb to be made presentable before our Holy God Almighty. He gave us all the implements included in the full armor of God in Ephesians 6. He Himself is the bridegroom and we believers are considered and designated as His bride. Can you believe it you are one of the Jewels in His crown? Now given these facts perhaps you can begin to believe as Isaiah did that you will greatly rejoice in the Lord. And that your soul shall be joyful in your God, for He has has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue. ( 2 Peter 1:3)
AMEN
Do you need to repent today for your lack of Joy in the Lord for He is your strength? Do you now see your joy in the Lord is a reflection upon His life in you and your commitment and dedication to becoming a committed believer in Jesus? A commitment to Him is not a casual thing. Or perhaps you have never really received God’s anointing from above and your need to be save by the Blood of the Lamb. Will you respond today and give your life to the one who absolutely loves you and died for you? At the invitation come forward for repentance or salvation. Let God lead you this morning.
Additional selected verses on Joy :
Colossians 1:10-12, 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.
Hebrews 12:2-3, 2looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
Esther 8:17 And in every province and city, wherever the king’s command and decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a holiday. Then many of the people of the land became Jews, because fear of the Jews fell upon them.
Ecclesiastes 2:26 For God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to a man who is good in His sight; but to the sinner He gives the work of gathering and collecting, that he may give to him who is good before God.
Isaiah 29:19 The humble also shall increase their joy in the Lord, And the poor among men shall rejoice In the Holy One of Israel.
Are you experiencing joy this Christmas? Church goers often read from Luke 2:9-11 as part of their Christmas celebrations. Here is what it says, 9 And [a]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Do you have joy today because of your friendship and relationship to the living Son of God? Or is your life drab, dull and depressing and you have no joy. Perhaps you need a checkup this holiday season- a joy check if you will?
There are total of 192 expressions with just the word joy in the Bible - 127 in the Old Testament and 65 times in the New Testament. Many more are there if you expand the search and include the word joyful. Do you suppose God is interested in you experiencing joy?
Now understand this, Joy is not the same as being happy or gleeful or however you define having fun. Joy is a deeper, richer in understanding of the fact God loves you, cares for you and desires to walk with you in all of life’s pleasures, difficulties and distresses. It is a measure of the fulness God. He imparts to human hearts the wonders of His love. It begins with the wonderous moment you believe on the name of the Lord Jesus and receive Him in your heart and will continue through this life and into eternity forever, which is redundant but necessary for you to understand His truth
Here are some verses about joy we hear commonly at Christmas and Easter. In, Matthew 2:10, When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. (This speaks to the Wise men as they departed from Herod to find the Christ child, who I might remind you is now probably a young child.)
Upon Jesus’ ascension into heaven we hear in Luke 24:52 And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. The doubtful disciples worshiped Him now for they had visible evidence that Jesus had ascended into heaven.
Another reference about Joy comes in Galatians 5:22-23, where it says of the Holy Spirit’s presence in the life of the believe He gives fruit into each life Read Galatians 5:22-23, 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 [b]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
Jesus also spoke to joy many several time but this verse relates to everyone who receives the free gift of salvation, Luke 15:7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. This is Jesus finishing the understanding of the shepherd finding the lost sheep and could also refer to the following parable about the Prodigal Son.
So you see Bible is full of references to the Joy that a relationship with God, Christ and indwelling of the Holy Spirit achieves in the life of the believer. God also speaks in many references in the Old Testament about the loss and lack of Joy which comes by rebelling against God, denying His teaching, His commandments and going your own way. Sin compromises your joy and creates enmity {hate} against you from God. This is true in Old and New Testaments despite what some may teach about being under the new covenant. The Judgement of God falls on men and women because of rebellion and sin even in the new covenant relationship, otherwise God would be liar and unjust to those in the Old Testament.
I want to now look at Joy in some more depth parsing some additional texts so you might get a better appreciation for how joy is reflect in the life of the believer. Got to Psalm 16:11, It says there, You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
You will show me the path of life – what path? The path, the narrow path that leads to life everlasting in your Son. Do you know righteousness comes from God and is given to you when you believe? The righteousness of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice and blood covers you, cleanses your sin and brings you into fellowship with God Almighty by His grace, your faith and His good works. This can only be done by God in Christ, you could never attain the works necessary to satisfy a holy God. Let’s pause here – do you really understand and accept this gift from God? It is critical to your life. Joy only comes because of what God does in your life. David tells us in Psalm 51 after he repented of His sin with Uriah’s death and His wife - Psalm 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Thy free Spirit Joy returned for David after he confessed, repented and returned to the Lord. Not before, during or while sinning with Bathsheba until Nathan came there was no joy. You will experience the same lack of Joy and diminished relationship with your Lord until you repent and return as well.
Here is second instance where God brings joy into the lives of those who persist and become dedicated, and separated followers of the Lord. The people in Nehemiah’s day had been apart from Jerusalem and true temple worship in slavery with Nebuchadnezzar for 70 years. God used King Cyrus to release them and sent them back to Jerusalem to reestablish the temple and rebuild the wall. In the seventh month after their return, the priest called a sacred assembly according to the Lords direction and the people read as one from the Book of the Law in the temple square. Nehemiah records in Chapter 8:10 Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
When the people, in true worship, heard the Word of the Law from God and understood their sin versus the promises of God they wanted to weep. The word recorded in that chapter says, “all the people wept.” They wept because the Spirit of the Lord had overcome them and they recognized their sin and repented to tears. But again read verse 10- Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
The people were charged to do what? - rejoice with the joy of the Lord. For the joy of your Lord is your strength. Have you ever understood until this moment that God’s Word is your joy and your strength? Scripture teaches that, Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Your strength in faith is directly influence by how much you saturate your soul, heart and mind in the Word of God.
There is a further promise for those who would come in repentance before the Lord, which is stated in Psalm 126:5 Those who sow in tears Shall reap in joy. Why does repentance seem so odious to believers? I believe it comes because of the harness of our hearts and indifference to suffering and lies which we encounter daily in our world today. Is your heart hear and without joy today?
Third, Jesus spoke clearly to his disciples of one the further outcomes of having fellowship with Him. Read in John 15:11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. 2 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
Jesus here speaks to a specific commandment which, if followed, will sustain the gift of joy which Jesus gives you and His joy in you would be full if obeyed. Did you ever realize that faithful obedience to His Word and teachings produces joy, especially when we love one another even as Jesus loves you? Notice in particular He says that My joy, the joy of Jesus Christ Himself, might remain in you. And that joy remaining in you will produce a joy in you that is full and probably full beyond measure for that is how Jesus does things. Repeat the Joy of the Lord is my strength to underscore this!
Romans 14:17 - for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
There are many more verses which I could blast you with, but I believe maybe you might be getting the point by now about Joy and its relationship to you, your heart and your fellowship with the Lord Jesus.
Let’s sum up todays message is one final verse and spend a moment applying it to our lives. Let’s use Isaiah 61:10 as a summary for today. Read with me please - Isaiah 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
Because of what God has done in us through Jesus Christ we have been clothed me with the garments of salvation- Jesus paid it all. He has given us all things according to righteousness. He has covered us with the Blood of the Lamb to be made presentable before our Holy God Almighty. He gave us all the implements included in the full armor of God in Ephesians 6. He Himself is the bridegroom and we believers are considered and designated as His bride. Can you believe it you are one of the Jewels in His crown? Now given these facts perhaps you can begin to believe as Isaiah did that you will greatly rejoice in the Lord. And that your soul shall be joyful in your God, for He has has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue. ( 2 Peter 1:3)
AMEN
Do you need to repent today for your lack of Joy in the Lord for He is your strength? Do you now see your joy in the Lord is a reflection upon His life in you and your commitment and dedication to becoming a committed believer in Jesus? A commitment to Him is not a casual thing. Or perhaps you have never really received God’s anointing from above and your need to be save by the Blood of the Lamb. Will you respond today and give your life to the one who absolutely loves you and died for you? At the invitation come forward for repentance or salvation. Let God lead you this morning.
Additional selected verses on Joy :
Colossians 1:10-12, 10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.
Hebrews 12:2-3, 2looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
Esther 8:17 And in every province and city, wherever the king’s command and decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a holiday. Then many of the people of the land became Jews, because fear of the Jews fell upon them.
Ecclesiastes 2:26 For God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to a man who is good in His sight; but to the sinner He gives the work of gathering and collecting, that he may give to him who is good before God.
Isaiah 29:19 The humble also shall increase their joy in the Lord, And the poor among men shall rejoice In the Holy One of Israel.
Dec 11 Sermon
Christmas is coming and are your already overwhelmed? Perhaps not so much with Christmas but it adds to your stress and woes because you see food, gas and the cost of living increasing every time you go to the store. You see crime, evil and dishonesty being rewarded. And dishonesty, greed and self-interests seeming to triumph over goodness everywhere you turn. How do you responds to this mess? Do you spend time complaining about what’s happening? Do you believe you are being continually defeated or dismayed at the forces of evil and dishonesty that are arrayed against you? I am sure we all despair sometimes, and there is nothing inherently wrong with this? But if you are at it continually railing against circumstances and the forces arrayed against you then perhaps there is a bigger problem? Do you understand that God knows exactly where you are and what is happening in your life? Complaining and grumbling are not necessarily good responses
Complaining and grumbling and griping have gotten the people of God in some very bad juju over the centuries. I have pulled one of the many verses which resulted from me searching the word “complained,” Check out Numbers 14:2. It says, And all the children of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron, and the whole congregation said to them, “If only we had died in the land of Egypt! Or if only we had died in this wilderness!
The peoples grumbling and complaining were voice to but were not really directed against Moses, Aaron or Joshua. These complaints were actually against God who was leading them.
What is the so what here? What does this mean to us, in our day and in our world? So how best then do we evaluate our Position? Our best position is to apply and measure ourselves against the word of God – the Bible and what God says about what is “truth.”.
Let’s look at the Old Testament book of Numbers 13:25-33. now beginning at verse 25, 25 And they returned from spying out the land after forty days.
26 Now they departed and came back to Moses and Aaron and all the congregation of the children of Israel in the Wilderness of Parana, at Kadesh; they brought back word to them and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. 27 Then they told him, and said: “We went to the land where you sent us. It truly [g]flows with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. 28 Nevertheless the people who dwell in the land are strong; the cities are fortified and very large; moreover we saw the descendants of Anak there. 29 The Amalekites dwell in the land of the South; the Hittites, the Jebusites, and the Amorites dwell in the mountains; and the Canaanites dwell by the sea and along the banks of the Jordan.”
30 Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.”
31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we.” 32 And they gave the children of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, “The land through which we have gone as spies is a land that devours its inhabitants, and all the people whom we saw in it are men of great stature. 33 There we saw the [h]giants (the descendants of Anak came from the giants); and we were like[i]grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.”
My, my, things were really bad according to ten spies. But two spies said no, we are able, with God’s promise, to do follow God’s command. Do you think the people believed that they were just going to walk into the promised land and be handed all these rewards as freebees? Apparently, they did, for they complained again and again against their circumstance which God had put them in the middle of on purpose. God was leading them to Himself and that is not always an easy task, especially for a people who had been slaves for 400+ years and were now free to choose who they would worship and honor.
Folks there is a big divide here which you and I need to understand. There are three specific places mentioned here from Exodus through Joshua. These places represent three states or conditions in their relationship to God and His promises. These three places are; Egypt, the Wilderness and the Promised Land. Each of us today is in one of these locations in our relationship with God. Egypt, Pharaoh and the many differing gods therein represent the domain of sin and evil and is the resident domain of the damned, both present and future.
Second is the Promised land which represents the domain of God in Christ for those living today and for eternity. Make no mistake the Promised Land is for those who have fully received and are living for and are “in Christ” in our world today. The is the land of those born again and from above; and are populated by those who were sinners, who have come as the whosoever will and called upon the name of the Lord, who have been saved by grace through faith. These are those who are walking by faith in Christ and not by sight
Now listen and understand about the middle ground between Egypt and the Promised Land. It is called Wilderness and it is middle ground. The wilderness is for those who have heard the promise from God for redemption, but have not fully trusted by faith in the truth of the promise; and are living frustrated and unstable in the world around them. These are the ones we just read about who consider themselves as “grasshoppers,” who are unwilling and unable to fully accept the promises and truths which God has given us and learned to trust and walk in them.
The question for the day is, where are you? Are you still in Egypt in the midst of your sin never having believed or trusted in that Jesus nonsense? Or are you having heard the truth and begun to believe but because of your lack of faith and unbelief are now in the wilderness of circumstances, like those in Moses’ day? Notice closely in our scripture for today verse 31 31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we. This is showing a direct lack of faith in the Words of God spoken to them by Moses.
Do you remember in the new testament where the man who desired his son to be healed from demon possession – 40 So I implored Your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.”
41 Then Jesus answered and said, “O [f]faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and [g]bear with you? (Luke 9:40-41)
– because of the disciples lack of faith they were severely rebuked by Jesus.
The problem we have is there is no fear of God. Without the fear of God we lack the wisdom which comes by fearing God. Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
The Israelites living in bondage had seen the acts of God but had never come to know and to fear, honor, love and trust Him so they were overwhelmed by the forces arrayed against them. This type of living caused God to proclaim 40 years banishment in the wilderness until all over 20 years old had perished except Caleb, Joshua and Moses. Those men were satisfied to call themselves Grasshoppers before those who opposed them for they did not believe or trust in the promises of God. Even thought they testified to the fact that the Land was full of milk and honey, they denied God was able to deliver them? Are you a grasshopper Christian living in the Wilderness of sin not relying on the promises of God?
Or have you fully trusted in the Lord God and Him only shall you serve, as Jesus spoke in Luke 4:8? These are the blessed who are living even now in the promised land.
You ask me how can you say that with all the problems I have right now?? I guess maybe you are a grasshopper Christian. Others such as Bill Bright might label you differently - a carnal Christian. You have heard the promises but are not fully committed yourself to trusting in God’s power or His word. Perhaps you are not really saved? Could this be true of you?
Is this the way you believe you stand before God today? A mere grasshopper unable to contend for the faith with the enemies who come against you? Do you know God is with you and has called us to stand and having done all to stand? {Eph 6:11-19) I believe many people today are overcome by all that is coming against believers, traditional Christian values and beliefs. We are not grasshoppers but overcomers and those who are empowered by God and who have His strength to stand in the evil day despite all
I ask you to meditate on this verse as you prepare your hearts for Christmas - The Essence of the Law is from Deuteronomy 10:12
12 “And now, Israel (Christians), what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul,
If you do so you will not become a grasshopper Christian, this is the promise of God.
Read these verses for a summary on the
“the fear of the Lord is” from Proverbs:
1. Proverbs 1:7
2. Proverbs 8:13
3. Proverbs 9:10
4. Proverbs 14:26
5. Proverbs 14:27
6. Proverbs 15:16
7. Proverbs 15:33
8. Proverbs 16:6
9. Proverbs 19:1
NKJV 1975 version Thomas Nelson publishers.
Christmas is coming and are your already overwhelmed? Perhaps not so much with Christmas but it adds to your stress and woes because you see food, gas and the cost of living increasing every time you go to the store. You see crime, evil and dishonesty being rewarded. And dishonesty, greed and self-interests seeming to triumph over goodness everywhere you turn. How do you responds to this mess? Do you spend time complaining about what’s happening? Do you believe you are being continually defeated or dismayed at the forces of evil and dishonesty that are arrayed against you? I am sure we all despair sometimes, and there is nothing inherently wrong with this? But if you are at it continually railing against circumstances and the forces arrayed against you then perhaps there is a bigger problem? Do you understand that God knows exactly where you are and what is happening in your life? Complaining and grumbling are not necessarily good responses
Complaining and grumbling and griping have gotten the people of God in some very bad juju over the centuries. I have pulled one of the many verses which resulted from me searching the word “complained,” Check out Numbers 14:2. It says, And all the children of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron, and the whole congregation said to them, “If only we had died in the land of Egypt! Or if only we had died in this wilderness!
The peoples grumbling and complaining were voice to but were not really directed against Moses, Aaron or Joshua. These complaints were actually against God who was leading them.
What is the so what here? What does this mean to us, in our day and in our world? So how best then do we evaluate our Position? Our best position is to apply and measure ourselves against the word of God – the Bible and what God says about what is “truth.”.
Let’s look at the Old Testament book of Numbers 13:25-33. now beginning at verse 25, 25 And they returned from spying out the land after forty days.
26 Now they departed and came back to Moses and Aaron and all the congregation of the children of Israel in the Wilderness of Parana, at Kadesh; they brought back word to them and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. 27 Then they told him, and said: “We went to the land where you sent us. It truly [g]flows with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. 28 Nevertheless the people who dwell in the land are strong; the cities are fortified and very large; moreover we saw the descendants of Anak there. 29 The Amalekites dwell in the land of the South; the Hittites, the Jebusites, and the Amorites dwell in the mountains; and the Canaanites dwell by the sea and along the banks of the Jordan.”
30 Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.”
31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we.” 32 And they gave the children of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, “The land through which we have gone as spies is a land that devours its inhabitants, and all the people whom we saw in it are men of great stature. 33 There we saw the [h]giants (the descendants of Anak came from the giants); and we were like[i]grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.”
My, my, things were really bad according to ten spies. But two spies said no, we are able, with God’s promise, to do follow God’s command. Do you think the people believed that they were just going to walk into the promised land and be handed all these rewards as freebees? Apparently, they did, for they complained again and again against their circumstance which God had put them in the middle of on purpose. God was leading them to Himself and that is not always an easy task, especially for a people who had been slaves for 400+ years and were now free to choose who they would worship and honor.
Folks there is a big divide here which you and I need to understand. There are three specific places mentioned here from Exodus through Joshua. These places represent three states or conditions in their relationship to God and His promises. These three places are; Egypt, the Wilderness and the Promised Land. Each of us today is in one of these locations in our relationship with God. Egypt, Pharaoh and the many differing gods therein represent the domain of sin and evil and is the resident domain of the damned, both present and future.
Second is the Promised land which represents the domain of God in Christ for those living today and for eternity. Make no mistake the Promised Land is for those who have fully received and are living for and are “in Christ” in our world today. The is the land of those born again and from above; and are populated by those who were sinners, who have come as the whosoever will and called upon the name of the Lord, who have been saved by grace through faith. These are those who are walking by faith in Christ and not by sight
Now listen and understand about the middle ground between Egypt and the Promised Land. It is called Wilderness and it is middle ground. The wilderness is for those who have heard the promise from God for redemption, but have not fully trusted by faith in the truth of the promise; and are living frustrated and unstable in the world around them. These are the ones we just read about who consider themselves as “grasshoppers,” who are unwilling and unable to fully accept the promises and truths which God has given us and learned to trust and walk in them.
The question for the day is, where are you? Are you still in Egypt in the midst of your sin never having believed or trusted in that Jesus nonsense? Or are you having heard the truth and begun to believe but because of your lack of faith and unbelief are now in the wilderness of circumstances, like those in Moses’ day? Notice closely in our scripture for today verse 31 31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we. This is showing a direct lack of faith in the Words of God spoken to them by Moses.
Do you remember in the new testament where the man who desired his son to be healed from demon possession – 40 So I implored Your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.”
41 Then Jesus answered and said, “O [f]faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and [g]bear with you? (Luke 9:40-41)
– because of the disciples lack of faith they were severely rebuked by Jesus.
The problem we have is there is no fear of God. Without the fear of God we lack the wisdom which comes by fearing God. Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
The Israelites living in bondage had seen the acts of God but had never come to know and to fear, honor, love and trust Him so they were overwhelmed by the forces arrayed against them. This type of living caused God to proclaim 40 years banishment in the wilderness until all over 20 years old had perished except Caleb, Joshua and Moses. Those men were satisfied to call themselves Grasshoppers before those who opposed them for they did not believe or trust in the promises of God. Even thought they testified to the fact that the Land was full of milk and honey, they denied God was able to deliver them? Are you a grasshopper Christian living in the Wilderness of sin not relying on the promises of God?
Or have you fully trusted in the Lord God and Him only shall you serve, as Jesus spoke in Luke 4:8? These are the blessed who are living even now in the promised land.
You ask me how can you say that with all the problems I have right now?? I guess maybe you are a grasshopper Christian. Others such as Bill Bright might label you differently - a carnal Christian. You have heard the promises but are not fully committed yourself to trusting in God’s power or His word. Perhaps you are not really saved? Could this be true of you?
Is this the way you believe you stand before God today? A mere grasshopper unable to contend for the faith with the enemies who come against you? Do you know God is with you and has called us to stand and having done all to stand? {Eph 6:11-19) I believe many people today are overcome by all that is coming against believers, traditional Christian values and beliefs. We are not grasshoppers but overcomers and those who are empowered by God and who have His strength to stand in the evil day despite all
I ask you to meditate on this verse as you prepare your hearts for Christmas - The Essence of the Law is from Deuteronomy 10:12
12 “And now, Israel (Christians), what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul,
If you do so you will not become a grasshopper Christian, this is the promise of God.
Read these verses for a summary on the
“the fear of the Lord is” from Proverbs:
1. Proverbs 1:7
2. Proverbs 8:13
3. Proverbs 9:10
4. Proverbs 14:26
5. Proverbs 14:27
6. Proverbs 15:16
7. Proverbs 15:33
8. Proverbs 16:6
9. Proverbs 19:1
NKJV 1975 version Thomas Nelson publishers.
Dec 4 Sermon
In every case in scripture whether Old Testaments - say Moses, Abram to Abraham, Gideon, David or any of the prophets to the New Testament disciples, God always wants a deeper relationship with those He called. The path to a deep relationship for each could be painful, joyous, full of challenges and difficulties. Just look at the life of Paul, John or Peter every twist and turn of their lives God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit was moving them towards a deeper and more fulfilling relationship with Himself. Jesus told the disciples simply Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. Sounds quite simple but if we look at their lives, the growing in relationship to God was not easy and, in some cases, painful, personally stretching and difficult.
God in Christ has not changed He wants a close personal and individual relationship with you. This may not have been your experience growing up. You may not have had warm, close loving relationship with your parents, brothers, sisters and family. Your relationships could have been very formal, almost cold and professional to a large extent or even abusive, punishing and hateful full of drunken rage or misgiving. That is not the love of God. He corrects and emends our ways to be conformed to His precepts but to the one who comes to Him in faith, He will in no wise cast out. The love of God is evident in the fact that He sent His Son a ransom for many for sin. God’s greatest love was made real on the cross of Calvary where Jesus paid it all for you and I. As the song says, A message written in Red from His shed blood. We could spend the rest of the lesson on the love of God but we will not. The love of God is settled at the cross forever.
You on the other hand need to know that the work of the Holy Spirit is to conform your life to the image of the Son (Romans 8:29.) Which means God is at work in the life of everyone who is called by His name (Phil. 2.13). Now you may be oblivious or have ignored the calling of God for so long you do not realize He is drawing your unto Himself with chords of love. He wants close intimate fellowship with your heart and He wants you on mission for Him. Question does this discussion ring true in your heart right now, or is this confusing? Let’s gain insight into this problem by simply looking at the disciples of Jesus. God is wants us to understand His ways and draw us deeper in our relationship with Him. Look in the New Testament Gospel of Luke, chapter 5, beginning at the first verse. Let’s read:
5 So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him {Jesus}to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, 2 and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets. 3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon {Peter}, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” 6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
Now going to verse 12 we begin Case II – which is the immediate application for the instruction of the disciples in God’s ways of what He just taught the disciples-
Jesus Cleanses a Leper 12 And it happened when He was in a certain city, that behold, a man who was full of leprosy saw Jesus; and he fell on his face and [b]implored Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.”
13 Then He put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” Immediately the leprosy left him. 14 And He charged him to tell no one, “But go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as a testimony to them, just as Moses commanded.” {this action of going to the Priest fulfills the law of God found in Leviticus}
Pray with me – Lord help us to see what you want is us from this teaching in Luke 5. It is important Lord for us to see your loving approach to drawing us deeper in Your love. Amen
Go back now to verse 1-5 and let’s dig into the truths here for our understanding.
What we don’t discern here from this text is that Jesus had earlier met these men who He will eventually call to be disciples in Mark Chapter 1 and Matthew, Chapter 4 and Peter, Andrew, James and John went with Him to Capernaum and Galilee but they went back to their trade of being fishermen.
Here is the important point – Jesus in the life of an individual makes a big difference, and encounter with Jesus is life changing and will rearrange everything. But as in the future disciples case it took more than one encounter for them to awaken to His calling. Note this Jesus is preaching to the crowd but His concern is always for individuals. If you study God’s word you will always find this pattern is true.
Jesus is now about to invite them into deeper waters with Himself. This was after they had spent all night fishing and yet caught nothing. Read what the text says. Now this says something about the character of the men Jesus was calling perhaps as many as 7 of the 12 were fisherman. To be a professional fisherman these individuals would have had to have faith to plod the seas day after day. So they needed persistence, patience and had to be efficient and these were good qualities for the faith works God was calling them to accomplish. But they lacked a very essential quality – deep and abiding personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. So let’s see what Jesus does.
It says that Jesus was preaching to a crowd which was continually pressing around Him, so He commandeers a fishing boat to give Himself some space from them. Now notice how God orchestrated details. He put the frustrated fishermen in the exact presence of His Son, while they were finishing up cleaning up from a disappointing night. Now it says Jesus was using this fishing boat as a platform to preach the Word of God – and the people were obviously hungry for the Word. Jesus was teaching with authority and the people could not get enough. So who else was hearing and needed the Word of God but the fishermen – just a coincidence, right? Jesus was already calling others to respond to His Word, He was fishing for souls already.
Do you understand that Peter and the other future disciples were captives on the boat? Romans 10:17 tells us, Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Jesus’ teaching and preaching was to the crowd but plainly also for the future disciples, for He was preparing them for a future encounter with Him.
This is actually God’s invitation for you and I and these men to go deeper with Him and to prepare us to join Him in His work.
Stay focused on verses 3-5: 3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon {Peter}, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.”
Jesus first gets into Simon Peter’s boat and ask Him to put out a little from the land. A simple request but unexpected. So Jesus first asks us to trust a little to have faith in Him, just a little to trust in Him. This gives us a chance to take our first step of obedience in faith. Then the next and greater step is to cast out into deeper water. Notice is says after His teaching the multitudes He stopped speaking and He says to Peter and the crew a command – Launch out into the deep. Jesus has been teaching Simon Peter and the rest of the crew and they having heard His teaching are now put to the test. So here Jesus who they have been with before but left and went back to fishing are now challenged again by Jesus not in some unfamiliar setting but right there in their workplace on the Sea of Galilee.
But it was not just to “Launch out into the deep but to do something extraordinary and let down At this command Jesus is challenging them in everything they think they know and that is all about fishing and their life’s work. But He is also meeting them at the point of their need which was to provide for others and themselves.
Notice Simon Peter’s concern he answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing. This was simply stating the facts which Jesus already knew. Notice the term Master this is recognition of a higher estate than he has understood to this point.
Remember, Simon is a fisherman- he knows that the fish are caught at night when they come to the surface. During the day the fish go deep to get to the cooler water. Jesus call to launch into the deep flies in the face of all they have learned and understood. After all Jesus is no fisherman, who is He to tell them what to do.
These men are about to experience the power of a word spoken by God, but not quite yet.
A further step of obedience is required by Simon and these men and here it is. Simon after hearing Jesus teaching to the multitudes has taken to heart the words He has said, and now here is what he says, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” Now look at the result of this next step of faith look to verse 8 - 6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. Notice the learning by the future disciples they immediately called others to share in the bounty which the Lord had provided- So they signaled to their partners. Gods’ providence and care demands sharing, yes in the work as well. So they called others.
Now notice the immediate heart change in Simon when he fully recognized the activity and calling of God through Jesus working, verse 8 - 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken;
Jesus then calmly admonishes them to take heart what I have done here I will do with you but “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.
When they returned it says, verse 11, 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
Now immediately Jesus reinforces this teaching of His ways by curing a leper. I would like to spend many minutes explaining the healing of the leper but we can’t. Here is the gist – leprosy is a disease and it represents sin in all its evil intent. Leprosy separates, it is pervasive, it festers, it must be isolated, it represents a fatal problem in an individual. Leprosy makes a person insensitive to the pain it is causing and harms both the individual and others. The fact that a Leper comes to Jesus and asked to be healed shows that God was working in the heart of this leper to recognize that He needed to come to Jesus for He was the only source of true healing. Just as He did with the Fisherman faith and actions had to be demonstrated by those coming to Jesus for healing and salvation. Jesus was concerned about the individual and touched the unclean to make Him whole.
This is what He does with us all.
Do you see that Jesus is wanting to draw you into deeper fellowship with Himself today? Has God spoken to your heart this morning if so are your prepared to respond to His command to push out just a little further? Will you be obedient today -after all Jesus is calling you today?
Amen
In every case in scripture whether Old Testaments - say Moses, Abram to Abraham, Gideon, David or any of the prophets to the New Testament disciples, God always wants a deeper relationship with those He called. The path to a deep relationship for each could be painful, joyous, full of challenges and difficulties. Just look at the life of Paul, John or Peter every twist and turn of their lives God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit was moving them towards a deeper and more fulfilling relationship with Himself. Jesus told the disciples simply Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. Sounds quite simple but if we look at their lives, the growing in relationship to God was not easy and, in some cases, painful, personally stretching and difficult.
God in Christ has not changed He wants a close personal and individual relationship with you. This may not have been your experience growing up. You may not have had warm, close loving relationship with your parents, brothers, sisters and family. Your relationships could have been very formal, almost cold and professional to a large extent or even abusive, punishing and hateful full of drunken rage or misgiving. That is not the love of God. He corrects and emends our ways to be conformed to His precepts but to the one who comes to Him in faith, He will in no wise cast out. The love of God is evident in the fact that He sent His Son a ransom for many for sin. God’s greatest love was made real on the cross of Calvary where Jesus paid it all for you and I. As the song says, A message written in Red from His shed blood. We could spend the rest of the lesson on the love of God but we will not. The love of God is settled at the cross forever.
You on the other hand need to know that the work of the Holy Spirit is to conform your life to the image of the Son (Romans 8:29.) Which means God is at work in the life of everyone who is called by His name (Phil. 2.13). Now you may be oblivious or have ignored the calling of God for so long you do not realize He is drawing your unto Himself with chords of love. He wants close intimate fellowship with your heart and He wants you on mission for Him. Question does this discussion ring true in your heart right now, or is this confusing? Let’s gain insight into this problem by simply looking at the disciples of Jesus. God is wants us to understand His ways and draw us deeper in our relationship with Him. Look in the New Testament Gospel of Luke, chapter 5, beginning at the first verse. Let’s read:
5 So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him {Jesus}to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, 2 and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets. 3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon {Peter}, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” 6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
Now going to verse 12 we begin Case II – which is the immediate application for the instruction of the disciples in God’s ways of what He just taught the disciples-
Jesus Cleanses a Leper 12 And it happened when He was in a certain city, that behold, a man who was full of leprosy saw Jesus; and he fell on his face and [b]implored Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.”
13 Then He put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” Immediately the leprosy left him. 14 And He charged him to tell no one, “But go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as a testimony to them, just as Moses commanded.” {this action of going to the Priest fulfills the law of God found in Leviticus}
Pray with me – Lord help us to see what you want is us from this teaching in Luke 5. It is important Lord for us to see your loving approach to drawing us deeper in Your love. Amen
Go back now to verse 1-5 and let’s dig into the truths here for our understanding.
What we don’t discern here from this text is that Jesus had earlier met these men who He will eventually call to be disciples in Mark Chapter 1 and Matthew, Chapter 4 and Peter, Andrew, James and John went with Him to Capernaum and Galilee but they went back to their trade of being fishermen.
Here is the important point – Jesus in the life of an individual makes a big difference, and encounter with Jesus is life changing and will rearrange everything. But as in the future disciples case it took more than one encounter for them to awaken to His calling. Note this Jesus is preaching to the crowd but His concern is always for individuals. If you study God’s word you will always find this pattern is true.
Jesus is now about to invite them into deeper waters with Himself. This was after they had spent all night fishing and yet caught nothing. Read what the text says. Now this says something about the character of the men Jesus was calling perhaps as many as 7 of the 12 were fisherman. To be a professional fisherman these individuals would have had to have faith to plod the seas day after day. So they needed persistence, patience and had to be efficient and these were good qualities for the faith works God was calling them to accomplish. But they lacked a very essential quality – deep and abiding personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. So let’s see what Jesus does.
It says that Jesus was preaching to a crowd which was continually pressing around Him, so He commandeers a fishing boat to give Himself some space from them. Now notice how God orchestrated details. He put the frustrated fishermen in the exact presence of His Son, while they were finishing up cleaning up from a disappointing night. Now it says Jesus was using this fishing boat as a platform to preach the Word of God – and the people were obviously hungry for the Word. Jesus was teaching with authority and the people could not get enough. So who else was hearing and needed the Word of God but the fishermen – just a coincidence, right? Jesus was already calling others to respond to His Word, He was fishing for souls already.
Do you understand that Peter and the other future disciples were captives on the boat? Romans 10:17 tells us, Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Jesus’ teaching and preaching was to the crowd but plainly also for the future disciples, for He was preparing them for a future encounter with Him.
This is actually God’s invitation for you and I and these men to go deeper with Him and to prepare us to join Him in His work.
Stay focused on verses 3-5: 3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon {Peter}, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.”
Jesus first gets into Simon Peter’s boat and ask Him to put out a little from the land. A simple request but unexpected. So Jesus first asks us to trust a little to have faith in Him, just a little to trust in Him. This gives us a chance to take our first step of obedience in faith. Then the next and greater step is to cast out into deeper water. Notice is says after His teaching the multitudes He stopped speaking and He says to Peter and the crew a command – Launch out into the deep. Jesus has been teaching Simon Peter and the rest of the crew and they having heard His teaching are now put to the test. So here Jesus who they have been with before but left and went back to fishing are now challenged again by Jesus not in some unfamiliar setting but right there in their workplace on the Sea of Galilee.
But it was not just to “Launch out into the deep but to do something extraordinary and let down At this command Jesus is challenging them in everything they think they know and that is all about fishing and their life’s work. But He is also meeting them at the point of their need which was to provide for others and themselves.
Notice Simon Peter’s concern he answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing. This was simply stating the facts which Jesus already knew. Notice the term Master this is recognition of a higher estate than he has understood to this point.
Remember, Simon is a fisherman- he knows that the fish are caught at night when they come to the surface. During the day the fish go deep to get to the cooler water. Jesus call to launch into the deep flies in the face of all they have learned and understood. After all Jesus is no fisherman, who is He to tell them what to do.
These men are about to experience the power of a word spoken by God, but not quite yet.
A further step of obedience is required by Simon and these men and here it is. Simon after hearing Jesus teaching to the multitudes has taken to heart the words He has said, and now here is what he says, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” Now look at the result of this next step of faith look to verse 8 - 6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. Notice the learning by the future disciples they immediately called others to share in the bounty which the Lord had provided- So they signaled to their partners. Gods’ providence and care demands sharing, yes in the work as well. So they called others.
Now notice the immediate heart change in Simon when he fully recognized the activity and calling of God through Jesus working, verse 8 - 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken;
Jesus then calmly admonishes them to take heart what I have done here I will do with you but “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.
When they returned it says, verse 11, 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
Now immediately Jesus reinforces this teaching of His ways by curing a leper. I would like to spend many minutes explaining the healing of the leper but we can’t. Here is the gist – leprosy is a disease and it represents sin in all its evil intent. Leprosy separates, it is pervasive, it festers, it must be isolated, it represents a fatal problem in an individual. Leprosy makes a person insensitive to the pain it is causing and harms both the individual and others. The fact that a Leper comes to Jesus and asked to be healed shows that God was working in the heart of this leper to recognize that He needed to come to Jesus for He was the only source of true healing. Just as He did with the Fisherman faith and actions had to be demonstrated by those coming to Jesus for healing and salvation. Jesus was concerned about the individual and touched the unclean to make Him whole.
This is what He does with us all.
Do you see that Jesus is wanting to draw you into deeper fellowship with Himself today? Has God spoken to your heart this morning if so are your prepared to respond to His command to push out just a little further? Will you be obedient today -after all Jesus is calling you today?
Amen
Nov 20 Sermon
We always hearing Pastors, Preachers and Evangelists talking about “repentance.” What is the big deal about repentance? Why is everyone all flustered about repentance and why do they make such an issue about it? You might even be thinking that yourself right this moment – be truthful now, no denying it!
Why is the idea, the desire and the act of repentance so difficult for us to want to understand and to grasp?
Teacher, Teacher, I think I know the answer, as I raise my hand excitedly bouncing up and down in my seat!!!
I believe it all has to do with the nature of the human heart. The Bible says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? (Jer. 17:9)
When the average person thinks "evil or wickedness," he or she generally thinks of a cruelly-featured, sneering, bestial man wickedly twirling his mustache as he draws perverse delight from inflicting misery on his fellow human beings.
People who fit the almost cartoonish definition we've grown accustomed to viewing as evil, certainly do exist -- and we hear about those dictators, serial killers, hit men, & psychopaths on the nightly news.
But, it's a mistake to believe that those are the only people who do evil or that only activities that rise to the level of murder, rape, or armed robbery are sins. The worst of the worst may deserve especially strong condemnation, but small cruelties committed by unthinking people -- who view themselves as good and just, despite their sometimes-malicious actions -- have done more than most people realize to spread evil, degrade civilization, and drag our culture into the sewers. Here are some exemplars of wickedness today for your consideration:
1) Anonymously emailing death threats to others.
2) Abortion on demand is evil, kills a person but that’s choice and that’s OK, right? Redefining words to make evil acceptable that is wickedness.
3) Suing someone who did nothing wrong in order to collect a big payday or make a profit.
4) Passing on information that you know is a lie about a political, business or personal associate or opponent.
5) Posting someone's phone number or address online in an effort to intimidate or in hopes that someone will try to hurt or harm them.
6) Passing rules or legislation to enrich your friends, family, or yourself.
7) A witty comedian telling a brilliant joke about how dumb people are who do the right thing.
8) Lying to a woman to get her to bed with you.
9.) Lying so you don’t have to work and collect welfare or benefits checks
10) Trying to convince people to do something that's immoral, unethical, or just plain wrong so that you'll feel better about doing it yourself.
11) Spreading disinformation about anything – called gossiping, or lying.
12) Pastors who water down and or don’t teach Biblical truths, his Lord requires, because they conflict with his political or personal views on correctness.
So there is all sorts of wickedness around us today and it all come from a dark heart. Jesus says, A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. (Matt. 12.35). Lots of evil treasure in the world today don’t you think?
Repentance then is looking at our hearts from a heavenly or Godly perspective and understanding how dark they are and turning in the exact opposite direction. We turn away from because there is new light inside us. What has changed? God has opened us up to Himself and has put a new Spirit within us, initially just enough to cause us to understand the sin and draw us to Himself.
Some ideas from scripture for us to consider follow:
Matthew 3:2,8,11 John the Baptist
and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!”8 -Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance 11I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Matthew 4:17 says, From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Jesus spoke again of the importance of repentance in Matthew 9:14, 14 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’ For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.
Repentance is absolutely essential for entry into the Kingdom of Heaven, it comes by enlightened conviction created by God’s stirring our hearts because of our sinful condition.
Repentance is essential for continued growth as a believer and staying in fellowship with God. It is not enough to continually say I am sorry, we must repent and turn away or again and again saying, Yes Lord I must turn away. This truth is evident in 2 Cor 7. 9-10 says, 10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. So it is not enough just to be sorry for sorrow leads to death. Repentance actually turning away leads to life.
So that’s an overview, we need to dig deeper for God is calling all believers today to repent, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. (Eph. 5:27} I ask you a question today as you consider the biblical calling of God’s Word, are you as His child without spot or wrinkle and can you say I am holy and without blemish? If you are unable to say this in the near presence of God, then each one of us needs repentance today!
Digging deeper into Matthew 3 we see John the Baptist baptizing believing Israelites in a baptism of repentance. Why is he doing this since they already believe in God? Let’s read Matt Chapter 3, beginning at verse 1, 3 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ”
4 Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.
7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, 9 and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. 10 And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit [a]and fire. 12 His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
So let’s cherry pick from this text a few verses
1. Verses 2 and 3, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’
John the Baptist wax aware of his calling from God. Remember the angel told his daddy- Zacharias, the. priest, as he was doing his duty in the temple, your child shall be filled with the Holy Spirit in the womb 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
So we see here John the Baptist doing what was prophesied by the Angel. John filled with the Holy Spirit knows what He is to do and that is prepare for the coming Messiah.
#2. Matthew 3. 5-6. 5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.
John was preparing the way for the Jews who believed in God to confession and repentance.
John was on mission with God to “prepare ye the way of the Lord. These were the common people sensing the power of God in the person of John the Baptist and being baptized in the Jordan. Now ritual cleansing was part of the Jewish ritual but this is more I believe. Baptism is this sense was for the purging of sins in preparation to receive a future blessing in our case forgiveness. I believe this call was beyond what was normally considered ritual cleansing. Preparing and responding to baptisms from John was sensing the activity and call of God not just ritualistic and ceremonial cleansing.
#3. Note verses 11 and 12: 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit [a]and fire. 12 His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
This confirms John’s call to baptize unto repentance on the basis of water, but the one who is coming has much more. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit [a]and fire. This is the baptism we read about when Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night. Nicodemus sensed he was lacking something necessary to have forgiveness and to be holy not just now but for eternity. Jesus answers the desire of his heart and says “you must be born again”
You see according to the word of God you and I cannot stand in God presence in our present condition as a sinner or as an unrepentant believer.
We are advised in Psalms 24:3-5 of this –
3Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord?
Or who may stand in His holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol,
Nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive blessing from the Lord,
And righteousness from the God of his salvation
Repentance is essential for salvation in order to believe initially.
Repentance and forgiveness is continual in the life of a born again believer.
Yes once saved always saved, but repentance is cause by the activity of the Holy Spirit described in John 16. Unrepentant believers will be judged for their hard hearts and unforgiven sins at the bema judgement of Jesus.
Here is the call today for this church in this hour not dependent upon anyone else but upon the call of God to create this church without spot or wrinkle unto Himself. If you don’t know Jesus as Lord and Savior and you have not asked Him into your heart today. Now I the time, today is the day of salvation. Reject His call at your eternal peril
For believers you may need renewed cleansing and repentance to turn from your wicked ways – Remember David and his call -Renew a right sprite within me. Cast me not away from thy presence and take not thy Holy Spirt from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation and uphold me with thy free spirit. AMEN
FATHER we beg you to meet with us now. May we respond to your call upon our lives to cleansed, holy and anointed vessels unto your honor today. Amen
We always hearing Pastors, Preachers and Evangelists talking about “repentance.” What is the big deal about repentance? Why is everyone all flustered about repentance and why do they make such an issue about it? You might even be thinking that yourself right this moment – be truthful now, no denying it!
Why is the idea, the desire and the act of repentance so difficult for us to want to understand and to grasp?
Teacher, Teacher, I think I know the answer, as I raise my hand excitedly bouncing up and down in my seat!!!
I believe it all has to do with the nature of the human heart. The Bible says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? (Jer. 17:9)
When the average person thinks "evil or wickedness," he or she generally thinks of a cruelly-featured, sneering, bestial man wickedly twirling his mustache as he draws perverse delight from inflicting misery on his fellow human beings.
People who fit the almost cartoonish definition we've grown accustomed to viewing as evil, certainly do exist -- and we hear about those dictators, serial killers, hit men, & psychopaths on the nightly news.
But, it's a mistake to believe that those are the only people who do evil or that only activities that rise to the level of murder, rape, or armed robbery are sins. The worst of the worst may deserve especially strong condemnation, but small cruelties committed by unthinking people -- who view themselves as good and just, despite their sometimes-malicious actions -- have done more than most people realize to spread evil, degrade civilization, and drag our culture into the sewers. Here are some exemplars of wickedness today for your consideration:
1) Anonymously emailing death threats to others.
2) Abortion on demand is evil, kills a person but that’s choice and that’s OK, right? Redefining words to make evil acceptable that is wickedness.
3) Suing someone who did nothing wrong in order to collect a big payday or make a profit.
4) Passing on information that you know is a lie about a political, business or personal associate or opponent.
5) Posting someone's phone number or address online in an effort to intimidate or in hopes that someone will try to hurt or harm them.
6) Passing rules or legislation to enrich your friends, family, or yourself.
7) A witty comedian telling a brilliant joke about how dumb people are who do the right thing.
8) Lying to a woman to get her to bed with you.
9.) Lying so you don’t have to work and collect welfare or benefits checks
10) Trying to convince people to do something that's immoral, unethical, or just plain wrong so that you'll feel better about doing it yourself.
11) Spreading disinformation about anything – called gossiping, or lying.
12) Pastors who water down and or don’t teach Biblical truths, his Lord requires, because they conflict with his political or personal views on correctness.
So there is all sorts of wickedness around us today and it all come from a dark heart. Jesus says, A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. (Matt. 12.35). Lots of evil treasure in the world today don’t you think?
Repentance then is looking at our hearts from a heavenly or Godly perspective and understanding how dark they are and turning in the exact opposite direction. We turn away from because there is new light inside us. What has changed? God has opened us up to Himself and has put a new Spirit within us, initially just enough to cause us to understand the sin and draw us to Himself.
Some ideas from scripture for us to consider follow:
Matthew 3:2,8,11 John the Baptist
and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!”8 -Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance 11I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Matthew 4:17 says, From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Jesus spoke again of the importance of repentance in Matthew 9:14, 14 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’ For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.
Repentance is absolutely essential for entry into the Kingdom of Heaven, it comes by enlightened conviction created by God’s stirring our hearts because of our sinful condition.
Repentance is essential for continued growth as a believer and staying in fellowship with God. It is not enough to continually say I am sorry, we must repent and turn away or again and again saying, Yes Lord I must turn away. This truth is evident in 2 Cor 7. 9-10 says, 10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. So it is not enough just to be sorry for sorrow leads to death. Repentance actually turning away leads to life.
So that’s an overview, we need to dig deeper for God is calling all believers today to repent, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. (Eph. 5:27} I ask you a question today as you consider the biblical calling of God’s Word, are you as His child without spot or wrinkle and can you say I am holy and without blemish? If you are unable to say this in the near presence of God, then each one of us needs repentance today!
Digging deeper into Matthew 3 we see John the Baptist baptizing believing Israelites in a baptism of repentance. Why is he doing this since they already believe in God? Let’s read Matt Chapter 3, beginning at verse 1, 3 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ”
4 Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.
7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, 9 and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. 10 And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit [a]and fire. 12 His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
So let’s cherry pick from this text a few verses
1. Verses 2 and 3, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’
John the Baptist wax aware of his calling from God. Remember the angel told his daddy- Zacharias, the. priest, as he was doing his duty in the temple, your child shall be filled with the Holy Spirit in the womb 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
So we see here John the Baptist doing what was prophesied by the Angel. John filled with the Holy Spirit knows what He is to do and that is prepare for the coming Messiah.
#2. Matthew 3. 5-6. 5 Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him 6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.
John was preparing the way for the Jews who believed in God to confession and repentance.
John was on mission with God to “prepare ye the way of the Lord. These were the common people sensing the power of God in the person of John the Baptist and being baptized in the Jordan. Now ritual cleansing was part of the Jewish ritual but this is more I believe. Baptism is this sense was for the purging of sins in preparation to receive a future blessing in our case forgiveness. I believe this call was beyond what was normally considered ritual cleansing. Preparing and responding to baptisms from John was sensing the activity and call of God not just ritualistic and ceremonial cleansing.
#3. Note verses 11 and 12: 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit [a]and fire. 12 His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
This confirms John’s call to baptize unto repentance on the basis of water, but the one who is coming has much more. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit [a]and fire. This is the baptism we read about when Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night. Nicodemus sensed he was lacking something necessary to have forgiveness and to be holy not just now but for eternity. Jesus answers the desire of his heart and says “you must be born again”
You see according to the word of God you and I cannot stand in God presence in our present condition as a sinner or as an unrepentant believer.
We are advised in Psalms 24:3-5 of this –
3Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord?
Or who may stand in His holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol,
Nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive blessing from the Lord,
And righteousness from the God of his salvation
Repentance is essential for salvation in order to believe initially.
Repentance and forgiveness is continual in the life of a born again believer.
Yes once saved always saved, but repentance is cause by the activity of the Holy Spirit described in John 16. Unrepentant believers will be judged for their hard hearts and unforgiven sins at the bema judgement of Jesus.
Here is the call today for this church in this hour not dependent upon anyone else but upon the call of God to create this church without spot or wrinkle unto Himself. If you don’t know Jesus as Lord and Savior and you have not asked Him into your heart today. Now I the time, today is the day of salvation. Reject His call at your eternal peril
For believers you may need renewed cleansing and repentance to turn from your wicked ways – Remember David and his call -Renew a right sprite within me. Cast me not away from thy presence and take not thy Holy Spirt from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation and uphold me with thy free spirit. AMEN
FATHER we beg you to meet with us now. May we respond to your call upon our lives to cleansed, holy and anointed vessels unto your honor today. Amen
Nov 13 Sermon
We know the days we live in and how contemptuous and evil they are; challenging us to the very core, defying us to live according to the dictates of God in Christ Jesus our Lord who is in us. How can you and I endure is such evil and strife, with all the lies and deception occurring around us and among our families and friends both saved and unsaved? There must be an answer, but where and how should we look to know it?
Tucked away in amidst Paul’s instructing husband and wives how to get along in married life is this statement – we read from Eph 5:25, 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. 28 So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. Amen
Pray – Father lead us into understanding and to applying the way you have provided for our salvation and our continued sanctification, in the name of Jesus our Lord. AMEN
Let’s repeat these words in the middle of this text, for they make a statement - just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
Notice there two “He might” phrases, again 2 of them on verses 26 and in 27- , 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
The verses state that Jesus gave Himself that He might create a way for us to be sanctified and cleansed. I repeat - just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her . We need to look at this truth as the beginning. we find our salvation as a believer and our continued growth into being a sanctified saint all began with the shed Blood of the Lamb – that takes away the sin of the world. Verse 26 gives us more the 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word
The phrase -washing of water by the word is the key. Without Jesus’ sacrifice and blood, the Holy Spirit would not have come. We then could not have become the temple of Holy Spirit who is in us. Jesus made all of this possible through His blood. Jesus did it all – He paid it all. Yes, He paid it all for me. So Jesus’ sacrifice has given us access to the Holy Spirit, who is in us. Remember, the Holy Spirit, He is God, equivalent to Jesus and in every way, like Him. Jesus tells us in John 14:26 this,“
26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” Jesus death and sacrifice made it possible for us to become His church (meaning - a body or believers wh0o have been saved, sanctified and cleansed individually, And to have new life in Him that is without spot or wrinkle – to become holy and without blemish. The Helper will teach you all things. He who is the Spirit of Truth, will reveal all truth and truth has a wonderful characteristic, it sets you free from yourself and anything which would separate you from Jesus.
Are you without spot or blemish today? Is you conduct – you speaking, living and without blemish? No! Then perhaps we need to pay attention to the Word of God to allow Him to work is us and help us become His bride.
Look again and according to verse 27 =-, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
That He, who is the Christ might present the church without spot or wrinkle, holy to Himself and to His Father in heaven. First let’s remember what Jesus also said in the scriptures. Jesus said, “and upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”(Matt 16:18) Jesus is today in the process of building His church. He is accomplishing this by building Himself in you and not in some building! Scripture also tells us elsewhere, For it is God who is at work in us both to will and to work for His good purpose. (Phil 2:13}.
That preparation of the heart and mind is essential for God to begin a complete work in our hearts. There is more required for us to become His church. In the Old Testament in 1st Chronicles 15:12 as David instructs the Levites to bring up the Arc of the Covenant to Jerusalem. He tells them to sanctify themselves in preparation for approaching the Arc of God.
To sanctify means “to separate, to set apart for sacred purposes” or “to purify.” in Numbers 8.
Part II. After Jesus sacrifice we don’t believe God requires such ceremonies today. But He does purify us when we read and study His Word – the Bible.
To allow the Bible to have its complete work in us and to fully allow the Bible to work in our lives we must have the Holy Spirit in us. As such, the completed work of Christ and His sending of the Holy Spirit to His disciples was required for you and I to become God’s finished work.
God uses the Bible to “wash us by His Word” for cleansing of heart and mind. As we read His word He uses it to purify and purge us in purification and holiness. This is the function of the Holy Spirit. He takes the Word of God brings it in through our eyes, to our minds, and allows it to work throughout our being to cause repentance from sin, recognition of His truth, to change our hearts and minds to become like Jesus.
We need to understand then what God has give us. He has given us Himself in the presence of the Holy Spirit, who is in you. He is God. Second the Word of God is just not another book of literature, poetry and moralistic writings. It is a true love letter from God on high. Preserved, prepared and delivered to you by the activity of God over 1500 years, multiple authors and 66 individual books which all related to the same author and the same story – God’s redemptive activity towards you.
His Word has special attributes unlike any other book ever written. It is infallible, inerrant and inspired Word direct from the heart of God. Infallible – means never failing, its blessings are renewed day by day. What He has said He will do and it will always happen.
Inerrant and this is where men have such difficulty in understanding God’s word. We want to find fault with His book, that is the nature of sinful man. If men say it is fallible meaning it has faults, we are calling God a liar. If you were God and you knew the totally fallen nature of Your creation and the opposition provided by Satan, why would you give the sons of Adam a book full of mistakes. If this truly is a love letter from God, why make mistakes? Infallibility is an attribute of God and if He is infallible then He could not write a fallible book- Answer is – He didn’t.
Lastly, we say it is Inspired. What does this mean. Inspired of what or whom. The 66 books were written by a variety of human authors, Moses, David, Solomon, John, Isaiah, Luke a gentile, Peter, and Saul, called Paul. David was an adulterer and murderer, and so was Paul. How then could this book be anything but just another book, when all these flawed people authored various chapters. This is where inspiration takes over – God uses flawed men, with their character and nature to be overshadowed by the Holy Spirit. And use the inspiration of God’s Holy Ghost to influence the hearts and minds of these writers to produce the truth of what He wanted written to us.
Now perhaps you are beginning to grasp how God uses His word to [g]sanctify and cleanse us with the washing of water by the word, as stated in 26.
In our day I believe we are experiencing a great falling away of supposed believers from God’s church. I believe this is in line with scripture. I believe in this past week we were disappointed in seeing God not answering our prayers to rapidly remedy our circumstance in America? I believe this is on purpose so that God may continue to prepare a church that is without spot or wrinkle and which is preparation for His soon coming.
I believe the purification and cleansing of we the church, may actually involve sacrifices on the part of believers. Jesus warned us of the coming persecution of the churches. I believe that is forthcoming because many hearts of the church have turned away from Him. Look how the churches have been concerned about speaking out about abortion and have failed to be the “watchmen on the wall in Ezekiel 3.”
Our purification and sanctification is very important for our lives for it leads to other essentials in loving and honoring God . You see exposure and meditation on His Word is essential just to allow us to have basic worship – that is to know and understand the wonder and love of God and what He has done for us.
is o Revelation 3: 17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.[l] Therefore be [m]zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.
We know the days we live in and how contemptuous and evil they are; challenging us to the very core, defying us to live according to the dictates of God in Christ Jesus our Lord who is in us. How can you and I endure is such evil and strife, with all the lies and deception occurring around us and among our families and friends both saved and unsaved? There must be an answer, but where and how should we look to know it?
Tucked away in amidst Paul’s instructing husband and wives how to get along in married life is this statement – we read from Eph 5:25, 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. 28 So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. Amen
Pray – Father lead us into understanding and to applying the way you have provided for our salvation and our continued sanctification, in the name of Jesus our Lord. AMEN
Let’s repeat these words in the middle of this text, for they make a statement - just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
Notice there two “He might” phrases, again 2 of them on verses 26 and in 27- , 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
The verses state that Jesus gave Himself that He might create a way for us to be sanctified and cleansed. I repeat - just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her . We need to look at this truth as the beginning. we find our salvation as a believer and our continued growth into being a sanctified saint all began with the shed Blood of the Lamb – that takes away the sin of the world. Verse 26 gives us more the 26 that He might [g]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word
The phrase -washing of water by the word is the key. Without Jesus’ sacrifice and blood, the Holy Spirit would not have come. We then could not have become the temple of Holy Spirit who is in us. Jesus made all of this possible through His blood. Jesus did it all – He paid it all. Yes, He paid it all for me. So Jesus’ sacrifice has given us access to the Holy Spirit, who is in us. Remember, the Holy Spirit, He is God, equivalent to Jesus and in every way, like Him. Jesus tells us in John 14:26 this,“
26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” Jesus death and sacrifice made it possible for us to become His church (meaning - a body or believers wh0o have been saved, sanctified and cleansed individually, And to have new life in Him that is without spot or wrinkle – to become holy and without blemish. The Helper will teach you all things. He who is the Spirit of Truth, will reveal all truth and truth has a wonderful characteristic, it sets you free from yourself and anything which would separate you from Jesus.
Are you without spot or blemish today? Is you conduct – you speaking, living and without blemish? No! Then perhaps we need to pay attention to the Word of God to allow Him to work is us and help us become His bride.
Look again and according to verse 27 =-, 27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
That He, who is the Christ might present the church without spot or wrinkle, holy to Himself and to His Father in heaven. First let’s remember what Jesus also said in the scriptures. Jesus said, “and upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”(Matt 16:18) Jesus is today in the process of building His church. He is accomplishing this by building Himself in you and not in some building! Scripture also tells us elsewhere, For it is God who is at work in us both to will and to work for His good purpose. (Phil 2:13}.
That preparation of the heart and mind is essential for God to begin a complete work in our hearts. There is more required for us to become His church. In the Old Testament in 1st Chronicles 15:12 as David instructs the Levites to bring up the Arc of the Covenant to Jerusalem. He tells them to sanctify themselves in preparation for approaching the Arc of God.
To sanctify means “to separate, to set apart for sacred purposes” or “to purify.” in Numbers 8.
Part II. After Jesus sacrifice we don’t believe God requires such ceremonies today. But He does purify us when we read and study His Word – the Bible.
To allow the Bible to have its complete work in us and to fully allow the Bible to work in our lives we must have the Holy Spirit in us. As such, the completed work of Christ and His sending of the Holy Spirit to His disciples was required for you and I to become God’s finished work.
God uses the Bible to “wash us by His Word” for cleansing of heart and mind. As we read His word He uses it to purify and purge us in purification and holiness. This is the function of the Holy Spirit. He takes the Word of God brings it in through our eyes, to our minds, and allows it to work throughout our being to cause repentance from sin, recognition of His truth, to change our hearts and minds to become like Jesus.
We need to understand then what God has give us. He has given us Himself in the presence of the Holy Spirit, who is in you. He is God. Second the Word of God is just not another book of literature, poetry and moralistic writings. It is a true love letter from God on high. Preserved, prepared and delivered to you by the activity of God over 1500 years, multiple authors and 66 individual books which all related to the same author and the same story – God’s redemptive activity towards you.
His Word has special attributes unlike any other book ever written. It is infallible, inerrant and inspired Word direct from the heart of God. Infallible – means never failing, its blessings are renewed day by day. What He has said He will do and it will always happen.
Inerrant and this is where men have such difficulty in understanding God’s word. We want to find fault with His book, that is the nature of sinful man. If men say it is fallible meaning it has faults, we are calling God a liar. If you were God and you knew the totally fallen nature of Your creation and the opposition provided by Satan, why would you give the sons of Adam a book full of mistakes. If this truly is a love letter from God, why make mistakes? Infallibility is an attribute of God and if He is infallible then He could not write a fallible book- Answer is – He didn’t.
Lastly, we say it is Inspired. What does this mean. Inspired of what or whom. The 66 books were written by a variety of human authors, Moses, David, Solomon, John, Isaiah, Luke a gentile, Peter, and Saul, called Paul. David was an adulterer and murderer, and so was Paul. How then could this book be anything but just another book, when all these flawed people authored various chapters. This is where inspiration takes over – God uses flawed men, with their character and nature to be overshadowed by the Holy Spirit. And use the inspiration of God’s Holy Ghost to influence the hearts and minds of these writers to produce the truth of what He wanted written to us.
Now perhaps you are beginning to grasp how God uses His word to [g]sanctify and cleanse us with the washing of water by the word, as stated in 26.
In our day I believe we are experiencing a great falling away of supposed believers from God’s church. I believe this is in line with scripture. I believe in this past week we were disappointed in seeing God not answering our prayers to rapidly remedy our circumstance in America? I believe this is on purpose so that God may continue to prepare a church that is without spot or wrinkle and which is preparation for His soon coming.
I believe the purification and cleansing of we the church, may actually involve sacrifices on the part of believers. Jesus warned us of the coming persecution of the churches. I believe that is forthcoming because many hearts of the church have turned away from Him. Look how the churches have been concerned about speaking out about abortion and have failed to be the “watchmen on the wall in Ezekiel 3.”
Our purification and sanctification is very important for our lives for it leads to other essentials in loving and honoring God . You see exposure and meditation on His Word is essential just to allow us to have basic worship – that is to know and understand the wonder and love of God and what He has done for us.
is o Revelation 3: 17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.[l] Therefore be [m]zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.
Nov 6 Sermon
The Question is - are you following Jesus at a distance? Let us pray!
So what does this mean, I am following Jesus at a distance? It means instead of a solid, intimate love relationship with the Lord of Lords, and the King of Kings you have separated yourself from your Lord and Savior and are following Him by distancing yourself.
Now sometimes distancing yourself from someone allows you to gain perspective from that person, the issues that they are associated with; or in an intimate personal relationship, separation can allow you to evaluate feelings from fact. We used to use the expression – getting your head together, meaning I move from emotional thinking to a more logical perspective. People who become emotionally involved during periods of great stress, like a war or multiple deaths, plague or COVID isolation can make unwise choices which can impact them forever.
Our friend and fellow disciple Peter is about to engage a similar type of folly, which will have lifetime consequences. Read with me from the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 14, begin at verse 53, 53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest; and with him were assembled all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes. 54 But Peter followed Him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he sat with the servants and warmed himself at the fire.55 Now the chief priests and all the council sought testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none. 56 For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies [k]did not agree.
On the night of Jesus betrayal all hell is breaking out, quite literally. The disciples get their first real taste of evil’s hatred for the Son of Man and by association also for them. While Jesus is despised and rejected of men and is aware of the evil being poured upon Himself, He has tried to warn His disciples, but they as usual payed little attention and had little understanding.
I am sure you are familiar with the Easter story but earlier in this same Chapter, even having told the disciples 3 times before, He was going to be turned over to evil men, suffer, die and be buried. Yet they did not listen, and did they understand? No and they didn’t ask for more detail. Here’s what Jesus told them previously in verses 27 – 29: -27 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble [i]because of Me this night, for it is written:
‘I will strike the Shepherd,
And the sheep will be scattered.’
28 “But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.”
29 Peter said to Him, “Even if all are made to [j]stumble, yet I will not be.”
So here is Peter earlier in the evening swearing great allegiance to Jesus and will soon deny Him 3 times. Instead of listening to the council and warning of Jesus – Peter knew better.
Have you ever convinced yourself that you can do something without fail, and when the time comes to complete it, you failed miserably? I know I have and then I replay it all night long sleeplessly because I should have been able to complete this task.
Here is the problem with Peter and many of us, if we are truly honest before our Lord –54 But Peter followed Him at a distance,
Now you say, but Peter was right there in the presence of Jesus. Yes, He was and Jesus is trying to prepare Peter for the trials to come. But being physically present does not mean, He had his spiritual eyes and ears on. Jesus warned Him in the text we just read in verses 27-29. Jesus tells Peter before the cock crows twice you will deny me three times.
And shortly Jesus is about to go and pray and He is going to invite three of His closest disciples to come pray with Him for His soul is in great distress. So what does Peter do, He falls asleep not once but three times. After the first sleep cycle, Jesus warns Peter , verse 37- 38, 37 Then He came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Jesus is indeed warning Peter for the great trial He is about to endure. So Peter is not walking closely to His Lord, he is going about it halfhearted. Oh yes Jesus is important after all. Peter would say, I was the first to confess that Jesus was the Messiah, surely things are ok. But again here is the problem - –54 … Peter was following Him at a distance,
We see this problem manifest itself in the nation of Israel and Judah in the Old Testament- But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, (Duet 30:17).
Peter was not guarding his heart and protecting his relationship with His Lord. He was too into self. Yes, He knew Jesus and He knew He was the Son of God who takes away the sin of the world. But Peter was distracted, turned away perhaps considering the wrong things. Perhaps neglecting his bible study, or praying or he was concerned about all the political and social hubbub going on around Jerusalem and this Passover.
In our terms he had distanced himself emotionally and spiritually away from Jesus intimacy and while He was present with Jesus, he was not in synch or understanding with Him. This is what I mean by following Jesus at a distance. Peter was following Jesus at a distance this was going to result in tragic consequences for him.
Is this also true about us and our relationship with Jesus? We don’t see the need to be in church every Sunday worshiping with other believers. After all we have other priorities which are more important. Or perhaps God is
wanting to draw us into closer fellowship with Him through Bible study and prayer, but you ignore the weekly bible study time each week and you can’t be stressed out in having to attend the study before the worship service. You see the reason Jesus wants you in those services is so He can speak more clearly as you focus more intently on Him. And when you pray or others pray He invades your prayers to sensitize your heart to Him.
Or perhaps you are shorting God is your giving? He wants you to give yourself and of yourself and your heart is cold to His nudges because you are following Jesus at a distance.
Peter experiences supreme heartbreak because of following Jesus at a distance. Read with me from verse 72. Peter has denied Jesus three times the last to a group accusing him of being a Galilean because of how he spoke. Verse 72 says.l72 A second time the rooster crowed. Then Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And when he thought about it, he wept.
In another Gospel it says he went out and wept bitterly. Because he followed Jesus at a distance and didn’t have his mind girded on the Lord he failed and it impacted him. He wondered if Jesus would ever forgive him, which He did by the sea of Galilee. He asked Peter three times – do you love Me? - and then the command “Feed my sheep.”
In this day and hour we need to be serious minded and sober about our relationship with Jesus. We cannot afford to follow Jesus at a distance. If our faith and our relationship is going to be tested we best be studied and prayed up, fellowshipping with other believers and have incorporated Romans 12:1-2 in our living:
12 I beseech[a] you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your [b]reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
If our life is God’s and we are His then our lives are to be a living sacrifice to Him which is a reasonable service and our fellowship with Him will lead to transformed minds and hearts. This is where we need to be. Amen
The Question is - are you following Jesus at a distance? Let us pray!
So what does this mean, I am following Jesus at a distance? It means instead of a solid, intimate love relationship with the Lord of Lords, and the King of Kings you have separated yourself from your Lord and Savior and are following Him by distancing yourself.
Now sometimes distancing yourself from someone allows you to gain perspective from that person, the issues that they are associated with; or in an intimate personal relationship, separation can allow you to evaluate feelings from fact. We used to use the expression – getting your head together, meaning I move from emotional thinking to a more logical perspective. People who become emotionally involved during periods of great stress, like a war or multiple deaths, plague or COVID isolation can make unwise choices which can impact them forever.
Our friend and fellow disciple Peter is about to engage a similar type of folly, which will have lifetime consequences. Read with me from the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 14, begin at verse 53, 53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest; and with him were assembled all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes. 54 But Peter followed Him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he sat with the servants and warmed himself at the fire.55 Now the chief priests and all the council sought testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none. 56 For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies [k]did not agree.
On the night of Jesus betrayal all hell is breaking out, quite literally. The disciples get their first real taste of evil’s hatred for the Son of Man and by association also for them. While Jesus is despised and rejected of men and is aware of the evil being poured upon Himself, He has tried to warn His disciples, but they as usual payed little attention and had little understanding.
I am sure you are familiar with the Easter story but earlier in this same Chapter, even having told the disciples 3 times before, He was going to be turned over to evil men, suffer, die and be buried. Yet they did not listen, and did they understand? No and they didn’t ask for more detail. Here’s what Jesus told them previously in verses 27 – 29: -27 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble [i]because of Me this night, for it is written:
‘I will strike the Shepherd,
And the sheep will be scattered.’
28 “But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.”
29 Peter said to Him, “Even if all are made to [j]stumble, yet I will not be.”
So here is Peter earlier in the evening swearing great allegiance to Jesus and will soon deny Him 3 times. Instead of listening to the council and warning of Jesus – Peter knew better.
Have you ever convinced yourself that you can do something without fail, and when the time comes to complete it, you failed miserably? I know I have and then I replay it all night long sleeplessly because I should have been able to complete this task.
Here is the problem with Peter and many of us, if we are truly honest before our Lord –54 But Peter followed Him at a distance,
Now you say, but Peter was right there in the presence of Jesus. Yes, He was and Jesus is trying to prepare Peter for the trials to come. But being physically present does not mean, He had his spiritual eyes and ears on. Jesus warned Him in the text we just read in verses 27-29. Jesus tells Peter before the cock crows twice you will deny me three times.
And shortly Jesus is about to go and pray and He is going to invite three of His closest disciples to come pray with Him for His soul is in great distress. So what does Peter do, He falls asleep not once but three times. After the first sleep cycle, Jesus warns Peter , verse 37- 38, 37 Then He came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Jesus is indeed warning Peter for the great trial He is about to endure. So Peter is not walking closely to His Lord, he is going about it halfhearted. Oh yes Jesus is important after all. Peter would say, I was the first to confess that Jesus was the Messiah, surely things are ok. But again here is the problem - –54 … Peter was following Him at a distance,
We see this problem manifest itself in the nation of Israel and Judah in the Old Testament- But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, (Duet 30:17).
Peter was not guarding his heart and protecting his relationship with His Lord. He was too into self. Yes, He knew Jesus and He knew He was the Son of God who takes away the sin of the world. But Peter was distracted, turned away perhaps considering the wrong things. Perhaps neglecting his bible study, or praying or he was concerned about all the political and social hubbub going on around Jerusalem and this Passover.
In our terms he had distanced himself emotionally and spiritually away from Jesus intimacy and while He was present with Jesus, he was not in synch or understanding with Him. This is what I mean by following Jesus at a distance. Peter was following Jesus at a distance this was going to result in tragic consequences for him.
Is this also true about us and our relationship with Jesus? We don’t see the need to be in church every Sunday worshiping with other believers. After all we have other priorities which are more important. Or perhaps God is
wanting to draw us into closer fellowship with Him through Bible study and prayer, but you ignore the weekly bible study time each week and you can’t be stressed out in having to attend the study before the worship service. You see the reason Jesus wants you in those services is so He can speak more clearly as you focus more intently on Him. And when you pray or others pray He invades your prayers to sensitize your heart to Him.
Or perhaps you are shorting God is your giving? He wants you to give yourself and of yourself and your heart is cold to His nudges because you are following Jesus at a distance.
Peter experiences supreme heartbreak because of following Jesus at a distance. Read with me from verse 72. Peter has denied Jesus three times the last to a group accusing him of being a Galilean because of how he spoke. Verse 72 says.l72 A second time the rooster crowed. Then Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And when he thought about it, he wept.
In another Gospel it says he went out and wept bitterly. Because he followed Jesus at a distance and didn’t have his mind girded on the Lord he failed and it impacted him. He wondered if Jesus would ever forgive him, which He did by the sea of Galilee. He asked Peter three times – do you love Me? - and then the command “Feed my sheep.”
In this day and hour we need to be serious minded and sober about our relationship with Jesus. We cannot afford to follow Jesus at a distance. If our faith and our relationship is going to be tested we best be studied and prayed up, fellowshipping with other believers and have incorporated Romans 12:1-2 in our living:
12 I beseech[a] you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your [b]reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
If our life is God’s and we are His then our lives are to be a living sacrifice to Him which is a reasonable service and our fellowship with Him will lead to transformed minds and hearts. This is where we need to be. Amen
Oct 30 Sermon
Noah Found Grace Genesis 6:5-9, 22)
5 Then [c]the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent[d] of the thoughts of his heart was only evil [e]continually. 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. 7 So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping have made them.
One of our greatest problems when reading the bible is overcoming our own arrogance of superiority and believing we are the smartest beings who ever lived on the face of planet earth – ever! We also believe we would not have made the same mistakes as those who went before us; and last but not least we believe that many stories we read in the Old Testament are allegories which never really happened. After all could you really believe that Jonah got swallowed by a fish and lived for three days in the belly of a whale.? Or more unlikely “creation “– we modern thought leaders with all our current scientific knowledge, know the earth is not about six thousands of years old but millions and billions of years old; and a story about some God destroying the earth with a flood, with some flimsy boat and all the animals in it? Why that is pure fantasy?
If you are not self-centered; you are humble and have the fear of God as the beginning of wisdom in your heart and the Holy Spirit – the Teacher, the Spirit of Truth is guiding you since you met the Lord Jesus, you may have a different level of understanding about the great miracles God has wrought.
First let’s pray – God our Father who gives wisdom to anyone who would ask and who says draw near to me and I will draw near to you<” draw us near and give us wisdom to understand Your truths. AMEN
Begin with verse 5 which is probably becoming more of a reality in our day -5 Then [c]the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth and that every intent[d] of the thoughts of his heart was only evil [e]continually. You see all the wickedness going on – calling good evil and evil good! All the evil of “choice”, perversion of gender and sexuality, lies about the border, inclusiveness, the definition of freedom, hate speech toward those who believe in the bible and many other things which are just plain wrong. Notice in verses 6 and 7 how God responds in His being and in iHHHis heHis heart about His creation. He was sorry and grieved He had made them. Woah bad stuff and then He says I will destroy man – very bad tidings about men. I wonder how God is looking down on us today? When will He say enough!!
Thank God for verse 8,
God’s description in Genesis 6:8 gives us insight into Noah’s character. The word “Found” is a simple, active perfect, verb-leading to action, and is not passive. So, Noah found favor—grace—in God’s eyes because Noah was actively looking toward God. Other examples of this word include; Adam found no helpmate from among the animals that was suitable for him (Genesis 2:20), and Noah’s dove did not find rest for the sole of her foot (Genesis 8:9). Laban did not find his household images that Rachel had stolen and hidden (Genesis 31:35), and Hilkiah the priest found the book of the law of the Lord given by Moses
(2 Chronicles 34:14-15). Noah’s seeking was active and didn’t just happen.
What can we learn from the life of this great man?
God’s specifically intended for us to know that Noah’s life was righteous—in spite of the horrid condition of the world of his day. He was looking for God’s direction and for His answers to his heart’s cry. Noah wasn’t merely hanging loose, just waiting for the inevitable destruction that he sensed was coming due to the increase of sin and rejection of God which surrounded him. Noah was sensing a response from God. Noah sensed and joined God in His coming activity, and Noah “found” favor or grace and God spoke to Him!
In late Centuries later, God used Ezekiel to warn of future judgment which would happen to the land of Israel because - wickedness. God also identified three peculiar men as examples—Noah, Daniel, and Job—as “righteous” men in history (Ezekiel 14:14, 20). In that comparison, Noah was much more than a mere chance recipient of God’s grace.
I. Job was “the greatest of all the men of the east” (Job 1:3). His livestock resources (mainly those for caravan duty) were enormous. That certainly meant that he was a successful trade broker and possibly a source for prized stock. He had multiple houses and land—so much so that “bands” from nearby nations were necessary to destroy his wealth.
God had labeled Job “my servant...there is none like him in the earth, a perfect [blameless] and an upright man, one that feared God, and eschewed [shuns] evil” (Job 1:8). Job was much more than a “nice guy.” He was probably the wealthiest man of his day, and yet he was of such godly character that God used him as His servant to chastise Satan.
II. Daniel was one of the king’s descendants and nobles from Judah taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 1:3). The account of Daniel and his three godly friends is well known to believers, but the young adult experiences of Daniel often obscure His long life as a leader of the (learned men- think tank) of the day. He was selected and commissioned as a “great man” by Nebuchadnezzar and “sat in the gate of the king” (Daniel 2:48-49). Daniel was a senior political advisor for six kings over 70 years. Great resume for a Hebrew Slave boy!
God called Daniel - “greatly beloved” (Daniel 10:11). Daniel was given deep spiritual insight, which he could have used to his personal gain. But he always made it clear that he was gifted by God’s grace—and he always gave God credit. God also used Daniel to record several of the most remarkable prophecies in all of Scripture. Daniel lived, spoke and was the man of God for his day.
If the comparisons of righteous men listed in Ezekiel 14 are genuine comparisons, Noah must have had strong significance to God in his day. He clearly had a deep relationship with God who had access to all resources and skills needed to accomplish the monumental task he gave Noah. Since God’s instructions to build the Ark were somewhat general, it is not beyond reason to assume that Noah had some natural technical abilities which God used. He also was given unusual wisdom. The pre-Flood civilization would certainly have had some more advanced skills and resources to assist in his shipbuilding. The cloud created by theory of evolution has mesmerized our world, relegating the “ancient” world into some prehistoric existence—living in caves, grass huts with animal skins for clothing. The Bible paints a far different picture! There were cities during Noah’s day, as well as developed technology that included metallurgy and the skills to build and sell musical instruments (Genesis 4:17-22). Somebody had to construct habitations for the expanding population, and dto coordinate the distribution and development of those manufacturing places that produced the products needed by society.
Noah’s world was very wicked, but it functioned with needs similar to our current world. When the Lord Jesus wanted to emphasize the suddenness of the destruction in the coming end-times judgment, He did it by drawing a comparison with the “day-to-day” life of the people around Noah. Luke 17:26-27 says,
And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.
Noah was used of God in his day. Whether he was a general contractor, an architect, or a business baron or just the servant of God is a guess. But the fact that he found grace as He responded and was used by God is what is important. Noah was fully dedicated and listening to and for God during his life.
The Bible says that Noah was one two men in all history, who “walked with God” (Genesis 6:9). The other is Enoch, spoken of in Genesis 5:24. Noah was not some bumbling, drunken hypocrite as some try to tell today. God’s commentary of Noah being “just” and “perfect” (upright, without blemish) debunks this claim. God called Noah and entrusted him with a monumental task, unique in all of time.
IV. Noah was “just.” That simply means that he was known for treating all equitably. Even in the wicked world that disgusted the Father, Noah was “just” in his dealings. He charged reasonable prices for his work. He gave a good product (whatever it was) to those who employed his services. His honesty and fairness and fear of God, gave rise to his influence in the community. He was proven to be a man of integrity and of God Genesis 7:1).
V. Noah was “perfect.” That precious reputation, from God’s perspective, means that he was a man not under condemnation. His “just” dealings resulted in a “blameless” record. Whatever the wicked people of his day may have said behind his back, they knew that Noah was above reproach. His faith in God and His right relationship with God was the basis for this perfection. He was not without sin but was righteous before God. His obedience in doing what God requested caused, God to label him as “perfect.” Obedience to God is better than sacrifice
V. Peter in the NT described Noah as a “preacher of righteousness” (2 Peter 2:5). Think of this description in the context of Genesis 6! The whole earth was “filled with violence” and “every heart” only thought after evil. The social climate must have fully sin filled. Yet Noah had the guts to stand up for God and His salvation. This righteous behavior was openly rejected, just like today.
He probably angered His extended family members, and some or most of his employees, because he was not equitable or inclusive. But by the time the judgment of God fell, only Noah, his wife, and three of their sons and their wives were willing to follow God into the Ark. Many would consider a ministry a failure today, and yet God insisted that Noah’s faith not only “saved” his family but the future world from extinction (Hebrews 11:7)!
We are not told in Scripture what Noah preached. Noah may well have preached about the coming judgment of the Flood/rain and their desperate need to return to God’s truth for salvation. Whatever he preached and however it was implemented, He obeyed God’s command, God labeled Noah a “preacher of righteousness” by the only Judge that ultimately counts.
God’s grace is always available. It is not hidden from anyone. But it must be “found” by God’s servants as we “come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
There is a need for all men to find grace in the eyes of the Lord today! Yes, Absolutely we need God! It is not because we face another worldwide flood (Gen. 9:8-17), but because we face destruction for turning away from God! (2 Pet. 3:3-14). Peter reminds us that just as the world was once destroyed by water, so it shall be destroyed by fire after Jesus returns! Before this happens, we must receive Jesus and find grace in the eyes of the Lord! Otherwise, we will be like die outside the Ark of Jesus Christ
Concepts from HENRY M. MORRIS III, D.MIN. * |12/28/2012)
Noah Found Grace Genesis 6:5-9, 22)
5 Then [c]the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent[d] of the thoughts of his heart was only evil [e]continually. 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. 7 So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping have made them.
- ” 8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.
- 9 This is the genealogy of Noah. Noah was a just man, [f]perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God
- 22 Thus Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did.
- 2nd Peter 2:3- 4 For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to [b]hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; 5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness
One of our greatest problems when reading the bible is overcoming our own arrogance of superiority and believing we are the smartest beings who ever lived on the face of planet earth – ever! We also believe we would not have made the same mistakes as those who went before us; and last but not least we believe that many stories we read in the Old Testament are allegories which never really happened. After all could you really believe that Jonah got swallowed by a fish and lived for three days in the belly of a whale.? Or more unlikely “creation “– we modern thought leaders with all our current scientific knowledge, know the earth is not about six thousands of years old but millions and billions of years old; and a story about some God destroying the earth with a flood, with some flimsy boat and all the animals in it? Why that is pure fantasy?
If you are not self-centered; you are humble and have the fear of God as the beginning of wisdom in your heart and the Holy Spirit – the Teacher, the Spirit of Truth is guiding you since you met the Lord Jesus, you may have a different level of understanding about the great miracles God has wrought.
First let’s pray – God our Father who gives wisdom to anyone who would ask and who says draw near to me and I will draw near to you<” draw us near and give us wisdom to understand Your truths. AMEN
Begin with verse 5 which is probably becoming more of a reality in our day -5 Then [c]the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth and that every intent[d] of the thoughts of his heart was only evil [e]continually. You see all the wickedness going on – calling good evil and evil good! All the evil of “choice”, perversion of gender and sexuality, lies about the border, inclusiveness, the definition of freedom, hate speech toward those who believe in the bible and many other things which are just plain wrong. Notice in verses 6 and 7 how God responds in His being and in iHHHis heHis heart about His creation. He was sorry and grieved He had made them. Woah bad stuff and then He says I will destroy man – very bad tidings about men. I wonder how God is looking down on us today? When will He say enough!!
Thank God for verse 8,
- ” 8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.
God’s description in Genesis 6:8 gives us insight into Noah’s character. The word “Found” is a simple, active perfect, verb-leading to action, and is not passive. So, Noah found favor—grace—in God’s eyes because Noah was actively looking toward God. Other examples of this word include; Adam found no helpmate from among the animals that was suitable for him (Genesis 2:20), and Noah’s dove did not find rest for the sole of her foot (Genesis 8:9). Laban did not find his household images that Rachel had stolen and hidden (Genesis 31:35), and Hilkiah the priest found the book of the law of the Lord given by Moses
(2 Chronicles 34:14-15). Noah’s seeking was active and didn’t just happen.
What can we learn from the life of this great man?
God’s specifically intended for us to know that Noah’s life was righteous—in spite of the horrid condition of the world of his day. He was looking for God’s direction and for His answers to his heart’s cry. Noah wasn’t merely hanging loose, just waiting for the inevitable destruction that he sensed was coming due to the increase of sin and rejection of God which surrounded him. Noah was sensing a response from God. Noah sensed and joined God in His coming activity, and Noah “found” favor or grace and God spoke to Him!
In late Centuries later, God used Ezekiel to warn of future judgment which would happen to the land of Israel because - wickedness. God also identified three peculiar men as examples—Noah, Daniel, and Job—as “righteous” men in history (Ezekiel 14:14, 20). In that comparison, Noah was much more than a mere chance recipient of God’s grace.
I. Job was “the greatest of all the men of the east” (Job 1:3). His livestock resources (mainly those for caravan duty) were enormous. That certainly meant that he was a successful trade broker and possibly a source for prized stock. He had multiple houses and land—so much so that “bands” from nearby nations were necessary to destroy his wealth.
God had labeled Job “my servant...there is none like him in the earth, a perfect [blameless] and an upright man, one that feared God, and eschewed [shuns] evil” (Job 1:8). Job was much more than a “nice guy.” He was probably the wealthiest man of his day, and yet he was of such godly character that God used him as His servant to chastise Satan.
II. Daniel was one of the king’s descendants and nobles from Judah taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 1:3). The account of Daniel and his three godly friends is well known to believers, but the young adult experiences of Daniel often obscure His long life as a leader of the (learned men- think tank) of the day. He was selected and commissioned as a “great man” by Nebuchadnezzar and “sat in the gate of the king” (Daniel 2:48-49). Daniel was a senior political advisor for six kings over 70 years. Great resume for a Hebrew Slave boy!
God called Daniel - “greatly beloved” (Daniel 10:11). Daniel was given deep spiritual insight, which he could have used to his personal gain. But he always made it clear that he was gifted by God’s grace—and he always gave God credit. God also used Daniel to record several of the most remarkable prophecies in all of Scripture. Daniel lived, spoke and was the man of God for his day.
If the comparisons of righteous men listed in Ezekiel 14 are genuine comparisons, Noah must have had strong significance to God in his day. He clearly had a deep relationship with God who had access to all resources and skills needed to accomplish the monumental task he gave Noah. Since God’s instructions to build the Ark were somewhat general, it is not beyond reason to assume that Noah had some natural technical abilities which God used. He also was given unusual wisdom. The pre-Flood civilization would certainly have had some more advanced skills and resources to assist in his shipbuilding. The cloud created by theory of evolution has mesmerized our world, relegating the “ancient” world into some prehistoric existence—living in caves, grass huts with animal skins for clothing. The Bible paints a far different picture! There were cities during Noah’s day, as well as developed technology that included metallurgy and the skills to build and sell musical instruments (Genesis 4:17-22). Somebody had to construct habitations for the expanding population, and dto coordinate the distribution and development of those manufacturing places that produced the products needed by society.
Noah’s world was very wicked, but it functioned with needs similar to our current world. When the Lord Jesus wanted to emphasize the suddenness of the destruction in the coming end-times judgment, He did it by drawing a comparison with the “day-to-day” life of the people around Noah. Luke 17:26-27 says,
And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all.
Noah was used of God in his day. Whether he was a general contractor, an architect, or a business baron or just the servant of God is a guess. But the fact that he found grace as He responded and was used by God is what is important. Noah was fully dedicated and listening to and for God during his life.
The Bible says that Noah was one two men in all history, who “walked with God” (Genesis 6:9). The other is Enoch, spoken of in Genesis 5:24. Noah was not some bumbling, drunken hypocrite as some try to tell today. God’s commentary of Noah being “just” and “perfect” (upright, without blemish) debunks this claim. God called Noah and entrusted him with a monumental task, unique in all of time.
IV. Noah was “just.” That simply means that he was known for treating all equitably. Even in the wicked world that disgusted the Father, Noah was “just” in his dealings. He charged reasonable prices for his work. He gave a good product (whatever it was) to those who employed his services. His honesty and fairness and fear of God, gave rise to his influence in the community. He was proven to be a man of integrity and of God Genesis 7:1).
V. Noah was “perfect.” That precious reputation, from God’s perspective, means that he was a man not under condemnation. His “just” dealings resulted in a “blameless” record. Whatever the wicked people of his day may have said behind his back, they knew that Noah was above reproach. His faith in God and His right relationship with God was the basis for this perfection. He was not without sin but was righteous before God. His obedience in doing what God requested caused, God to label him as “perfect.” Obedience to God is better than sacrifice
V. Peter in the NT described Noah as a “preacher of righteousness” (2 Peter 2:5). Think of this description in the context of Genesis 6! The whole earth was “filled with violence” and “every heart” only thought after evil. The social climate must have fully sin filled. Yet Noah had the guts to stand up for God and His salvation. This righteous behavior was openly rejected, just like today.
He probably angered His extended family members, and some or most of his employees, because he was not equitable or inclusive. But by the time the judgment of God fell, only Noah, his wife, and three of their sons and their wives were willing to follow God into the Ark. Many would consider a ministry a failure today, and yet God insisted that Noah’s faith not only “saved” his family but the future world from extinction (Hebrews 11:7)!
We are not told in Scripture what Noah preached. Noah may well have preached about the coming judgment of the Flood/rain and their desperate need to return to God’s truth for salvation. Whatever he preached and however it was implemented, He obeyed God’s command, God labeled Noah a “preacher of righteousness” by the only Judge that ultimately counts.
God’s grace is always available. It is not hidden from anyone. But it must be “found” by God’s servants as we “come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
There is a need for all men to find grace in the eyes of the Lord today! Yes, Absolutely we need God! It is not because we face another worldwide flood (Gen. 9:8-17), but because we face destruction for turning away from God! (2 Pet. 3:3-14). Peter reminds us that just as the world was once destroyed by water, so it shall be destroyed by fire after Jesus returns! Before this happens, we must receive Jesus and find grace in the eyes of the Lord! Otherwise, we will be like die outside the Ark of Jesus Christ
Concepts from HENRY M. MORRIS III, D.MIN. * |12/28/2012)
Oct 23 Sermon
We often hear the song in Church about the lighthouse. In the ending of the first verse of this song it states this - If it wasn't for the lighthouse, my ship would sail no more. And in the chorus, it emphasizes - If it wasn't for The Lighthouse, Where would this ship be?
Many of us can relate to the fact that when we came to faith in Jesus Christ, He changed everything. There used to be and I believe still is a radio program produced out of Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago. It is called Unshackled. The stories told in that radio hour are designed to make you face the truth and think about your life and purpose. God has used Pacific Garden Mission as a lighthouse to call people to the light of His saving truth and change the destructive path they were on, to one of salvation by faith and then to victory in Jesus. In each case, God uses other people or radio programs, or churches or any spiritual activity to draw others unto Himself, that they may see the light of Christ. The light of Christ makes them a beacon, a shining reflection of the light within them to draw them unto Himself. Being someone who becomes a beacon of light to call others to Jesus, is something Jesus instituted early in His ministry for Jesus is the light.
In John 8:12, it says, Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” Here Jesus announces He is the light of the world, but notice there is much more. Jesus says, He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. Scripture says, If you walk in the light as He is in the light you will have fellowship with Him and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses you and I from all sin. Since Jesus is the light, He promises to build in your life a new life and light and we will walk in it together with Him. But there is more promised and this is why the Christian life is not boring; believers are also to become Salt and Light.
In Matt 5:14-15, Jesus states to His disciples, 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. This means if you have confessed with your mouth and believed in your heart that Jesus is Lord, you have been saved from your sin, you are His disciple. The Holy Spirit has now taken up residence in your heart, and you are now qualified, enlisted and encouraged to become a lampstand on a hill and allow His light to shine in and through you, so others can come to faith in Christ by His grace.
In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he addresses this issue directly and provides some conditions which will enable us to fulfill our commission to walk in the light and be reflections of Jesus light and life each day.
Let’s pray first and ask God to impress upon our lives the truths contained in the verses which follow. Father, thank you God for Your sanctified and perfect word of Truth. Instruct us now and draw us to obedience in Christ. Without you Lord the Christian life is impossible. Lead us Lord in the way everlasting and open our heart’s eyes. Amen
Please turn in you Bibles to Phil.2:12-17 : 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
14 Do all things without [d]complaining and disputing,[e] 15 that you may become blameless and [f]harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
Paul knows His death is near and He is imparting valuable truths so that the Churches and especially the Philippian church members might learn to walk in them.
See verses 12- and 13. 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; c.
There are some deep truths buried in this series of verses. Paul to his friends those he calls beloved, once you obeyed me while I was there with you, now I may no longer be there with you, you are to do this work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
You might concluded from just this verse that you are on your own. But that is not the case. True Paul is anticipating His departure from this earth and highlighting that while he was here he could help them walk according to the “way.” But soon he would no longer be with them. He wants them to know the fear and trembling is to fear and tremble before the Lord, so verse 13 actually provides this context, 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
God did not just save you and then dump you to be on your own - the purpose of the Holy Spirit within one, remember Jesus promised the Paraclete – the Helper, one just like Him, would come and dwell within you. He is at work in you both to will and to do for His, that is God’s good pleasure. God wants you to walk in His Spirit until you are conformed to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). So what do we mean by conformed for I can never be perfect like Jesus. It means your life, if it becomes God centered and does not remain self-centered, can become a mirror image of the traits of love, truth and righteousness (His righteousness) and the remaining gifts of the Spirit which we found in Jesus. This is how you are guided by the Holy Spirit and become lights unto others. They actually see something right in you.
This attitude of Christ likeness then leads to understanding the remainder of the verses in this passage we have illustrated. Read now beginning in verse 14, 14 Do all things without [d]complaining and disputing,[e] 15 that you may become blameless and [f]harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life,
So if the life of Christ is living in you by the Holy Spirits activity you should be able to navigate the difficulties presented by this current age without too many gripes or groans.
That does not mean you accept the current moral decay or sexual perversion, the increasing lies about gender confusion, abortion as a means of cost control, c-r-t, or other things like race as a dividing factor. You may also not agree that this country is inherently bad, the constitution is racist, flawed and does not promote equality, and that the government grants you inalienable rights – which by the way actually come from God according to His Word the Bible. It does mean that you accept the fact that God is in control of your life and the world around you and that you walk by faith not by sight and you are redeeming the time for the days are short until the next coming of Christ. And that you will reap what you so, whether good or evil.
What the text says is by refraining from complaints and disputes, we may be blameless and innocent (sincere and guileless). To be blameless means that no charge can be sustained against you personally (see Dan. 6:4). A blameless person may sin, but he repents, confesses, and makes right with God or whomever, whenever possible. To be harmless here means to be sincere, without deceit, innocent of false teaching or perverting truth willfully.
If we live this way we as children of God should be without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. By living lives without blemish, we as God’s children will stand out clearly against the dark and evil background of this world.
This leads Paul to think of us as lights shining in the darkness, just as Jesus commanded. So the darker the night, the brighter the light should shine as we lift His light on high.
Christians are not to consider themselves as lights in and of themselves for we are light-bearers. We as believers cannot create light, but we can and should reflect the glory of the Lord so that others may see Jesus in us. This light should and will be shared wherever we are led to go in Christ. This may require us to speak out against the darkness around us sometimes in our homes, in our family members, in our workplace and in those in authority. This is because the light within us compels us to speak the truth into the darkness. This may mean we have to reject the lies about our failing economy and the negative impacts of green energy policies and inflation upon ourselves and others. That open borders, the continued persecution of Christians, and conservatives are a perversion of equal justice under the law. And we may also have to stand up and reject the lies of how “professional educators” are sexually grooming and not instructing our children reading, writing and arithmetic is evil. Mandatory shots for our children is participating in murdering our children. All these lies must be countered.
So how do we remain true in amidst this train wreck currently happening in our government. It begins with what Paul suggests in verse 16 - 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
Holding fast the word of life means hanging on to the Bible which are the words of life given to us by God. This reminds me of the biblical example of “cleaving” used in the traditional wedding ceremony. The first definition to cleave is to cut in two. The second meaning is pertinent to our understanding - dabhaq; kollao, meaning "to adhere to," or "to join one's self to." Here we are told that a man should cleave unto his wife (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5). It is said that Ruth should cleave unto her mother-in-law (Ruth 1:14), and that certain men cleave unto Paul (Acts 17:34);
"Cleave" is also used in this sense to describe our adherence to biblical principles. Paul admonished the Romans to cleave to that which is good (Romans 12:9).
Holding fast to the word of God means we keep the word of God central to our living, our praying our walking with God. We must become people of the book using it as reference, study and correction for all we endeavor to do. We recognize and honor God’s Word as literal inerrant, infallible and inspired coming from God to you. When you open this book you come face to face with its author and He speaks to you by it. We read His word, We study His word and we live by His Word, because it is His love letter to us.
If we will but set His Word before us and honor Him by living our lives in it He will be honored and glorified but an even bigger promise is given in the Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us into all truth. So God give us the Bible, Give us Himself so we can understand and apply it and the Holy Spirit enables us to read it and assist us in living it out day by day. This truth is built into verse 13 which we have already read -13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
Wow could you ask for anything else God loves you so much He sent His Son, and the Son sent one just like Himself to live in you and guide you. And last but not least He gave you a love letter for helping your daily living in Him – His book the Bible. What a great and mighty God we serve. Amen
If you don’t have a personal relationship with the Lord God through His Son reach out today. Remember whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved Romans 10:13. Seek Him and He will be found by you.
We often hear the song in Church about the lighthouse. In the ending of the first verse of this song it states this - If it wasn't for the lighthouse, my ship would sail no more. And in the chorus, it emphasizes - If it wasn't for The Lighthouse, Where would this ship be?
Many of us can relate to the fact that when we came to faith in Jesus Christ, He changed everything. There used to be and I believe still is a radio program produced out of Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago. It is called Unshackled. The stories told in that radio hour are designed to make you face the truth and think about your life and purpose. God has used Pacific Garden Mission as a lighthouse to call people to the light of His saving truth and change the destructive path they were on, to one of salvation by faith and then to victory in Jesus. In each case, God uses other people or radio programs, or churches or any spiritual activity to draw others unto Himself, that they may see the light of Christ. The light of Christ makes them a beacon, a shining reflection of the light within them to draw them unto Himself. Being someone who becomes a beacon of light to call others to Jesus, is something Jesus instituted early in His ministry for Jesus is the light.
In John 8:12, it says, Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” Here Jesus announces He is the light of the world, but notice there is much more. Jesus says, He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. Scripture says, If you walk in the light as He is in the light you will have fellowship with Him and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses you and I from all sin. Since Jesus is the light, He promises to build in your life a new life and light and we will walk in it together with Him. But there is more promised and this is why the Christian life is not boring; believers are also to become Salt and Light.
In Matt 5:14-15, Jesus states to His disciples, 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. This means if you have confessed with your mouth and believed in your heart that Jesus is Lord, you have been saved from your sin, you are His disciple. The Holy Spirit has now taken up residence in your heart, and you are now qualified, enlisted and encouraged to become a lampstand on a hill and allow His light to shine in and through you, so others can come to faith in Christ by His grace.
In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he addresses this issue directly and provides some conditions which will enable us to fulfill our commission to walk in the light and be reflections of Jesus light and life each day.
Let’s pray first and ask God to impress upon our lives the truths contained in the verses which follow. Father, thank you God for Your sanctified and perfect word of Truth. Instruct us now and draw us to obedience in Christ. Without you Lord the Christian life is impossible. Lead us Lord in the way everlasting and open our heart’s eyes. Amen
Please turn in you Bibles to Phil.2:12-17 : 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
14 Do all things without [d]complaining and disputing,[e] 15 that you may become blameless and [f]harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
Paul knows His death is near and He is imparting valuable truths so that the Churches and especially the Philippian church members might learn to walk in them.
See verses 12- and 13. 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; c.
There are some deep truths buried in this series of verses. Paul to his friends those he calls beloved, once you obeyed me while I was there with you, now I may no longer be there with you, you are to do this work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
You might concluded from just this verse that you are on your own. But that is not the case. True Paul is anticipating His departure from this earth and highlighting that while he was here he could help them walk according to the “way.” But soon he would no longer be with them. He wants them to know the fear and trembling is to fear and tremble before the Lord, so verse 13 actually provides this context, 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
God did not just save you and then dump you to be on your own - the purpose of the Holy Spirit within one, remember Jesus promised the Paraclete – the Helper, one just like Him, would come and dwell within you. He is at work in you both to will and to do for His, that is God’s good pleasure. God wants you to walk in His Spirit until you are conformed to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). So what do we mean by conformed for I can never be perfect like Jesus. It means your life, if it becomes God centered and does not remain self-centered, can become a mirror image of the traits of love, truth and righteousness (His righteousness) and the remaining gifts of the Spirit which we found in Jesus. This is how you are guided by the Holy Spirit and become lights unto others. They actually see something right in you.
This attitude of Christ likeness then leads to understanding the remainder of the verses in this passage we have illustrated. Read now beginning in verse 14, 14 Do all things without [d]complaining and disputing,[e] 15 that you may become blameless and [f]harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life,
So if the life of Christ is living in you by the Holy Spirits activity you should be able to navigate the difficulties presented by this current age without too many gripes or groans.
That does not mean you accept the current moral decay or sexual perversion, the increasing lies about gender confusion, abortion as a means of cost control, c-r-t, or other things like race as a dividing factor. You may also not agree that this country is inherently bad, the constitution is racist, flawed and does not promote equality, and that the government grants you inalienable rights – which by the way actually come from God according to His Word the Bible. It does mean that you accept the fact that God is in control of your life and the world around you and that you walk by faith not by sight and you are redeeming the time for the days are short until the next coming of Christ. And that you will reap what you so, whether good or evil.
What the text says is by refraining from complaints and disputes, we may be blameless and innocent (sincere and guileless). To be blameless means that no charge can be sustained against you personally (see Dan. 6:4). A blameless person may sin, but he repents, confesses, and makes right with God or whomever, whenever possible. To be harmless here means to be sincere, without deceit, innocent of false teaching or perverting truth willfully.
If we live this way we as children of God should be without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. By living lives without blemish, we as God’s children will stand out clearly against the dark and evil background of this world.
This leads Paul to think of us as lights shining in the darkness, just as Jesus commanded. So the darker the night, the brighter the light should shine as we lift His light on high.
Christians are not to consider themselves as lights in and of themselves for we are light-bearers. We as believers cannot create light, but we can and should reflect the glory of the Lord so that others may see Jesus in us. This light should and will be shared wherever we are led to go in Christ. This may require us to speak out against the darkness around us sometimes in our homes, in our family members, in our workplace and in those in authority. This is because the light within us compels us to speak the truth into the darkness. This may mean we have to reject the lies about our failing economy and the negative impacts of green energy policies and inflation upon ourselves and others. That open borders, the continued persecution of Christians, and conservatives are a perversion of equal justice under the law. And we may also have to stand up and reject the lies of how “professional educators” are sexually grooming and not instructing our children reading, writing and arithmetic is evil. Mandatory shots for our children is participating in murdering our children. All these lies must be countered.
So how do we remain true in amidst this train wreck currently happening in our government. It begins with what Paul suggests in verse 16 - 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
Holding fast the word of life means hanging on to the Bible which are the words of life given to us by God. This reminds me of the biblical example of “cleaving” used in the traditional wedding ceremony. The first definition to cleave is to cut in two. The second meaning is pertinent to our understanding - dabhaq; kollao, meaning "to adhere to," or "to join one's self to." Here we are told that a man should cleave unto his wife (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5). It is said that Ruth should cleave unto her mother-in-law (Ruth 1:14), and that certain men cleave unto Paul (Acts 17:34);
"Cleave" is also used in this sense to describe our adherence to biblical principles. Paul admonished the Romans to cleave to that which is good (Romans 12:9).
Holding fast to the word of God means we keep the word of God central to our living, our praying our walking with God. We must become people of the book using it as reference, study and correction for all we endeavor to do. We recognize and honor God’s Word as literal inerrant, infallible and inspired coming from God to you. When you open this book you come face to face with its author and He speaks to you by it. We read His word, We study His word and we live by His Word, because it is His love letter to us.
If we will but set His Word before us and honor Him by living our lives in it He will be honored and glorified but an even bigger promise is given in the Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us into all truth. So God give us the Bible, Give us Himself so we can understand and apply it and the Holy Spirit enables us to read it and assist us in living it out day by day. This truth is built into verse 13 which we have already read -13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
Wow could you ask for anything else God loves you so much He sent His Son, and the Son sent one just like Himself to live in you and guide you. And last but not least He gave you a love letter for helping your daily living in Him – His book the Bible. What a great and mighty God we serve. Amen
If you don’t have a personal relationship with the Lord God through His Son reach out today. Remember whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved Romans 10:13. Seek Him and He will be found by you.
Oct 9 Sermon
Assurance of the Resurrection
5 For we know that if our earthly [a]house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our [b]habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as [c]a guarantee.
6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.
The Judgment Seat of Christ
9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
11 Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.
Why is the presence of God so terrorizing to men and women? Well if you think about it, confronting God is like contacting an alien species. We recognize fellow humans immediately for they are just like us – immersed in sin. When we encounter God He to us is totally alien. First and foremost He is God and inherently we recognize He is different. First, He is absolutely holy and without imperfection. We being sin creatures cannot endure the presence of one who is sinless and pure our spirits immediately cower from this holiness and purity. We are not like Him. Secondly, He is God He is self-existent, meaning He was not created but exists within Himself. He has the power of life within His control and we are created beings with only the life we have been given. I believe in my spirit that our hearts and spirits recognize this difference between ourselves and one who has the power of creation and it is frightening to be in the presence of absolute life-giving power. So when we encounter the living God we intrinsically recognize these factors. If we look in the bible and map the encounters of many people with Angels who continually stand in the glorious presence of God, we come to understand what happens. A man say John the revelator is on the isle of Patmos on the Lords day meditating on the scripture when he encounters an angel sent to reveal to him the events recorded in the book of Revelation. What happens? John immediately falls on his face and the angel chastises him because he (the angel) is a fellow messenger. But John sensing the otherness of the angel immediately falls on his face to worship him.
This is the fear and yes, the awesome terror of the Lord, which we must not shy away from as believers.
There is a second terror and that is the fear of eternal judgement which is far war and has everlasting punishment as its end game. If I were you I would never wait if God is calling you to faith in His Son. To die without the Savior’s blood covering your sin is to be lost eternally, which is forever. That is not a good thing.
The body which we will have from heaven is a new body, gives us a new life and allows us a new home in heaven. Yes, your revamped body will be like Jesus’ resurrection body. I believe everything that Jesus was able to do you will be able to do as well. Thing such as miraculously appear, have no barriers to entry and go almost by thought from place to place will be capabilities in your new body. You will not age, will not get sick, and you will be with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and in their presence. Paul tells us the corruption must put on incorruption in order to be able to see God (1 Cor. 15). This new body is the new tent Paul talks about here in these verses.
Verse 4 and 5 say, 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as [c]a guarantee.
The promise from God is a secure promise which Paul tells us is guaranteed by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. This happens at the moment of the new birth from above, when we call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. Now I want you to remember what it says in scripture in Romans 10. It says in verse 13, 13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
There is literally no one beyond the reach of God’s forgiveness who truly repents and confesses that Jesus is Lord and believes in their heart that God raised them from the dead.
But this new tent promise causes us to groan for today we recognize the promise of the future and I don’t know about you but I sure could use a new body. So both in body, soul and spirit we groan awaiting our future adoption, knowing by faith that it is coming. Now some in the Corinthian church may have doubted this was the truth so Paul is writing it get them straight on what God had revealed to him. I don’t know about you but I would sure like to be swallowed up in life. I believe we consider death an end even though we go to be with the Lord. According to Paul it sounds like the step across death is new life – life greater than anything we can think or imagine. {But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Cor. 2:9)
Go now to verses 6 to 8 - 6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.
To counter the fake news the Corinthians were being bombarded with Paul puts it out there, that our confidence is not by what we see but by faith. So be confident to be here today for this God’s plan for you today. Don’t fret or worry.
Now go to verses 9 and 10. So if we are walking by faith and not by sight, putting our confidence in the truth of what God says then we should do what -
9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
In legal terms this is what you will call a redirect. Redirect our purpose to concentrate our walk to be pleasing to the Lord not so much out of fear, but more out of love. Our love shows us to be wanting to please the Lord because we realize what an amazing thing He has done for us. Should we not praise God for what and all that He has done. Yes, we are to greatly respect and honor God for He is God and He is utterly different than we are.
Verse 11 should give us context for knowing the terror of the Lord, we should persuade men that they need to receive Jesus to have life in heaven and rejoice in His free gift. But also know this you are well known to God, and he knows the intents of your heart- will you honor and receive Him today? He is calling His sheep and they hear His voice – will you receive Him right now?
AMEN
Assurance of the Resurrection
5 For we know that if our earthly [a]house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our [b]habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as [c]a guarantee.
6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.
The Judgment Seat of Christ
9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
11 Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.
Why is the presence of God so terrorizing to men and women? Well if you think about it, confronting God is like contacting an alien species. We recognize fellow humans immediately for they are just like us – immersed in sin. When we encounter God He to us is totally alien. First and foremost He is God and inherently we recognize He is different. First, He is absolutely holy and without imperfection. We being sin creatures cannot endure the presence of one who is sinless and pure our spirits immediately cower from this holiness and purity. We are not like Him. Secondly, He is God He is self-existent, meaning He was not created but exists within Himself. He has the power of life within His control and we are created beings with only the life we have been given. I believe in my spirit that our hearts and spirits recognize this difference between ourselves and one who has the power of creation and it is frightening to be in the presence of absolute life-giving power. So when we encounter the living God we intrinsically recognize these factors. If we look in the bible and map the encounters of many people with Angels who continually stand in the glorious presence of God, we come to understand what happens. A man say John the revelator is on the isle of Patmos on the Lords day meditating on the scripture when he encounters an angel sent to reveal to him the events recorded in the book of Revelation. What happens? John immediately falls on his face and the angel chastises him because he (the angel) is a fellow messenger. But John sensing the otherness of the angel immediately falls on his face to worship him.
This is the fear and yes, the awesome terror of the Lord, which we must not shy away from as believers.
There is a second terror and that is the fear of eternal judgement which is far war and has everlasting punishment as its end game. If I were you I would never wait if God is calling you to faith in His Son. To die without the Savior’s blood covering your sin is to be lost eternally, which is forever. That is not a good thing.
The body which we will have from heaven is a new body, gives us a new life and allows us a new home in heaven. Yes, your revamped body will be like Jesus’ resurrection body. I believe everything that Jesus was able to do you will be able to do as well. Thing such as miraculously appear, have no barriers to entry and go almost by thought from place to place will be capabilities in your new body. You will not age, will not get sick, and you will be with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and in their presence. Paul tells us the corruption must put on incorruption in order to be able to see God (1 Cor. 15). This new body is the new tent Paul talks about here in these verses.
Verse 4 and 5 say, 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as [c]a guarantee.
The promise from God is a secure promise which Paul tells us is guaranteed by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. This happens at the moment of the new birth from above, when we call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. Now I want you to remember what it says in scripture in Romans 10. It says in verse 13, 13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
There is literally no one beyond the reach of God’s forgiveness who truly repents and confesses that Jesus is Lord and believes in their heart that God raised them from the dead.
But this new tent promise causes us to groan for today we recognize the promise of the future and I don’t know about you but I sure could use a new body. So both in body, soul and spirit we groan awaiting our future adoption, knowing by faith that it is coming. Now some in the Corinthian church may have doubted this was the truth so Paul is writing it get them straight on what God had revealed to him. I don’t know about you but I would sure like to be swallowed up in life. I believe we consider death an end even though we go to be with the Lord. According to Paul it sounds like the step across death is new life – life greater than anything we can think or imagine. {But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Cor. 2:9)
Go now to verses 6 to 8 - 6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.
To counter the fake news the Corinthians were being bombarded with Paul puts it out there, that our confidence is not by what we see but by faith. So be confident to be here today for this God’s plan for you today. Don’t fret or worry.
Now go to verses 9 and 10. So if we are walking by faith and not by sight, putting our confidence in the truth of what God says then we should do what -
9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
In legal terms this is what you will call a redirect. Redirect our purpose to concentrate our walk to be pleasing to the Lord not so much out of fear, but more out of love. Our love shows us to be wanting to please the Lord because we realize what an amazing thing He has done for us. Should we not praise God for what and all that He has done. Yes, we are to greatly respect and honor God for He is God and He is utterly different than we are.
Verse 11 should give us context for knowing the terror of the Lord, we should persuade men that they need to receive Jesus to have life in heaven and rejoice in His free gift. But also know this you are well known to God, and he knows the intents of your heart- will you honor and receive Him today? He is calling His sheep and they hear His voice – will you receive Him right now?
AMEN
Oct 2 Sermon
Do we as believers actually know, understand and fully grasp the idea that no matter what is occurring around us, that God is at work in the world around us? It is a simple statement – God is always at work in the world around you. But our finite minds only comprehend what we actually are seeing and experiencing. Yet the truth is this; if this is my Father’s world then to my listening ears all nature sings and round me rings the music, not of the spheres, but my Heavenly Father’s hands. Do you know that this is a true statement? But you and I complain, if that is true why can I not see Him at work around me; or at least if that’s true why am I not aware of it? Perhaps you and I need a tutorial in the truth of God’s word before we can begin to understand the activity of God.
God has revealed to us He has always been at work even before the beginning recorded in Genesis. God is beyond the concept of time and has created time and a place for us, but He envisioned the beginning of this place, this existence and each of us in eternity past and knows the ending in eternity future. {Psalms 139) This is the only way our minds can comprehend that God is self-existent. He exists because He is God. If you have faith in the infallible, inerrant and inspired Word of God, He created everything just as He said in Genesis, Chapters 1-3. It all happened as He spoke into creation that which He had planned. The very creation speaks to this truth, it is just the mind of man who does not wish to believe it is so. It demonstrates the rebellious and sin nature in which you and I are all born and is proof positive the only way we can find God is via the Savior Jesus Christ.
First point - Did you not know that God does not promote Himself but He reveals Himself to those who would seek Him? The apostle Paul tells us He is evident in the world of nature all around us. And God says, Draw near to Me and I will draw near to you. Here is a fact that perhaps you never knew. Let’s read Ecclesiastes 8:17 – it says, then I saw all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun. For though a man labors to discover it, yet he will not find it; moreover, though a wise man attempts to know it, he will not be able to find it.
Note again exactly what the text says, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun. For though a man labors to discover it, yet he will not find it.
Second point - Our God chooses to draw near and reveal Himself as He chooses. Many times in the past God used prophets, kings, priests, a donkey, a burning bush and many other ways to reveal Himself. But God is the one who comes to encounter us. Here is an example-
We have an interesting discussion in 1st Kings Chapter 18, where Elijah challenges the Priests’ of Baal. After all morning the priests have been calling on their god Baal and nothing is happening to consume the sacrifice of the bull on the alter. So Elijah starts challenging them about Baal. Elijah says, maybe he is away or indisposed or asleep, or too tired to respond. Now note how Isaiah describes God in this passage from Chapter 40:28-29
28 Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the Lord,
The Creator of the ends of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
God does not grow weary, nor faint. His is unsearchable
God is not like anything we can understand. He is beyond us. God tells us, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. 9 “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. {Isa. 55:8-9} So unless God reveals Himself to you, you cannot know Him.
Because man was is such a lost condition God had mercy and gave us grace and sent a Savior. So God’s greatest revelation of Himself which He gave freely to us was and is His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus verifies this by stating, He who has seen Me has seen the Father. Elsewhere He tells us, I and the Father are one. So Jesus reveals to us by living and serving among us about His saving grace, mercy and peace which the Father has shown us in the life of Jesus.
Third Point - now because He has come to us, revealed Himself to us and we by faith have been one of those whosoever wills, who have called upon the name of the Lord. Having done so, He has saved us from our sin and eternal wrath and has given us new life in Christ. It was His activity and His Holy Spirit which worked mightily in us. He has enabled this new life in Christ within us. So God’s completed work on the Cross with His Son, provided us new life in His life, death, burial and resurrection.
Thus, we have been blessed because of this revelation and hear what Jesus has prepared for you and I. Look in Matthew 13:10-13 and see.
10 And the disciples came and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?”
11 He answered and said to them, “Because it has been given to you to know the [a]mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.12 For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.
This text reveals that God has granted to you and I, as believers, knowledge which the world will not receive - to know the [a]mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. So one of God’s continuing and ongoing works is to give us spiritual discernment. Discernment leads us to acknowledge and abide, living in this final revelation of Philippians 2:13 - 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. God is at work in you personally and in the world around to accomplish His good pleasure.
How else can the apostle Paul tells us – all things work together for good, if our Father is not at work in our world today and every day? I pray God has encouraged you with His truth today. AMEN
If you want to know more about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ please see me or one of our deacons after the service. You can also find more information by contacting the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association by e-mail or phone.
Do we as believers actually know, understand and fully grasp the idea that no matter what is occurring around us, that God is at work in the world around us? It is a simple statement – God is always at work in the world around you. But our finite minds only comprehend what we actually are seeing and experiencing. Yet the truth is this; if this is my Father’s world then to my listening ears all nature sings and round me rings the music, not of the spheres, but my Heavenly Father’s hands. Do you know that this is a true statement? But you and I complain, if that is true why can I not see Him at work around me; or at least if that’s true why am I not aware of it? Perhaps you and I need a tutorial in the truth of God’s word before we can begin to understand the activity of God.
God has revealed to us He has always been at work even before the beginning recorded in Genesis. God is beyond the concept of time and has created time and a place for us, but He envisioned the beginning of this place, this existence and each of us in eternity past and knows the ending in eternity future. {Psalms 139) This is the only way our minds can comprehend that God is self-existent. He exists because He is God. If you have faith in the infallible, inerrant and inspired Word of God, He created everything just as He said in Genesis, Chapters 1-3. It all happened as He spoke into creation that which He had planned. The very creation speaks to this truth, it is just the mind of man who does not wish to believe it is so. It demonstrates the rebellious and sin nature in which you and I are all born and is proof positive the only way we can find God is via the Savior Jesus Christ.
First point - Did you not know that God does not promote Himself but He reveals Himself to those who would seek Him? The apostle Paul tells us He is evident in the world of nature all around us. And God says, Draw near to Me and I will draw near to you. Here is a fact that perhaps you never knew. Let’s read Ecclesiastes 8:17 – it says, then I saw all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun. For though a man labors to discover it, yet he will not find it; moreover, though a wise man attempts to know it, he will not be able to find it.
Note again exactly what the text says, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun. For though a man labors to discover it, yet he will not find it.
Second point - Our God chooses to draw near and reveal Himself as He chooses. Many times in the past God used prophets, kings, priests, a donkey, a burning bush and many other ways to reveal Himself. But God is the one who comes to encounter us. Here is an example-
We have an interesting discussion in 1st Kings Chapter 18, where Elijah challenges the Priests’ of Baal. After all morning the priests have been calling on their god Baal and nothing is happening to consume the sacrifice of the bull on the alter. So Elijah starts challenging them about Baal. Elijah says, maybe he is away or indisposed or asleep, or too tired to respond. Now note how Isaiah describes God in this passage from Chapter 40:28-29
28 Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the Lord,
The Creator of the ends of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
God does not grow weary, nor faint. His is unsearchable
God is not like anything we can understand. He is beyond us. God tells us, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. 9 “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. {Isa. 55:8-9} So unless God reveals Himself to you, you cannot know Him.
Because man was is such a lost condition God had mercy and gave us grace and sent a Savior. So God’s greatest revelation of Himself which He gave freely to us was and is His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus verifies this by stating, He who has seen Me has seen the Father. Elsewhere He tells us, I and the Father are one. So Jesus reveals to us by living and serving among us about His saving grace, mercy and peace which the Father has shown us in the life of Jesus.
Third Point - now because He has come to us, revealed Himself to us and we by faith have been one of those whosoever wills, who have called upon the name of the Lord. Having done so, He has saved us from our sin and eternal wrath and has given us new life in Christ. It was His activity and His Holy Spirit which worked mightily in us. He has enabled this new life in Christ within us. So God’s completed work on the Cross with His Son, provided us new life in His life, death, burial and resurrection.
Thus, we have been blessed because of this revelation and hear what Jesus has prepared for you and I. Look in Matthew 13:10-13 and see.
10 And the disciples came and said to Him, “Why do You speak to them in parables?”
11 He answered and said to them, “Because it has been given to you to know the [a]mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.12 For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.
This text reveals that God has granted to you and I, as believers, knowledge which the world will not receive - to know the [a]mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. So one of God’s continuing and ongoing works is to give us spiritual discernment. Discernment leads us to acknowledge and abide, living in this final revelation of Philippians 2:13 - 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. God is at work in you personally and in the world around to accomplish His good pleasure.
How else can the apostle Paul tells us – all things work together for good, if our Father is not at work in our world today and every day? I pray God has encouraged you with His truth today. AMEN
If you want to know more about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ please see me or one of our deacons after the service. You can also find more information by contacting the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association by e-mail or phone.
Sept 25 Sermon
1) introduction
a) Remember only God can prophesy.
b) Isaiah 46:9-10 says,
i) Remember the former things of old,
For I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like Me,
10 Declaring the end from the beginning,
And from ancient times things that are not yet done,
Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand,
And I will do all My pleasure,’
c) The Bible is the one book that allows us to look into the future.
d) Scriptures tell of an individual, malevolent dictator who is yet to come.
e) This enemy has many aliases.
f) Though this enemy has many aliases, he has but one heart and one mind.
g) In today’s Scripture passage, he is called the beast.
h) Today’s message will focus on five specific things as we study about this beast.
2) First, the beasT engenders and creates social agitation (revelation 13:1)
a) Revelation 13:1 Then [a]I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having [b]seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name
i) The beast comes up out of the sea.
ii) This is society in agitation and in distress.
b) The Bible teaches that the wicked people of this world are like the troubled sea.
i) Isaiah 57:20-21
(1) But the wicked are like the troubled sea,
When it cannot rest,
Whose waters cast up mire and dirt.
(2) 21 “There is no peace,”
Says my God, “for the wicked.”
c) Revelation 17:15
i) There is a seething sea of distress and agitation that is going to deliver to this world a beast.
ii) Out of this seething sea that the beast is going to come.
iii) Perilous times will produce the beast.
iv) Historian Arnold Toynbee said that when the world has distress, economic problems and technology, that we are then ripe to produce a new Caesar (referring to the antichrist).
3) Second, the beast has satanic attributes (revelation 13:1-2)
a) Revelation 13:2 - 2 Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.
b) The devil is the father of the beast.
c) Revelation 12:3
i) The devil is described in this passage.
(1) The beast in Revelation 13 is described the same way.
d) The devil spawns this beast of a man.
i) 2 Thessalonians 2:9
e) Jesus, who is God in flesh, could say, “He that hath seen Me hath seen My Father.” (John 14:9)
i) The beast, who will be Satan in the flesh, will be able to say, “He that hath seen me hath seen my father.”
f) The beast will be a composite of all of the dictators and the great regimes of the past.
i) Revelation 13:2
(1) The lion represents the ungodly rulers of Babylon.
(2) The bear represents the ancient empire of Medio-Persia.
(3) The leopard represents the Greece under Alexander the Great.
ii) He will inherit all the beastly characteristics of these former kingdoms.
g) He will be a beastly creature, and the world will receive him
i) John 5:43 -43 I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive.
ii) People will reject the Lamb; and they will embrace the beast
4) Third, the beast has a disguised seductive appeal (revelation 13:3-4) 3 And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast. 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”
h) You might think that if he is a beast, everyone would be afraid of him.
i) When the Bible speaks of his beastly characteristics, it is referring to his nature, not his appearance
j) This man will be very appealing in the eyes of the world. He will be followed with admiration.
i) Don’t think of him as hideous.
(1) He will be handsome, charming, clever and very intelligent. He will be a global charmer.
ii) One of the reasons for his popularity will be his resuscitation.
(1) Somehow, he will be wounded and will appear to come back from the dead.
k) The whole world will marvel after this man who disguises himself as a man of peace.
5) Fourth, the beast is driven by sinister ambitions (revelation 13:4-10) 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”5 And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to [c]continue for forty-two months. 6 Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. 7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every [d]tribe, tongue, and nation. 8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.9 If anyone has an ear, let him hear. 10 He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the [e]patience and the faith of the saints.
l) Jesus came “to seek and to save that which is lost.” Luke 19:10
m) What are the ambitions of the beast?
i) To deify Satan.
(1) Revelation 13:4 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”
(2) Satan has always had the burning ambition to be worshipped.
ii) To defy the Savior.
(1) Revelation 13:5-6 5 And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to [c]continue for forty-two months. 6 Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven.
(2) Satan cannot touch the saints in Heaven, so he is reduced to name calling.
(3) He will belch forth blasphemies with burning eloquence to turn people away from God, and they will believe his lies.
iii) To destroy the saints.
(1) Revelation 13:7 7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them.
(2) The beast will want every true believer in Jesus Christ destroyed.
(3) The tribulation saints (who will be on Earth after the church is raptured out) will face the guillotine, firing squads, gas chambers, concentration camps, torture and terror
iv) To dominate society.
(1) Revelation 13:7- And authority was given him over every [d]tribe, tongue, and nation.
(2) He will unify the people of this world.
(3) It will be a regime {like the Nazi’s of WWII}of war and intimidation
v) To delude sinners.
(1) He wants to keep them condemned and doomed.
(2) Revelation 13:8-10
(3) He is the devil’s messiah.
6) Fifth, the beast has a supporting agent who is his mouthpiece (revelation 13:11-18)
n) The beast will have a sinister minister of propaganda who will present him {the 1st Beast} to the whole world.
i) Revelation 13:11 11 Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon
(1) “Two horns like a lamb” shows us that he imitates Jesus, but he speaks as a dragon.
ii) He will look like a lamb, but he will speak like a dragon.
o) This is THE unholy trinity.
i) The devil always mimics God. The holy Trinity consists of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. The unholy trinity consists of the dragon, the beast and the false prophet.
p) The false prophet will be to the beast what the Holy Spirit is to Jesus Christ.
q) In order to cause the world to worship the beast, this minister of propaganda will have three major weapons in his arsenal.
i) The weapon of fire
(1) Revelation 13:13 13 He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.
ii) The image weapon, what is that?
(1) Revelation 13:14-15 14 And he deceives [f]those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived. 15 He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed.
(2) This is an image that can speak.
iii) The mark weapon, what is that?
(1) Revelation 13:16-18 - 16 He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has [g]the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666.
(2) If you are not sealed by the Spirit {Eph. 1:13-14), then you will be branded by the beast.
(3) Everybody will be forced to take a mark in order to do commerce {buy and sell to earn a living and have possessions – food, clothing.}
(4) This mark, 666, is the number of a man.
r) We may not be exactly certain exactly what the fire, the image and the mark will be, but we have clues.
i) We already have microchips available as reusable technology now.
s) The world is soon to become a vast concentration camp with most if not all of the inmates numbered. Check out Australia.
CONCLUSION and Summary
t) The apostle John saw a roiling sea.
u) Out of the turmoil, societies and society as a whole will unravel. {Green world economy}
v) There is going to rise another greater than Caesar, who will be the devil’s messiah.
i) Matthew 4:8-10- the great temptation - 10 Then Jesus said to him, [b]“Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’”
ii) He will be appointed and anointed by Satan, who will give him great powers and authority.
iii) He will want to cause the world to worship the devil.
iv) He will want to deify himself.
v) He will have a sinister minister of propaganda. Who is this?
w) A word of caution - don’t think that this could only happen at some distant future.
x) Do you know Jesus personally? If not, you can pray to Him today and ask Him to come into your life. So call upon Jesus today. Repent (turn) from your sins, and turn to Jesus. Ask Him to forgive you of your sins, and acknowledge Jesus as Lord of your life.
i) Romans 3:23 - all have sinned and come short of the glory of God- repent!
ii) Romans 10:9-10 - confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart
iii) Romans 10:13- Whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord, shall be saved
iv) Acts 16:31 - Believe and be saved you and your whole household
This sermon was revamped and highly modified from a message by the same name by Adrian Rogers. He taught me in the study of this chapter. What a godly pastor e was.
1) introduction
a) Remember only God can prophesy.
b) Isaiah 46:9-10 says,
i) Remember the former things of old,
For I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like Me,
10 Declaring the end from the beginning,
And from ancient times things that are not yet done,
Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand,
And I will do all My pleasure,’
c) The Bible is the one book that allows us to look into the future.
d) Scriptures tell of an individual, malevolent dictator who is yet to come.
e) This enemy has many aliases.
f) Though this enemy has many aliases, he has but one heart and one mind.
g) In today’s Scripture passage, he is called the beast.
h) Today’s message will focus on five specific things as we study about this beast.
2) First, the beasT engenders and creates social agitation (revelation 13:1)
a) Revelation 13:1 Then [a]I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having [b]seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name
i) The beast comes up out of the sea.
ii) This is society in agitation and in distress.
b) The Bible teaches that the wicked people of this world are like the troubled sea.
i) Isaiah 57:20-21
(1) But the wicked are like the troubled sea,
When it cannot rest,
Whose waters cast up mire and dirt.
(2) 21 “There is no peace,”
Says my God, “for the wicked.”
c) Revelation 17:15
i) There is a seething sea of distress and agitation that is going to deliver to this world a beast.
ii) Out of this seething sea that the beast is going to come.
iii) Perilous times will produce the beast.
iv) Historian Arnold Toynbee said that when the world has distress, economic problems and technology, that we are then ripe to produce a new Caesar (referring to the antichrist).
3) Second, the beast has satanic attributes (revelation 13:1-2)
a) Revelation 13:2 - 2 Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.
b) The devil is the father of the beast.
c) Revelation 12:3
i) The devil is described in this passage.
(1) The beast in Revelation 13 is described the same way.
d) The devil spawns this beast of a man.
i) 2 Thessalonians 2:9
e) Jesus, who is God in flesh, could say, “He that hath seen Me hath seen My Father.” (John 14:9)
i) The beast, who will be Satan in the flesh, will be able to say, “He that hath seen me hath seen my father.”
f) The beast will be a composite of all of the dictators and the great regimes of the past.
i) Revelation 13:2
(1) The lion represents the ungodly rulers of Babylon.
(2) The bear represents the ancient empire of Medio-Persia.
(3) The leopard represents the Greece under Alexander the Great.
ii) He will inherit all the beastly characteristics of these former kingdoms.
g) He will be a beastly creature, and the world will receive him
i) John 5:43 -43 I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive.
ii) People will reject the Lamb; and they will embrace the beast
4) Third, the beast has a disguised seductive appeal (revelation 13:3-4) 3 And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast. 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”
h) You might think that if he is a beast, everyone would be afraid of him.
i) When the Bible speaks of his beastly characteristics, it is referring to his nature, not his appearance
j) This man will be very appealing in the eyes of the world. He will be followed with admiration.
i) Don’t think of him as hideous.
(1) He will be handsome, charming, clever and very intelligent. He will be a global charmer.
ii) One of the reasons for his popularity will be his resuscitation.
(1) Somehow, he will be wounded and will appear to come back from the dead.
k) The whole world will marvel after this man who disguises himself as a man of peace.
5) Fourth, the beast is driven by sinister ambitions (revelation 13:4-10) 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”5 And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to [c]continue for forty-two months. 6 Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. 7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every [d]tribe, tongue, and nation. 8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.9 If anyone has an ear, let him hear. 10 He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the [e]patience and the faith of the saints.
l) Jesus came “to seek and to save that which is lost.” Luke 19:10
m) What are the ambitions of the beast?
i) To deify Satan.
(1) Revelation 13:4 4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?”
(2) Satan has always had the burning ambition to be worshipped.
ii) To defy the Savior.
(1) Revelation 13:5-6 5 And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to [c]continue for forty-two months. 6 Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven.
(2) Satan cannot touch the saints in Heaven, so he is reduced to name calling.
(3) He will belch forth blasphemies with burning eloquence to turn people away from God, and they will believe his lies.
iii) To destroy the saints.
(1) Revelation 13:7 7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them.
(2) The beast will want every true believer in Jesus Christ destroyed.
(3) The tribulation saints (who will be on Earth after the church is raptured out) will face the guillotine, firing squads, gas chambers, concentration camps, torture and terror
iv) To dominate society.
(1) Revelation 13:7- And authority was given him over every [d]tribe, tongue, and nation.
(2) He will unify the people of this world.
(3) It will be a regime {like the Nazi’s of WWII}of war and intimidation
v) To delude sinners.
(1) He wants to keep them condemned and doomed.
(2) Revelation 13:8-10
(3) He is the devil’s messiah.
6) Fifth, the beast has a supporting agent who is his mouthpiece (revelation 13:11-18)
n) The beast will have a sinister minister of propaganda who will present him {the 1st Beast} to the whole world.
i) Revelation 13:11 11 Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon
(1) “Two horns like a lamb” shows us that he imitates Jesus, but he speaks as a dragon.
ii) He will look like a lamb, but he will speak like a dragon.
o) This is THE unholy trinity.
i) The devil always mimics God. The holy Trinity consists of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. The unholy trinity consists of the dragon, the beast and the false prophet.
p) The false prophet will be to the beast what the Holy Spirit is to Jesus Christ.
q) In order to cause the world to worship the beast, this minister of propaganda will have three major weapons in his arsenal.
i) The weapon of fire
(1) Revelation 13:13 13 He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.
ii) The image weapon, what is that?
(1) Revelation 13:14-15 14 And he deceives [f]those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived. 15 He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed.
(2) This is an image that can speak.
iii) The mark weapon, what is that?
(1) Revelation 13:16-18 - 16 He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, 17 and that no one may buy or sell except one who has [g]the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666.
(2) If you are not sealed by the Spirit {Eph. 1:13-14), then you will be branded by the beast.
(3) Everybody will be forced to take a mark in order to do commerce {buy and sell to earn a living and have possessions – food, clothing.}
(4) This mark, 666, is the number of a man.
r) We may not be exactly certain exactly what the fire, the image and the mark will be, but we have clues.
i) We already have microchips available as reusable technology now.
s) The world is soon to become a vast concentration camp with most if not all of the inmates numbered. Check out Australia.
CONCLUSION and Summary
t) The apostle John saw a roiling sea.
u) Out of the turmoil, societies and society as a whole will unravel. {Green world economy}
v) There is going to rise another greater than Caesar, who will be the devil’s messiah.
i) Matthew 4:8-10- the great temptation - 10 Then Jesus said to him, [b]“Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’”
ii) He will be appointed and anointed by Satan, who will give him great powers and authority.
iii) He will want to cause the world to worship the devil.
iv) He will want to deify himself.
v) He will have a sinister minister of propaganda. Who is this?
w) A word of caution - don’t think that this could only happen at some distant future.
x) Do you know Jesus personally? If not, you can pray to Him today and ask Him to come into your life. So call upon Jesus today. Repent (turn) from your sins, and turn to Jesus. Ask Him to forgive you of your sins, and acknowledge Jesus as Lord of your life.
i) Romans 3:23 - all have sinned and come short of the glory of God- repent!
ii) Romans 10:9-10 - confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart
iii) Romans 10:13- Whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord, shall be saved
iv) Acts 16:31 - Believe and be saved you and your whole household
This sermon was revamped and highly modified from a message by the same name by Adrian Rogers. He taught me in the study of this chapter. What a godly pastor e was.
Sept 18 Sermon
Today is the day is the day which the Lord hath made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Thank you, Lord for this day and your Word. Allow us today to be honest before Your truth and see how our walk with You is progressing. May Your Holy Spirit reveal all to each of us in Jesus name Amen.
Walking with Jesus is not easy as many of us have found over the years of being His child. There are multiple excuses for our failings but in most cases the answer is quite simple. We, yes, we who have been saved – washed in the blood of the Lamb, who have repented and asked God for forgiveness have walked or strayed apart from His truth and committed, yes wittingly and wantonly, committed sin. The attitude of our hearts have shifted from doing His will, His way to doing what we wanted in our way and in our time. It is hurtful to admit this to others but in most cases the truth is evident based upon our resulting behavior. This agrees with what Jesus says in Matthew – You shall know them by their fruits. Did you know our God who is very concerned about how His people who are called by His name behave? Yes, His name is righteous so He will not bless your life if you live counter to His will and His ways. He will expose and move your sinful behavior into the light so it may be seen by all. Ask Moses about going into the promised land. Ask David about the prophet Nathan’s declaration to the whole assembly – “Ecce homo.” You are the Man who sinned against God by killing Uriah the Hittite and taking Bathsheba as your wife. Or Sampson, or many others, including Peter and others in the New Testament. To get a biblical sense of this let’s look at an example this using King Asa in the OT book of 2nd Chronicles. Let me summarize what happens in Chapter 14, as we meet Asa becoming King. In verse 2 it says, Asa did what is right in the eyes of the Lord for He restored the rightful places of worship and honor to the Lord. 4 He commanded Judah to seek the Lord God of their fathers, and to observe the law and the commandment. 5 He also removed the [b]high places and the incense altars from all the cities of Judah. 6 And he built fortified cities in Judah, for the land had rest; he had no war in those years, because the Lord had given him rest. Because of the Lords favor Asa was able to build a several fortified cities in Judah. So they built and prospered because of God’s favor and God gave the King 580,000 mighty men in his army of that day.
Then, God challenges them in the rest of Chapter 14 with an army of 1 million, plus 300 chariots (tanks of the day) to see Asa’s response. So Asa cries out to God and God delivers Him from this huge Army and gives Him plunder, lands and great success. With this background let’s read closely what Chapter 15 verses 1 and following says,
15 Now the Spirit of God came upon Azariah the son of Oded. 2 And he went out [a]to meet Asa, and said to him: “Hear me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin. The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. 3 For a long time Israel has been without the true God, without a teaching priest, and without law; 4 but when in their trouble they turned to the Lord God of Israel, and sought Him, He was found by them. 5 And in those times, there was no peace to the one who went out, nor to the one who came in, but great turmoil was on all the inhabitants of the lands. 6 So nation was [b]destroyed by nation, and city by city, for God troubled them with every adversity. 7 But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” Notice - God troubled them.
I. Asa walked with the Lord at the beginning but return to what the prophet said in verse 2 - The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. This is almost like the music they used to play during horror movies when you knew the person going into the room was going to encounter the monster and be chewed up, bitten, munched or somehow destroyed. These words were a foretelling of what was going to happen to Asa. As long as his heart was tender and sensitive to God and not self-centered then God was with Him. But when His heart departed then God departed – If you seek Him He will be found by you. This is what we need to be doing today as we follow God in this nightmare on Main Street in the USA. We need to be honoring and seeking God by how we live and what we say and do.
II. Highlighting, again, two portions of scripture which we read verse 2 - The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. And verse 7 - 7 But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” When Asa initially heard this word it says He took heart. In other words he became committed to do God’s will. Reading further into Chapter 15 you find he did good things. He had a desire to please God and to put things right which had been falling away in earlier days. He cleansed and purified the land removing idols and restored true worship in the land. Other tribes saw God was with him and joined in the work so Judah grew in strength and power. He declared a great revival in the third month of his 15th year with great sacrificing and it says in verse 12, 12 Then they entered into a covenant to seek the Lord God of their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul; 13 and whoever would not seek the Lord God of Israel was to be put to death, whether small or great, whether man or woman. 14 Then they took an oath before the Lord with a loud voice, with shouting and trumpets and rams’ horns. 15 And all Judah rejoiced at the oath, for they had sworn with all their heart and sought Him with all their soul; and He was found by them, and the Lord gave them rest all around.
As the King and the nation of Judah chose to seek the Lord and worship Him God blessed His people so there was no war or problems for the next 20 years. Guess what happened in that 20 years? The nation and the King fell away from God. You can read all about it in Chapter 16. What happens is this, Israel decides to attack Judah and instead of Asa calling upon God, He goes and makes an offering of gold and silver to the King of Syria to form an alliance to protect Judah. OOPS! Then God’s prophet comes to tell the King, you done wrong for you rejected God’s help. Instead of repenting the King throws God’s prophet in jail and punishes him. And this was in the 35th year of Asa’s reign as King. God then proceeded to send Him disease in his feet. For the next 4 years Asa refused to call on God for help but only sought the help of physicians to cure His disease. Do you believe there was a heart change in Asa over the 20 years of peace which God gave Him? Somehow during this time pride, self-interest or whatever shifted the King’s heart from God and He rejected God, so God brought disaster to His people. “ when your heart turns away.”(Deut 30:17).
III. Let’s apply this activity to our world today. I believe we know what has happened since 1963 with prayer, bible reading and study in our schools, courthouses, and the public square. What I believe we have missed is what was supposed to be happening in the homes of America. We were supposed to raising our children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. But with the sexual revolution we became enamored with ourselves and our sex habits. Of course the natural outgrowth of sex are babies and of course they are a terrible inconvenience so we needed to do something about them – like choice which is murder. Less Fathers at home with free sex around the corner so fewer young men who have a Father’s discipline in the home. Meanwhile you have the regressives screwing with our education systems. They are teaching teachers and faculty that America is bad, evil, and corrupt which is exactly what is in their hearts. This is now in universities and all our schools and in the Teacher’s Unions in America.
So what are we to do. We must first work out our own salvation with fear and trembling; understanding it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. God says draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. Didn’t we just read this about Asa. Didn’t the prophet tell Him -The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. So the moral of the story is in the midst of our biggest problem we are to live for God. Our job is to be the best example of Christs’ love on earth so that others will see our good works and glorify our Father who is in heaven. Doesn’t God’s Word tell us this? The why aren’t we listening as believers.
I hate to tell you this but guess what your political affiliation and endorsing a particular political party will not save this nation. Oh don’t get me wrong voting for Christian and God-fearing candidates is absolutely correct for getting us on the right track but that is one of many things we should do.
Let’s look back at the prosperous and blessed portion of Asa’s reign as king and see what He did and what God did
1. Asa had the people of Judah (people of God) focus on the things of God. Worship was to be about God and His rule and reign and nothing else no distractions with pagan gods or foreign sexual worship. We need to relearn to fear the Lord
2. He chose to cleanse and purify his people to honor their relationship with God. Personal holiness is essential and is a trademark of discipleship – where are you?
3. To know God, there was an emphasis on training, bible sturdy and learning about God both in schools and in the home. Our greatest impact is in our homes and this is foundational to any culture. This is why regressive teachers and schools want parents removed from teaching and raising your children. Studying and applying the Bible in our families, our extended families and in our public interfaces is important.
4. The people took their covenant relationship with God to heart and desired this to be their first priority in living. They swore an oath and made this a promise in living.
So the King and the people had good intentions and as long as the pressure of foreign invasions and persecution was on all went well. The people stood close to God and obeyed His direction, keeping their promises and paying attention to God. But after just 20 years of God’s provision and protection – the king and the nation departed from God and decided they knew a better way.
America since 1945 has enjoyed a period of prosperity, power and blessing that has never been seen in this world ever. America became a superpower. We had unrivaled success in medicine, physics, space, finance, agriculture and our children were the brightest and best educated in the world. But in 1963 we declared through the priesthood of the Supreme Court (yes, the wear priestly vestments), we don’t need you God because we can do all you do - better and without the stink of Christianity. The collective conscience of the church and the nation had turned away. We need to repent and return- 2 Chron. 7:14 is absolutely relevant. If My people who are called by name will humble themselves.
Humble themselves by recognizing their evil self-centered condition before God and pray. Seek God according to what we learned, not half-heartedly but with all your heart and soul and mind and strength. Then God will move. The evidence is overwhelming and God’s word is true He and His word never change for it is the Truth. The people of God need to ask God to do what He has done for 6000 years, guide and direct His people.
Can I have a witness to His truth and our obedience =AMEN
Today is the day is the day which the Lord hath made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Thank you, Lord for this day and your Word. Allow us today to be honest before Your truth and see how our walk with You is progressing. May Your Holy Spirit reveal all to each of us in Jesus name Amen.
Walking with Jesus is not easy as many of us have found over the years of being His child. There are multiple excuses for our failings but in most cases the answer is quite simple. We, yes, we who have been saved – washed in the blood of the Lamb, who have repented and asked God for forgiveness have walked or strayed apart from His truth and committed, yes wittingly and wantonly, committed sin. The attitude of our hearts have shifted from doing His will, His way to doing what we wanted in our way and in our time. It is hurtful to admit this to others but in most cases the truth is evident based upon our resulting behavior. This agrees with what Jesus says in Matthew – You shall know them by their fruits. Did you know our God who is very concerned about how His people who are called by His name behave? Yes, His name is righteous so He will not bless your life if you live counter to His will and His ways. He will expose and move your sinful behavior into the light so it may be seen by all. Ask Moses about going into the promised land. Ask David about the prophet Nathan’s declaration to the whole assembly – “Ecce homo.” You are the Man who sinned against God by killing Uriah the Hittite and taking Bathsheba as your wife. Or Sampson, or many others, including Peter and others in the New Testament. To get a biblical sense of this let’s look at an example this using King Asa in the OT book of 2nd Chronicles. Let me summarize what happens in Chapter 14, as we meet Asa becoming King. In verse 2 it says, Asa did what is right in the eyes of the Lord for He restored the rightful places of worship and honor to the Lord. 4 He commanded Judah to seek the Lord God of their fathers, and to observe the law and the commandment. 5 He also removed the [b]high places and the incense altars from all the cities of Judah. 6 And he built fortified cities in Judah, for the land had rest; he had no war in those years, because the Lord had given him rest. Because of the Lords favor Asa was able to build a several fortified cities in Judah. So they built and prospered because of God’s favor and God gave the King 580,000 mighty men in his army of that day.
Then, God challenges them in the rest of Chapter 14 with an army of 1 million, plus 300 chariots (tanks of the day) to see Asa’s response. So Asa cries out to God and God delivers Him from this huge Army and gives Him plunder, lands and great success. With this background let’s read closely what Chapter 15 verses 1 and following says,
15 Now the Spirit of God came upon Azariah the son of Oded. 2 And he went out [a]to meet Asa, and said to him: “Hear me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin. The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. 3 For a long time Israel has been without the true God, without a teaching priest, and without law; 4 but when in their trouble they turned to the Lord God of Israel, and sought Him, He was found by them. 5 And in those times, there was no peace to the one who went out, nor to the one who came in, but great turmoil was on all the inhabitants of the lands. 6 So nation was [b]destroyed by nation, and city by city, for God troubled them with every adversity. 7 But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” Notice - God troubled them.
I. Asa walked with the Lord at the beginning but return to what the prophet said in verse 2 - The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. This is almost like the music they used to play during horror movies when you knew the person going into the room was going to encounter the monster and be chewed up, bitten, munched or somehow destroyed. These words were a foretelling of what was going to happen to Asa. As long as his heart was tender and sensitive to God and not self-centered then God was with Him. But when His heart departed then God departed – If you seek Him He will be found by you. This is what we need to be doing today as we follow God in this nightmare on Main Street in the USA. We need to be honoring and seeking God by how we live and what we say and do.
II. Highlighting, again, two portions of scripture which we read verse 2 - The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. And verse 7 - 7 But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!” When Asa initially heard this word it says He took heart. In other words he became committed to do God’s will. Reading further into Chapter 15 you find he did good things. He had a desire to please God and to put things right which had been falling away in earlier days. He cleansed and purified the land removing idols and restored true worship in the land. Other tribes saw God was with him and joined in the work so Judah grew in strength and power. He declared a great revival in the third month of his 15th year with great sacrificing and it says in verse 12, 12 Then they entered into a covenant to seek the Lord God of their fathers with all their heart and with all their soul; 13 and whoever would not seek the Lord God of Israel was to be put to death, whether small or great, whether man or woman. 14 Then they took an oath before the Lord with a loud voice, with shouting and trumpets and rams’ horns. 15 And all Judah rejoiced at the oath, for they had sworn with all their heart and sought Him with all their soul; and He was found by them, and the Lord gave them rest all around.
As the King and the nation of Judah chose to seek the Lord and worship Him God blessed His people so there was no war or problems for the next 20 years. Guess what happened in that 20 years? The nation and the King fell away from God. You can read all about it in Chapter 16. What happens is this, Israel decides to attack Judah and instead of Asa calling upon God, He goes and makes an offering of gold and silver to the King of Syria to form an alliance to protect Judah. OOPS! Then God’s prophet comes to tell the King, you done wrong for you rejected God’s help. Instead of repenting the King throws God’s prophet in jail and punishes him. And this was in the 35th year of Asa’s reign as King. God then proceeded to send Him disease in his feet. For the next 4 years Asa refused to call on God for help but only sought the help of physicians to cure His disease. Do you believe there was a heart change in Asa over the 20 years of peace which God gave Him? Somehow during this time pride, self-interest or whatever shifted the King’s heart from God and He rejected God, so God brought disaster to His people. “ when your heart turns away.”(Deut 30:17).
III. Let’s apply this activity to our world today. I believe we know what has happened since 1963 with prayer, bible reading and study in our schools, courthouses, and the public square. What I believe we have missed is what was supposed to be happening in the homes of America. We were supposed to raising our children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. But with the sexual revolution we became enamored with ourselves and our sex habits. Of course the natural outgrowth of sex are babies and of course they are a terrible inconvenience so we needed to do something about them – like choice which is murder. Less Fathers at home with free sex around the corner so fewer young men who have a Father’s discipline in the home. Meanwhile you have the regressives screwing with our education systems. They are teaching teachers and faculty that America is bad, evil, and corrupt which is exactly what is in their hearts. This is now in universities and all our schools and in the Teacher’s Unions in America.
So what are we to do. We must first work out our own salvation with fear and trembling; understanding it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. God says draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. Didn’t we just read this about Asa. Didn’t the prophet tell Him -The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. So the moral of the story is in the midst of our biggest problem we are to live for God. Our job is to be the best example of Christs’ love on earth so that others will see our good works and glorify our Father who is in heaven. Doesn’t God’s Word tell us this? The why aren’t we listening as believers.
I hate to tell you this but guess what your political affiliation and endorsing a particular political party will not save this nation. Oh don’t get me wrong voting for Christian and God-fearing candidates is absolutely correct for getting us on the right track but that is one of many things we should do.
Let’s look back at the prosperous and blessed portion of Asa’s reign as king and see what He did and what God did
1. Asa had the people of Judah (people of God) focus on the things of God. Worship was to be about God and His rule and reign and nothing else no distractions with pagan gods or foreign sexual worship. We need to relearn to fear the Lord
2. He chose to cleanse and purify his people to honor their relationship with God. Personal holiness is essential and is a trademark of discipleship – where are you?
3. To know God, there was an emphasis on training, bible sturdy and learning about God both in schools and in the home. Our greatest impact is in our homes and this is foundational to any culture. This is why regressive teachers and schools want parents removed from teaching and raising your children. Studying and applying the Bible in our families, our extended families and in our public interfaces is important.
4. The people took their covenant relationship with God to heart and desired this to be their first priority in living. They swore an oath and made this a promise in living.
So the King and the people had good intentions and as long as the pressure of foreign invasions and persecution was on all went well. The people stood close to God and obeyed His direction, keeping their promises and paying attention to God. But after just 20 years of God’s provision and protection – the king and the nation departed from God and decided they knew a better way.
America since 1945 has enjoyed a period of prosperity, power and blessing that has never been seen in this world ever. America became a superpower. We had unrivaled success in medicine, physics, space, finance, agriculture and our children were the brightest and best educated in the world. But in 1963 we declared through the priesthood of the Supreme Court (yes, the wear priestly vestments), we don’t need you God because we can do all you do - better and without the stink of Christianity. The collective conscience of the church and the nation had turned away. We need to repent and return- 2 Chron. 7:14 is absolutely relevant. If My people who are called by name will humble themselves.
Humble themselves by recognizing their evil self-centered condition before God and pray. Seek God according to what we learned, not half-heartedly but with all your heart and soul and mind and strength. Then God will move. The evidence is overwhelming and God’s word is true He and His word never change for it is the Truth. The people of God need to ask God to do what He has done for 6000 years, guide and direct His people.
Can I have a witness to His truth and our obedience =AMEN
Sept 11 Sermon
John 3 19-21, Jesus says, 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
9/11 was and is a defining moment in the life of this nation. It was and is a historic day with regards to America and our covenant with God. If you believe prophetic leader Jonathan Cahn, it represents in His book The Harbinger. The twin towers represent and are a parallel to the gates of Jerusalem. When the towers fell in Jerusalem it represents God’s cancellation of the covenant with Israel because of their departure and rejection of God. So God allows foreign nations to dominate His people as He no longer protects them and allows them to be disciplined. This is truly a very catastrophic day in the life of America and many are blind to what God is doing.
In spite of all the pain and suffering and clarion call sounded that day, it has faded into memory and is almost forgotten. How can we forget the sacrifice of untold thousands that day? How is it that only the survivors recall the horror and pain inflicted upon our people? To everyone else it is business as usual. Neither the President, Congress or our cherished leaders bother to do anything. Afghanistan proves we have not learned this lesson. The Taliban now have more fire power and greater reach than ever to inflict pain on us because in our desire to just get out we forgot the purpose for being there was to prevent 9/11 from happening again. Guess what? What is coming may be far worse than the twin towers. So sin continues to dominate in America because of our rejection of God in schools, in our corporate board rooms, in our legislature and in our media. Filth and lies dominate all we encounter. So how are we to live in this mess? What are we supposed to do?
Well let’s look at the testimony of the greatest witness we have recorded in God’s Word. Jesus calls this man greatest and least in the kingdom of heaven but that is a discussion for another day. The witness is John the Baptist and here in John Chapter 3 John is talking to his disciples about Jesus – let’s tune in and hear what He says. Verse 22 begins, 22 After these things Jesus and His disciples came into the land of Judea, and there He remained with them and baptized. 23 Now John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there. And they came and were baptized. 24 For John had not yet been thrown into prison.
25 Then there arose a dispute between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purification. 26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified—behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!”
27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 And what He has seen and heard, that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony. 33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. 35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. 36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
Pray with me please – God unleash your Holy Spirit within us so that we may know the truth. And in knowing the truth of Jesus you make cause us to allow you to work in our hearts and minds so your will may be done – AMEN So let’s begin by examining the situation and allow God to teach us about Heavenly Stewardship and what that means in our time and day.
Verses 25 and 26 state - 25 Then there arose a dispute between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purification. 26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified—behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!”
So the issue or dispute among John’s disciples and the Jews probably had to do with the purification rites of those performing the baptisms. But the underlying issue had to do with Jesus baptizing more people than John. Was there some angst between the disciples of Jesus and those of John? Could there be some, but who knows? John was baptizing first and now why was everyone flocking to Jesus? Competition in ministry -do you suppose it doesn’t happen even today? Do you have any idea why those fantastic super revivals of the historic past eventually failed? They failed for simple reasons. In every case, individual pride, arrogance and sin entered the camp and the Holy Spirit departed. Personal sin and lack of faith cancels the activity of God in the lives of individuals and especially in revival activities. It is the same thing and it is called - sin.
But John now begins instructing his disciples in the truth of the activity of God. He begins to instruct them in how God is working and continues to work even unto today.
Verses 27 – 29 27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled.
If verse 27 is not a memory verse for you it should be for it is God’s truth 27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. Your assignments and ministry is not something you do by your choosing. This is where many go wrong on assessing spiritual gifts. Your gifts for ministry and your assignments don’t originate in your heart, they come by special assignment from above - A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. God gives the assignments you don’t and He enables you to do them. John reinforces this by using a personal example in verse 28, 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. John is stating here that not only is he not the Christ but John has the honor of being the “friend” of the bridegroom. John rejoices greatly because of the ministry which has been given him from above. A ministry given to John of preparing the way and leading with a baptism to repentance; Jesus having a ministry of sanctification and salvation, much greater than his ministry. John is please to hear the voice of the bridegroom and see Him at work. John understands his role and responsibility to Jesus. His stewardship is to be obedient to the calling for which God called him specifically. He then releases His life to how God chooses to use his life. Verse 30 testifies to the accuracy of his discussion - . 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
If you and I are to be the witnesses God wants is this not true? Many times we have expressions which imply the same thing as what John says here. How about the phrase - I have to get out of the way and let God lead? Doesn’t that convey the same or a similar thought? Or perhaps the statement – I needed to learn how to do this God’s way? I believe they all mean the same thing. So a man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. Then what must you and I do for God to have free reign in our lives to use us as He will? I believe the song says I surrender all. All to thee my blessed savior I surrender all. Surrender is key but there is more. The more is instant obedience to His call. No dickering, no pleading, no I know better it requires a heart pledged for obedience. {This is where I fail most times}So surrender leads to immediate trust and obeying for us to be adequate spiritual stewards.
The statement - A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven, reflects the spiritual and absolute sovereignty of our God. Everything comes from His hand. You as a steward are to share what comes from His hand to your hand with others. This is the concept of Heavenly stewardship which we are to obey in our lives.
Verses 31-34 build from the key verse that A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. Read with me verses 31-34: . 31 He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 And what He has seen and heard, that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony. 33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure.
John now witnesses to the greater ministry of Jesus versus his ministry of repentance. Verses -31 He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 And what He has seen and heard, that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony. Here is what John believes about Jesus and it is almost unbelievable in its clarity. Where did John the Baptist get this knowledge about Jesus? It had to be from the Holy Spirit speaking to His heart, how else could it be?
Jesus is of heaven, John is of the earth and speaks of the earth. Jesus is from heaven and is above all. Not only is He above all but He is a true witness for He speaks of what He has seen and heard in heaven.
Now John reflects on belief and specifically faith in Jesus Christ. He says, 33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure.
He who received Jesus testimony has certified that it is God and only God, and He is the one true God and there is no other. Now notice the next sentence – For He whom God has sent, Jesus speaks the words of God. Now remember the key verse for John has already said – for a man can receive nothing unless it has been given to Him from heaven. So where is the source of Jesus skill, power and life – it is from heaven. The remainder of verse 34 agrees for it says, He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. So the source of both John’s, Jesus and if you think about your ministry is by and from the Holy Spirit of God. And God does not give just a little bit of Himself in the Holy Spirit for He gives the Spirit fully to all who God calls to speak the words of God. Amazing facets of God’s love for you and I is He gives us His Spirit in full.
Conclusion -35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. 36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
Now why is Jesus ministry abounding if it comes from above? 35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. It is not that the Father doesn’t love us and freely gives us all things, but the Father loves His Son and all things are in Him and through Him. John the Baptist sees and knows this in His spirit about Jesus ministry being above His. His was a ministry of repentance, Jesus ministry is greater.
36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.” How so, read verse 36. Jesus is the one who takes away the sin of the world. No one else can satisfy the wrath of God by providing forgiveness for sin. If you believe is Jesus, you will have everlasting life. If you don’t believe is Jesus you will not have eternal life in heaven for the wrath or anger of God for not receiving His Son rests upon you. You have no faith in Jesus. He who does not believe is Jesus is condemned already.
Read- John 3, 19-21, Jesus says, 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
Let your light so shine before men that they may glorify you Father in heaven. This is spiritual stewardship and remember your ministry is given to you - A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven, reflects the spiritual and absolute sovereignty of our God. So seek God and His ministry for you and share with others.
Seek ye first the Kingdom of Heaven and His righteousness and all these things will be given unto you. Amen.
John 3 19-21, Jesus says, 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
9/11 was and is a defining moment in the life of this nation. It was and is a historic day with regards to America and our covenant with God. If you believe prophetic leader Jonathan Cahn, it represents in His book The Harbinger. The twin towers represent and are a parallel to the gates of Jerusalem. When the towers fell in Jerusalem it represents God’s cancellation of the covenant with Israel because of their departure and rejection of God. So God allows foreign nations to dominate His people as He no longer protects them and allows them to be disciplined. This is truly a very catastrophic day in the life of America and many are blind to what God is doing.
In spite of all the pain and suffering and clarion call sounded that day, it has faded into memory and is almost forgotten. How can we forget the sacrifice of untold thousands that day? How is it that only the survivors recall the horror and pain inflicted upon our people? To everyone else it is business as usual. Neither the President, Congress or our cherished leaders bother to do anything. Afghanistan proves we have not learned this lesson. The Taliban now have more fire power and greater reach than ever to inflict pain on us because in our desire to just get out we forgot the purpose for being there was to prevent 9/11 from happening again. Guess what? What is coming may be far worse than the twin towers. So sin continues to dominate in America because of our rejection of God in schools, in our corporate board rooms, in our legislature and in our media. Filth and lies dominate all we encounter. So how are we to live in this mess? What are we supposed to do?
Well let’s look at the testimony of the greatest witness we have recorded in God’s Word. Jesus calls this man greatest and least in the kingdom of heaven but that is a discussion for another day. The witness is John the Baptist and here in John Chapter 3 John is talking to his disciples about Jesus – let’s tune in and hear what He says. Verse 22 begins, 22 After these things Jesus and His disciples came into the land of Judea, and there He remained with them and baptized. 23 Now John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there. And they came and were baptized. 24 For John had not yet been thrown into prison.
25 Then there arose a dispute between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purification. 26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified—behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!”
27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 And what He has seen and heard, that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony. 33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. 35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. 36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
Pray with me please – God unleash your Holy Spirit within us so that we may know the truth. And in knowing the truth of Jesus you make cause us to allow you to work in our hearts and minds so your will may be done – AMEN So let’s begin by examining the situation and allow God to teach us about Heavenly Stewardship and what that means in our time and day.
Verses 25 and 26 state - 25 Then there arose a dispute between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purification. 26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified—behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!”
So the issue or dispute among John’s disciples and the Jews probably had to do with the purification rites of those performing the baptisms. But the underlying issue had to do with Jesus baptizing more people than John. Was there some angst between the disciples of Jesus and those of John? Could there be some, but who knows? John was baptizing first and now why was everyone flocking to Jesus? Competition in ministry -do you suppose it doesn’t happen even today? Do you have any idea why those fantastic super revivals of the historic past eventually failed? They failed for simple reasons. In every case, individual pride, arrogance and sin entered the camp and the Holy Spirit departed. Personal sin and lack of faith cancels the activity of God in the lives of individuals and especially in revival activities. It is the same thing and it is called - sin.
But John now begins instructing his disciples in the truth of the activity of God. He begins to instruct them in how God is working and continues to work even unto today.
Verses 27 – 29 27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled.
If verse 27 is not a memory verse for you it should be for it is God’s truth 27 John answered and said, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. Your assignments and ministry is not something you do by your choosing. This is where many go wrong on assessing spiritual gifts. Your gifts for ministry and your assignments don’t originate in your heart, they come by special assignment from above - A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. God gives the assignments you don’t and He enables you to do them. John reinforces this by using a personal example in verse 28, 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent before Him.’ 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. John is stating here that not only is he not the Christ but John has the honor of being the “friend” of the bridegroom. John rejoices greatly because of the ministry which has been given him from above. A ministry given to John of preparing the way and leading with a baptism to repentance; Jesus having a ministry of sanctification and salvation, much greater than his ministry. John is please to hear the voice of the bridegroom and see Him at work. John understands his role and responsibility to Jesus. His stewardship is to be obedient to the calling for which God called him specifically. He then releases His life to how God chooses to use his life. Verse 30 testifies to the accuracy of his discussion - . 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
If you and I are to be the witnesses God wants is this not true? Many times we have expressions which imply the same thing as what John says here. How about the phrase - I have to get out of the way and let God lead? Doesn’t that convey the same or a similar thought? Or perhaps the statement – I needed to learn how to do this God’s way? I believe they all mean the same thing. So a man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. Then what must you and I do for God to have free reign in our lives to use us as He will? I believe the song says I surrender all. All to thee my blessed savior I surrender all. Surrender is key but there is more. The more is instant obedience to His call. No dickering, no pleading, no I know better it requires a heart pledged for obedience. {This is where I fail most times}So surrender leads to immediate trust and obeying for us to be adequate spiritual stewards.
The statement - A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven, reflects the spiritual and absolute sovereignty of our God. Everything comes from His hand. You as a steward are to share what comes from His hand to your hand with others. This is the concept of Heavenly stewardship which we are to obey in our lives.
Verses 31-34 build from the key verse that A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. Read with me verses 31-34: . 31 He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 And what He has seen and heard, that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony. 33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure.
John now witnesses to the greater ministry of Jesus versus his ministry of repentance. Verses -31 He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 And what He has seen and heard, that He testifies; and no one receives His testimony. Here is what John believes about Jesus and it is almost unbelievable in its clarity. Where did John the Baptist get this knowledge about Jesus? It had to be from the Holy Spirit speaking to His heart, how else could it be?
Jesus is of heaven, John is of the earth and speaks of the earth. Jesus is from heaven and is above all. Not only is He above all but He is a true witness for He speaks of what He has seen and heard in heaven.
Now John reflects on belief and specifically faith in Jesus Christ. He says, 33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true. 34 For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure.
He who received Jesus testimony has certified that it is God and only God, and He is the one true God and there is no other. Now notice the next sentence – For He whom God has sent, Jesus speaks the words of God. Now remember the key verse for John has already said – for a man can receive nothing unless it has been given to Him from heaven. So where is the source of Jesus skill, power and life – it is from heaven. The remainder of verse 34 agrees for it says, He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure. So the source of both John’s, Jesus and if you think about your ministry is by and from the Holy Spirit of God. And God does not give just a little bit of Himself in the Holy Spirit for He gives the Spirit fully to all who God calls to speak the words of God. Amazing facets of God’s love for you and I is He gives us His Spirit in full.
Conclusion -35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. 36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
Now why is Jesus ministry abounding if it comes from above? 35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand. It is not that the Father doesn’t love us and freely gives us all things, but the Father loves His Son and all things are in Him and through Him. John the Baptist sees and knows this in His spirit about Jesus ministry being above His. His was a ministry of repentance, Jesus ministry is greater.
36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.” How so, read verse 36. Jesus is the one who takes away the sin of the world. No one else can satisfy the wrath of God by providing forgiveness for sin. If you believe is Jesus, you will have everlasting life. If you don’t believe is Jesus you will not have eternal life in heaven for the wrath or anger of God for not receiving His Son rests upon you. You have no faith in Jesus. He who does not believe is Jesus is condemned already.
Read- John 3, 19-21, Jesus says, 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
Let your light so shine before men that they may glorify you Father in heaven. This is spiritual stewardship and remember your ministry is given to you - A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven, reflects the spiritual and absolute sovereignty of our God. So seek God and His ministry for you and share with others.
Seek ye first the Kingdom of Heaven and His righteousness and all these things will be given unto you. Amen.
Sept 5 Sermon
I want you to know the love of God is unfathomable. I am not sure we will ever get our hearts, minds and souls around the full extent of God’s love. We are going to explore a new dimension for me concerning God’s love today. Something which has overwhelmed me in its breadth, scope and dimensionality. The more I grasp the Love of God, the more it seems to unfold. In our day and time in this ungodly world we dwell in, remember this is not our home, if you are a believer in Christ. This is where God has placed us for a time to testing, training and maturation for as it says elsewhere in our text – we are being conformed to the image of His Son – Jesus Christ. But in our day having a solid understanding of what God has granted us will give us a firm, unmovable foundation by which we can outreach to this lost and dying world.
Ok then, if we are honest, the sin that so easily surrounds us can overwhelm us, and cause us to focus on the threat of what evil could do; more than on what God has already done for us as believers in Jesus Christ. We can begin listening to the whispers of the great deceiver and liar from the beginning – Satan. Listening to his whispers creates fear, uncertainty and shuts our mouths for we become fearful about sharing Christ or biblical truths. We begin asking ourselves what could happen? Listening to his lies can also cause us to not shout – “not true” when others are saying Christians are bigoted, hateful and non-inclusive, when we tells others about their sin. Or when we have the audacity to tell others they won’t go to heaven because there is only one way to heaven and they can’t get there with their many ways to heaven lie. Or when they try to convince you about multiple sexes instead of male and female. How about global warming, creation, or choice, which is really choosing death? How about the wonders of giving others what you have earned or any philosophy which does not agree with the Word of God.{The Bible)?
So this may be new to you as well so listen up to this truth which we are going to examine in Romans, Chapter 8 beginning in verse 31, 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written:
“For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Before we begin to review this text for God’s word to us today, let’s pray- Oh Father thank you for your Word, for your Son and for your love. Illuminate our hearts with your truth so we may stand in it today and forevermore. Amen
I want to link verses 33, 35 and 39 for our consideration this morning. There is so much more here but we need to concentrate of the main thing which is love of God.
Let’s do the easier verses first verses 35 and 39. Both of these verses are similar but not quite the same. Verse 35 poses the questions of who shall separate us from the Love of God in Christ. Whereas verse 39 proposes a real and dynamic answer – nothing - nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
So according to this text which is quite certain in its tone from our Brother Paul- there is nothing which is able to separate us from the Love of
God in Christ Jesus our Lord – nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God.
I want to repeat that there is nothing which can separate you from the love of God. Now your sin can remove you from the presence of God and from your hearing His voice so that you no longer hear. Then your heart turns away so that you go worship and serve other gods, but that does not mean you are lost forever. Remember in the Bible the parable of the shepherd and the lost sheep. How the shepherd left the 90 and 9 and went and found the lost sheep. Or the parable of the prodigal son and his brother and how he restored the lost son? He ran to him and put the shoes on his feet, the ring on his finger and the new clothes, with a homecoming feast.
Now let’s look at the root of how love happens verse 33 – it is God who justifies. What does this mean? It means God is the one who makes an eternal decision and justifies an individual by applying the blood of Christ upon their life. This is done only by God and by His righteous and sovereign will, but how exactly? Go to verses 28 and 30 – look at verse 28. There is says - 28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
This verse tells us God is working everything out according to the council of His will, but specifically to the called. Who are the called? Those who are walking accord to His purpose. This is a very specific calling of those who are His. But there is much more – verse 30 says, 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
This verse is so theologically deep we can all get lost in it. Let’s just concentrate on three words called, justified and glorified. It is God who has to call us out of sin. There is no other way. The Bible says all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. For this to be true there is no way you a sinner born in sin can come away from sin without someone and only one someone Jesus Christ calling you out of your sin. This is done by the Holy Spirit illuminating your heart to the despicable nature of your personal sin and broken relationship to God. The calling then is only done by God and His perfect will.
If you then receive Christ and this is true only in the Lord Jesus Christ, for He is the only true sacrifice for sin, God the Father forgives you. He justifies you in His Son by applying the shed blood of Calvary to your sin. This is justification by faith alone, in Christ alone, by grace alone. You are His child and He makes you His own.
Now read with me the entire verse as we get to the final part of understanding verse 30. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
Ok if God looked down time and chose you and I by His sovereign will – those who He predetermined; then He called them, for you and I had to choose life in Christ. These who chose Christ He justified – meaning He forgave their sin and covered them with Christ’s blood….then it says these He also glorified.
Glorification is something which will happen to the beloved sometime in the future. But in God’s economy since He lives both in the past, present and future- glorification has already happened. Let’s make this simpler- God sees you not as you are but what you will be in eternity. He sees that in you before you were born; before you were saved and before you might die. He knows you as glorified, living with Him in eternity. What a thought- God knows you as you are but sees and knows you in Eternity future. Can you even put your head around this idea? One more thought, if God puts Himself in you by His Spirit He will never leave you or forsake you -Eternally? Why not? So we can sin all we want – As Paul says God forbid. If we realize the absolute depth of His love, why would we want to disobey? AMEN
I want you to know the love of God is unfathomable. I am not sure we will ever get our hearts, minds and souls around the full extent of God’s love. We are going to explore a new dimension for me concerning God’s love today. Something which has overwhelmed me in its breadth, scope and dimensionality. The more I grasp the Love of God, the more it seems to unfold. In our day and time in this ungodly world we dwell in, remember this is not our home, if you are a believer in Christ. This is where God has placed us for a time to testing, training and maturation for as it says elsewhere in our text – we are being conformed to the image of His Son – Jesus Christ. But in our day having a solid understanding of what God has granted us will give us a firm, unmovable foundation by which we can outreach to this lost and dying world.
Ok then, if we are honest, the sin that so easily surrounds us can overwhelm us, and cause us to focus on the threat of what evil could do; more than on what God has already done for us as believers in Jesus Christ. We can begin listening to the whispers of the great deceiver and liar from the beginning – Satan. Listening to his whispers creates fear, uncertainty and shuts our mouths for we become fearful about sharing Christ or biblical truths. We begin asking ourselves what could happen? Listening to his lies can also cause us to not shout – “not true” when others are saying Christians are bigoted, hateful and non-inclusive, when we tells others about their sin. Or when we have the audacity to tell others they won’t go to heaven because there is only one way to heaven and they can’t get there with their many ways to heaven lie. Or when they try to convince you about multiple sexes instead of male and female. How about global warming, creation, or choice, which is really choosing death? How about the wonders of giving others what you have earned or any philosophy which does not agree with the Word of God.{The Bible)?
So this may be new to you as well so listen up to this truth which we are going to examine in Romans, Chapter 8 beginning in verse 31, 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written:
“For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Before we begin to review this text for God’s word to us today, let’s pray- Oh Father thank you for your Word, for your Son and for your love. Illuminate our hearts with your truth so we may stand in it today and forevermore. Amen
I want to link verses 33, 35 and 39 for our consideration this morning. There is so much more here but we need to concentrate of the main thing which is love of God.
Let’s do the easier verses first verses 35 and 39. Both of these verses are similar but not quite the same. Verse 35 poses the questions of who shall separate us from the Love of God in Christ. Whereas verse 39 proposes a real and dynamic answer – nothing - nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
So according to this text which is quite certain in its tone from our Brother Paul- there is nothing which is able to separate us from the Love of
God in Christ Jesus our Lord – nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God.
I want to repeat that there is nothing which can separate you from the love of God. Now your sin can remove you from the presence of God and from your hearing His voice so that you no longer hear. Then your heart turns away so that you go worship and serve other gods, but that does not mean you are lost forever. Remember in the Bible the parable of the shepherd and the lost sheep. How the shepherd left the 90 and 9 and went and found the lost sheep. Or the parable of the prodigal son and his brother and how he restored the lost son? He ran to him and put the shoes on his feet, the ring on his finger and the new clothes, with a homecoming feast.
Now let’s look at the root of how love happens verse 33 – it is God who justifies. What does this mean? It means God is the one who makes an eternal decision and justifies an individual by applying the blood of Christ upon their life. This is done only by God and by His righteous and sovereign will, but how exactly? Go to verses 28 and 30 – look at verse 28. There is says - 28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
This verse tells us God is working everything out according to the council of His will, but specifically to the called. Who are the called? Those who are walking accord to His purpose. This is a very specific calling of those who are His. But there is much more – verse 30 says, 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
This verse is so theologically deep we can all get lost in it. Let’s just concentrate on three words called, justified and glorified. It is God who has to call us out of sin. There is no other way. The Bible says all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. For this to be true there is no way you a sinner born in sin can come away from sin without someone and only one someone Jesus Christ calling you out of your sin. This is done by the Holy Spirit illuminating your heart to the despicable nature of your personal sin and broken relationship to God. The calling then is only done by God and His perfect will.
If you then receive Christ and this is true only in the Lord Jesus Christ, for He is the only true sacrifice for sin, God the Father forgives you. He justifies you in His Son by applying the shed blood of Calvary to your sin. This is justification by faith alone, in Christ alone, by grace alone. You are His child and He makes you His own.
Now read with me the entire verse as we get to the final part of understanding verse 30. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
Ok if God looked down time and chose you and I by His sovereign will – those who He predetermined; then He called them, for you and I had to choose life in Christ. These who chose Christ He justified – meaning He forgave their sin and covered them with Christ’s blood….then it says these He also glorified.
Glorification is something which will happen to the beloved sometime in the future. But in God’s economy since He lives both in the past, present and future- glorification has already happened. Let’s make this simpler- God sees you not as you are but what you will be in eternity. He sees that in you before you were born; before you were saved and before you might die. He knows you as glorified, living with Him in eternity. What a thought- God knows you as you are but sees and knows you in Eternity future. Can you even put your head around this idea? One more thought, if God puts Himself in you by His Spirit He will never leave you or forsake you -Eternally? Why not? So we can sin all we want – As Paul says God forbid. If we realize the absolute depth of His love, why would we want to disobey? AMEN
August 28 Sermon
One of the most astounding and disheartening things that has happened in our great nation is that lies are made almost by everyone who is supposed to uphold the law and the constitution. This extends from the President to his Administrative support staff, to Senate and House leaders from both parties. There is actually no difference in many cases between RINO reprobate republicans and liberal democrats. This lying goes to all levels of state and local leaders and is highly focused in regressive progressives. Another disheartening and evil thing is the labeling of opposition party members and those who question election results, or question school board practices and current administration policies as the enemy, and as radical extremists because they don’t accept the ruling party’s line.
So lying, dishonesty and relabeling have become part and parcel of our current dilemma. Relabeling is part of the restructuring of our national heritage. It redefines essential truths. This behavior points to two things. First, there is no honor or personal integrity in our leaders, nor is there a fear of the living God. If people were, they would not be behaving the way they are doing. This is a moral problem because everyone is doing whatever they want both morally, socially and politically. The only demonstrated standard is whatever an individual wants to do. So the current AG has no desire to keep Him sworn oath to defend the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. So we release convicted felons (rapes, murders and for theft) next day after minimum time in jail right back into society. We don’t close the border and we don’t prosecute or check for radicals or prior convicted felons illegally crossing into America. We let the Mexican cartels dictate how much fentanyl, or heroin we allow into our states. After all 108,000 ODs is just population control for undesirables- right?
Passing multi-billion legislative bills which send money outside the country to fund foreign wars or line politicians pockets is not a problem for regressives. This produces inflation and soon you will be benefitted with higher taxes in addition to less money in your pocket. Now you may hate the last president, as Christian you may need to check your pedigree. Hating should not be in your vocabulary as a believer. He did great things for America and truth was a by-product. Anyhow lying is prevalent in all the messaging you are receiving on the various television channels across America today. This trifecta of politicians, managed media and internet activities encourages, abets and supports the false narrative. Joseph Goebbels statement holds true here – “if you tell a lie often enough people will begin to call it the truth.”
The opposite of lying is truth telling. Since God’s word is the truth, what does the word of God say about lying? Let’s check beginning in the book of Proverbs- Chapter 6
I. Lying: Proverbs 6:16-19 - 16 These six things the Lord hates,
Yes, seven are an abomination to [h]Him:
17 A[i] proud look,
A lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
18 A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil,
19 A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren.
Go back further into the book of Proverbs, to Chapter 12, verse 22 - 22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
It seems God has some hard thoughts about lying. Now you say How can God hate? – well trying to describe God strongly disliking something doesn’t have quite have the same emphasis as does – God hates lying. God mentions lying more times in the book of Proverbs. Do you supposed God might have something against those who lie and speak evil of others? Chapter 12, verse 22 is highly descriptive and right to the point-22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
Here God makes a clear distinction between those who speak lies and those who speak lies- Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.
This tell us how God relates to this sin- it is an abomination to Himself, His purposes and His ways. But those who deal truthfully are His delight. This is a wonderful response from God.
If you are still not sure how God relates to Sin and lying then check this out. Think about what you may have already heard but not thought through. How did God deal with Adam and Even when they had sinned and lied about their sin? He kicked them out of the garden, made childbirth a strain and gave them work to just eat through their sweat. How did God deal with the first King of Israel when he sinned and lied about His Sin? God allowed Saul to fall deeper into sin eventually seeking the dead which is forbidden by God. God allowed Saul to be killed and dismembered by the ??? How about even David, who lost His new baby and enmity and strife never passed from David’s family.
God hates sin and despises it. God will one day destroy Satan for he has been a liar and a destroyer from the beginning. His destination is certain in the lake of Fire. How do you believe God is going to treat all those who today are speaking lies knowingly into the country which under COVID cost a million plus lives? Or teach that God is evil and evil is good, therefore hate God. When Judgement comes it will come swiftly and it will come with weeping and gnashing of teeth. If you are wise you will never wish to be anywhere around this
II. The Truth - In the new testament we have some additional instruction under the tutelage of the Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit writing by John in 1st John Chapter 1. We will be instructed in both truth and in lying and the specific contrast which happens between the two extremes. 1st John 1:verses 6-10
6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.
Here is the direct contrast between believers and non-believers. If you are of God’s kingdom and walk according to the darkness of this world then the truth is not in us. Duh! How can someone approve abortion and enable the increased opportunity for more abortions including 28 days after birth call themselves a Christian and take communion? It is not possible to be a believer and do this. Choice is not choice it is a redefinition of the word _ Murder. If you kill your baby that is your choice if the baby is living in your body. You agreed to allow the seeds to be planted but now you reject your choice. What choice does the child have? Basically the child has no choice but to die terribly- this is walking in darkness and not in the light and is an abject lie. We are not practicing the truth.
Ok stop. Let’s reset the stage. There are three levels of truth in our society today.
a. There is the definition for truth in the dictionary : the property (as of a statement) of being in accord with fact or reality, the body of real things, events, and facts
b. There is the modern understanding of truth progressively- a judgment, proposition, or idea that is true or accepted as true, not necessarily proven. And sincerity in action, character, and utterance (i.e. popular belief)
c. Last spiritual truth – as in John:14:6 - Jesus said, I am the Way the Truth and Life, no man cometh to the Father but by Me. Our spiritual truth is a person and that person is God
John 8: 32 says, - 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
So when we are talking about truth we are not talking about truth as the world sees it but as God sees His truth and what we know and understand about the ways of God. His truth is not variable it is the same now and always. And knowing the truth is not limiting but sets us free. Free first from the laws of sin and death and free from the desire or need to lie. Jesus allows us to be free in the truth of His love and who He is.
So here we are surrounded by lying, mistruths, deceptions for all spheres of influence all of which are leading to death and future destruction both for this people, for freedom, for our democracy and for liberty. Without a moral compass as we are living today in society where we are actually doomed to failure. Failure not just from our self-imploding but from our individual and collective sin which modern men and women no longer believe is true. After all, if we just educate people and have more government control, everything will get better is the regressive supposition and ultimate solution. So shut up and go away you, you infidels and ignorant peasants. You know nothing!
Since there is no fear of God in the churches, or in the schools or in the legislatures - why can’t we practice homosexuality, abortion- call it baby murder, and whatever perversions we want in the church? Our sin before God and in denying Him will cause us to cease to be. In our pride and arrogance we believe we can ignore God. This is true even of churches, denominations and states who are turning and have turned away from God. Maybe you didn’t know but God’s word condemns us and we cannot escape the judgement of God.
If we look at the record of scripture and how God treated Israel when they departed from Him, why do American churches think they will be treated differently? Is God’s arm shortened that He cannot execute His will? I believe Isaiah 55 says that God’s word when it is sent forth will never fail but will accomplish that for which it was sent. Since God never changes why do we think that we can hide or run from God and do what we want with no consequences.
God is using the present difficulties in this country for people to actually decide what is actually important. Is God who He says He is and if He is does He really want us to be righteous, holy and honorable before men? So that other in this nation can see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven Isn’t this what He told us to do?
Step 1 Gain a moral compass – all must have Jesus as the center of their faith – John tells us Apart for Me {Jesus} you can do nothing. Ask Christ to be your Lord and Savior.
Step 2. Repentance is the next step - turn to Jesus and acknowledge your sin. He will save you – when now. Step 3 pray and obey – 2 Chronicles 7:14 – Humble yourself before an almighty God and Pray, and
Step 3- seek His face with all your heart and soul and strength. Then you will be able to turn from you wicked ways and then He will begin to move.
Step 4. With your whole being commit to hearing the voice of God. We must all learn to hear His voice. My sheep hear my voice and I know them is Jesus statement.
May we truly commit to knowing Him and His will today. AMEN
“When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”
– Thomas Jefferson
One of the most astounding and disheartening things that has happened in our great nation is that lies are made almost by everyone who is supposed to uphold the law and the constitution. This extends from the President to his Administrative support staff, to Senate and House leaders from both parties. There is actually no difference in many cases between RINO reprobate republicans and liberal democrats. This lying goes to all levels of state and local leaders and is highly focused in regressive progressives. Another disheartening and evil thing is the labeling of opposition party members and those who question election results, or question school board practices and current administration policies as the enemy, and as radical extremists because they don’t accept the ruling party’s line.
So lying, dishonesty and relabeling have become part and parcel of our current dilemma. Relabeling is part of the restructuring of our national heritage. It redefines essential truths. This behavior points to two things. First, there is no honor or personal integrity in our leaders, nor is there a fear of the living God. If people were, they would not be behaving the way they are doing. This is a moral problem because everyone is doing whatever they want both morally, socially and politically. The only demonstrated standard is whatever an individual wants to do. So the current AG has no desire to keep Him sworn oath to defend the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. So we release convicted felons (rapes, murders and for theft) next day after minimum time in jail right back into society. We don’t close the border and we don’t prosecute or check for radicals or prior convicted felons illegally crossing into America. We let the Mexican cartels dictate how much fentanyl, or heroin we allow into our states. After all 108,000 ODs is just population control for undesirables- right?
Passing multi-billion legislative bills which send money outside the country to fund foreign wars or line politicians pockets is not a problem for regressives. This produces inflation and soon you will be benefitted with higher taxes in addition to less money in your pocket. Now you may hate the last president, as Christian you may need to check your pedigree. Hating should not be in your vocabulary as a believer. He did great things for America and truth was a by-product. Anyhow lying is prevalent in all the messaging you are receiving on the various television channels across America today. This trifecta of politicians, managed media and internet activities encourages, abets and supports the false narrative. Joseph Goebbels statement holds true here – “if you tell a lie often enough people will begin to call it the truth.”
The opposite of lying is truth telling. Since God’s word is the truth, what does the word of God say about lying? Let’s check beginning in the book of Proverbs- Chapter 6
I. Lying: Proverbs 6:16-19 - 16 These six things the Lord hates,
Yes, seven are an abomination to [h]Him:
17 A[i] proud look,
A lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
18 A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil,
19 A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren.
Go back further into the book of Proverbs, to Chapter 12, verse 22 - 22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
It seems God has some hard thoughts about lying. Now you say How can God hate? – well trying to describe God strongly disliking something doesn’t have quite have the same emphasis as does – God hates lying. God mentions lying more times in the book of Proverbs. Do you supposed God might have something against those who lie and speak evil of others? Chapter 12, verse 22 is highly descriptive and right to the point-22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
Here God makes a clear distinction between those who speak lies and those who speak lies- Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.
This tell us how God relates to this sin- it is an abomination to Himself, His purposes and His ways. But those who deal truthfully are His delight. This is a wonderful response from God.
If you are still not sure how God relates to Sin and lying then check this out. Think about what you may have already heard but not thought through. How did God deal with Adam and Even when they had sinned and lied about their sin? He kicked them out of the garden, made childbirth a strain and gave them work to just eat through their sweat. How did God deal with the first King of Israel when he sinned and lied about His Sin? God allowed Saul to fall deeper into sin eventually seeking the dead which is forbidden by God. God allowed Saul to be killed and dismembered by the ??? How about even David, who lost His new baby and enmity and strife never passed from David’s family.
God hates sin and despises it. God will one day destroy Satan for he has been a liar and a destroyer from the beginning. His destination is certain in the lake of Fire. How do you believe God is going to treat all those who today are speaking lies knowingly into the country which under COVID cost a million plus lives? Or teach that God is evil and evil is good, therefore hate God. When Judgement comes it will come swiftly and it will come with weeping and gnashing of teeth. If you are wise you will never wish to be anywhere around this
II. The Truth - In the new testament we have some additional instruction under the tutelage of the Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit writing by John in 1st John Chapter 1. We will be instructed in both truth and in lying and the specific contrast which happens between the two extremes. 1st John 1:verses 6-10
6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.
Here is the direct contrast between believers and non-believers. If you are of God’s kingdom and walk according to the darkness of this world then the truth is not in us. Duh! How can someone approve abortion and enable the increased opportunity for more abortions including 28 days after birth call themselves a Christian and take communion? It is not possible to be a believer and do this. Choice is not choice it is a redefinition of the word _ Murder. If you kill your baby that is your choice if the baby is living in your body. You agreed to allow the seeds to be planted but now you reject your choice. What choice does the child have? Basically the child has no choice but to die terribly- this is walking in darkness and not in the light and is an abject lie. We are not practicing the truth.
Ok stop. Let’s reset the stage. There are three levels of truth in our society today.
a. There is the definition for truth in the dictionary : the property (as of a statement) of being in accord with fact or reality, the body of real things, events, and facts
b. There is the modern understanding of truth progressively- a judgment, proposition, or idea that is true or accepted as true, not necessarily proven. And sincerity in action, character, and utterance (i.e. popular belief)
c. Last spiritual truth – as in John:14:6 - Jesus said, I am the Way the Truth and Life, no man cometh to the Father but by Me. Our spiritual truth is a person and that person is God
John 8: 32 says, - 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
So when we are talking about truth we are not talking about truth as the world sees it but as God sees His truth and what we know and understand about the ways of God. His truth is not variable it is the same now and always. And knowing the truth is not limiting but sets us free. Free first from the laws of sin and death and free from the desire or need to lie. Jesus allows us to be free in the truth of His love and who He is.
So here we are surrounded by lying, mistruths, deceptions for all spheres of influence all of which are leading to death and future destruction both for this people, for freedom, for our democracy and for liberty. Without a moral compass as we are living today in society where we are actually doomed to failure. Failure not just from our self-imploding but from our individual and collective sin which modern men and women no longer believe is true. After all, if we just educate people and have more government control, everything will get better is the regressive supposition and ultimate solution. So shut up and go away you, you infidels and ignorant peasants. You know nothing!
Since there is no fear of God in the churches, or in the schools or in the legislatures - why can’t we practice homosexuality, abortion- call it baby murder, and whatever perversions we want in the church? Our sin before God and in denying Him will cause us to cease to be. In our pride and arrogance we believe we can ignore God. This is true even of churches, denominations and states who are turning and have turned away from God. Maybe you didn’t know but God’s word condemns us and we cannot escape the judgement of God.
If we look at the record of scripture and how God treated Israel when they departed from Him, why do American churches think they will be treated differently? Is God’s arm shortened that He cannot execute His will? I believe Isaiah 55 says that God’s word when it is sent forth will never fail but will accomplish that for which it was sent. Since God never changes why do we think that we can hide or run from God and do what we want with no consequences.
God is using the present difficulties in this country for people to actually decide what is actually important. Is God who He says He is and if He is does He really want us to be righteous, holy and honorable before men? So that other in this nation can see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven Isn’t this what He told us to do?
Step 1 Gain a moral compass – all must have Jesus as the center of their faith – John tells us Apart for Me {Jesus} you can do nothing. Ask Christ to be your Lord and Savior.
Step 2. Repentance is the next step - turn to Jesus and acknowledge your sin. He will save you – when now. Step 3 pray and obey – 2 Chronicles 7:14 – Humble yourself before an almighty God and Pray, and
Step 3- seek His face with all your heart and soul and strength. Then you will be able to turn from you wicked ways and then He will begin to move.
Step 4. With your whole being commit to hearing the voice of God. We must all learn to hear His voice. My sheep hear my voice and I know them is Jesus statement.
May we truly commit to knowing Him and His will today. AMEN
“When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”
– Thomas Jefferson
Aug 21 Sermon
The following commands are Jesus’commands to all believers -11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
17 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one [b]jot or one [c]tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Shine and Share for Jesus is the commandments we have from Him as Lord and Savior, Master of all the earth. And while many don’t believe this today -He is coming again. In the letter to the Philippians, Paul tells us the word of God- Philippians 2:10 -that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth,
All people those who believe and those who are unbelievers will bow to Jesus and acknowledge that He is Lord. And believe me it is coming to a theater near you soon. Those who complain and say I never heard about Him will be very disappointed as they enter the lake of fire for eternal punishment.
So Believers according to this text are to shine for Jesus according to these verses. But these verses aren’t the only ones for there are a few other scripture which we should review. Check out Matt 13:40-43. It says, 40 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, 42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!
In that day the righteous shall shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. So we are to begin shining forth now according to the Sermon on the Mount in Matt. 5 and then we will shine for eternity for God in Heaven. So shining for God is mandated by the Word of God
Now also according to the scriptures we are to reflect the Glory of God which shines upon us -In Isaiah 60 there is an amazing text –
1Arise, shine;
For your light has come!
And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.
2 For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth,
And deep darkness the people;
But the Lord will arise over you,
And His glory will be seen upon you.
3 The Gentiles shall come to your light,
And kings to the brightness of your rising.
Originally, this blessing was promised to the Jews but upon your becoming a child of the King, you have been ingrafted into the Kingdom of Heaven and so this promise belongs to you as well. Note what the blessing says:
But the Lord will arise over you,
And His glory will be seen upon you.
3 The Gentiles shall come to your light, So other gentiles will come to the light of Christ which resides upon and in you by the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ and He is the light of the World. So shine forth for Jesus as He lives in and through your life
There might be a question in your heart concerning exactly how does this happen -We have an answer provided to us in the text of 2 Corinthians Chapter 4, verse 6. It says there,
For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. In order to shine forth the light of Christ, you and I needed a heart change, and only God is capable of changing the Human heart. This happens when you ask Jesus Christ to become the Lord of your life. Only as a transformed sinner can you live a transformed life. We are powerless without the change wrought by God’s transforming power in the Holy Spirit. Knowing we are sinners God comes to us if we call out to Him when we finally realize how desperately we need a savior.
Now to share is the second part. What exactly are we to share? I believe that is evident. When we are saved we have new life within us. A new heart, a new destination for eternity, no enmity with God for we have received His Son who is His promised messiah. Why wouldn’t you want to share the love of God which has given you all this. We had a young waitress receive Jesus Christ yesterday morning and when we told Her that Jesus loved her and that we loved her she broke out in tears. You see the joy of the Lord is overwhelming if you simply consider it.
So now if you search on the word share in your bible you will be greatly disappointed, for it is never used in the context of a command to go and tell or to share your faith. Searching on Go and tell yields some results but noting commanding us to go and share our faith. Using the word “go’ not beneficial because it is a root for approximately 7800 words. But God does yield on highly productive verse issues as part of Jesus final commands to His disciples and those with them Matthew 28:18-20 says, 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go [a]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [b]Amen. According to Jesus final command to His children. He says, Go ye therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. This is very direct. So to share means to go to others and relate to them what joy, peace and love you have received from God on high. How else can we share the gospel other than telling others about what you already know.
There is a poignant example of the this in the book of Mark, Chapter 5. The demoniac who was so thoroughly possessed by demons wants to accompany Jesus when He is departing by boat. The demoniac wants to go and get in the boat. He is in love with the Son of God who set him free. Here is what Jesus said,
18 And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. 19 However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.”20 And he departed and began to proclaim in [e]Decapolis all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.
Jesus said Go home and tell them what great things God has done for you and how He had compassion on you. What a testimony and what did the recovered demoniac do – He want to all ten cities on that side of the Jordan and told everyone what Jesus had done for Him.
Question – is the miracle of your salvation still fresh in your heart that you want others to know the Gift of God you have received? If so then share and share specifically what the Lord’s love
The following commands are Jesus’commands to all believers -11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
17 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one [b]jot or one [c]tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Shine and Share for Jesus is the commandments we have from Him as Lord and Savior, Master of all the earth. And while many don’t believe this today -He is coming again. In the letter to the Philippians, Paul tells us the word of God- Philippians 2:10 -that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth,
All people those who believe and those who are unbelievers will bow to Jesus and acknowledge that He is Lord. And believe me it is coming to a theater near you soon. Those who complain and say I never heard about Him will be very disappointed as they enter the lake of fire for eternal punishment.
So Believers according to this text are to shine for Jesus according to these verses. But these verses aren’t the only ones for there are a few other scripture which we should review. Check out Matt 13:40-43. It says, 40 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, 42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!
In that day the righteous shall shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. So we are to begin shining forth now according to the Sermon on the Mount in Matt. 5 and then we will shine for eternity for God in Heaven. So shining for God is mandated by the Word of God
Now also according to the scriptures we are to reflect the Glory of God which shines upon us -In Isaiah 60 there is an amazing text –
1Arise, shine;
For your light has come!
And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.
2 For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth,
And deep darkness the people;
But the Lord will arise over you,
And His glory will be seen upon you.
3 The Gentiles shall come to your light,
And kings to the brightness of your rising.
Originally, this blessing was promised to the Jews but upon your becoming a child of the King, you have been ingrafted into the Kingdom of Heaven and so this promise belongs to you as well. Note what the blessing says:
But the Lord will arise over you,
And His glory will be seen upon you.
3 The Gentiles shall come to your light, So other gentiles will come to the light of Christ which resides upon and in you by the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ and He is the light of the World. So shine forth for Jesus as He lives in and through your life
There might be a question in your heart concerning exactly how does this happen -We have an answer provided to us in the text of 2 Corinthians Chapter 4, verse 6. It says there,
For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. In order to shine forth the light of Christ, you and I needed a heart change, and only God is capable of changing the Human heart. This happens when you ask Jesus Christ to become the Lord of your life. Only as a transformed sinner can you live a transformed life. We are powerless without the change wrought by God’s transforming power in the Holy Spirit. Knowing we are sinners God comes to us if we call out to Him when we finally realize how desperately we need a savior.
Now to share is the second part. What exactly are we to share? I believe that is evident. When we are saved we have new life within us. A new heart, a new destination for eternity, no enmity with God for we have received His Son who is His promised messiah. Why wouldn’t you want to share the love of God which has given you all this. We had a young waitress receive Jesus Christ yesterday morning and when we told Her that Jesus loved her and that we loved her she broke out in tears. You see the joy of the Lord is overwhelming if you simply consider it.
So now if you search on the word share in your bible you will be greatly disappointed, for it is never used in the context of a command to go and tell or to share your faith. Searching on Go and tell yields some results but noting commanding us to go and share our faith. Using the word “go’ not beneficial because it is a root for approximately 7800 words. But God does yield on highly productive verse issues as part of Jesus final commands to His disciples and those with them Matthew 28:18-20 says, 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go [a]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [b]Amen. According to Jesus final command to His children. He says, Go ye therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. This is very direct. So to share means to go to others and relate to them what joy, peace and love you have received from God on high. How else can we share the gospel other than telling others about what you already know.
There is a poignant example of the this in the book of Mark, Chapter 5. The demoniac who was so thoroughly possessed by demons wants to accompany Jesus when He is departing by boat. The demoniac wants to go and get in the boat. He is in love with the Son of God who set him free. Here is what Jesus said,
18 And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. 19 However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.”20 And he departed and began to proclaim in [e]Decapolis all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.
Jesus said Go home and tell them what great things God has done for you and how He had compassion on you. What a testimony and what did the recovered demoniac do – He want to all ten cities on that side of the Jordan and told everyone what Jesus had done for Him.
Question – is the miracle of your salvation still fresh in your heart that you want others to know the Gift of God you have received? If so then share and share specifically what the Lord’s love
Aug 14 Sermon
If there ever was a more appropriate description for what is happening in America today, I don’t know what if would be, other than the verses we are about to read from Isaiah, Chapter 5, beginning with verse 20
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine,
Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe,
And take away justice from the righteous man!
24 Therefore, as the [l]fire devours the stubble,
And the flame consumes the chaff,
So their root will be as rottenness,
And their blossom will ascend like dust;
Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them, And stricken them, And the hills trembled.
Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets.
For all this His anger is not turned away,
But His hand is stretched out still.
BEHOLD the Word of the Lord - may your people gain wisdom and get understanding. And may the fear of the Lord be the beginning of a greater wisdom for us. AMEN.
Isaiah was a prophet who served Judah for over 60 years. As a prophet He was not well liked. Consider why - read the first 39 chapters of this book. They are a condemnation of the sin, backsliding and rebellion of the nation of Israel. There is no weakness or vacillation in the words of this prophet for when Isaiah speaks, He speaks as the oracle of God, which He is by divine appointment. In chapter 5 he is condemning the people of God for failing to walk as God had commanded them to walk. All the commandments for how to treat one another, how to love one another and how to care for one another were being not just ignored but the opposite was happening. So instead of people being told the truth everyone was lying to their brother, perhaps you can relate. Please note this is a message to the chose people of God, not those outside the holy nation but to those inside. Perchance should we be listening.
Another point of prophecy is to motivate the people to do something. What something might that be? Well for starters you might consider repentance would be the first step. Repentance to whom? To God and returning to His holy standards from your wicked ways. So repent and return are crucial to the life God wants from His people. What happens when His people humble themselves and return, then they are renewed in the power of God and rejoice that God still loves them despite their failures. This only happens when we have faith in God and His salvation in Jesus Christ.
I. Verse 20 - 20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
Everything here is reversed. I say yes, you say no. {I think there is a Beatles song which you could quote.} So when God says it is good, you call - evil. God says male and female, you say multiple genders. God says One race the human race you say many races. You change the meaning of words to mean the opposite of what God’s original meaning is. You call what is evil gay, or choice versus murder, or open borders versus security, or impoverishing people as good inflation.
The teachers unions and the Universities say teaching your children CRT, sexual - gender equality and other non- academic subjects is the modern enlightened and progressive way; but, God says, Raise up a child in the way He should go when he is young and he will not depart from it.
There is no truth in the History books which have been rewritten to disparage American exceptionalism. What you are experiencing is a radical transformation of Judeo-Christian values for the regressive refuse and filth of modern utopian liberalism. It is also the Marxist-communist dialecticism transformed for American consumption. These leftist are deconstructing America, substituting Godly moral values and truth with lies.
There is nothing sweet and light about what is being forced down your throats. It is pure darkness, evil and bitter gall of hatred for American values and culture which are godly. It is in our schools, in our government and in our media and God’s word condemns it even if society say it is great stuff.
II. Verse 21 is bad news for our leadership in schools, universities, for woke cities and states in America and for the US government – 21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight! 22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine, Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe, And take away justice from the righteous man!
These are amazing words. I’ll bet the Scribes and Pharisees in Jesus day thought when they had killed Him thought they had dodged a bullet. Remember Jesus said, Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees several times is His condemnation of their failing to teach the truth to the nation of Israel. With Jesus dead all that nonsense goes away right? Well in 70 ad if they had not yet died and already been judged by God, then when the Romans destroyed by siege Jerusalem – judgement arrived. It coming again near you!
Men and women from the lowest to the highest reaches of our leadership and government, our media moguls who direct the “news,” the woke corporations who fund this liberal insanity are doing exactly what we just read. Woke according to them means wise in their own eyes. “We are in the know and you are not.” They pollute our minds and mix their drinks foisting their intoxicating lies across America as truth. They have made a two-tiered justice system; amnesty and looking the other way for those in the political know and severe and brutal punishment for those who go against the “approved narrative.” Where is justice for Benghazi, for a destroyed server full of critical national security data, for falsified data, for a laptop which just keeps on giving us insight into a corrupt individual and his family? How can congressmen and senator continue to have no courage to tell the truth, but lie about legislation because they “know” what you need?
What is the net result of all this lying, not allowing the truth to be told, slanderous treatment of people and locking good people up for no reason? The answer according to our scripture is this 23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe, And take away justice from the righteous man! Removing justice for all.
Men and women in leadership are selling their own souls for a bribe. They are losing their own souls for money. Our People have sold out to the highest bidder and are not keeping the oath of office to protect and defend the constitution and the people of the United State, all for a bribe. The end result is they are taking away justice from the righteous men and women across America
So what does all this mean if we keep going this way and don’t repent?
III. Verse 24 24 Therefore, as the [l]fire devours the stubble, And the flame consumes the chaff,
So their root will be as rottenness,
And their blossom will ascend like dust;
Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them, And stricken them, And the hills trembled.
Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets.
According to this verse what is coming is not good. Why has all this happened is contained in these verses. And if you believe your reasoning is greater than God’s and you know better and this just can’t be true, I repeat here is the answer Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people;
The people of God are allowing this and are involved with these activities. Just look at all the crack ups in our “Christian denominations – Methodists, Presbyterians Lutherans -have all succumbed to liberal theology – sorry women pastors are not allowed - it is prohibited; allowing unrepentant homosexuals in our churches, seminaries and leadership positions. Not standing against the tide of wokism and popular approved lifestyles. Baptists and others engaged in approving race and race theory as part of reaching others, when by nature it does the very opposite. Many churches agree that a woman has the right to choose to have an abortion, after all it’s her body. Who speaks out and defends the child and these are churches and denominations killing the unborn – calling themselves enlightened.
Why has this happened in America? Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
This is a hard truth, we are no longer living in a Christian culture where men and women are honoring the Word of God and despised Him. Yes that is correct we have turned away from God and denied the truth of His teachings, Hos commands and His ways to do our “woke” thing. We no longer fear God or His judgements we are enlightened 21st century, educated adults and we reject God. When God’s people rejected Him and we began this back in the 1960s no need for prayer or bible study in the schools we began the total denial of God in our society. We despised the Holy One of Israel
As a result of this denial understand what God says -25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them, And stricken them, And the hills trembled.
Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets. For all this His anger is not turned away,
But His hand is stretched out still.
There is a direct correlation between what is happening and our obedience and honor to God. It is pretty straight forward according to God’s word. He hates disobedience and will not tolerate this behavior so He has a solution. He has turned His hand against us and stricken us. His hand is against all unrighteousness especially when the believers don’t live according to His word.
Jesus wraps this up in the New Testament in John 3:19-21 - 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
Despite God’s provision and God’s love for us – men and women love the darkness. Darkness is another word for evil. Men loved darkness/evil more than the light which is God’s truth. Those who have sold themselves over to evil or darkness do not want to come to the light lest their deeds be exposed. Only God changes a heart, these will come to light and seek repentance, renewal and if they are believers to return to God. Oh may we the people of God heed His warnings, for the time is exceedingly short and there is only one way to return. We are to humble ourselves and pray, seek God and then turn from our wicked ways – this is true repentance. Then and only then will God hear from heaven and forgive our sin and heal our land. Amen - may God do so in us beginning this day now and forever more.
There is hope, read - Psalm 37:39 But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their strength in the time of trouble. Turn to Him today. AMEN
If there ever was a more appropriate description for what is happening in America today, I don’t know what if would be, other than the verses we are about to read from Isaiah, Chapter 5, beginning with verse 20
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine,
Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe,
And take away justice from the righteous man!
24 Therefore, as the [l]fire devours the stubble,
And the flame consumes the chaff,
So their root will be as rottenness,
And their blossom will ascend like dust;
Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them, And stricken them, And the hills trembled.
Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets.
For all this His anger is not turned away,
But His hand is stretched out still.
BEHOLD the Word of the Lord - may your people gain wisdom and get understanding. And may the fear of the Lord be the beginning of a greater wisdom for us. AMEN.
Isaiah was a prophet who served Judah for over 60 years. As a prophet He was not well liked. Consider why - read the first 39 chapters of this book. They are a condemnation of the sin, backsliding and rebellion of the nation of Israel. There is no weakness or vacillation in the words of this prophet for when Isaiah speaks, He speaks as the oracle of God, which He is by divine appointment. In chapter 5 he is condemning the people of God for failing to walk as God had commanded them to walk. All the commandments for how to treat one another, how to love one another and how to care for one another were being not just ignored but the opposite was happening. So instead of people being told the truth everyone was lying to their brother, perhaps you can relate. Please note this is a message to the chose people of God, not those outside the holy nation but to those inside. Perchance should we be listening.
Another point of prophecy is to motivate the people to do something. What something might that be? Well for starters you might consider repentance would be the first step. Repentance to whom? To God and returning to His holy standards from your wicked ways. So repent and return are crucial to the life God wants from His people. What happens when His people humble themselves and return, then they are renewed in the power of God and rejoice that God still loves them despite their failures. This only happens when we have faith in God and His salvation in Jesus Christ.
I. Verse 20 - 20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
Everything here is reversed. I say yes, you say no. {I think there is a Beatles song which you could quote.} So when God says it is good, you call - evil. God says male and female, you say multiple genders. God says One race the human race you say many races. You change the meaning of words to mean the opposite of what God’s original meaning is. You call what is evil gay, or choice versus murder, or open borders versus security, or impoverishing people as good inflation.
The teachers unions and the Universities say teaching your children CRT, sexual - gender equality and other non- academic subjects is the modern enlightened and progressive way; but, God says, Raise up a child in the way He should go when he is young and he will not depart from it.
There is no truth in the History books which have been rewritten to disparage American exceptionalism. What you are experiencing is a radical transformation of Judeo-Christian values for the regressive refuse and filth of modern utopian liberalism. It is also the Marxist-communist dialecticism transformed for American consumption. These leftist are deconstructing America, substituting Godly moral values and truth with lies.
There is nothing sweet and light about what is being forced down your throats. It is pure darkness, evil and bitter gall of hatred for American values and culture which are godly. It is in our schools, in our government and in our media and God’s word condemns it even if society say it is great stuff.
II. Verse 21 is bad news for our leadership in schools, universities, for woke cities and states in America and for the US government – 21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight! 22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine, Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe, And take away justice from the righteous man!
These are amazing words. I’ll bet the Scribes and Pharisees in Jesus day thought when they had killed Him thought they had dodged a bullet. Remember Jesus said, Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees several times is His condemnation of their failing to teach the truth to the nation of Israel. With Jesus dead all that nonsense goes away right? Well in 70 ad if they had not yet died and already been judged by God, then when the Romans destroyed by siege Jerusalem – judgement arrived. It coming again near you!
Men and women from the lowest to the highest reaches of our leadership and government, our media moguls who direct the “news,” the woke corporations who fund this liberal insanity are doing exactly what we just read. Woke according to them means wise in their own eyes. “We are in the know and you are not.” They pollute our minds and mix their drinks foisting their intoxicating lies across America as truth. They have made a two-tiered justice system; amnesty and looking the other way for those in the political know and severe and brutal punishment for those who go against the “approved narrative.” Where is justice for Benghazi, for a destroyed server full of critical national security data, for falsified data, for a laptop which just keeps on giving us insight into a corrupt individual and his family? How can congressmen and senator continue to have no courage to tell the truth, but lie about legislation because they “know” what you need?
What is the net result of all this lying, not allowing the truth to be told, slanderous treatment of people and locking good people up for no reason? The answer according to our scripture is this 23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe, And take away justice from the righteous man! Removing justice for all.
Men and women in leadership are selling their own souls for a bribe. They are losing their own souls for money. Our People have sold out to the highest bidder and are not keeping the oath of office to protect and defend the constitution and the people of the United State, all for a bribe. The end result is they are taking away justice from the righteous men and women across America
So what does all this mean if we keep going this way and don’t repent?
III. Verse 24 24 Therefore, as the [l]fire devours the stubble, And the flame consumes the chaff,
So their root will be as rottenness,
And their blossom will ascend like dust;
Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them, And stricken them, And the hills trembled.
Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets.
According to this verse what is coming is not good. Why has all this happened is contained in these verses. And if you believe your reasoning is greater than God’s and you know better and this just can’t be true, I repeat here is the answer Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people;
The people of God are allowing this and are involved with these activities. Just look at all the crack ups in our “Christian denominations – Methodists, Presbyterians Lutherans -have all succumbed to liberal theology – sorry women pastors are not allowed - it is prohibited; allowing unrepentant homosexuals in our churches, seminaries and leadership positions. Not standing against the tide of wokism and popular approved lifestyles. Baptists and others engaged in approving race and race theory as part of reaching others, when by nature it does the very opposite. Many churches agree that a woman has the right to choose to have an abortion, after all it’s her body. Who speaks out and defends the child and these are churches and denominations killing the unborn – calling themselves enlightened.
Why has this happened in America? Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.
This is a hard truth, we are no longer living in a Christian culture where men and women are honoring the Word of God and despised Him. Yes that is correct we have turned away from God and denied the truth of His teachings, Hos commands and His ways to do our “woke” thing. We no longer fear God or His judgements we are enlightened 21st century, educated adults and we reject God. When God’s people rejected Him and we began this back in the 1960s no need for prayer or bible study in the schools we began the total denial of God in our society. We despised the Holy One of Israel
As a result of this denial understand what God says -25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them, And stricken them, And the hills trembled.
Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets. For all this His anger is not turned away,
But His hand is stretched out still.
There is a direct correlation between what is happening and our obedience and honor to God. It is pretty straight forward according to God’s word. He hates disobedience and will not tolerate this behavior so He has a solution. He has turned His hand against us and stricken us. His hand is against all unrighteousness especially when the believers don’t live according to His word.
Jesus wraps this up in the New Testament in John 3:19-21 - 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”
Despite God’s provision and God’s love for us – men and women love the darkness. Darkness is another word for evil. Men loved darkness/evil more than the light which is God’s truth. Those who have sold themselves over to evil or darkness do not want to come to the light lest their deeds be exposed. Only God changes a heart, these will come to light and seek repentance, renewal and if they are believers to return to God. Oh may we the people of God heed His warnings, for the time is exceedingly short and there is only one way to return. We are to humble ourselves and pray, seek God and then turn from our wicked ways – this is true repentance. Then and only then will God hear from heaven and forgive our sin and heal our land. Amen - may God do so in us beginning this day now and forever more.
There is hope, read - Psalm 37:39 But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their strength in the time of trouble. Turn to Him today. AMEN
Aug 7 Sermon
John 1:1-4, 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.2 The same was in the beginning with God.3 All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
John1:14-17, 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. 15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
Grace and Truth came to us through Jesus Christ. Let’s define grace and truth for our understanding and use – Many say grace is the unmerited favor granted to us by God, some use the acrostic - God’s riches at Christ’s expense to define the concept of grace. Grace is unique here for Jesus death burial and resurrection – basically His sacrifice is applied to you in you and over you, when you receive Him as Savior. It is the unmerited favor granted to us by God through His Son’s sacrifice. Wow what a concept.
The concept of defining the idea of Truth on the other hand has been debated for centuries. Jesus even had a discussion with His Roman captor – Pontius Pilate over what is truth. But for us there is only one definition for the word and the idea of truth and that is Jesus Christ. In John 14:6 Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me. Truth is not a concept, Truth is a person – the Lord Jesus- who actually is the Truth. Extending the idea just a bit further we come to realize that God is Truth and in Him is no shadow of turning or darkness. So verse 17 is a very profound verse for it states this truth that - .17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
When Jesus arrived on planet earth grace and truth came together in one package – verse 14 provides a clear summary, 14 And the Word {Logos or God} was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. This is the same Logos and the Word who was God as referenced in the first few verses which we just read.
When Jesus came, John and the disciples, and many in the nation of Israel, as well as, the Gentiles beheld the glory of God, full of grace and truth in the Son. Amazing stuff isn’t it. So John the Revelator is a firsthand witness to the grace and truth embodied in Jesus Christ
So what does grace and truth do for the ones who have trusted in Christ Jesus? From the Word of God we learned we have inside of us. This disease is call sin. We come into this world pre-dispositioned to rebel and disobey, against God’s loving instructions and commands. He only wants what is best for us but we are rebellious by birth through sin and believe we know best. Because Jesus is grace we don’t receive Justice which would lead to our punishment and eventual death for this is God’s law. We receive more than mercy or forgiveness, for we receive God’s wonderous gift of grace – unmerited favor. Undeserved forgiveness from God because we come to His Son and His Son by grace which is beyond mercy and grants us entry into His fellowship and His Kingdom.{ He forgives all your sin and gives you a new life in Christ, a new nature and a new heart. He transforms this weak and evil creature into His child. He does so until we return to Him.}
Hold on now - we are not done in parsing this scripture which we have been working through. Look at the beginning of verse 17. There is even more than plain forgiveness. There is new life in Christ. It says for the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Why mention the word law here versus grace and truth coming by Jesus Christ? To gain this understanding and perspective we need to go back into the word of God. Let’s begin by looking at Romans Chapter 6 verses 1-5
6 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Paul is challenging us and the Roman believers to understand that granting of grace to us does not mean we now have license to freely sin. On the contrary, if we have died to sin and were baptized into the death of Christ; and then raised in glorious newness of life by the Father, why would we want to walk in that manner. 1 John 3:1 tells us, Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God. As a child of the King with a new heart and a new life why should I choose to sin freely and not strive to do good?
Salvation once it occurs puts us on the narrow path which leads to life. But we can stray either to excessive side seeking rule-based living like the Pharisees did and who missed knowing Jesus because He didn’t keep their rules. They lived for keeping a set of rules to earn salvations benefits. Or we have the freedom to do whatever I want which is license. We assume, when we do this, that the Father is the great sugar daddy in the sky, who will ultimately forgive anything I do – which is blasphemy and denies the nature of God.
We are to choose denial and obedience for it is better than sacrifice. We are deny ourselves and take up our cross daily and follow Him, wherever He leads.
There is a great deal more but one final point as we try to grasp the wonder of the grace God has extended to us instead of judgement, destruction or eternal death.
Ephesians 2:8 to 10 keeps this theme of grace - 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Now for a moment maybe you thought you had something to do with your salvation and you coming to Christ so He could extend grace. Yes there is no denying you have done those actions but look to end of verse 10 - which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Think about this verse. If God knew beforehand that there were His workmanship by His acts of grace and we were to walk in them; then He knew beforehand we come to Jesus Christ prior to any decision we made as to how salvation happened and grace was applied to your life. Wow you have just encountered the omnipotence and omniscience {all knowing}power of God. Who also preserves and protects men t and orchestrates the events of Men for God’s best interest’s. Yet He still chose you know how flawed each of us were.
Do you marvel at this thing called grace? Do you have any idea of what it really means about God’s relationship with you? He has been reaching out to you since before you were born and has a place for you in Heaven, before you even had the opportunity to say yes to grace. We serve and awesome God, don’t we?
Today how are you walking? Are you walking in God’s grace or are you exercising license or living an extremist rule-oriented Christianity? Yes, the law was important to bring you to a knowledge of sin so you know you needed a savior. Salvation and walking in grace means living differently according to the grace of God which is His gift of life to you. Spend it wisely according to the wisdom of God.
Amen
John 1:1-4, 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.2 The same was in the beginning with God.3 All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
John1:14-17, 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. 15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
Grace and Truth came to us through Jesus Christ. Let’s define grace and truth for our understanding and use – Many say grace is the unmerited favor granted to us by God, some use the acrostic - God’s riches at Christ’s expense to define the concept of grace. Grace is unique here for Jesus death burial and resurrection – basically His sacrifice is applied to you in you and over you, when you receive Him as Savior. It is the unmerited favor granted to us by God through His Son’s sacrifice. Wow what a concept.
The concept of defining the idea of Truth on the other hand has been debated for centuries. Jesus even had a discussion with His Roman captor – Pontius Pilate over what is truth. But for us there is only one definition for the word and the idea of truth and that is Jesus Christ. In John 14:6 Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me. Truth is not a concept, Truth is a person – the Lord Jesus- who actually is the Truth. Extending the idea just a bit further we come to realize that God is Truth and in Him is no shadow of turning or darkness. So verse 17 is a very profound verse for it states this truth that - .17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
When Jesus arrived on planet earth grace and truth came together in one package – verse 14 provides a clear summary, 14 And the Word {Logos or God} was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. This is the same Logos and the Word who was God as referenced in the first few verses which we just read.
When Jesus came, John and the disciples, and many in the nation of Israel, as well as, the Gentiles beheld the glory of God, full of grace and truth in the Son. Amazing stuff isn’t it. So John the Revelator is a firsthand witness to the grace and truth embodied in Jesus Christ
So what does grace and truth do for the ones who have trusted in Christ Jesus? From the Word of God we learned we have inside of us. This disease is call sin. We come into this world pre-dispositioned to rebel and disobey, against God’s loving instructions and commands. He only wants what is best for us but we are rebellious by birth through sin and believe we know best. Because Jesus is grace we don’t receive Justice which would lead to our punishment and eventual death for this is God’s law. We receive more than mercy or forgiveness, for we receive God’s wonderous gift of grace – unmerited favor. Undeserved forgiveness from God because we come to His Son and His Son by grace which is beyond mercy and grants us entry into His fellowship and His Kingdom.{ He forgives all your sin and gives you a new life in Christ, a new nature and a new heart. He transforms this weak and evil creature into His child. He does so until we return to Him.}
Hold on now - we are not done in parsing this scripture which we have been working through. Look at the beginning of verse 17. There is even more than plain forgiveness. There is new life in Christ. It says for the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Why mention the word law here versus grace and truth coming by Jesus Christ? To gain this understanding and perspective we need to go back into the word of God. Let’s begin by looking at Romans Chapter 6 verses 1-5
6 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Paul is challenging us and the Roman believers to understand that granting of grace to us does not mean we now have license to freely sin. On the contrary, if we have died to sin and were baptized into the death of Christ; and then raised in glorious newness of life by the Father, why would we want to walk in that manner. 1 John 3:1 tells us, Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God. As a child of the King with a new heart and a new life why should I choose to sin freely and not strive to do good?
Salvation once it occurs puts us on the narrow path which leads to life. But we can stray either to excessive side seeking rule-based living like the Pharisees did and who missed knowing Jesus because He didn’t keep their rules. They lived for keeping a set of rules to earn salvations benefits. Or we have the freedom to do whatever I want which is license. We assume, when we do this, that the Father is the great sugar daddy in the sky, who will ultimately forgive anything I do – which is blasphemy and denies the nature of God.
We are to choose denial and obedience for it is better than sacrifice. We are deny ourselves and take up our cross daily and follow Him, wherever He leads.
There is a great deal more but one final point as we try to grasp the wonder of the grace God has extended to us instead of judgement, destruction or eternal death.
Ephesians 2:8 to 10 keeps this theme of grace - 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Now for a moment maybe you thought you had something to do with your salvation and you coming to Christ so He could extend grace. Yes there is no denying you have done those actions but look to end of verse 10 - which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Think about this verse. If God knew beforehand that there were His workmanship by His acts of grace and we were to walk in them; then He knew beforehand we come to Jesus Christ prior to any decision we made as to how salvation happened and grace was applied to your life. Wow you have just encountered the omnipotence and omniscience {all knowing}power of God. Who also preserves and protects men t and orchestrates the events of Men for God’s best interest’s. Yet He still chose you know how flawed each of us were.
Do you marvel at this thing called grace? Do you have any idea of what it really means about God’s relationship with you? He has been reaching out to you since before you were born and has a place for you in Heaven, before you even had the opportunity to say yes to grace. We serve and awesome God, don’t we?
Today how are you walking? Are you walking in God’s grace or are you exercising license or living an extremist rule-oriented Christianity? Yes, the law was important to bring you to a knowledge of sin so you know you needed a savior. Salvation and walking in grace means living differently according to the grace of God which is His gift of life to you. Spend it wisely according to the wisdom of God.
Amen
July 31 Sermon
We hear the words spoken very often these days about finding peace and safety, but as hard as we look there seems to be less peace anywhere. And safety, there appears to be no safe place. Everything has turned around. People keep looking in all the wrong places and there is a distinct absence of peace or safety anywhere.
Now I will make a statement with which you might take offense and here it is. There is no place you can go to find absolute peace or absolute safety in this world. Nowhere is there a place, time or circumstance which guarantees absolute peace and perfect safety. Life is not made that way. I always thought of the old swimming hole as a safe place, but many have died there from drowning and hitting things under the water. We make cars to be safe but people are killed daily on the highways.
And peace, well how do you find peace? Some people look for peace in a bottle and some with drugs. We have all kinds of medications for people seeking peace but not finding it easily. Plus we have all sorts of shootings, wars and killings all over the place so there is no guarantee of peace or safety anywhere or at any time. Peace must be found in the heart of man and it is hard to settle, according to the bible the heart is deceitfully evil and wicked above all things. So if there is no peace in the human heart how can we expect to find peace between men and women on earth? It can possibly be found but it is rare and it never be permanent, only temporary.
The Bible and its Author – the Lord God, teaches us a different story. It says we can have peace and safety from the coming storms but it is not as the world gives us peace and safety. Let’s take a few moments and examine what The Bible says in the words of scripture and then apply it to our lives.
Turn to 1st Thessalonians, Chapter 5 and read with me. Remember this is the Apostle Paul writing a letter to the church at Thessalonica, who were having some troubles as they navigated persecution and tough times- Reading now beginning at verse 1-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
Various Exhortations
12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
Phew, sounds like a big task to live the way the Lord wants us to live doesn’t it? And truthfully it is difficult to live this way by ourselves, to live the way the Lord wants us to live with each other in these days when there is very little peace and safety.
Let’s begin at the beginning walking through the verses so we know what is happening-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
Part I. Here Paul is telling the church to be prepared for the return of the Lord. As sure as Jesus came the first time He is coming again. If we have learned anything about God it is that He is the faithful covenant Keeper. He makes and keeps covenants with His people even when they are faithless and break the covenant. How will His coming be – imminently as a thief in the night, when you are least expecting it. All sorts of folks will be talking about find peace and safety but there will be no peace and safety – Gee sounds like us today! Notice God’s word says destruction will come suddenly- and they will not escape. Now this important so don’t miss it- who is the they who won’t escape? The answer is those who have not asked Jesus Christ to be the Lord of their lives.
We can see this by looking at the next verses 4-6
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
What God is telling us is as a believer in Christ and having learned about the future coming of Jesus; when there is no peace and safety, but when many are claiming peace and safety, He will come when least expected. You know that could be this very day for there is nothing prophetically which requires fulfilling for Him to come back right now in the twinkling of an eye or as a thief in the night!
So Paul is saying don’t be unprepared. As a child of Christ who is a child of the light don’t be overcome or confused by the darkness in our day for you belong to Christ. So how are we to be prepared? Go to verses 7-8 . 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. Paul tells us to be awake, be sober, not sleeping, putting on faith and love as a breastplate. There is only one way to do that and that is to be reading the Bible – God’s word and allowing the teacher – the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth for He promises to do so. He is also the paraclete, the One who walks beside you to find and know the love of God. His love far exceeds the love of man and can heal all wounds of the heart and soul. This is something only God can do and no man, drug therapy or prescription can produce.
So what type of behavior comes with those who don’t care about tomorrow? Those who are lazy and those who just want to party all night. They are the ones who don’t care and the ones who spend all their time doing just what they want.
There was mention about something like these types of people when God had Noah build the Arc. It says they were eating, drinking and marrying and giving in marriage until the rains came, ignoring the witness of Noah and they perished in the flood.
Now in verse 8 there is this statement about the hope of salvation as a helmet. Hope is a precious thing for often when there is nothing else left standing in a person’s life – there may still be hope which comes only from God. This is the hope of faith in Jesus Christ and His imminent returning. Salvation in a person’s life creates and bears fruit in the heart and mind of a saved person- new life, new heart new spirit.
Part II. Now go to verses 9 to 11 - 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
This statement we just read is the gospel – the good news that God in Christ brings to all men who will receive the truth. To those who will call upon the savior for they recognize they are sinners and that they need a savior. It is these who are the “whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Every believer who has reached for God by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit has come the same way, none of us has been excluded. God is not willing for any to perish but some will because they will reject His call of love, so they will experience the wrath of God in torment for eternity in Hell. Yes that is a real place despite what the world tells you.
The ultimate promise of salvation is they who believe will spend eternity in heaven with God. What a promise don’t miss it.
So we are to comfort ourselves and edify – meaning educate ourselves so that we are not unaware of His promises. We will find Peace and safety only in the eternal promises of God, not in the fulfilment promised in this world or in things. A relationship with Christ is the only true peace and contentment. Jesus says, 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. {Jn. 14.27)
The remainder of our text has various to dos and don’ts – a whole listing as a matter of fact.
Part III , Verses 12 -15 deal with the church and how we are to get along - read - 12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
We are to honor one another – esteem others more highly than yourselves, be ye kind one to another. Providing words of warning and admonition to those who are stumbling and falling away from God. Pursue the goodness of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Verses 16- to 20 are personal for each of us - 16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
These verses to be fulfilled in your life and mine require us to surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit for we will never attain them without His working the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. They are unattainable rejoice evermore, in everything give thanks, don’t quench the Spirit- every time you get angry apart from righteous anger your quench God’s activity in you. He doesn’t depart He goes quiet. God has to help us do these things and without or apart from Him according to Jesus -you can do nothing.(Jn.15.5)
But the promise of these words is powerful. If you allow God to invest in your life and surrender look what He can enable you to be like in the future – totally different
I would challenge each of you to reflect on how this cultural craziness in America appears to be changing for the worse more and more quickly? But you can be different in Christ this very day. You can ask Him into your life- will you?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
We hear the words spoken very often these days about finding peace and safety, but as hard as we look there seems to be less peace anywhere. And safety, there appears to be no safe place. Everything has turned around. People keep looking in all the wrong places and there is a distinct absence of peace or safety anywhere.
Now I will make a statement with which you might take offense and here it is. There is no place you can go to find absolute peace or absolute safety in this world. Nowhere is there a place, time or circumstance which guarantees absolute peace and perfect safety. Life is not made that way. I always thought of the old swimming hole as a safe place, but many have died there from drowning and hitting things under the water. We make cars to be safe but people are killed daily on the highways.
And peace, well how do you find peace? Some people look for peace in a bottle and some with drugs. We have all kinds of medications for people seeking peace but not finding it easily. Plus we have all sorts of shootings, wars and killings all over the place so there is no guarantee of peace or safety anywhere or at any time. Peace must be found in the heart of man and it is hard to settle, according to the bible the heart is deceitfully evil and wicked above all things. So if there is no peace in the human heart how can we expect to find peace between men and women on earth? It can possibly be found but it is rare and it never be permanent, only temporary.
The Bible and its Author – the Lord God, teaches us a different story. It says we can have peace and safety from the coming storms but it is not as the world gives us peace and safety. Let’s take a few moments and examine what The Bible says in the words of scripture and then apply it to our lives.
Turn to 1st Thessalonians, Chapter 5 and read with me. Remember this is the Apostle Paul writing a letter to the church at Thessalonica, who were having some troubles as they navigated persecution and tough times- Reading now beginning at verse 1-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
Various Exhortations
12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
Phew, sounds like a big task to live the way the Lord wants us to live doesn’t it? And truthfully it is difficult to live this way by ourselves, to live the way the Lord wants us to live with each other in these days when there is very little peace and safety.
Let’s begin at the beginning walking through the verses so we know what is happening-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
Part I. Here Paul is telling the church to be prepared for the return of the Lord. As sure as Jesus came the first time He is coming again. If we have learned anything about God it is that He is the faithful covenant Keeper. He makes and keeps covenants with His people even when they are faithless and break the covenant. How will His coming be – imminently as a thief in the night, when you are least expecting it. All sorts of folks will be talking about find peace and safety but there will be no peace and safety – Gee sounds like us today! Notice God’s word says destruction will come suddenly- and they will not escape. Now this important so don’t miss it- who is the they who won’t escape? The answer is those who have not asked Jesus Christ to be the Lord of their lives.
We can see this by looking at the next verses 4-6
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
What God is telling us is as a believer in Christ and having learned about the future coming of Jesus; when there is no peace and safety, but when many are claiming peace and safety, He will come when least expected. You know that could be this very day for there is nothing prophetically which requires fulfilling for Him to come back right now in the twinkling of an eye or as a thief in the night!
So Paul is saying don’t be unprepared. As a child of Christ who is a child of the light don’t be overcome or confused by the darkness in our day for you belong to Christ. So how are we to be prepared? Go to verses 7-8 . 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. Paul tells us to be awake, be sober, not sleeping, putting on faith and love as a breastplate. There is only one way to do that and that is to be reading the Bible – God’s word and allowing the teacher – the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth for He promises to do so. He is also the paraclete, the One who walks beside you to find and know the love of God. His love far exceeds the love of man and can heal all wounds of the heart and soul. This is something only God can do and no man, drug therapy or prescription can produce.
So what type of behavior comes with those who don’t care about tomorrow? Those who are lazy and those who just want to party all night. They are the ones who don’t care and the ones who spend all their time doing just what they want.
There was mention about something like these types of people when God had Noah build the Arc. It says they were eating, drinking and marrying and giving in marriage until the rains came, ignoring the witness of Noah and they perished in the flood.
Now in verse 8 there is this statement about the hope of salvation as a helmet. Hope is a precious thing for often when there is nothing else left standing in a person’s life – there may still be hope which comes only from God. This is the hope of faith in Jesus Christ and His imminent returning. Salvation in a person’s life creates and bears fruit in the heart and mind of a saved person- new life, new heart new spirit.
Part II. Now go to verses 9 to 11 - 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
This statement we just read is the gospel – the good news that God in Christ brings to all men who will receive the truth. To those who will call upon the savior for they recognize they are sinners and that they need a savior. It is these who are the “whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Every believer who has reached for God by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit has come the same way, none of us has been excluded. God is not willing for any to perish but some will because they will reject His call of love, so they will experience the wrath of God in torment for eternity in Hell. Yes that is a real place despite what the world tells you.
The ultimate promise of salvation is they who believe will spend eternity in heaven with God. What a promise don’t miss it.
So we are to comfort ourselves and edify – meaning educate ourselves so that we are not unaware of His promises. We will find Peace and safety only in the eternal promises of God, not in the fulfilment promised in this world or in things. A relationship with Christ is the only true peace and contentment. Jesus says, 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. {Jn. 14.27)
The remainder of our text has various to dos and don’ts – a whole listing as a matter of fact.
Part III , Verses 12 -15 deal with the church and how we are to get along - read - 12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
We are to honor one another – esteem others more highly than yourselves, be ye kind one to another. Providing words of warning and admonition to those who are stumbling and falling away from God. Pursue the goodness of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Verses 16- to 20 are personal for each of us - 16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
These verses to be fulfilled in your life and mine require us to surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit for we will never attain them without His working the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. They are unattainable rejoice evermore, in everything give thanks, don’t quench the Spirit- every time you get angry apart from righteous anger your quench God’s activity in you. He doesn’t depart He goes quiet. God has to help us do these things and without or apart from Him according to Jesus -you can do nothing.(Jn.15.5)
But the promise of these words is powerful. If you allow God to invest in your life and surrender look what He can enable you to be like in the future – totally different
I would challenge each of you to reflect on how this cultural craziness in America appears to be changing for the worse more and more quickly? But you can be different in Christ this very day. You can ask Him into your life- will you?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
July 10 Sermon
Isaiah 5:20
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine,
Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,
23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe,
And take away justice from the righteous man!
There are only two types of people in this world living among us today in this increasingly evil and deluded society called America. There are the saved of God and there are the unsaved. The destination for each has been determined by the Living God who rules all dominions from heaven according to His Judgement and His authority as creator, redeemer and sovereign God Almighty.
This is true no matter how man or Satan tries to manipulate or spin the truth. God has set this as immutable {unchangeable}no matter what tune is being sung in this world.
These are hard facts and words and our eternal destiny is set by your decision to receive Jesus Christ or to reject Him. For in Christ and having received Him, your destination has been changed to heaven. Unrepentant and unregenerate people who reject Jesus Christ are Hell bent for eternal damnation. These are simple facts not by my thinking but according to the Word of God.
Now there exists a subset of people who are in the class of the unsaved who are living among the saved and living as if they are saved. They are in scriptural terms the tares living among the wheat. Or it could be said the fruitless living among the fruitful. One another expression used in scripture is the goats living among the sheep.
Anyhow there are those who worship with us in our houses of worship who are not saved, but are imitating the saved and deluding themselves that they are going to heaven because they participate in church activities and give to the Lord regularly.
So what separates the believer and the unbeliever? This is the key question? I believe scripture can help answer this issue. So let us got to the gospel of Matthew. Chapter 7 and verses 13-27. Let us read the words of Jesus, 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {two paths}
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits {prophets}
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
I Never Knew You _ Judgement of God
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
Build on the Rock
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” {Only two types}
May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and our understanding of how it applies to our lives today. May the Holy Spirit move is us as the words of Christ touch our hearts- AMEN
There is some terrible truths in this word given to us today. First there is no middle ground either you are on the narrow path or you are on the wide path leading to destruction. Verses 13-14 - 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {There are only two paths and there are only two gates. The narrow gate door is Jesus Christ. He tells us this in John Chapter 10- 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. Jesus is the door and He is the gate keeper. He tells Nicodemus who comes to Him by night that He must be reborn from above otherwise He cannot enter the Kingdom of heaven.
In contrast there are many gates or paths leading to destruction and death eternally, but the missing item is this a relationship with Jesus Christ apart from Him there is no future hope.
Verses 15-20 discuss - who are you listening to true prophets or liars and deceiver? – read 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
So we are not talking here today about those who are foretelling the future but those who are mis-teaching or leading false teachings out of the word of God and deceiving many. Now if you have the Holy Spirit living in you because you have confessed with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believed that He is the Son of God and called upon Him to be saved. Then God’s Holy Spirit now resides in you. You should not be deceived by any of this type of activity- as it says in verses 16 and 20 you will “know” them by their fruits. The Spirt of Truth – the Holy Spirit will lead you in the way everlasting.
Now there are those not walking In the Spirit who may also be deceived so beware, be on guard for your heart.
But if Christ is not in your heart then there is the absolute possibility that you may be deceived and the bad fruit vendors may lead you falsely to destruction. We have absolute proof of this today as we look at various ministries on TV. We have evangelists and ministries that cater to multiple sexes outside of what is prescribed in God’s word. Or we are seeing ministers/churches starting to discriminate on the basis of race and race equality teachings; applying Critical Race Theory as a teaching of God, which is a lie leading to destruction. We also have prosperity gospel teachers who are saying the reason you are not wealthy and prospering is you just don’t have enough faith to believe. And we have whole denominations who do not believe that Jesus is God; and who have added additional requirements for getting to heaven by substituting good works rather than by grace are you saved through faith.
Now comes the real kicker, read verses 21 – 25:
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
We will need to spend some time on these verses the truth of God. Many of us read it but we do not dig into its truths for it seems so obvious and we just continue on to the next paragraph and give it little consideration, This is true especially if you don’t have the fear of the Lord in your heart. This is a discriminating passage of who will actually enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This verse should cause you to be very concerned.
Remember the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Where do you want to be at the time of your judgement? Remember this key verse from Paul the Apostle. He said, “ to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” Everyone who dies or is raptured faces the Lord immediately and to stand before His holiness we have no excuse, for we will know in that moment our sinfulness and His absolute holiness. Our sins will be as scarlet – red letters before God. We are either forgiven by Jesus as His child or we will be condemned without forgiveness- for not having received Jesus. Jesus says, 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.
Now this is the question before you it is not so much about whether you know God but does God know you?
Eternal Life is not based upon whether you know Christ, but upon whether He knows and recognizes you. If He has a relationship with you , then He would have taken up residence in your life and you would be filled with the Holy Spirit. Your life and times would then reflect His life and Holiness within you. When He speaks you would know and respond immediately to His will. Obedience not activity is the sign of this relationship. Is your name in the lamb’s book of life?
So where are you today? Are you into activities or are you into the relationship with Christ? What is the outcome of not having this relationship? – verse 23- 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!
Maybe you have done all sorts of things for the Lord- wonders unimaginable, prophesied in His name, cast out demons, but Jesus doesn’t know you by name? What a terrible fate.
1. So we have those who have a personal relationship with Jesus and are the saved and this is confirmed by the presence of the Holy Spirit within us.These are the ones who build their houses, and their lives on the rock according to verse 24
2. Next We have the lost who have chosen not to accept God and His free gift of salvation and who build their lives on the sand verse 26 26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:
The end of that person is death and eternal destruction.
In this grouping of folks going toward the wide gate and destruction is the group of deceived persons who believe they are going to heaven because of many different internal head strong personal justifications. But none of them stand before the Word of God. There is only one way to heaven but it is the good news which God wants all to find- Act 4:12 - 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
So perhaps God has spoken to you today and convicted you heart. Is it still desperately wicked and God knows it? If you stood right this moment in the presence of Jesus where would you be?
God sent His Son so you would not miss heaven- think about these things.
This is the time of last chances and we only have a few days, Hours maybe, until He calls us home. This is the message simply, Jesus saves and what He saves, He saves to the uttermost and creates new life within us. Is He living in you this day? Don’t miss heaven because of a stubborn heart and deluded mind. Only trust Him now, He will save you, He will save you, He will save you now. AMEN
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information.
Isaiah 5:20
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine,
Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,
23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe,
And take away justice from the righteous man!
There are only two types of people in this world living among us today in this increasingly evil and deluded society called America. There are the saved of God and there are the unsaved. The destination for each has been determined by the Living God who rules all dominions from heaven according to His Judgement and His authority as creator, redeemer and sovereign God Almighty.
This is true no matter how man or Satan tries to manipulate or spin the truth. God has set this as immutable {unchangeable}no matter what tune is being sung in this world.
These are hard facts and words and our eternal destiny is set by your decision to receive Jesus Christ or to reject Him. For in Christ and having received Him, your destination has been changed to heaven. Unrepentant and unregenerate people who reject Jesus Christ are Hell bent for eternal damnation. These are simple facts not by my thinking but according to the Word of God.
Now there exists a subset of people who are in the class of the unsaved who are living among the saved and living as if they are saved. They are in scriptural terms the tares living among the wheat. Or it could be said the fruitless living among the fruitful. One another expression used in scripture is the goats living among the sheep.
Anyhow there are those who worship with us in our houses of worship who are not saved, but are imitating the saved and deluding themselves that they are going to heaven because they participate in church activities and give to the Lord regularly.
So what separates the believer and the unbeliever? This is the key question? I believe scripture can help answer this issue. So let us got to the gospel of Matthew. Chapter 7 and verses 13-27. Let us read the words of Jesus, 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {two paths}
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits {prophets}
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
I Never Knew You _ Judgement of God
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
Build on the Rock
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” {Only two types}
May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and our understanding of how it applies to our lives today. May the Holy Spirit move is us as the words of Christ touch our hearts- AMEN
There is some terrible truths in this word given to us today. First there is no middle ground either you are on the narrow path or you are on the wide path leading to destruction. Verses 13-14 - 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {There are only two paths and there are only two gates. The narrow gate door is Jesus Christ. He tells us this in John Chapter 10- 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. Jesus is the door and He is the gate keeper. He tells Nicodemus who comes to Him by night that He must be reborn from above otherwise He cannot enter the Kingdom of heaven.
In contrast there are many gates or paths leading to destruction and death eternally, but the missing item is this a relationship with Jesus Christ apart from Him there is no future hope.
Verses 15-20 discuss - who are you listening to true prophets or liars and deceiver? – read 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
So we are not talking here today about those who are foretelling the future but those who are mis-teaching or leading false teachings out of the word of God and deceiving many. Now if you have the Holy Spirit living in you because you have confessed with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believed that He is the Son of God and called upon Him to be saved. Then God’s Holy Spirit now resides in you. You should not be deceived by any of this type of activity- as it says in verses 16 and 20 you will “know” them by their fruits. The Spirt of Truth – the Holy Spirit will lead you in the way everlasting.
Now there are those not walking In the Spirit who may also be deceived so beware, be on guard for your heart.
But if Christ is not in your heart then there is the absolute possibility that you may be deceived and the bad fruit vendors may lead you falsely to destruction. We have absolute proof of this today as we look at various ministries on TV. We have evangelists and ministries that cater to multiple sexes outside of what is prescribed in God’s word. Or we are seeing ministers/churches starting to discriminate on the basis of race and race equality teachings; applying Critical Race Theory as a teaching of God, which is a lie leading to destruction. We also have prosperity gospel teachers who are saying the reason you are not wealthy and prospering is you just don’t have enough faith to believe. And we have whole denominations who do not believe that Jesus is God; and who have added additional requirements for getting to heaven by substituting good works rather than by grace are you saved through faith.
Now comes the real kicker, read verses 21 – 25:
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
We will need to spend some time on these verses the truth of God. Many of us read it but we do not dig into its truths for it seems so obvious and we just continue on to the next paragraph and give it little consideration, This is true especially if you don’t have the fear of the Lord in your heart. This is a discriminating passage of who will actually enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This verse should cause you to be very concerned.
Remember the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Where do you want to be at the time of your judgement? Remember this key verse from Paul the Apostle. He said, “ to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” Everyone who dies or is raptured faces the Lord immediately and to stand before His holiness we have no excuse, for we will know in that moment our sinfulness and His absolute holiness. Our sins will be as scarlet – red letters before God. We are either forgiven by Jesus as His child or we will be condemned without forgiveness- for not having received Jesus. Jesus says, 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.
Now this is the question before you it is not so much about whether you know God but does God know you?
Eternal Life is not based upon whether you know Christ, but upon whether He knows and recognizes you. If He has a relationship with you , then He would have taken up residence in your life and you would be filled with the Holy Spirit. Your life and times would then reflect His life and Holiness within you. When He speaks you would know and respond immediately to His will. Obedience not activity is the sign of this relationship. Is your name in the lamb’s book of life?
So where are you today? Are you into activities or are you into the relationship with Christ? What is the outcome of not having this relationship? – verse 23- 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!
Maybe you have done all sorts of things for the Lord- wonders unimaginable, prophesied in His name, cast out demons, but Jesus doesn’t know you by name? What a terrible fate.
1. So we have those who have a personal relationship with Jesus and are the saved and this is confirmed by the presence of the Holy Spirit within us.These are the ones who build their houses, and their lives on the rock according to verse 24
2. Next We have the lost who have chosen not to accept God and His free gift of salvation and who build their lives on the sand verse 26 26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:
The end of that person is death and eternal destruction.
In this grouping of folks going toward the wide gate and destruction is the group of deceived persons who believe they are going to heaven because of many different internal head strong personal justifications. But none of them stand before the Word of God. There is only one way to heaven but it is the good news which God wants all to find- Act 4:12 - 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
So perhaps God has spoken to you today and convicted you heart. Is it still desperately wicked and God knows it? If you stood right this moment in the presence of Jesus where would you be?
God sent His Son so you would not miss heaven- think about these things.
This is the time of last chances and we only have a few days, Hours maybe, until He calls us home. This is the message simply, Jesus saves and what He saves, He saves to the uttermost and creates new life within us. Is He living in you this day? Don’t miss heaven because of a stubborn heart and deluded mind. Only trust Him now, He will save you, He will save you, He will save you now. AMEN
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information.
July 3 Sermon
We hear the words spoken very often these days about finding peace and safety, but as hard as we look there seems to be less peace anywhere. And safety, there appears to be no safe place. Everything has turned around. People keep looking in all the wrong places and there is a distinct absence of peace or safety anywhere.
Now I will make a statement with which you might take offense and here it is. There is no place you can go to find absolute peace or absolute safety in this world. Nowhere is there a place, time or circumstance which guarantees absolute peace and perfect safety. Life is not made that way. I always thought of the old swimming hole as a safe place, but many have died there from drowning and hitting things under the water. We make cars to be safe but people are killed daily on the highways.
And peace, well how do you find peace? Some people look for peace in a bottle and some with drugs. We have all kinds of medications for people seeking peace but not finding it easily. Plus we have all sorts of shootings, wars and killings all over the place so there is no guarantee of peace or safety anywhere or at any time. Peace must be found in the heart of man and it is hard to settle, according to the bible the heart is deceitfully evil and wicked above all things. So if there is no peace in the human heart how can we expect to find peace between men and women on earth? It can possibly be found but it is rare and it never be permanent, only temporary.
The Bible and its Author – the Lord God, teaches us a different story. It says we can have peace and safety from the coming storms but it is not as the world gives us peace and safety. Let’s take a few moments and examine what The Bible says in the words of scripture and then apply it to our lives.
Turn to 1st Thessalonians, Chapter 5 and read with me. Remember this is the Apostle Paul writing a letter to the church at Thessalonica, who were having some troubles as they navigated persecution and tough times- Reading now beginning at verse 1-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
Various Exhortations
12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
Phew, sounds like a big task to live the way the Lord wants us to live doesn’t it? And truthfully it is difficult to live this way by ourselves, to live the way the Lord wants us to live with each other in these days when there is very little peace and safety.
Let’s begin at the beginning walking through the verses so we know what is happening-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
Part I. Here Paul is telling the church to be prepared for the return of the Lord. As sure as Jesus came the first time He is coming again. If we have learned anything about God it is that He is the faithful covenant Keeper. He makes and keeps covenants with His people even when they are faithless and break the covenant. How will His coming be – imminently as a thief in the night, when you are least expecting it. All sorts of folks will be talking about find peace and safety but there will be no peace and safety – Gee sounds like us today! Notice God’s word says destruction will come suddenly- and they will not escape. Now this important so don’t miss it- who is the they who won’t escape? The answer is those who have not asked Jesus Christ to be the Lord of their lives.
We can see this by looking at the next verses 4-6
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
What God is telling us is as a believer in Christ and having learned about the future coming of Jesus; when there is no peace and safety, but when many are claiming peace and safety, He will come when least expected. You know that could be this very day for there is nothing prophetically which requires fulfilling for Him to come back right now in the twinkling of an eye or as a thief in the night!
So Paul is saying don’t be unprepared. As a child of Christ who is a child of the light don’t be overcome or confused by the darkness in our day for you belong to Christ. So how are we to be prepared? Go to verses 7-8 . 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. Paul tells us to be awake, be sober, not sleeping, putting on faith and love as a breastplate. There is only one way to do that and that is to be reading the Bible – God’s word and allowing the teacher – the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth for He promises to do so. He is also the paraclete, the One who walks beside you to find and know the love of God. His love far exceeds the love of man and can heal all wounds of the heart and soul. This is something only God can do and no man, drug therapy or prescription can produce.
So what type of behavior comes with those who don’t care about tomorrow? Those who are lazy and those who just want to party all night. They are the ones who don’t care and the ones who spend all their time doing just what they want.
There was mention about something like these types of people when God had Noah build the Arc. It says they were eating, drinking and marrying and giving in marriage until the rains came, ignoring the witness of Noah and they perished in the flood.
Now in verse 8 there is this statement about the hope of salvation as a helmet. Hope is a precious thing for often when there is nothing else left standing in a person’s life – there may still be hope which comes only from God. This is the hope of faith in Jesus Christ and His imminent returning. Salvation in a person’s life creates and bears fruit in the heart and mind of a saved person- new life, new heart new spirit.
Part II. Now go to verses 9 to 11 - 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
This statement we just read is the gospel – the good news that God in Christ brings to all men who will receive the truth. To those who will call upon the savior for they recognize they are sinners and that they need a savior. It is these who are the “whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Every believer who has reached for God by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit has come the same way, none of us has been excluded. God is not willing for any to perish but some will because they will reject His call of love, so they will experience the wrath of God in torment for eternity in Hell. Yes that is a real place despite what the world tells you.
The ultimate promise of salvation is they who believe will spend eternity in heaven with God. What a promise don’t miss it.
So we are to comfort ourselves and edify – meaning educate ourselves so that we are not unaware of His promises. We will find Peace and safety only in the eternal promises of God, not in the fulfilment promised in this world or in things. A relationship with Christ is the only true peace and contentment. Jesus says, 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. {Jn. 14.27)
The remainder of our text has various to dos and don’ts – a whole listing as a matter of fact.
Part III , Verses 12 -15 deal with the church and how we are to get along - read - 12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
We are to honor one another – esteem others more highly than yourselves, be ye kind one to another. Providing words of warning and admonition to those who are stumbling and falling away from God. Pursue the goodness of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Verses 16- to 20 are personal for each of us - 16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
These verses to be fulfilled in your life and mine require us to surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit for we will never attain them without His working the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. They are unattainable rejoice evermore, in everything give thanks, don’t quench the Spirit- every time you get angry apart from righteous anger your quench God’s activity in you. He doesn’t depart He goes quiet. God has to help us do these things and without or apart from Him according to Jesus -you can do nothing.(Jn.15.5)
But the promise of these words is powerful. If you allow God to invest in your life and surrender look what He can enable you to be like in the future – totally different
I would challenge each of you to reflect on how this cultural craziness in America appears to be changing for the worse more and more quickly? But you can be different in Christ this very day. You can ask Him into your life- will you?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
We hear the words spoken very often these days about finding peace and safety, but as hard as we look there seems to be less peace anywhere. And safety, there appears to be no safe place. Everything has turned around. People keep looking in all the wrong places and there is a distinct absence of peace or safety anywhere.
Now I will make a statement with which you might take offense and here it is. There is no place you can go to find absolute peace or absolute safety in this world. Nowhere is there a place, time or circumstance which guarantees absolute peace and perfect safety. Life is not made that way. I always thought of the old swimming hole as a safe place, but many have died there from drowning and hitting things under the water. We make cars to be safe but people are killed daily on the highways.
And peace, well how do you find peace? Some people look for peace in a bottle and some with drugs. We have all kinds of medications for people seeking peace but not finding it easily. Plus we have all sorts of shootings, wars and killings all over the place so there is no guarantee of peace or safety anywhere or at any time. Peace must be found in the heart of man and it is hard to settle, according to the bible the heart is deceitfully evil and wicked above all things. So if there is no peace in the human heart how can we expect to find peace between men and women on earth? It can possibly be found but it is rare and it never be permanent, only temporary.
The Bible and its Author – the Lord God, teaches us a different story. It says we can have peace and safety from the coming storms but it is not as the world gives us peace and safety. Let’s take a few moments and examine what The Bible says in the words of scripture and then apply it to our lives.
Turn to 1st Thessalonians, Chapter 5 and read with me. Remember this is the Apostle Paul writing a letter to the church at Thessalonica, who were having some troubles as they navigated persecution and tough times- Reading now beginning at verse 1-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
Various Exhortations
12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
Phew, sounds like a big task to live the way the Lord wants us to live doesn’t it? And truthfully it is difficult to live this way by ourselves, to live the way the Lord wants us to live with each other in these days when there is very little peace and safety.
Let’s begin at the beginning walking through the verses so we know what is happening-
5 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
Part I. Here Paul is telling the church to be prepared for the return of the Lord. As sure as Jesus came the first time He is coming again. If we have learned anything about God it is that He is the faithful covenant Keeper. He makes and keeps covenants with His people even when they are faithless and break the covenant. How will His coming be – imminently as a thief in the night, when you are least expecting it. All sorts of folks will be talking about find peace and safety but there will be no peace and safety – Gee sounds like us today! Notice God’s word says destruction will come suddenly- and they will not escape. Now this important so don’t miss it- who is the they who won’t escape? The answer is those who have not asked Jesus Christ to be the Lord of their lives.
We can see this by looking at the next verses 4-6
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day{Believers}. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be [a]sober.
What God is telling us is as a believer in Christ and having learned about the future coming of Jesus; when there is no peace and safety, but when many are claiming peace and safety, He will come when least expected. You know that could be this very day for there is nothing prophetically which requires fulfilling for Him to come back right now in the twinkling of an eye or as a thief in the night!
So Paul is saying don’t be unprepared. As a child of Christ who is a child of the light don’t be overcome or confused by the darkness in our day for you belong to Christ. So how are we to be prepared? Go to verses 7-8 . 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. Paul tells us to be awake, be sober, not sleeping, putting on faith and love as a breastplate. There is only one way to do that and that is to be reading the Bible – God’s word and allowing the teacher – the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth for He promises to do so. He is also the paraclete, the One who walks beside you to find and know the love of God. His love far exceeds the love of man and can heal all wounds of the heart and soul. This is something only God can do and no man, drug therapy or prescription can produce.
So what type of behavior comes with those who don’t care about tomorrow? Those who are lazy and those who just want to party all night. They are the ones who don’t care and the ones who spend all their time doing just what they want.
There was mention about something like these types of people when God had Noah build the Arc. It says they were eating, drinking and marrying and giving in marriage until the rains came, ignoring the witness of Noah and they perished in the flood.
Now in verse 8 there is this statement about the hope of salvation as a helmet. Hope is a precious thing for often when there is nothing else left standing in a person’s life – there may still be hope which comes only from God. This is the hope of faith in Jesus Christ and His imminent returning. Salvation in a person’s life creates and bears fruit in the heart and mind of a saved person- new life, new heart new spirit.
Part II. Now go to verses 9 to 11 - 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
11 Therefore [b]comfort each other and [c]edify one another, just as you also are doing.
This statement we just read is the gospel – the good news that God in Christ brings to all men who will receive the truth. To those who will call upon the savior for they recognize they are sinners and that they need a savior. It is these who are the “whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Every believer who has reached for God by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit has come the same way, none of us has been excluded. God is not willing for any to perish but some will because they will reject His call of love, so they will experience the wrath of God in torment for eternity in Hell. Yes that is a real place despite what the world tells you.
The ultimate promise of salvation is they who believe will spend eternity in heaven with God. What a promise don’t miss it.
So we are to comfort ourselves and edify – meaning educate ourselves so that we are not unaware of His promises. We will find Peace and safety only in the eternal promises of God, not in the fulfilment promised in this world or in things. A relationship with Christ is the only true peace and contentment. Jesus says, 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. {Jn. 14.27)
The remainder of our text has various to dos and don’ts – a whole listing as a matter of fact.
Part III , Verses 12 -15 deal with the church and how we are to get along - read - 12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and [d]admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we [e]exhort you, brethren, warn those who are [f]unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
We are to honor one another – esteem others more highly than yourselves, be ye kind one to another. Providing words of warning and admonition to those who are stumbling and falling away from God. Pursue the goodness of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Verses 16- to 20 are personal for each of us - 16 Rejoice evermore, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
These verses to be fulfilled in your life and mine require us to surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit for we will never attain them without His working the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. They are unattainable rejoice evermore, in everything give thanks, don’t quench the Spirit- every time you get angry apart from righteous anger your quench God’s activity in you. He doesn’t depart He goes quiet. God has to help us do these things and without or apart from Him according to Jesus -you can do nothing.(Jn.15.5)
But the promise of these words is powerful. If you allow God to invest in your life and surrender look what He can enable you to be like in the future – totally different
I would challenge each of you to reflect on how this cultural craziness in America appears to be changing for the worse more and more quickly? But you can be different in Christ this very day. You can ask Him into your life- will you?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
June 26 Sermon
We live in a world that seems today to be void or without hope. The suicide rate is amazing for kids 24 and under, more people are on drugs and alcohol than ever before. Thousands are dying because of the increases in fentanyl availability and it being mixed with other drugs by unscrupulous drug cartels- overdoses are very common. The economy is bottoming out with everything including gas becoming 20 -30% more expensive and no signs of decreasing. The constant monologue from our leadership is “things have never been so good.” We see decadence in our leadership – everyone doing what is right in their own eyes and there seems to be no one who is looking out for and serving the underdogs- the people. It is a brutal and tough world out there with parents being made public enemies because they are challenging the liberal left on what is being taught in the schools. What is being taught in the schools you cannot imagine. We who are older are wondering why are our kids being dumbed down? Aren’t you teaching, reading, writing and arithmetic? The answer is no – we are teaching social engineering, hate for a racist America for they have rewritten US history and are pressing on genders and sex training. Why are we taking kindergarteners to Transvestites sex shops for “education?” No wonder there is so little hope in the culture and in the world.
But God has given you new hope and new life and He tells us in 1st Peter 3 15: 15 But [a]sanctify [b]the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
Do you hear this – to give a defense of the gospel to everyone who asks you for a reason for that hope that is in you. The hope that is in you is the Lord Jesus Christ and His salvation.
Question is are you prepared in the midst of this extreme lack hope to give a defense or have you become disheartened? Well if you are discouraged and disheartened, guess what, you do not need to be so. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
So what should you be doing? Maybe you should be looking for God’s hope in His word. So I invite you to look into 1st Thessalonian’s Chapter 3, beginning part way through Verse 10, through verse 18.
Before we begin let’s pray – Almighty God we need your hope in our hearts today, we pray you help make our hearts attentive to You and your words now. In Jesus name we pray -Amen.
Reading - But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more; 11 that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, 12 that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.
The Comfort of Christ’s Coming
13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen [b]asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who [c]sleep in Jesus.
15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are [d]asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. {only the elect may hear}And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.
Now if you need hope, there is absolute hope in the Word of God. Yes, the author God has spoken through men inspired by the Holy Spirit to bring the truth of His Word to you right now. There is also the fact of assuredness in the Word of God. If you are not sure you should read and meditate on Isaiah 55: 10 and 11. Where it says God’s word always accomplishes that for which it was sent. So if He said it, He will do it.
Let’s walk through our text.
But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more; 11 that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, 12 that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.
What kind of increase are you talking about dear Lord? An increase in the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord which comes from His Word. And in prayer where He might have the option of speaking to you as you listen for His voice, so you might know Him better. This knowledge will cause you walk in the paths of the Lord and that you might walk properly towards those who are outside of the faith. And as you walk outside the in the world of no hope, you might have all the tools inclusive of wisdom, knowledge and the presence of the Holy Spirit to confront those without hope. Whoa what a promise- you labor in the Lord to know and understand Him and He armors and enables you to speak in the marketplace, what a good deal that is. He is your life and He will enable you to walk in the evil day is the promise from scripture.
What’s next should really stir up your hope in the Living Savior and Lord. From our text verse 13, 13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen [b]asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who [c]sleep in Jesus.
Now remember what Jesus said in John Chapter 14: 14 “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.2 In My Father’s house are many [a]mansions; if it were not so, [b]I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
Verse 3 is related to the promise in out Thessalonians text- Since Jesus is going to prepare a place for you and I, He will come again to snatch you away so that where He is we may be also. Now that is a great and wonderful, hopeful promise of great benefit to you and I. We should want all to know about this promise from Jesus. He is coming imminently to get us in the air to be with Him forever. What a good deal that is- no more of this sinful, hopeless mess where hate, mistrust and death abounds. But to be in heaven with no sin to be with Him in His glory forever; no death, no disease, no aging, but to live in paradise with Him who loves us. That is hope. Now the Thessalonians were all worried about those who had died. For they believed Jesus was coming tomorrow and that is how they were living day by day, expecting Jesus imminent return. Paul was reassuring them the dead, those who sleep, will be in heaven first.
He reinforces this point with the next few verses. Let’s read
15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are [d]asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. {only the elect may hear}And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.
First Paul emphasizes this is the word of the Lord not his imaginations – very important. Next, If you are actually born again from above and are alive when Jesus comes you will not go first but will go next to live with Jesus, after those who sleep- those who have already died.
For the Lord Himself in the air, with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with a trumpet of God is the one who is calling.
Here is more good news – the church is never mentioned in the book of Revelation after this point. According to these verses we have just read verses 16 and 17 the church, that is you is mentioned as being in heaven during the tribulation. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. {only the elect may hear}And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. I emphasize the very last part again for we shall always be with the Lord wherever He is always.
So the church is delivered from the hour of testing spoken of in Revelation 3:10.
And lastly the church is saved from God’s wrath. To wrap this up let’s look at another 2 verses, these are in Chapter 5.- 1st Thess. 5 9-10. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
This puts a bow on the church not entering the tribulation. Christ’s return for you as a believer should be “imminent,” meaning it can happen at any second. You should be spreading the gospel, the good news daily as you live free for God’s wrath which has been covered by the blood of His Son. This is another reason to celebrate the Lord’s supper, yes?
This is our great Hope- Jesus Christ, even so Lord come quickly. AMEN
We live in a world that seems today to be void or without hope. The suicide rate is amazing for kids 24 and under, more people are on drugs and alcohol than ever before. Thousands are dying because of the increases in fentanyl availability and it being mixed with other drugs by unscrupulous drug cartels- overdoses are very common. The economy is bottoming out with everything including gas becoming 20 -30% more expensive and no signs of decreasing. The constant monologue from our leadership is “things have never been so good.” We see decadence in our leadership – everyone doing what is right in their own eyes and there seems to be no one who is looking out for and serving the underdogs- the people. It is a brutal and tough world out there with parents being made public enemies because they are challenging the liberal left on what is being taught in the schools. What is being taught in the schools you cannot imagine. We who are older are wondering why are our kids being dumbed down? Aren’t you teaching, reading, writing and arithmetic? The answer is no – we are teaching social engineering, hate for a racist America for they have rewritten US history and are pressing on genders and sex training. Why are we taking kindergarteners to Transvestites sex shops for “education?” No wonder there is so little hope in the culture and in the world.
But God has given you new hope and new life and He tells us in 1st Peter 3 15: 15 But [a]sanctify [b]the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
Do you hear this – to give a defense of the gospel to everyone who asks you for a reason for that hope that is in you. The hope that is in you is the Lord Jesus Christ and His salvation.
Question is are you prepared in the midst of this extreme lack hope to give a defense or have you become disheartened? Well if you are discouraged and disheartened, guess what, you do not need to be so. For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
So what should you be doing? Maybe you should be looking for God’s hope in His word. So I invite you to look into 1st Thessalonian’s Chapter 3, beginning part way through Verse 10, through verse 18.
Before we begin let’s pray – Almighty God we need your hope in our hearts today, we pray you help make our hearts attentive to You and your words now. In Jesus name we pray -Amen.
Reading - But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more; 11 that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, 12 that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.
The Comfort of Christ’s Coming
13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen [b]asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who [c]sleep in Jesus.
15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are [d]asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. {only the elect may hear}And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.
Now if you need hope, there is absolute hope in the Word of God. Yes, the author God has spoken through men inspired by the Holy Spirit to bring the truth of His Word to you right now. There is also the fact of assuredness in the Word of God. If you are not sure you should read and meditate on Isaiah 55: 10 and 11. Where it says God’s word always accomplishes that for which it was sent. So if He said it, He will do it.
Let’s walk through our text.
But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more; 11 that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, 12 that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.
What kind of increase are you talking about dear Lord? An increase in the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord which comes from His Word. And in prayer where He might have the option of speaking to you as you listen for His voice, so you might know Him better. This knowledge will cause you walk in the paths of the Lord and that you might walk properly towards those who are outside of the faith. And as you walk outside the in the world of no hope, you might have all the tools inclusive of wisdom, knowledge and the presence of the Holy Spirit to confront those without hope. Whoa what a promise- you labor in the Lord to know and understand Him and He armors and enables you to speak in the marketplace, what a good deal that is. He is your life and He will enable you to walk in the evil day is the promise from scripture.
What’s next should really stir up your hope in the Living Savior and Lord. From our text verse 13, 13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen [b]asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who [c]sleep in Jesus.
Now remember what Jesus said in John Chapter 14: 14 “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.2 In My Father’s house are many [a]mansions; if it were not so, [b]I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
Verse 3 is related to the promise in out Thessalonians text- Since Jesus is going to prepare a place for you and I, He will come again to snatch you away so that where He is we may be also. Now that is a great and wonderful, hopeful promise of great benefit to you and I. We should want all to know about this promise from Jesus. He is coming imminently to get us in the air to be with Him forever. What a good deal that is- no more of this sinful, hopeless mess where hate, mistrust and death abounds. But to be in heaven with no sin to be with Him in His glory forever; no death, no disease, no aging, but to live in paradise with Him who loves us. That is hope. Now the Thessalonians were all worried about those who had died. For they believed Jesus was coming tomorrow and that is how they were living day by day, expecting Jesus imminent return. Paul was reassuring them the dead, those who sleep, will be in heaven first.
He reinforces this point with the next few verses. Let’s read
15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are [d]asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. {only the elect may hear}And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.
First Paul emphasizes this is the word of the Lord not his imaginations – very important. Next, If you are actually born again from above and are alive when Jesus comes you will not go first but will go next to live with Jesus, after those who sleep- those who have already died.
For the Lord Himself in the air, with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with a trumpet of God is the one who is calling.
Here is more good news – the church is never mentioned in the book of Revelation after this point. According to these verses we have just read verses 16 and 17 the church, that is you is mentioned as being in heaven during the tribulation. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. {only the elect may hear}And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. I emphasize the very last part again for we shall always be with the Lord wherever He is always.
So the church is delivered from the hour of testing spoken of in Revelation 3:10.
And lastly the church is saved from God’s wrath. To wrap this up let’s look at another 2 verses, these are in Chapter 5.- 1st Thess. 5 9-10. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.
This puts a bow on the church not entering the tribulation. Christ’s return for you as a believer should be “imminent,” meaning it can happen at any second. You should be spreading the gospel, the good news daily as you live free for God’s wrath which has been covered by the blood of His Son. This is another reason to celebrate the Lord’s supper, yes?
This is our great Hope- Jesus Christ, even so Lord come quickly. AMEN
June 19 Sermon
In our world in America we suffer from multiple types of corruption. Corruptions which come both internally in the destruction of morals and to the very fiber of our nation. This corruption is also slaying our individual liberties and rights under the constitution. Corruption also is inflicted upon us externally as the pressures of this world and all evil which comes against truth and righteousness. This is the spiritual warfare we are engaged in today.
Make no mistake this deconstruction of America is all about removing the goodness, mercy and truth upon which God helped found this nation. This is resoundly a spiritual battle for the heart and mind of this nation. This outright rebellion and hate manifested by the most recent Supreme Court sets of decisions is symptomatic of the entire agenda against righteousness and truth.
You are seeing in the rebellion of government the result of internal corruption and degradation of the basic principles of rule by law. The progressive left no longer wants rule by law but rule by mob and violence. We are facing a huge moral dilemma when the leaders of the Executive branch and the Legislative branch threaten to rebel against what is written in the US Constitution and Bill of Rights The Justices ruled to go back to what is stated in the Constitution. The threat we are facing today is equal to or greater I believe than what Jehoshaphat faced thousands of years ago. Regardless we need to remember the Battle is the LORD’S” – we need to learn to put our trust in God’s Hands.
Text: 2 Chronicles 20- Let’s read-
It happened after this that the people of Moab with the people of Ammon, and others with them besides the Ammonites,[a] came to battle against Jehoshaphat. 2 Then some came and told Jehoshaphat, saying, “A great multitude is coming against you from beyond the sea, from [b]Syria; and they are in Hazazon Tamar” (which is En Gedi). 3 And Jehoshaphat feared, and set [c]himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. 4 So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord.
5 Then Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, 6 and said: “O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? 7 Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever? 8 And they dwell in it, and have built You a sanctuary in it for Your name, saying, 9 ‘If disaster comes upon us—sword, judgment, pestilence, or famine—we will stand before this temple and in Your presence (for Your name is in this temple), and cry out to You in our affliction, and You will hear and save.’ 10 And now, here are the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir—whom You would not let Israel invade when they came out of the land of Egypt, but they turned from them and did not destroy them— 11 here they are, rewarding us by coming to throw us out of Your possession which You have given us to inherit. 12 O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.”
13 Now all Judah, with their little ones, their wives, and their children, stood before the Lord.
14 Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, in the midst of the assembly. 15 And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. 16 Tomorrow go down against them. They will surely come up by the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the [d]brook before the Wilderness of Jeruel. 17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.”
18 And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord. 19 Then the Levites of the children of the Kohathites and of the children of the Korahites stood up to praise the Lord God of Israel with voices loud and high.
20 So they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the Lord your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper.” 21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying:
“Praise the Lord,
For His mercy endures forever.”
22 Now when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated.
Introduction: Jehoshaphat was the King. As King and leader everything would fall on his shoulders for the nation and for his people of Judah. When a “great multitude came against Judah to do battle, Jehoshaphat determined to seek God for help. In today’s message we will learn how to put things in God’s hands.
Key Verse:
17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.”
18 And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord.
1. First we need to recognize we have a problem or difficulty.
2 Some people came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army is coming against you from Edom,[b] from the other side of the Dead Sea. It is already in Hazezon Tamar” (that is, En Gedi)
Today we are asking our God to expose the sin in our lives and in our nation. If God does so the only response is to repent. Most of the time we refuse to believe that we have any problem, or we do not understand the true nature of our problem which is not political, social or medical but spiritual.
This is the great problem with personal sin we do not wish in many cases to discover or uncover it, Now for the most part the people who come to Church are the people who admit that they have a problem and that they need God’s help, or they would not have come to seeking God’s in His house in the first place. But that is not always true. Sometimes it takes wild horses to force us to recognize we have a problem or that our nation has a problem. But as we look at America and our lives we have a major truth problem.
Second. Recognize and understand that your problem is bigger than you are. {Boy do we know that today}we should be alarmed.
3 And Jehoshaphat feared, and set [c]himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. 4 So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord
Although Jehoshaphat had a standing army and a lot of unique resources, he knew that his army was no match for the oncoming enemy and the army was not the answer. When the enemy comes against you {Satan}, you need to understand you are weak in the flesh but mighty in the Lord. Check out the New Testament -
2 Corinthians 10:4
4 For the weapons of our warfare are not [a]carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.
So like Jehoshaphat we need to admit the frailty of our flesh and our personal resources. We are not sufficient for meeting and overcoming the problems we face, only God is sufficient. This includes all our problems we deal with whether physical, emotional, social, political and spiritual issues. We are not sufficient for resolving these issues. Today the scope of the problems internally and externally can only be solved by our God. He is able and He alone.
Third, Know that God is bigger than your problem. {He is able} Read with me
6 and said: “O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? 7 Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever?
Do you not know that Our God is the King of Kings? We need to recognize and proclaim the sovereignty of God over any problem or difficulty which arises including the ones in this Nation and among us as a people. He is sovereign and He alone is God
But we may find ourselves struggling at this point. Sometimes this is where pride and self-reliance get in the way of knowing that God is the only one who can meet our needs. Sometimes we are stubborn at the point of surrender and refuse to yield. This can be true for believers today! Pray for repentance and surrender to the Holy Spirits leading for Christians in America right now
Fourth. Determine to appeal to God for His assistance with your problem on the basis of His love and righteousness for His people.
7 Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever? He loves us and sent His Son to die for us.
What is our perspective, are we yielding to the will of God or are we declaring independence from God? If God is not on our side… that is the real problem! If you want God to be in your battles, be humble and seek Him with prayer and fasting. Seek Him where He may be found. God gives grace to the humble.
Jehoshaphat got humble. All Judah prayed and they fasted. A person is not humble until they are willing to be humble and to obey God’s directives.
Fifth. Ask God’s to help solve this problem which was in the life of the people and the nation.
This is the type of problem which we have before us in this hour. We have corruption internal and external to our nation and there is no fear of God. This includes us people. God has answered some of our prayer but we have a national righteousness and corruption problem based upon our sin.
God has made promises to help us and never The results if you have put your problem in God’s hands?
1. You will not be afraid.
2. You can face your enemy.
tomorrow go out against them
A person who continues in sin, is a person who wants to hide in the darkness. Once you have put your problem is God’s hands, you can walk in the light! You have not fear of the darkness.
3. You will experience the presence of the Lord, for the LORD will be with you.
Jesus is the Captain of the Lord of Hosts. He has never lost a battle.
4. You will want to worship and be together with believers
the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD.
5. You will have a song in your heart.
22And when they began to sing and to praise,
When the enemy heard the music and praise of the children of Judah, they realized that they were no longer doing battle with Israel.
Prayer
Lord, Thank you for fighting my battles. I rejoice in the knowledge that eternity will reveal in us your eternal and ultimate victory over sin.
In our world in America we suffer from multiple types of corruption. Corruptions which come both internally in the destruction of morals and to the very fiber of our nation. This corruption is also slaying our individual liberties and rights under the constitution. Corruption also is inflicted upon us externally as the pressures of this world and all evil which comes against truth and righteousness. This is the spiritual warfare we are engaged in today.
Make no mistake this deconstruction of America is all about removing the goodness, mercy and truth upon which God helped found this nation. This is resoundly a spiritual battle for the heart and mind of this nation. This outright rebellion and hate manifested by the most recent Supreme Court sets of decisions is symptomatic of the entire agenda against righteousness and truth.
You are seeing in the rebellion of government the result of internal corruption and degradation of the basic principles of rule by law. The progressive left no longer wants rule by law but rule by mob and violence. We are facing a huge moral dilemma when the leaders of the Executive branch and the Legislative branch threaten to rebel against what is written in the US Constitution and Bill of Rights The Justices ruled to go back to what is stated in the Constitution. The threat we are facing today is equal to or greater I believe than what Jehoshaphat faced thousands of years ago. Regardless we need to remember the Battle is the LORD’S” – we need to learn to put our trust in God’s Hands.
Text: 2 Chronicles 20- Let’s read-
It happened after this that the people of Moab with the people of Ammon, and others with them besides the Ammonites,[a] came to battle against Jehoshaphat. 2 Then some came and told Jehoshaphat, saying, “A great multitude is coming against you from beyond the sea, from [b]Syria; and they are in Hazazon Tamar” (which is En Gedi). 3 And Jehoshaphat feared, and set [c]himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. 4 So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord.
5 Then Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, 6 and said: “O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? 7 Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever? 8 And they dwell in it, and have built You a sanctuary in it for Your name, saying, 9 ‘If disaster comes upon us—sword, judgment, pestilence, or famine—we will stand before this temple and in Your presence (for Your name is in this temple), and cry out to You in our affliction, and You will hear and save.’ 10 And now, here are the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir—whom You would not let Israel invade when they came out of the land of Egypt, but they turned from them and did not destroy them— 11 here they are, rewarding us by coming to throw us out of Your possession which You have given us to inherit. 12 O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.”
13 Now all Judah, with their little ones, their wives, and their children, stood before the Lord.
14 Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, in the midst of the assembly. 15 And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. 16 Tomorrow go down against them. They will surely come up by the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the [d]brook before the Wilderness of Jeruel. 17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.”
18 And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord. 19 Then the Levites of the children of the Kohathites and of the children of the Korahites stood up to praise the Lord God of Israel with voices loud and high.
20 So they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the Lord your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper.” 21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying:
“Praise the Lord,
For His mercy endures forever.”
22 Now when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated.
Introduction: Jehoshaphat was the King. As King and leader everything would fall on his shoulders for the nation and for his people of Judah. When a “great multitude came against Judah to do battle, Jehoshaphat determined to seek God for help. In today’s message we will learn how to put things in God’s hands.
Key Verse:
17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.”
18 And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord.
1. First we need to recognize we have a problem or difficulty.
2 Some people came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army is coming against you from Edom,[b] from the other side of the Dead Sea. It is already in Hazezon Tamar” (that is, En Gedi)
Today we are asking our God to expose the sin in our lives and in our nation. If God does so the only response is to repent. Most of the time we refuse to believe that we have any problem, or we do not understand the true nature of our problem which is not political, social or medical but spiritual.
This is the great problem with personal sin we do not wish in many cases to discover or uncover it, Now for the most part the people who come to Church are the people who admit that they have a problem and that they need God’s help, or they would not have come to seeking God’s in His house in the first place. But that is not always true. Sometimes it takes wild horses to force us to recognize we have a problem or that our nation has a problem. But as we look at America and our lives we have a major truth problem.
Second. Recognize and understand that your problem is bigger than you are. {Boy do we know that today}we should be alarmed.
3 And Jehoshaphat feared, and set [c]himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. 4 So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord
Although Jehoshaphat had a standing army and a lot of unique resources, he knew that his army was no match for the oncoming enemy and the army was not the answer. When the enemy comes against you {Satan}, you need to understand you are weak in the flesh but mighty in the Lord. Check out the New Testament -
2 Corinthians 10:4
4 For the weapons of our warfare are not [a]carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.
So like Jehoshaphat we need to admit the frailty of our flesh and our personal resources. We are not sufficient for meeting and overcoming the problems we face, only God is sufficient. This includes all our problems we deal with whether physical, emotional, social, political and spiritual issues. We are not sufficient for resolving these issues. Today the scope of the problems internally and externally can only be solved by our God. He is able and He alone.
Third, Know that God is bigger than your problem. {He is able} Read with me
6 and said: “O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? 7 Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever?
Do you not know that Our God is the King of Kings? We need to recognize and proclaim the sovereignty of God over any problem or difficulty which arises including the ones in this Nation and among us as a people. He is sovereign and He alone is God
But we may find ourselves struggling at this point. Sometimes this is where pride and self-reliance get in the way of knowing that God is the only one who can meet our needs. Sometimes we are stubborn at the point of surrender and refuse to yield. This can be true for believers today! Pray for repentance and surrender to the Holy Spirits leading for Christians in America right now
Fourth. Determine to appeal to God for His assistance with your problem on the basis of His love and righteousness for His people.
7 Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever? He loves us and sent His Son to die for us.
What is our perspective, are we yielding to the will of God or are we declaring independence from God? If God is not on our side… that is the real problem! If you want God to be in your battles, be humble and seek Him with prayer and fasting. Seek Him where He may be found. God gives grace to the humble.
Jehoshaphat got humble. All Judah prayed and they fasted. A person is not humble until they are willing to be humble and to obey God’s directives.
Fifth. Ask God’s to help solve this problem which was in the life of the people and the nation.
This is the type of problem which we have before us in this hour. We have corruption internal and external to our nation and there is no fear of God. This includes us people. God has answered some of our prayer but we have a national righteousness and corruption problem based upon our sin.
God has made promises to help us and never The results if you have put your problem in God’s hands?
1. You will not be afraid.
2. You can face your enemy.
tomorrow go out against them
A person who continues in sin, is a person who wants to hide in the darkness. Once you have put your problem is God’s hands, you can walk in the light! You have not fear of the darkness.
3. You will experience the presence of the Lord, for the LORD will be with you.
Jesus is the Captain of the Lord of Hosts. He has never lost a battle.
4. You will want to worship and be together with believers
the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD.
5. You will have a song in your heart.
22And when they began to sing and to praise,
When the enemy heard the music and praise of the children of Judah, they realized that they were no longer doing battle with Israel.
Prayer
Lord, Thank you for fighting my battles. I rejoice in the knowledge that eternity will reveal in us your eternal and ultimate victory over sin.
Sermon June 12
Isaiah 5:20
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine,
Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,
23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe,
And take away justice from the righteous man!
There are only two types of people in this world living among us today in this increasingly evil and deluded society called America. There are the saved of God and there are the unsaved. The destination for each has been determined by the Living God who rules all dominions from heaven according to His Judgement and His authority as creator, redeemer and sovereign God Almighty.
This is true no matter how man or Satan tries to manipulate or spin the truth. God has set this as immutable {unchangeable}no matter what tune is being sung in this world.
These are hard facts and words and our eternal destiny is set by your decision to receive Jesus Christ or to reject Him. For in Christ and having received Him, your destination has been changed to heaven. Unrepentant and unregenerate people who reject Jesus Christ are Hell bent for eternal damnation. These are simple facts not by my thinking but according to the Word of God.
Now there exists a subset of people who are in the class of the unsaved who are living among the saved and living as if they are saved. They are in scriptural terms the tares living among the wheat. Or it could be said the fruitless living among the fruitful. One another expression used in scripture is the goats living among the sheep.
Anyhow there are those who worship with us in our houses of worship who are not saved, but are imitating the saved and deluding themselves that they are going to heaven because they participate in church activities and give to the Lord regularly.
So what separates the believer and the unbeliever? This is the key question? I believe scripture can help answer this issue. So let us got to the gospel of Matthew. Chapter 7 and verses 13-27. Let us read the words of Jesus, 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {two paths}
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits {prophets}
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
I Never Knew You _ Judgement of God
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
Build on the Rock
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” {Only two types}
May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and our understanding of how it applies to our lives today. May the Holy Spirit move is us as the words of Christ touch our hearts- AMEN
There is some terrible truths in this word given to us today. First there is no middle ground either you are on the narrow path or you are on the wide path leading to destruction. Verses 13-14 - 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {There are only two paths and there are only two gates. The narrow gate door is Jesus Christ. He tells us this in John Chapter 10- 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. Jesus is the door and He is the gate keeper. He tells Nicodemus who comes to Him by night that He must be reborn from above otherwise He cannot enter the Kingdom of heaven.
In contrast there are many gates or paths leading to destruction and death eternally, but the missing item is this a relationship with Jesus Christ apart from Him there is no future hope.
Verses 15-20 discuss - who are you listening to true prophets or liars and deceiver? – read 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
So we are not talking here today about those who are foretelling the future but those who are mis-teaching or leading false teachings out of the word of God and deceiving many. Now if you have the Holy Spirit living in you because you have confessed with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believed that He is the Son of God and called upon Him to be saved. Then God’s Holy Spirit now resides in you. You should not be deceived by any of this type of activity- as it says in verses 16 and 20 you will “know” them by their fruits. The Spirt of Truth – the Holy Spirit will lead you in the way everlasting.
Now there are those not walking In the Spirit who may also be deceived so beware, be on guard for your heart.
But if Christ is not in your heart then there is the absolute possibility that you may be deceived and the bad fruit vendors may lead you falsely to destruction. We have absolute proof of this today as we look at various ministries on TV. We have evangelists and ministries that cater to multiple sexes outside of what is prescribed in God’s word. Or we are seeing ministers/churches starting to discriminate on the basis of race and race equality teachings; applying Critical Race Theory as a teaching of God, which is a lie leading to destruction. We also have prosperity gospel teachers who are saying the reason you are not wealthy and prospering is you just don’t have enough faith to believe. And we have whole denominations who do not believe that Jesus is God; and who have added additional requirements for getting to heaven by substituting good works rather than by grace are you saved through faith.
Now comes the real kicker, read verses 21 – 25:
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
We will need to spend some time on these verses the truth of God. Many of us read it but we do not dig into its truths for it seems so obvious and we just continue on to the next paragraph and give it little consideration, This is true especially if you don’t have the fear of the Lord in your heart. This is a discriminating passage of who will actually enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This verse should cause you to be very concerned.
Remember the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Where do you want to be at the time of your judgement? Remember this key verse from Paul the Apostle. He said, “ to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” Everyone who dies or is raptured faces the Lord immediately and to stand before His holiness we have no excuse, for we will know in that moment our sinfulness and His absolute holiness. Our sins will be as scarlet – red letters before God. We are either forgiven by Jesus as His child or we will be condemned without forgiveness- for not having received Jesus. Jesus says, 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.
Now this is the question before you it is not so much about whether you know God but does God know you?
Eternal Life is not based upon whether you know Christ, but upon whether He knows and recognizes you. If He has a relationship with you , then He would have taken up residence in your life and you would be filled with the Holy Spirit. Your life and times would then reflect His life and Holiness within you. When He speaks you would know and respond immediately to His will. Obedience not activity is the sign of this relationship. Is your name in the lamb’s book of life?
So where are you today? Are you into activities or are you into the relationship with Christ? What is the outcome of not having this relationship? – verse 23- 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!
Maybe you have done all sorts of things for the Lord- wonders unimaginable, prophesied in His name, cast out demons, but Jesus doesn’t know you by name? What a terrible fate.
1. So we have those who have a personal relationship with Jesus and are the saved and this is confirmed by the presence of the Holy Spirit within us.These are the ones who build their houses, and their lives on the rock according to verse 24
2. Next We have the lost who have chosen not to accept God and His free gift of salvation and who build their lives on the sand verse 26 26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:
The end of that person is death and eternal destruction.
In this grouping of folks going toward the wide gate and destruction is the group of deceived persons who believe they are going to heaven because of many different internal head strong personal justifications. But none of them stand before the Word of God. There is only one way to heaven but it is the good news which God wants all to find- Act 4:12 - 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
So perhaps God has spoken to you today and convicted you heart. Is it still desperately wicked and God knows it? If you stood right this moment in the presence of Jesus where would you be?
God sent His Son so you would not miss heaven- think about these things.
This is the time of last chances and we only have a few days, Hours maybe, until He calls us home. This is the message simply, Jesus saves and what He saves, He saves to the uttermost and creates new life within us. Is He living in you this day? Don’t miss heaven because of a stubborn heart and deluded mind. Only trust Him now, He will save you, He will save you, He will save you now. AMEN
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information.
Isaiah 5:20
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine,
Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink,
23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe,
And take away justice from the righteous man!
There are only two types of people in this world living among us today in this increasingly evil and deluded society called America. There are the saved of God and there are the unsaved. The destination for each has been determined by the Living God who rules all dominions from heaven according to His Judgement and His authority as creator, redeemer and sovereign God Almighty.
This is true no matter how man or Satan tries to manipulate or spin the truth. God has set this as immutable {unchangeable}no matter what tune is being sung in this world.
These are hard facts and words and our eternal destiny is set by your decision to receive Jesus Christ or to reject Him. For in Christ and having received Him, your destination has been changed to heaven. Unrepentant and unregenerate people who reject Jesus Christ are Hell bent for eternal damnation. These are simple facts not by my thinking but according to the Word of God.
Now there exists a subset of people who are in the class of the unsaved who are living among the saved and living as if they are saved. They are in scriptural terms the tares living among the wheat. Or it could be said the fruitless living among the fruitful. One another expression used in scripture is the goats living among the sheep.
Anyhow there are those who worship with us in our houses of worship who are not saved, but are imitating the saved and deluding themselves that they are going to heaven because they participate in church activities and give to the Lord regularly.
So what separates the believer and the unbeliever? This is the key question? I believe scripture can help answer this issue. So let us got to the gospel of Matthew. Chapter 7 and verses 13-27. Let us read the words of Jesus, 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {two paths}
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits {prophets}
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
I Never Knew You _ Judgement of God
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
Build on the Rock
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” {Only two types}
May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and our understanding of how it applies to our lives today. May the Holy Spirit move is us as the words of Christ touch our hearts- AMEN
There is some terrible truths in this word given to us today. First there is no middle ground either you are on the narrow path or you are on the wide path leading to destruction. Verses 13-14 - 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. {There are only two paths and there are only two gates. The narrow gate door is Jesus Christ. He tells us this in John Chapter 10- 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. Jesus is the door and He is the gate keeper. He tells Nicodemus who comes to Him by night that He must be reborn from above otherwise He cannot enter the Kingdom of heaven.
In contrast there are many gates or paths leading to destruction and death eternally, but the missing item is this a relationship with Jesus Christ apart from Him there is no future hope.
Verses 15-20 discuss - who are you listening to true prophets or liars and deceiver? – read 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
So we are not talking here today about those who are foretelling the future but those who are mis-teaching or leading false teachings out of the word of God and deceiving many. Now if you have the Holy Spirit living in you because you have confessed with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believed that He is the Son of God and called upon Him to be saved. Then God’s Holy Spirit now resides in you. You should not be deceived by any of this type of activity- as it says in verses 16 and 20 you will “know” them by their fruits. The Spirt of Truth – the Holy Spirit will lead you in the way everlasting.
Now there are those not walking In the Spirit who may also be deceived so beware, be on guard for your heart.
But if Christ is not in your heart then there is the absolute possibility that you may be deceived and the bad fruit vendors may lead you falsely to destruction. We have absolute proof of this today as we look at various ministries on TV. We have evangelists and ministries that cater to multiple sexes outside of what is prescribed in God’s word. Or we are seeing ministers/churches starting to discriminate on the basis of race and race equality teachings; applying Critical Race Theory as a teaching of God, which is a lie leading to destruction. We also have prosperity gospel teachers who are saying the reason you are not wealthy and prospering is you just don’t have enough faith to believe. And we have whole denominations who do not believe that Jesus is God; and who have added additional requirements for getting to heaven by substituting good works rather than by grace are you saved through faith.
Now comes the real kicker, read verses 21 – 25:
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’{the big truth of God}
We will need to spend some time on these verses the truth of God. Many of us read it but we do not dig into its truths for it seems so obvious and we just continue on to the next paragraph and give it little consideration, This is true especially if you don’t have the fear of the Lord in your heart. This is a discriminating passage of who will actually enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This verse should cause you to be very concerned.
Remember the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Where do you want to be at the time of your judgement? Remember this key verse from Paul the Apostle. He said, “ to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” Everyone who dies or is raptured faces the Lord immediately and to stand before His holiness we have no excuse, for we will know in that moment our sinfulness and His absolute holiness. Our sins will be as scarlet – red letters before God. We are either forgiven by Jesus as His child or we will be condemned without forgiveness- for not having received Jesus. Jesus says, 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.
Now this is the question before you it is not so much about whether you know God but does God know you?
Eternal Life is not based upon whether you know Christ, but upon whether He knows and recognizes you. If He has a relationship with you , then He would have taken up residence in your life and you would be filled with the Holy Spirit. Your life and times would then reflect His life and Holiness within you. When He speaks you would know and respond immediately to His will. Obedience not activity is the sign of this relationship. Is your name in the lamb’s book of life?
So where are you today? Are you into activities or are you into the relationship with Christ? What is the outcome of not having this relationship? – verse 23- 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!
Maybe you have done all sorts of things for the Lord- wonders unimaginable, prophesied in His name, cast out demons, but Jesus doesn’t know you by name? What a terrible fate.
1. So we have those who have a personal relationship with Jesus and are the saved and this is confirmed by the presence of the Holy Spirit within us.These are the ones who build their houses, and their lives on the rock according to verse 24
2. Next We have the lost who have chosen not to accept God and His free gift of salvation and who build their lives on the sand verse 26 26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:
The end of that person is death and eternal destruction.
In this grouping of folks going toward the wide gate and destruction is the group of deceived persons who believe they are going to heaven because of many different internal head strong personal justifications. But none of them stand before the Word of God. There is only one way to heaven but it is the good news which God wants all to find- Act 4:12 - 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
So perhaps God has spoken to you today and convicted you heart. Is it still desperately wicked and God knows it? If you stood right this moment in the presence of Jesus where would you be?
God sent His Son so you would not miss heaven- think about these things.
This is the time of last chances and we only have a few days, Hours maybe, until He calls us home. This is the message simply, Jesus saves and what He saves, He saves to the uttermost and creates new life within us. Is He living in you this day? Don’t miss heaven because of a stubborn heart and deluded mind. Only trust Him now, He will save you, He will save you, He will save you now. AMEN
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information.
Sermon June 3
Pray that God will bless the meditation of my heart and reveal to us the truth of His word today. Amen
What is the difference between Memorial Day Weekend in 2022 and Memorial Day weekend 1947 the year I was to be born? The first difference is I was neatly tucked in my mother’s womb. I was safe, protected and growing waiting to be born that cold November eve. There was no abortion. My mother valued my life as her own, I was precious. If I had been alive and aware in 1947 on Memorial Day Weekend to honor the war dead, I could have reflected on several momentous happening which had just occurred. They were: the end of the Great Depression and the ending of the Second World War – one in Europe with Hitler and one with Japan in the Pacific. The land was at peace, prosperous and the people were happy to be home, quiet and rejoicing in how God had finally answered untold numbers of prayers for their peace, safety and the final destruction of the criminals who had brought all these disasters to America and the world.
And one other thing - people loved America. It was the home of the brave, land of the free. We had food, no rationing and joy in living. People went to parades, waved and honored the flag and sang the Star-Spangled Banner, standing with hands on their hearts. They remembered and honored the fallen with love and respect. People also got out of bed on Sunday morning and went to Sunday School and Church to honor God; some even came back for Sunday evening services or vespers/evening prayers. And lastly people were overjoyed to be able to work.
Notice some radical differences between then and now. People are not happy. There is no peace and there is no hope, or little faith or trust in God in this land. People today hate America, American exceptionalism and American ideals and the Constitution. They refuse to honor God, the flag, patriotism or stand for the national anthem. They want to abolish the freedom of worship and assembly, rid you of your right to bear arms and to have a voice in the public square. People don’t bother going to church or worship and don’t bring their children, or raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord. And folks want everything for free – the word – work is foreign to the vocabulary.
As you may have already discerned the major difference– is there is no awareness of God, no fear of God or desire to honor God saturating our families or our culture in 2022 in America today. We are descending to a godless nation and becoming more ungodly daily. Unless God turns our heart back to Himself we are in serious trouble.
We are reminded in 2nd Peter Chapter 3 of what the world says about God, 3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” This is the general attitude of people today toward God.
We are a nation which since WWII has increasingly turned away from God, but it began significantly when we removed the Bible from being taught in schools in 1963. Then a great downslide began. The Bible and prayer were removed from the public square for we might offend someone who is not of the Christian faith. Next, we took the 10 commandments down from the courthouse and we no longer swear on the Bible to tell the truth, we avow or affirm. Judges now don’t apply the Bible or biblical principles to the interpretation of the law. Most families no longer pray, or have devotions or use the Bible to teach and understand right and wrong. Now liberals among you will rejoice in this established freedom from the restrictive words which limited the free range of human behavior. And they were correct. We by exercising our free choice have removed all restraint and enabled deception in our people and in our land. {This is why we have mass shootings now}And have by definition outright rejected God to our profound and ultimate destruction. Every nation which has rejected God has come to utter destruction, none have survived. Now we don’t want to hear it but it is true. Many will say to me you are just an uneducated Baptist pastor who needs to have a broader world view. They will castigate and will rail against me personally on Tic Toc, Facebook and have mega Tweets against me, I will most likely be de-platformed on the internet, because of my narrow views – so what! I believe in the inerrancy and infallibility of God’s Word.
Every nation which began with a covenant with God and who later abandoned it has been punished by God unless they radically repented and returned to God – “Return to me and I will return to you.” Zechariah 1:3 says the Lord.
Let’s remind ourselves of a couple of facts – the Lord does not change, and a word spoken by the Lord will accomplish that for which it was sent.(Isaiah 55) Its efficacy never ceases. So what God said in the Old Testament doesn’t change in the New Testament {not one jot or one tittle}. So when God issued Deuteronomy 28 and discussed the blessings of obedience in the first 14 verses and the curses of disobedience through verse 59, His word hasn’t changed. Allow me to introduce your heart to verses 14 – 15 of Deut 28 - 14 So you shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, to the right or the left, to go after other gods to serve them. God’s word is straight forward most can understand we are not to chase after other Gods, but obey His word. Then comes verse 15 - 15 “But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you. The following 54 verses in that Chapter of Deuteronomy detail the type and level of destruction in every area of life which happens from our turning away from the living God.
We need a tutorial to see what God does - go to 2nd Chronicles, Chapter 34 and walk through several verses:
34 Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. 2 And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. This is Josiah’s epitaph.
3 For in the eighth year {16 yrs. old)of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David; and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the [a]high places, the wooden images, the carved images, and the molded images- Judah had separated itself from God and sinned grievously. He went through all Israel and cleansed the land.
Jump to verse 8 In the eighteenth year (26 yrs. old) of his reign, when he had purged the land and the [c]temple, he sent Shaphan the son of Azaliah, Maaseiah the governor of the city, and Joah the son of Joahaz the recorder, to repair the house of the Lord his God. The people no longer worshiped God the way they should and other idols has been set up in the temple. Years of disuse, disrepair and neglect had turned the temple to a mess.
So while cleaning out the mess in the temple and going to pay the repairmen they found the original book of the law – the Old Testament books of Moses. Money was given to the high priest Hilkiah and to the repairmen to pay for repairs and replacement of materials. Then they uncovered the Book and gave it to the scribe -Shaphan to deliver to King Josiah.
Go to verse 18 - 18 Then Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it before the king. 19 Thus it happened, when the king heard the words of the Law, that he tore his clothes.
The King realized that he and his people were under judgement. What do you think he read? I believe it was from Deut 28.
Next Josiah sends some to inquire of the Lord-22 So Hilkiah and those the king had appointed went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of [f]Tokhath, the son of [g]Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe. (She dwelt in Jerusalem in the Second Quarter.) And they spoke to her to that effect.
23 Then she answered them, “Thus says the Lord God of Israel, ‘Tell the man who sent you to Me, 24 “Thus says the Lord: ‘Behold, I will bring calamity on this place and on its inhabitants, all the curses that are written in the book which they have read before the king of Judah, 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands. Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ” ’
Tell the man who sent you to Me – I will not restrain in bringing calamity on Judah and its people. I am bringing all the judgements I presented to the people prior to the second time they entered the promise land because of their disobedience and faithlessness before Me. You can read those words I believe which are from Deuteronomy 28 for this was in the law of Moses – first five books in the Bible. Then, God tells us why 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands.
They have rejected Me, the God who has loved them and brought them to Himself, and because of their rebellion they have sinned and turned and worshiped another God. The people of Judah have sinned by what they have done with their hands, their bodies and their minds. Their hearts because of their rejection of God has made them exceedingly sinful and performing terrible abominations with their bodies. Here is what God says, Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ”
’Without God to restrain our hearts, minds and souls we become increasingly evil and devilish. We contrive to move from simply sinning into the most grievous of sins. What sins you say – adultery, fornication, sexual sins with animals, perverted sexual activities such as homosexuality. Another sin occurred from rejecting God is people no longer have a moral compass, so all types of blood sins - murder, sacrifices and abortion happen because we no longer value human life. We are seeing this in the murders in all these cities, in these random shootings and in the slaughter of young children. When God is not present in the lives of people there is only chaos. We didn’t have these things happening when I grew up because people has removed the restraining presence of God in their homes, in the schools and in their culture.
But God wasn’t done because the ruler had drawn near to Him This is the only fix for America today.
Verse 36 26 But as for the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, in this manner you shall speak to him, ‘Thus says the Lord God of Israel: “Concerning the words which you have heard— 27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God has a special place for those who reject this lifestyle and turn to Him -27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God wants those who hearts are completely His.
If we desire repentance in America and to request a change of direction each must recognize God is sovereign and He will move as He desires. Pray and repent today!
Do you know the voice of Jesus leading you to peace and safety this morning? Is He helping you to watch and pray, or are you listening to Him?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
Pray that God will bless the meditation of my heart and reveal to us the truth of His word today. Amen
What is the difference between Memorial Day Weekend in 2022 and Memorial Day weekend 1947 the year I was to be born? The first difference is I was neatly tucked in my mother’s womb. I was safe, protected and growing waiting to be born that cold November eve. There was no abortion. My mother valued my life as her own, I was precious. If I had been alive and aware in 1947 on Memorial Day Weekend to honor the war dead, I could have reflected on several momentous happening which had just occurred. They were: the end of the Great Depression and the ending of the Second World War – one in Europe with Hitler and one with Japan in the Pacific. The land was at peace, prosperous and the people were happy to be home, quiet and rejoicing in how God had finally answered untold numbers of prayers for their peace, safety and the final destruction of the criminals who had brought all these disasters to America and the world.
And one other thing - people loved America. It was the home of the brave, land of the free. We had food, no rationing and joy in living. People went to parades, waved and honored the flag and sang the Star-Spangled Banner, standing with hands on their hearts. They remembered and honored the fallen with love and respect. People also got out of bed on Sunday morning and went to Sunday School and Church to honor God; some even came back for Sunday evening services or vespers/evening prayers. And lastly people were overjoyed to be able to work.
Notice some radical differences between then and now. People are not happy. There is no peace and there is no hope, or little faith or trust in God in this land. People today hate America, American exceptionalism and American ideals and the Constitution. They refuse to honor God, the flag, patriotism or stand for the national anthem. They want to abolish the freedom of worship and assembly, rid you of your right to bear arms and to have a voice in the public square. People don’t bother going to church or worship and don’t bring their children, or raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord. And folks want everything for free – the word – work is foreign to the vocabulary.
As you may have already discerned the major difference– is there is no awareness of God, no fear of God or desire to honor God saturating our families or our culture in 2022 in America today. We are descending to a godless nation and becoming more ungodly daily. Unless God turns our heart back to Himself we are in serious trouble.
We are reminded in 2nd Peter Chapter 3 of what the world says about God, 3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” This is the general attitude of people today toward God.
We are a nation which since WWII has increasingly turned away from God, but it began significantly when we removed the Bible from being taught in schools in 1963. Then a great downslide began. The Bible and prayer were removed from the public square for we might offend someone who is not of the Christian faith. Next, we took the 10 commandments down from the courthouse and we no longer swear on the Bible to tell the truth, we avow or affirm. Judges now don’t apply the Bible or biblical principles to the interpretation of the law. Most families no longer pray, or have devotions or use the Bible to teach and understand right and wrong. Now liberals among you will rejoice in this established freedom from the restrictive words which limited the free range of human behavior. And they were correct. We by exercising our free choice have removed all restraint and enabled deception in our people and in our land. {This is why we have mass shootings now}And have by definition outright rejected God to our profound and ultimate destruction. Every nation which has rejected God has come to utter destruction, none have survived. Now we don’t want to hear it but it is true. Many will say to me you are just an uneducated Baptist pastor who needs to have a broader world view. They will castigate and will rail against me personally on Tic Toc, Facebook and have mega Tweets against me, I will most likely be de-platformed on the internet, because of my narrow views – so what! I believe in the inerrancy and infallibility of God’s Word.
Every nation which began with a covenant with God and who later abandoned it has been punished by God unless they radically repented and returned to God – “Return to me and I will return to you.” Zechariah 1:3 says the Lord.
Let’s remind ourselves of a couple of facts – the Lord does not change, and a word spoken by the Lord will accomplish that for which it was sent.(Isaiah 55) Its efficacy never ceases. So what God said in the Old Testament doesn’t change in the New Testament {not one jot or one tittle}. So when God issued Deuteronomy 28 and discussed the blessings of obedience in the first 14 verses and the curses of disobedience through verse 59, His word hasn’t changed. Allow me to introduce your heart to verses 14 – 15 of Deut 28 - 14 So you shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, to the right or the left, to go after other gods to serve them. God’s word is straight forward most can understand we are not to chase after other Gods, but obey His word. Then comes verse 15 - 15 “But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you. The following 54 verses in that Chapter of Deuteronomy detail the type and level of destruction in every area of life which happens from our turning away from the living God.
We need a tutorial to see what God does - go to 2nd Chronicles, Chapter 34 and walk through several verses:
34 Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. 2 And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. This is Josiah’s epitaph.
3 For in the eighth year {16 yrs. old)of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David; and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the [a]high places, the wooden images, the carved images, and the molded images- Judah had separated itself from God and sinned grievously. He went through all Israel and cleansed the land.
Jump to verse 8 In the eighteenth year (26 yrs. old) of his reign, when he had purged the land and the [c]temple, he sent Shaphan the son of Azaliah, Maaseiah the governor of the city, and Joah the son of Joahaz the recorder, to repair the house of the Lord his God. The people no longer worshiped God the way they should and other idols has been set up in the temple. Years of disuse, disrepair and neglect had turned the temple to a mess.
So while cleaning out the mess in the temple and going to pay the repairmen they found the original book of the law – the Old Testament books of Moses. Money was given to the high priest Hilkiah and to the repairmen to pay for repairs and replacement of materials. Then they uncovered the Book and gave it to the scribe -Shaphan to deliver to King Josiah.
Go to verse 18 - 18 Then Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it before the king. 19 Thus it happened, when the king heard the words of the Law, that he tore his clothes.
The King realized that he and his people were under judgement. What do you think he read? I believe it was from Deut 28.
Next Josiah sends some to inquire of the Lord-22 So Hilkiah and those the king had appointed went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of [f]Tokhath, the son of [g]Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe. (She dwelt in Jerusalem in the Second Quarter.) And they spoke to her to that effect.
23 Then she answered them, “Thus says the Lord God of Israel, ‘Tell the man who sent you to Me, 24 “Thus says the Lord: ‘Behold, I will bring calamity on this place and on its inhabitants, all the curses that are written in the book which they have read before the king of Judah, 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands. Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ” ’
Tell the man who sent you to Me – I will not restrain in bringing calamity on Judah and its people. I am bringing all the judgements I presented to the people prior to the second time they entered the promise land because of their disobedience and faithlessness before Me. You can read those words I believe which are from Deuteronomy 28 for this was in the law of Moses – first five books in the Bible. Then, God tells us why 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands.
They have rejected Me, the God who has loved them and brought them to Himself, and because of their rebellion they have sinned and turned and worshiped another God. The people of Judah have sinned by what they have done with their hands, their bodies and their minds. Their hearts because of their rejection of God has made them exceedingly sinful and performing terrible abominations with their bodies. Here is what God says, Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ”
’Without God to restrain our hearts, minds and souls we become increasingly evil and devilish. We contrive to move from simply sinning into the most grievous of sins. What sins you say – adultery, fornication, sexual sins with animals, perverted sexual activities such as homosexuality. Another sin occurred from rejecting God is people no longer have a moral compass, so all types of blood sins - murder, sacrifices and abortion happen because we no longer value human life. We are seeing this in the murders in all these cities, in these random shootings and in the slaughter of young children. When God is not present in the lives of people there is only chaos. We didn’t have these things happening when I grew up because people has removed the restraining presence of God in their homes, in the schools and in their culture.
But God wasn’t done because the ruler had drawn near to Him This is the only fix for America today.
Verse 36 26 But as for the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, in this manner you shall speak to him, ‘Thus says the Lord God of Israel: “Concerning the words which you have heard— 27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God has a special place for those who reject this lifestyle and turn to Him -27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God wants those who hearts are completely His.
- We need to repent individually and ask God for forgiveness corporately.
- To repent means to humble yourself before God as His word penetrates your heart and mind, pleading for His forgiveness.
If we desire repentance in America and to request a change of direction each must recognize God is sovereign and He will move as He desires. Pray and repent today!
Do you know the voice of Jesus leading you to peace and safety this morning? Is He helping you to watch and pray, or are you listening to Him?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
Sermon May 29
Pray that God will bless the meditation of my heart and reveal to us the truth of His word today. Amen
What is the difference between Memorial Day Weekend in 2022 and Memorial Day weekend 1947 the year I was to be born? The first difference is I was neatly tucked in my mother’s womb. I was safe, protected and growing waiting to be born that cold November eve. There was no abortion. My mother valued my life as her own, I was precious. If I had been alive and aware in 1947 on Memorial Day Weekend to honor the war dead, I could have reflected on several momentous happening which had just occurred. They were: the end of the Great Depression and the ending of the Second World War – one in Europe with Hitler and one with Japan in the Pacific. The land was at peace, prosperous and the people were happy to be home, quiet and rejoicing in how God had finally answered untold numbers of prayers for their peace, safety and the final destruction of the criminals who had brought all these disasters to America and the world.
And one other thing - people loved America. It was the home of the brave, land of the free. We had food, no rationing and joy in living. People went to parades, waved and honored the flag and sang the Star-Spangled Banner, standing with hands on their hearts. They remembered and honored the fallen with love and respect. People also got out of bed on Sunday morning and went to Sunday School and Church to honor God; some even came back for Sunday evening services or vespers/evening prayers. And lastly people were overjoyed to be able to work.
Notice some radical differences between then and now. People are not happy. There is no peace and there is no hope, or little faith or trust in God in this land. People today hate America, American exceptionalism and American ideals and the Constitution. They refuse to honor God, the flag, patriotism or stand for the national anthem. They want to abolish the freedom of worship and assembly, rid you of your right to bear arms and to have a voice in the public square. People don’t bother going to church or worship and don’t bring their children, or raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord. And folks want everything for free – the word – work is foreign to the vocabulary.
As you may have already discerned the major difference– is there is no awareness of God, no fear of God or desire to honor God saturating our families or our culture in 2022 in America today. We are descending to a godless nation and becoming more ungodly daily. Unless God turns our heart back to Himself we are in serious trouble.
We are reminded in 2nd Peter Chapter 3 of what the world says about God, 3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” This is the general attitude of people today toward God.
We are a nation which since WWII has increasingly turned away from God, but it began significantly when we removed the Bible from being taught in schools in 1963. Then a great downslide began. The Bible and prayer were removed from the public square for we might offend someone who is not of the Christian faith. Next, we took the 10 commandments down from the courthouse and we no longer swear on the Bible to tell the truth, we avow or affirm. Judges now don’t apply the Bible or biblical principles to the interpretation of the law. Most families no longer pray, or have devotions or use the Bible to teach and understand right and wrong. Now liberals among you will rejoice in this established freedom from the restrictive words which limited the free range of human behavior. And they were correct. We by exercising our free choice have removed all restraint and enabled deception in our people and in our land. {This is why we have mass shootings now}And have by definition outright rejected God to our profound and ultimate destruction. Every nation which has rejected God has come to utter destruction, none have survived. Now we don’t want to hear it but it is true. Many will say to me you are just an uneducated Baptist pastor who needs to have a broader world view. They will castigate and will rail against me personally on Tic Toc, Facebook and have mega Tweets against me, I will most likely be de-platformed on the internet, because of my narrow views – so what! I believe in the inerrancy and infallibility of God’s Word.
Every nation which began with a covenant with God and who later abandoned it has been punished by God unless they radically repented and returned to God – “Return to me and I will return to you.” Zechariah 1:3 says the Lord.
Let’s remind ourselves of a couple of facts – the Lord does not change, and a word spoken by the Lord will accomplish that for which it was sent.(Isaiah 55) Its efficacy never ceases. So what God said in the Old Testament doesn’t change in the New Testament {not one jot or one tittle}. So when God issued Deuteronomy 28 and discussed the blessings of obedience in the first 14 verses and the curses of disobedience through verse 59, His word hasn’t changed. Allow me to introduce your heart to verses 14 – 15 of Deut 28 - 14 So you shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, to the right or the left, to go after other gods to serve them. God’s word is straight forward most can understand we are not to chase after other Gods, but obey His word. Then comes verse 15 - 15 “But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you. The following 54 verses in that Chapter of Deuteronomy detail the type and level of destruction in every area of life which happens from our turning away from the living God.
We need a tutorial to see what God does - go to 2nd Chronicles, Chapter 34 and walk through several verses:
34 Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. 2 And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. This is Josiah’s epitaph.
3 For in the eighth year {16 yrs. old)of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David; and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the [a]high places, the wooden images, the carved images, and the molded images- Judah had separated itself from God and sinned grievously. He went through all Israel and cleansed the land.
Jump to verse 8 In the eighteenth year (26 yrs. old) of his reign, when he had purged the land and the [c]temple, he sent Shaphan the son of Azaliah, Maaseiah the governor of the city, and Joah the son of Joahaz the recorder, to repair the house of the Lord his God. The people no longer worshiped God the way they should and other idols has been set up in the temple. Years of disuse, disrepair and neglect had turned the temple to a mess.
So while cleaning out the mess in the temple and going to pay the repairmen they found the original book of the law – the Old Testament books of Moses. Money was given to the high priest Hilkiah and to the repairmen to pay for repairs and replacement of materials. Then they uncovered the Book and gave it to the scribe -Shaphan to deliver to King Josiah.
Go to verse 18 - 18 Then Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it before the king. 19 Thus it happened, when the king heard the words of the Law, that he tore his clothes.
The King realized that he and his people were under judgement. What do you think he read? I believe it was from Deut 28.
Next Josiah sends some to inquire of the Lord-22 So Hilkiah and those the king had appointed went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of [f]Tokhath, the son of [g]Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe. (She dwelt in Jerusalem in the Second Quarter.) And they spoke to her to that effect.
23 Then she answered them, “Thus says the Lord God of Israel, ‘Tell the man who sent you to Me, 24 “Thus says the Lord: ‘Behold, I will bring calamity on this place and on its inhabitants, all the curses that are written in the book which they have read before the king of Judah, 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands. Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ” ’
Tell the man who sent you to Me – I will not restrain in bringing calamity on Judah and its people. I am bringing all the judgements I presented to the people prior to the second time they entered the promise land because of their disobedience and faithlessness before Me. You can read those words I believe which are from Deuteronomy 28 for this was in the law of Moses – first five books in the Bible. Then, God tells us why 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands.
They have rejected Me, the God who has loved them and brought them to Himself, and because of their rebellion they have sinned and turned and worshiped another God. The people of Judah have sinned by what they have done with their hands, their bodies and their minds. Their hearts because of their rejection of God has made them exceedingly sinful and performing terrible abominations with their bodies. Here is what God says, Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ”
’Without God to restrain our hearts, minds and souls we become increasingly evil and devilish. We contrive to move from simply sinning into the most grievous of sins. What sins you say – adultery, fornication, sexual sins with animals, perverted sexual activities such as homosexuality. Another sin occurred from rejecting God is people no longer have a moral compass, so all types of blood sins - murder, sacrifices and abortion happen because we no longer value human life. We are seeing this in the murders in all these cities, in these random shootings and in the slaughter of young children. When God is not present in the lives of people there is only chaos. We didn’t have these things happening when I grew up because people has removed the restraining presence of God in their homes, in the schools and in their culture.
But God wasn’t done because the ruler had drawn near to Him This is the only fix for America today.
Verse 36 26 But as for the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, in this manner you shall speak to him, ‘Thus says the Lord God of Israel: “Concerning the words which you have heard— 27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God has a special place for those who reject this lifestyle and turn to Him -27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God wants those who hearts are completely His.
If we desire repentance in America and to request a change of direction each must recognize God is sovereign and He will move as He desires. Pray and repent today!
Do you know the voice of Jesus leading you to peace and safety this morning? Is He helping you to watch and pray, or are you listening to Him?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
Pray that God will bless the meditation of my heart and reveal to us the truth of His word today. Amen
What is the difference between Memorial Day Weekend in 2022 and Memorial Day weekend 1947 the year I was to be born? The first difference is I was neatly tucked in my mother’s womb. I was safe, protected and growing waiting to be born that cold November eve. There was no abortion. My mother valued my life as her own, I was precious. If I had been alive and aware in 1947 on Memorial Day Weekend to honor the war dead, I could have reflected on several momentous happening which had just occurred. They were: the end of the Great Depression and the ending of the Second World War – one in Europe with Hitler and one with Japan in the Pacific. The land was at peace, prosperous and the people were happy to be home, quiet and rejoicing in how God had finally answered untold numbers of prayers for their peace, safety and the final destruction of the criminals who had brought all these disasters to America and the world.
And one other thing - people loved America. It was the home of the brave, land of the free. We had food, no rationing and joy in living. People went to parades, waved and honored the flag and sang the Star-Spangled Banner, standing with hands on their hearts. They remembered and honored the fallen with love and respect. People also got out of bed on Sunday morning and went to Sunday School and Church to honor God; some even came back for Sunday evening services or vespers/evening prayers. And lastly people were overjoyed to be able to work.
Notice some radical differences between then and now. People are not happy. There is no peace and there is no hope, or little faith or trust in God in this land. People today hate America, American exceptionalism and American ideals and the Constitution. They refuse to honor God, the flag, patriotism or stand for the national anthem. They want to abolish the freedom of worship and assembly, rid you of your right to bear arms and to have a voice in the public square. People don’t bother going to church or worship and don’t bring their children, or raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord. And folks want everything for free – the word – work is foreign to the vocabulary.
As you may have already discerned the major difference– is there is no awareness of God, no fear of God or desire to honor God saturating our families or our culture in 2022 in America today. We are descending to a godless nation and becoming more ungodly daily. Unless God turns our heart back to Himself we are in serious trouble.
We are reminded in 2nd Peter Chapter 3 of what the world says about God, 3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” This is the general attitude of people today toward God.
We are a nation which since WWII has increasingly turned away from God, but it began significantly when we removed the Bible from being taught in schools in 1963. Then a great downslide began. The Bible and prayer were removed from the public square for we might offend someone who is not of the Christian faith. Next, we took the 10 commandments down from the courthouse and we no longer swear on the Bible to tell the truth, we avow or affirm. Judges now don’t apply the Bible or biblical principles to the interpretation of the law. Most families no longer pray, or have devotions or use the Bible to teach and understand right and wrong. Now liberals among you will rejoice in this established freedom from the restrictive words which limited the free range of human behavior. And they were correct. We by exercising our free choice have removed all restraint and enabled deception in our people and in our land. {This is why we have mass shootings now}And have by definition outright rejected God to our profound and ultimate destruction. Every nation which has rejected God has come to utter destruction, none have survived. Now we don’t want to hear it but it is true. Many will say to me you are just an uneducated Baptist pastor who needs to have a broader world view. They will castigate and will rail against me personally on Tic Toc, Facebook and have mega Tweets against me, I will most likely be de-platformed on the internet, because of my narrow views – so what! I believe in the inerrancy and infallibility of God’s Word.
Every nation which began with a covenant with God and who later abandoned it has been punished by God unless they radically repented and returned to God – “Return to me and I will return to you.” Zechariah 1:3 says the Lord.
Let’s remind ourselves of a couple of facts – the Lord does not change, and a word spoken by the Lord will accomplish that for which it was sent.(Isaiah 55) Its efficacy never ceases. So what God said in the Old Testament doesn’t change in the New Testament {not one jot or one tittle}. So when God issued Deuteronomy 28 and discussed the blessings of obedience in the first 14 verses and the curses of disobedience through verse 59, His word hasn’t changed. Allow me to introduce your heart to verses 14 – 15 of Deut 28 - 14 So you shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, to the right or the left, to go after other gods to serve them. God’s word is straight forward most can understand we are not to chase after other Gods, but obey His word. Then comes verse 15 - 15 “But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you. The following 54 verses in that Chapter of Deuteronomy detail the type and level of destruction in every area of life which happens from our turning away from the living God.
We need a tutorial to see what God does - go to 2nd Chronicles, Chapter 34 and walk through several verses:
34 Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. 2 And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. This is Josiah’s epitaph.
3 For in the eighth year {16 yrs. old)of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David; and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the [a]high places, the wooden images, the carved images, and the molded images- Judah had separated itself from God and sinned grievously. He went through all Israel and cleansed the land.
Jump to verse 8 In the eighteenth year (26 yrs. old) of his reign, when he had purged the land and the [c]temple, he sent Shaphan the son of Azaliah, Maaseiah the governor of the city, and Joah the son of Joahaz the recorder, to repair the house of the Lord his God. The people no longer worshiped God the way they should and other idols has been set up in the temple. Years of disuse, disrepair and neglect had turned the temple to a mess.
So while cleaning out the mess in the temple and going to pay the repairmen they found the original book of the law – the Old Testament books of Moses. Money was given to the high priest Hilkiah and to the repairmen to pay for repairs and replacement of materials. Then they uncovered the Book and gave it to the scribe -Shaphan to deliver to King Josiah.
Go to verse 18 - 18 Then Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it before the king. 19 Thus it happened, when the king heard the words of the Law, that he tore his clothes.
The King realized that he and his people were under judgement. What do you think he read? I believe it was from Deut 28.
Next Josiah sends some to inquire of the Lord-22 So Hilkiah and those the king had appointed went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of [f]Tokhath, the son of [g]Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe. (She dwelt in Jerusalem in the Second Quarter.) And they spoke to her to that effect.
23 Then she answered them, “Thus says the Lord God of Israel, ‘Tell the man who sent you to Me, 24 “Thus says the Lord: ‘Behold, I will bring calamity on this place and on its inhabitants, all the curses that are written in the book which they have read before the king of Judah, 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands. Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ” ’
Tell the man who sent you to Me – I will not restrain in bringing calamity on Judah and its people. I am bringing all the judgements I presented to the people prior to the second time they entered the promise land because of their disobedience and faithlessness before Me. You can read those words I believe which are from Deuteronomy 28 for this was in the law of Moses – first five books in the Bible. Then, God tells us why 25 because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands.
They have rejected Me, the God who has loved them and brought them to Himself, and because of their rebellion they have sinned and turned and worshiped another God. The people of Judah have sinned by what they have done with their hands, their bodies and their minds. Their hearts because of their rejection of God has made them exceedingly sinful and performing terrible abominations with their bodies. Here is what God says, Therefore My wrath will be poured out on this place, and not be quenched.’ ”
’Without God to restrain our hearts, minds and souls we become increasingly evil and devilish. We contrive to move from simply sinning into the most grievous of sins. What sins you say – adultery, fornication, sexual sins with animals, perverted sexual activities such as homosexuality. Another sin occurred from rejecting God is people no longer have a moral compass, so all types of blood sins - murder, sacrifices and abortion happen because we no longer value human life. We are seeing this in the murders in all these cities, in these random shootings and in the slaughter of young children. When God is not present in the lives of people there is only chaos. We didn’t have these things happening when I grew up because people has removed the restraining presence of God in their homes, in the schools and in their culture.
But God wasn’t done because the ruler had drawn near to Him This is the only fix for America today.
Verse 36 26 But as for the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, in this manner you shall speak to him, ‘Thus says the Lord God of Israel: “Concerning the words which you have heard— 27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God has a special place for those who reject this lifestyle and turn to Him -27 because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its inhabitants, and you humbled yourself before Me, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord.
God wants those who hearts are completely His.
- We need to repent individually and ask God for forgiveness corporately.
- To repent means to humble yourself before God as His word penetrates your heart and mind, pleading for His forgiveness.
If we desire repentance in America and to request a change of direction each must recognize God is sovereign and He will move as He desires. Pray and repent today!
Do you know the voice of Jesus leading you to peace and safety this morning? Is He helping you to watch and pray, or are you listening to Him?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
Sermon May 22
OK, so the Lord saves us and gives us new life when we confess with our mouths the Lord Jesus and believe in our hearts that God has raised him from the dead. We are done then right and we just wait around for His coming correct? Well I believe if you just waiting around you are not complying with scripture. How are you growing in grace and knowledge of the Lord? How are you growing in wisdom and understanding? Are you complying with the great commission is some way?
I mean are you actually telling others about Jesus and what He has done in and for you? Oh, do you mean I am supposed to allow God to use my life and reach others for Him.
You might be saying, Hey none of this was in my original contract with Christ, where did all this extra stuff come from?
Well if you have actually received salvation from Jesus then you would have experienced His personal redeeming love for you. His dying on the cross would not just be an Easter event, but would be personal in, to and for you. You might even have been able to grasp some finite measure of the height, breadth and depth of the love of Jesus for you as very personal!
Maybe you haven’t come to that so your heart is still searching for Christ even today. But there is eternal hope in the Word of God for you today.
But, if you have received Jesus as Lord and Savior you have been commissioned to be on mission with Him today; and with what is going on in this world – we need to go back to the question of what manner of persons ought we to be? And in light of His personal love for me how should I be orienting my life to grow in peace and faith in the midst of this mess here in America today? How should we react?
First as background- Do you think God did not know this day was coming? Do you think it caught Him by surprise? Do you think He was unable to do anything to resolve it and the power of God could not stop it?
Let me assure you, in this world of today, these events and actions are not unexpected, unplanned and without the power of God being evident in what is happening? It may seem so but that is not true. Let us pause here for God is at work and His word proves this.
After Jesus departure and the disciples were leading in spreading the Word, new churches came into being and some of them immediately started to depart from God. Now this is the way of the devil for he continues to ask men and women in their own strength and wisdom – “Hath God said?” Because you best thinking wisdom and understanding is nothing compared to your creator. Your informed choices only cause big problems. Now these informed but uninspired decisions cause divisions when the people interpreting what God or Jesus or someone has taught us from the Word of God by our own understanding without the Holy Spirit leading. So because of these errors division - strife occurred in the 1st century churches. Paul and Peter had to write letters to guide churches back on the correct path for God – remember narrow is the gate that leads to salvation.
So we have references in scripture to a people who were under persecution and hate and suffering from the decisions of men. Peter in his second letter here addresses them in their need.
Now let’s pray – Father, I ask you in the name of Jesus to guide our hearts and minds into the truth of your word. But don’t just grant us deeper understanding but help us God, yes help us walk and be obedient in its completion in us and to others. In Jesus name. Amen
Read with me this text 2nd Peter, Chapter 3 beginning in verse1
3 Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), 2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of [a]us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior, 3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” 5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, 6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. 7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and [b]perdition of ungodly men.
8 But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward [c]us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
The Day of the Lord
10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be [d]burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 2 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
Be Steadfast
14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; 15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, 16 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
17 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with/STOP
NOW don’t panic we are not going to parse ever verse here, but there is a flow of discussion which I want you to see and understand and to know that God has been dealing with the problems we are experiencing here in America for millennia. Yes. Thousands of years are what God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit knows about.
Verses 1-4 set the stage– Peter wants to stir up our pure minds about claims against our faith. So we would remember what the prophets have said many times before.
Then Peter launches into the same drivel you hear today from scoffers, the highly educated and talking heads of today. Don’t we hear this all the time?
“Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” Hey nothing’s changed man! Where is your God today, they ask? In the midst of this moral dilemma of increasing deception, distrust, lies and general acceleration of sin towards our very children you ask and they ask you where is God? As a matter of fact since they believe there is no God there is therefore no retribution or punishment we can do whatever we want. Satan is convincing them that their depravity and sickness is good.
Act 1. Enter verses 5- 7. 5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, 6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. 7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and [b]perdition of ungodly men.
Because of a creator God who separated the waters from the earth, used the waters to purge a sinful earth. In Genesis 6 we find these verses -5 Then [c]the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent[d] of the thoughts of his heart was only evil [e]continually. 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So God destroyed the earth but a remnant. But God is not finished with this world and because you don’t see Him at work you contrive in your hearts to again repeat this gross sinning and God has reserved the earth for a final fire and judgement.
You should know why God tarries – God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. So God is at work even in this mess and His timing is infinite.
Act 2- God is coming soon, despite what you think. How is as a thief in the night. Quickly, quietly and efficiently He is coming soon for believers. And when He comes at last He will fulfill His promise of burning the trash of what has been built and will address the future new earth. In this coming Peter asks - what manner of persons ought you to be ? But he doesn’t stop there. Looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God. Well you can’t hasten the coming kingdom asleep in your recliner, can you? We should be at work because according to this message and the events happening around us the days are short.
Act 3. So how do we hasten the day-
1. We, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. You and I are supposed to be forward looking according to the promises of God in His word. There will be His righteousness and purity. Ever heard the phrases standing on the promises. And
2. Be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; 15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. Diligent on the spot ready to be found by Him in peace, without spot or blemish. There is only 1 way to achieve this. It is learning to walk in the Spirit with Jesus Christ, Her us the one who forgives, He is the one who grants peace and not as the world gives peace 1st John 1:7 says this - 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.
So learn to walk in the Spirit which is the same as being “in Christ.”
Persevering and being longsuffering is a trait which according to our text is something to be desired and emulated as it was of Jesus. Most don’t want to suffer. They pray for a free pass to omit the suffering and persecution. According to this who is our guide and example – Jesus?
Now to the Finale.
Being In Christ or walking in the Spirit has one final and absolute benefit – this keeps your heart in line with the heart of God and allows you to hear Him speak. It prevents you from falling into what it says in verse 16 - which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
Some of the Scripture is difficult to discern on your own and without the Holy Spirit you will be included in the untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
This is why there is no fear of God. This is why people demand that there is nothing in the bible preventing homosexuality, or abortion, or cheating, or lying or any kind of marriage between a man and his computer or a dog or a horse of 5 men and 6 /Women. Again, Satan’s pitch - “Hath God said?” If you do not know your scripture deception is coming soon to your doorstep and may already be there.
But Peter was not quite done – One more revelation to be made in the Finale.
You and I are cautioned to not stop but to finish strong – read from verse 17 -beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away. Beware it is easy to fail and then fall away. If it can happen multiple times to the Jews in the OT and to the people of God in the New Testament, why do you think God cautions us about if your heart turns away.
Adam and Eve were clearly unprepared to meet Satan in the garden that day. They had not boned up or talked about God’s commands for their obedience and so failed to folly. It happens in this world every day. Well intentioned people fail in complying with God’s directives and it is called sin. It is a virulent and deadly disease which effects the hearts of man.
So what can we do for today? Be diligent, forward looking for His future coming, learning to live in Christ by studying His promises. Aware of our great potential to slip and not to finish well. These are the days where the sons of Issachar are seeking the righteousness of Christ and His truth. Are you a son/daughter of Issachar?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
OK, so the Lord saves us and gives us new life when we confess with our mouths the Lord Jesus and believe in our hearts that God has raised him from the dead. We are done then right and we just wait around for His coming correct? Well I believe if you just waiting around you are not complying with scripture. How are you growing in grace and knowledge of the Lord? How are you growing in wisdom and understanding? Are you complying with the great commission is some way?
I mean are you actually telling others about Jesus and what He has done in and for you? Oh, do you mean I am supposed to allow God to use my life and reach others for Him.
You might be saying, Hey none of this was in my original contract with Christ, where did all this extra stuff come from?
Well if you have actually received salvation from Jesus then you would have experienced His personal redeeming love for you. His dying on the cross would not just be an Easter event, but would be personal in, to and for you. You might even have been able to grasp some finite measure of the height, breadth and depth of the love of Jesus for you as very personal!
Maybe you haven’t come to that so your heart is still searching for Christ even today. But there is eternal hope in the Word of God for you today.
But, if you have received Jesus as Lord and Savior you have been commissioned to be on mission with Him today; and with what is going on in this world – we need to go back to the question of what manner of persons ought we to be? And in light of His personal love for me how should I be orienting my life to grow in peace and faith in the midst of this mess here in America today? How should we react?
First as background- Do you think God did not know this day was coming? Do you think it caught Him by surprise? Do you think He was unable to do anything to resolve it and the power of God could not stop it?
Let me assure you, in this world of today, these events and actions are not unexpected, unplanned and without the power of God being evident in what is happening? It may seem so but that is not true. Let us pause here for God is at work and His word proves this.
After Jesus departure and the disciples were leading in spreading the Word, new churches came into being and some of them immediately started to depart from God. Now this is the way of the devil for he continues to ask men and women in their own strength and wisdom – “Hath God said?” Because you best thinking wisdom and understanding is nothing compared to your creator. Your informed choices only cause big problems. Now these informed but uninspired decisions cause divisions when the people interpreting what God or Jesus or someone has taught us from the Word of God by our own understanding without the Holy Spirit leading. So because of these errors division - strife occurred in the 1st century churches. Paul and Peter had to write letters to guide churches back on the correct path for God – remember narrow is the gate that leads to salvation.
So we have references in scripture to a people who were under persecution and hate and suffering from the decisions of men. Peter in his second letter here addresses them in their need.
Now let’s pray – Father, I ask you in the name of Jesus to guide our hearts and minds into the truth of your word. But don’t just grant us deeper understanding but help us God, yes help us walk and be obedient in its completion in us and to others. In Jesus name. Amen
Read with me this text 2nd Peter, Chapter 3 beginning in verse1
3 Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), 2 that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of [a]us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior, 3 knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, 4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” 5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, 6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. 7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and [b]perdition of ungodly men.
8 But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward [c]us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
The Day of the Lord
10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be [d]burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 2 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
Be Steadfast
14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; 15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, 16 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
17 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with/STOP
NOW don’t panic we are not going to parse ever verse here, but there is a flow of discussion which I want you to see and understand and to know that God has been dealing with the problems we are experiencing here in America for millennia. Yes. Thousands of years are what God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit knows about.
Verses 1-4 set the stage– Peter wants to stir up our pure minds about claims against our faith. So we would remember what the prophets have said many times before.
Then Peter launches into the same drivel you hear today from scoffers, the highly educated and talking heads of today. Don’t we hear this all the time?
“Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” Hey nothing’s changed man! Where is your God today, they ask? In the midst of this moral dilemma of increasing deception, distrust, lies and general acceleration of sin towards our very children you ask and they ask you where is God? As a matter of fact since they believe there is no God there is therefore no retribution or punishment we can do whatever we want. Satan is convincing them that their depravity and sickness is good.
Act 1. Enter verses 5- 7. 5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, 6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. 7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and [b]perdition of ungodly men.
Because of a creator God who separated the waters from the earth, used the waters to purge a sinful earth. In Genesis 6 we find these verses -5 Then [c]the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent[d] of the thoughts of his heart was only evil [e]continually. 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So God destroyed the earth but a remnant. But God is not finished with this world and because you don’t see Him at work you contrive in your hearts to again repeat this gross sinning and God has reserved the earth for a final fire and judgement.
You should know why God tarries – God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. So God is at work even in this mess and His timing is infinite.
Act 2- God is coming soon, despite what you think. How is as a thief in the night. Quickly, quietly and efficiently He is coming soon for believers. And when He comes at last He will fulfill His promise of burning the trash of what has been built and will address the future new earth. In this coming Peter asks - what manner of persons ought you to be ? But he doesn’t stop there. Looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God. Well you can’t hasten the coming kingdom asleep in your recliner, can you? We should be at work because according to this message and the events happening around us the days are short.
Act 3. So how do we hasten the day-
1. We, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. You and I are supposed to be forward looking according to the promises of God in His word. There will be His righteousness and purity. Ever heard the phrases standing on the promises. And
2. Be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; 15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. Diligent on the spot ready to be found by Him in peace, without spot or blemish. There is only 1 way to achieve this. It is learning to walk in the Spirit with Jesus Christ, Her us the one who forgives, He is the one who grants peace and not as the world gives peace 1st John 1:7 says this - 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.
So learn to walk in the Spirit which is the same as being “in Christ.”
Persevering and being longsuffering is a trait which according to our text is something to be desired and emulated as it was of Jesus. Most don’t want to suffer. They pray for a free pass to omit the suffering and persecution. According to this who is our guide and example – Jesus?
Now to the Finale.
Being In Christ or walking in the Spirit has one final and absolute benefit – this keeps your heart in line with the heart of God and allows you to hear Him speak. It prevents you from falling into what it says in verse 16 - which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
Some of the Scripture is difficult to discern on your own and without the Holy Spirit you will be included in the untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
This is why there is no fear of God. This is why people demand that there is nothing in the bible preventing homosexuality, or abortion, or cheating, or lying or any kind of marriage between a man and his computer or a dog or a horse of 5 men and 6 /Women. Again, Satan’s pitch - “Hath God said?” If you do not know your scripture deception is coming soon to your doorstep and may already be there.
But Peter was not quite done – One more revelation to be made in the Finale.
You and I are cautioned to not stop but to finish strong – read from verse 17 -beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away. Beware it is easy to fail and then fall away. If it can happen multiple times to the Jews in the OT and to the people of God in the New Testament, why do you think God cautions us about if your heart turns away.
Adam and Eve were clearly unprepared to meet Satan in the garden that day. They had not boned up or talked about God’s commands for their obedience and so failed to folly. It happens in this world every day. Well intentioned people fail in complying with God’s directives and it is called sin. It is a virulent and deadly disease which effects the hearts of man.
So what can we do for today? Be diligent, forward looking for His future coming, learning to live in Christ by studying His promises. Aware of our great potential to slip and not to finish well. These are the days where the sons of Issachar are seeking the righteousness of Christ and His truth. Are you a son/daughter of Issachar?
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
Sermon May 15
The Prayer in the Garden
36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. 38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.”
39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, [h]if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” 43 And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy.
44 So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour [i]is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”
But they all betrayed Him, but John and Peter trailed behind.
Go now to verse 69:
69 Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came to him, saying, “You also were with Jesus of Galilee.”
70 But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are saying.”
71 And when he had gone out to the gateway, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, “This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth.”
72 But again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the Man!”
73 And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, “Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.”
74 Then he began to [o]curse and [p]swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!”
Immediately a rooster crowed. 75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly.
Have you ever wept bitterly concerning your spiritual condition, after you failed the Lord? Some can clearly related to Peter and his promise to be faithful, yet in the hour of their testing they have failed miserably. Is this you today? I believe all of us as we will one day stand before Jesus and look into the eyes of His love and confess we too have been down the path. Today might you ask yourself “What is my spiritual condition? Might you ask yourself are you watching and praying, lest you enter into temptation, as these days unfold.
I sometimes find myself adrift, so unaware and not really tuned into God’s agenda. Notice Jesus’ message to Peter who is half asleep - 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Peter who has just promised undying faithfulness falls short and ends up denying Jesus because of his fear of men and what they could do to him, versus the love of the one who was soon to die for him. This is a tough place for our hearts to be in today’s world.
The press of today’s world where the prince of the power of the air controls TV, political parties, the internet and directs the immoral and deceptive lives of many men’s is not a place to be of no opinion.
Check out 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11 - 9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie,
Note this verse- not only does lawless one {soon to be revealed} come in accordance with the power of Satan to deceive those who perish. Now this is bad enough that people are being deceived with lies and dishonest and turning from the truth of God’s salvation.
A second momentous event is happening here and it is very important. Besides Satan’s tools are bringing strong delusion but now God does something significant. Verse 11 - 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie…
Do you wonder at why there seems to be an acceleration in the coming and continual revelation of new forms of evil? Think about it, how many shot in Chicago last week in 4 days – I believe the number was 74 people including 2 6 yr. old’s and a 9-yr. old. What can people be thinking? Some Teen kills 10 people in a market shoot up and films himself doing it. The Opioid crisis - Mexican drug cartels have taken a blow since public health lockdowns in China have halted the supply of chemicals used to make synthetic opioids. In some cases, the shortage has led to inflated drug prices. The drug crisis has killed over 107K young Americans, so far and is continuing. The hypocrisy over the leaked decision on abortion and the lies made by our government. The issues regarding baby formula, inflation, the open border and so on are just samples of how the Constitution and the rule of law are basically being unenforced by our “elected” politicians and their appointed bureaucrats.
This deception is rampant. If we are believers we need to seriously consider the consequences of verse 11 – God will send them strong delusion. This is happening already in our society. Do you think this is something that is only happening in these last days? Go back to the Old Testament and look at the warnings of the prophets- Ezekiel, Isaiah, Jeremiah. They tell the people don’t listen to the King and his advisors, judgement is coming – repent and return that your sins may be washed away. But they don’t. turn away.
Deception has been happening and is happening and we as believers need to be aware of what is happening or as it says {Matt. 24:24} - For false Christ’s and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. That is you and I - the elect of God.
What is says is that God permits deception as His people depart in their hearts initially and gradually begin turning away. Then, they no longer hear, and they go and serve other Gods and actually worship other things - money, sex, power, drugs, and many other religions. The even deny the true God and want to cast Him out. So the deceiver sows deception and then God allows it to flow abundantly. Do you suppose Jesus knew this when He issues His warning to Peter and the other disciples?
Let’s get the context of when this warning by Jesus is given. These words are spoken in the greatest hour of temptation that Jesus is enduring. He has had the upper room meeting instituting the Lord’s Supper in replacement for the Passover. The betrayal of Judas has begun as Satan fills him as he is going out and will soon return to kiss His Lord in a final betrayal act. Satan is tempting Jesus to quit now and not go through all this suffering and Jesus is praying – Not my will be done but Thine.
In this very time Jesus comes lovingly to those three special disciples who He has asked to keep watch with Him to speak a warning vs. 37- 41 - and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Jesus knew what was soon to happen to Peter and He was giving him fair warning to watch and pray. Watch and pray – who was Peter to watch and pray? Jesus that’s who. Jesus by His actions was showing the way to remain steadfast in His devotion and loyalty to God and to Himself. Basically to Peter – pay attention! If you want to remain steadfast in your testimony and devotion to your God, you must watch Me and seek Me in prayer and focus your attention on My will. If you get diverted or you drift away, you will fail despite the fact you have a willing spirit, because your flesh – those human desires, make you weak.
41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
This prescription applies to you and I as well. We can all fail because we are not watching, nor praying and temptation came and we gave in for we were not strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. {Eph 6:10}
This is what we see historically when we read Kings, Chronicles, Judges, Ruth and Deuteronomy and hear God using the prophets to admonish the Jews. The people failed for they lost their focus on God. They were deceived and left God for the immediate pleasures of this earth and to sin against God. But their sin and deception eventually goes further to even deny the existence of God and His rightful place in their lives and the life of the nation. We see this continually in the Old Testament and this is what we see in America today. And in addition to hating and denying God these rebels today want to destroy anyone who wants to shine a light on their sin. Jesus continually reminded His disciples if they hated Me they will hate you.
So we have described the problem, the question is – is there a solution?
Yes there is - 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Watch and pray or you fall into temptation, for the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. These two phrases are key.
Watch and Pray- Jesus told the disciples to follow Me and He would make them fishers of Men. And it says that the disciples dropped what they were doing and followed Him. As you read in the book of Matthew everything Jesus did after calling the disciples to Himself was to have them watch and observer all He was doing. That is why it is important for you to spend time cultivating a deep personal relationship with Jesus. He says {Matt. 11:28-29} 28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am [a]gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. It is critically important to find rest for your souls in Jesus.
He is the only one who can help you find the rest you need. Not as the world gives, but only as He is able to give will you then find rest. To enter this practice of watching and praying you must learn to use the Word of God.
The Holy Spirit will guide you in the application and awareness of specific verses, phrases and text which you will need for your life event. Since God is omniscient He will help you have a heart prepared for the week to come. He knows the tests, trials and problems which you will face and He will be able to strengthen your heart and mind in Himself to resist or flee the coming temptation.
Next briefly scan Ephesians 6 – the full armor of God. vs. 12-13: 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of [c]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God
So this is a spiritual fight- you need the armor of God. So here it is - having girded your waist with truth,{Jesus and the Word of God are truth} having put on the breastplate of righteousness, {Christ is your only righteousness}15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace {studying the word of God}; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith {hearing God’s word}with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, {Christ’s gift from His life and death}and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance
Do you see the parallels here -41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation?
Lastly with all perseverance, we can easily miss this. Without due diligence it is difficult to keep up to what God wants if you don’t hear His voice. Jesus said My sheep hear My voice and I know them. Do you know the voice of Jesus leading you to peace and safety this morning? Is He helping you to watch and pray, or are you listening to Him.
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
The Prayer in the Garden
36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. 38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.”
39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, [h]if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” 43 And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy.
44 So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour [i]is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”
But they all betrayed Him, but John and Peter trailed behind.
Go now to verse 69:
69 Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came to him, saying, “You also were with Jesus of Galilee.”
70 But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are saying.”
71 And when he had gone out to the gateway, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, “This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth.”
72 But again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the Man!”
73 And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, “Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.”
74 Then he began to [o]curse and [p]swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!”
Immediately a rooster crowed. 75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly.
Have you ever wept bitterly concerning your spiritual condition, after you failed the Lord? Some can clearly related to Peter and his promise to be faithful, yet in the hour of their testing they have failed miserably. Is this you today? I believe all of us as we will one day stand before Jesus and look into the eyes of His love and confess we too have been down the path. Today might you ask yourself “What is my spiritual condition? Might you ask yourself are you watching and praying, lest you enter into temptation, as these days unfold.
I sometimes find myself adrift, so unaware and not really tuned into God’s agenda. Notice Jesus’ message to Peter who is half asleep - 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Peter who has just promised undying faithfulness falls short and ends up denying Jesus because of his fear of men and what they could do to him, versus the love of the one who was soon to die for him. This is a tough place for our hearts to be in today’s world.
The press of today’s world where the prince of the power of the air controls TV, political parties, the internet and directs the immoral and deceptive lives of many men’s is not a place to be of no opinion.
Check out 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11 - 9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie,
Note this verse- not only does lawless one {soon to be revealed} come in accordance with the power of Satan to deceive those who perish. Now this is bad enough that people are being deceived with lies and dishonest and turning from the truth of God’s salvation.
A second momentous event is happening here and it is very important. Besides Satan’s tools are bringing strong delusion but now God does something significant. Verse 11 - 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie…
Do you wonder at why there seems to be an acceleration in the coming and continual revelation of new forms of evil? Think about it, how many shot in Chicago last week in 4 days – I believe the number was 74 people including 2 6 yr. old’s and a 9-yr. old. What can people be thinking? Some Teen kills 10 people in a market shoot up and films himself doing it. The Opioid crisis - Mexican drug cartels have taken a blow since public health lockdowns in China have halted the supply of chemicals used to make synthetic opioids. In some cases, the shortage has led to inflated drug prices. The drug crisis has killed over 107K young Americans, so far and is continuing. The hypocrisy over the leaked decision on abortion and the lies made by our government. The issues regarding baby formula, inflation, the open border and so on are just samples of how the Constitution and the rule of law are basically being unenforced by our “elected” politicians and their appointed bureaucrats.
This deception is rampant. If we are believers we need to seriously consider the consequences of verse 11 – God will send them strong delusion. This is happening already in our society. Do you think this is something that is only happening in these last days? Go back to the Old Testament and look at the warnings of the prophets- Ezekiel, Isaiah, Jeremiah. They tell the people don’t listen to the King and his advisors, judgement is coming – repent and return that your sins may be washed away. But they don’t. turn away.
Deception has been happening and is happening and we as believers need to be aware of what is happening or as it says {Matt. 24:24} - For false Christ’s and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. That is you and I - the elect of God.
What is says is that God permits deception as His people depart in their hearts initially and gradually begin turning away. Then, they no longer hear, and they go and serve other Gods and actually worship other things - money, sex, power, drugs, and many other religions. The even deny the true God and want to cast Him out. So the deceiver sows deception and then God allows it to flow abundantly. Do you suppose Jesus knew this when He issues His warning to Peter and the other disciples?
Let’s get the context of when this warning by Jesus is given. These words are spoken in the greatest hour of temptation that Jesus is enduring. He has had the upper room meeting instituting the Lord’s Supper in replacement for the Passover. The betrayal of Judas has begun as Satan fills him as he is going out and will soon return to kiss His Lord in a final betrayal act. Satan is tempting Jesus to quit now and not go through all this suffering and Jesus is praying – Not my will be done but Thine.
In this very time Jesus comes lovingly to those three special disciples who He has asked to keep watch with Him to speak a warning vs. 37- 41 - and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Jesus knew what was soon to happen to Peter and He was giving him fair warning to watch and pray. Watch and pray – who was Peter to watch and pray? Jesus that’s who. Jesus by His actions was showing the way to remain steadfast in His devotion and loyalty to God and to Himself. Basically to Peter – pay attention! If you want to remain steadfast in your testimony and devotion to your God, you must watch Me and seek Me in prayer and focus your attention on My will. If you get diverted or you drift away, you will fail despite the fact you have a willing spirit, because your flesh – those human desires, make you weak.
41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
This prescription applies to you and I as well. We can all fail because we are not watching, nor praying and temptation came and we gave in for we were not strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. {Eph 6:10}
This is what we see historically when we read Kings, Chronicles, Judges, Ruth and Deuteronomy and hear God using the prophets to admonish the Jews. The people failed for they lost their focus on God. They were deceived and left God for the immediate pleasures of this earth and to sin against God. But their sin and deception eventually goes further to even deny the existence of God and His rightful place in their lives and the life of the nation. We see this continually in the Old Testament and this is what we see in America today. And in addition to hating and denying God these rebels today want to destroy anyone who wants to shine a light on their sin. Jesus continually reminded His disciples if they hated Me they will hate you.
So we have described the problem, the question is – is there a solution?
Yes there is - 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Watch and pray or you fall into temptation, for the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. These two phrases are key.
Watch and Pray- Jesus told the disciples to follow Me and He would make them fishers of Men. And it says that the disciples dropped what they were doing and followed Him. As you read in the book of Matthew everything Jesus did after calling the disciples to Himself was to have them watch and observer all He was doing. That is why it is important for you to spend time cultivating a deep personal relationship with Jesus. He says {Matt. 11:28-29} 28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am [a]gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. It is critically important to find rest for your souls in Jesus.
He is the only one who can help you find the rest you need. Not as the world gives, but only as He is able to give will you then find rest. To enter this practice of watching and praying you must learn to use the Word of God.
The Holy Spirit will guide you in the application and awareness of specific verses, phrases and text which you will need for your life event. Since God is omniscient He will help you have a heart prepared for the week to come. He knows the tests, trials and problems which you will face and He will be able to strengthen your heart and mind in Himself to resist or flee the coming temptation.
Next briefly scan Ephesians 6 – the full armor of God. vs. 12-13: 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of [c]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God
So this is a spiritual fight- you need the armor of God. So here it is - having girded your waist with truth,{Jesus and the Word of God are truth} having put on the breastplate of righteousness, {Christ is your only righteousness}15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace {studying the word of God}; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith {hearing God’s word}with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, {Christ’s gift from His life and death}and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance
Do you see the parallels here -41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation?
Lastly with all perseverance, we can easily miss this. Without due diligence it is difficult to keep up to what God wants if you don’t hear His voice. Jesus said My sheep hear My voice and I know them. Do you know the voice of Jesus leading you to peace and safety this morning? Is He helping you to watch and pray, or are you listening to Him.
Ask Him today and He will show you the Way!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more.
AMEN
Sermon May 8
One of the great struggles of the Christian life is remaining constant in our love and relationship with our God. Sometimes we wrestle with the reality of- is there actually a God is heaven who loves and cares for me? In the midst of trials and circumstances when we don’t see a light or find the end of the tunnel of misery, or our prayers are not answered; we might mistakenly be led to think or question does He really love Me, and then by definition does He exist? Or maybe I just lived in fantasy land and wanted God to love me so I made Him up? Many might call this blasphemous for raising this issue, for after all how can you be a believer and not believe in God? I will ask you in return – How can someone who says they are a believer behave in ways as if there is no God? This behavior and activity resulting in unbelief and fear comes from the evil one and results from our delusion and deception. And maybe even depression
This conundrum which must be faced, and thought through to find clarity and understanding.
Let’s go back to basics- As a believer in Jesus Christ - God Is and He, the God who is has revealed Himself in different ways. The way to find God is to use His Word to seek Him and know Him. Many so-called believers drift away because of a failure to know God ‘s truth in His Word; His truth not our feelings and by faith we strive {struggle} to know- the God who Is and that He is a God who can be found.
Sometimes unbelief and doubt are permitted in our lives to test us and to grow our faith. If you doubt this then you haven’t been reading your bibles. Job was tested and did a great job of staying loyal but even this great man of God had struggles with doubt and personal testing. Let’s proceed by allowing the word of God to reveal to us this fact and truth: There is a God of Men and that He loves us and that this God Is and chooses to reveal Himself to men. He reveals Himself so they might have a close personal relationship to know Him, love Him and worship Him. After all, “{So}God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that [h]moves on the earth.” Note this is the actual, factual record about creation, so why would God choose not to want to have fellowship with us?
There is one primary reason for God’s reticence and that is sin. You must remember that above all God is Holy, Righteous and Just, you cannot approach God as is He was someone just like you. He is God and our sin has separated us from Him. God has provided a way to forgive our sin and remove this separation. Let’s wait a moment before addressing this solution for His solution is part of who God Is, so standby.
Going to the end of God’s Book – the Bible, the book of Revelation and note what the verse says. This will is our key verse. John, the apostle who Jesus loved, is the receiver of this testimony from Heaven. Actually this book comes from the Glorified Jesus Himself as the living, breathing Son of God in all His glory. He allowed these words to be spoken to John in the book of Revelation 21:3
And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.
Now if you are here today and you need some encouragement from the God who is, here is some real truth. Break this verse down into its various phrases– the tabernacle of God, is with men. He will dwell with them, they shall be His people, God Himself will be with them and the God who is will be their God. Look at these 4 special features as we discuss this verse-
Feature #I. The tabernacle of God is with men – The Tabernacle - this is God’s home a replica of which was tramped about by the Israelites as they traipsed in the wilderness and into the promised land until the temple was built. Then parts of the elements of the earthly tabernacle transferred into the earthly temples. And if you remember these were replica of the heavenly temple. They were copies and not the originals. This Revelation series tabernacle of God will be the original not a copy. Sanctified and purified men will exist and be present within and by the tabernacle of God. These humans being will have been translated physically and spiritually into the Kingdom or our Lord and God. He is the God who is and only He will be able to do this for only God can sanctify and cleanse us to stand in His presence and not be destroyed. We will exist with the God who is.
Feature #II. He will dwell with them. For God to dwell with man sin will have been eradicated; for sin is what destroyed people and caused our separation from God. Return with me to Genesis – which means birth or creation. God created man and woman to be in the garden with Him and to walk in the cool of the garden to have fellowship with El Shaddai – God Almighty our creator. All was in perfection, beauty and peace and harmony. There was the joy of spending time together in perfection, but this did not last. Man had a flaw not to trust in the One who was their creator. A tempter came into the garden and caused them to doubt the truth of what God had commanded. God had said, “but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” Satan questioned this “Hath God said you will surely die?” He created doubt as to the truth of what God had said about the tree and its fruit. So on the basis of their best judgement they ate and their disobedience created a legacy of sin, which Paul tells us – the wages of that sin for all men is death. Because of sin God had to remove Adam and Eve from His presence. Every time sin occurs, it is sin which separates us from God and creates enmity with God because He cannot tolerate sin.
In Revelation we are told that in this new heaven and new earth where God is living and keeping His tabernacle with men there is no sin which separates. All has been redeemed. Can you imagine living a holy pure and sinless life in the presence of God? There is no death, no disease, no aging and all is well with my soul, what a wonderful place which the God who is has prepared for us. So we will dwell with Him.
Feature # III. and they shall be His people. What an amazing statement. If you look through His story of the Bible. Yes, it is His story – Jesus is laced all through each book of the Bible. You see Jesus is God. He is a part of the Godhead who is. We have three in one – God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit these three are together one and they are God. So if we begin in Genesis and we walk through all 39 books of the Old Testament we see the God who is calling a people to be His own. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Joseph up unto Moses, Joshua then in the promised land. Leading then to the Judges, then to Eli and Samuel as Priests, then the Kings – Saul, David and Solomon. Then comes the divided Kingdoms - Judah which seem to split between those Kings that sought-after God and those who did not. And Israel which continually worshiped the Baals. All the way through the prophets – Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jerimiah and all the minor prophets like Joel, Micah and to Malachi, the peoples sin continually ruins their relationship to God and He is a jealous God. He calls and provides spiritual leaders who draw them to God; the people rebel and He punishes them. 163 times in the OT. Then the God who is uses the phrase, ”then you will know I am the Lord.” 67 times in Ezekiel alone he pronounces these words to the people and the leaders. His people don’t seem to be making it happen and don’t respond.
But the God who is was aware and continued His love toward us so while we were yet sinners, Christ was born, suffered and died for us (Rom. 5.8)
And the God who is had a plan – John 3:16 6 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 1:12 says this - 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the [e]right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
The end result is the God who is enabled a people who were not a people, both Jew and Gentile, to become part of God’s family. How did this happened? When they received Christ the Holy Spirit now took up residence in their hearts and now lives there forever.
Feature # IV. But the God who is was not yet done in establishing and completing His plan - the remainder of our verse in Revelation 21: 3 says this - God Himself will be with them and be their God.
How can this be? Even the people of God, the Jews continually sin and have hard hearts. The prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel recorded a similar promise from God. This while the nation of Israel was again loving sin more that loving God and marching off into rebellion and judgement. Jeremiah records this promise from God, 38 They shall be My people, and I will be their God; 39 then I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear Me forever, for the good of them and their children after them. 40 And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from doing them good; but I will put My fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from Me.
This promise was fulfilled in the people of God what Jesus died on the cross and the Holy Spirit came. He is working and is alive gloriously in the lives of God’s children after being saved from death to life. The Holy Spirt has been shed abroad in our hearts to give us a new heart and to live no longer to self but to live as servants to God.
Unfortunately the desired completed perfection is not yet perfectly accomplished in our lives as believers still because of sin today. How do we sin – we lack faith and demonstrate unbelief in what God is able to do.
We still have doubting hearts? Isn’t that what we are really talking about today? There is a final step in achieving this end result promised in Revelations 21:3, the reuniting of body and soul in heaven. There is a time coming soon when the God who is will make incorruptible that which is currently corruptible. He will join the souls of those men and women who are in heaven and those who are alive on the earth in a moment in the twinkling of an eye to have been fully translated into the kingdom of our God. When that happens our hearts and bodies will be made radically new so that we can exist in the presence of God. Remember He told the prophet that He would need to hide his body in the cleft of the rock and could only see His back – to see God in our present form is to die.
You will not find the God who is in the newspaper or on the nightly news channels, nor in press releases from your representatives state or local. They are full of deception and delusion Nor will you find Him in novels or periodicals or rock music, cars and drugs, sex or power.
So where can we find the God who is ? If you are a believer - know He lives in you. Know He wants to speak with you. His sheep hear His voice and He knows them. The God who is, is in all of creation- moon and stars . He is speaking in your day for day. He is in everything He created. He is in His Word, He is in prayer. He is in fellowship with believers. He is in Mother Day. if you will simply seek to find and know Him with all your heart.
Addendum
Very much like our nation is doing today. America is winging its way into deep and dark deception. This verse from Thessalonians tells the truth of today. 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie,
Deception leads to delusion and we are in that spiral in America today. We have a crisis of truth. The truth is everything that is happening in America is by choice, by plan and by actions of the leaders being counseled by those who are evil. The peril in America is not from foreign entities, or from a failing economy, or because of inflation, it is because we have chosen to worship other gods. We are not more inclusive or understanding of the truth, we are more deceptive, discriminatory and judgmental than ever because we have lost our standard – the Bible and there is no fear, honor or reverence for our God, so our unrighteous deception is causing God to send strong delusion. Our nation is deluded and far from God and sin is rampant.
But God is able in all things He is the God who is forever and ever – Amen!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Seek Him.
One of the great struggles of the Christian life is remaining constant in our love and relationship with our God. Sometimes we wrestle with the reality of- is there actually a God is heaven who loves and cares for me? In the midst of trials and circumstances when we don’t see a light or find the end of the tunnel of misery, or our prayers are not answered; we might mistakenly be led to think or question does He really love Me, and then by definition does He exist? Or maybe I just lived in fantasy land and wanted God to love me so I made Him up? Many might call this blasphemous for raising this issue, for after all how can you be a believer and not believe in God? I will ask you in return – How can someone who says they are a believer behave in ways as if there is no God? This behavior and activity resulting in unbelief and fear comes from the evil one and results from our delusion and deception. And maybe even depression
This conundrum which must be faced, and thought through to find clarity and understanding.
Let’s go back to basics- As a believer in Jesus Christ - God Is and He, the God who is has revealed Himself in different ways. The way to find God is to use His Word to seek Him and know Him. Many so-called believers drift away because of a failure to know God ‘s truth in His Word; His truth not our feelings and by faith we strive {struggle} to know- the God who Is and that He is a God who can be found.
Sometimes unbelief and doubt are permitted in our lives to test us and to grow our faith. If you doubt this then you haven’t been reading your bibles. Job was tested and did a great job of staying loyal but even this great man of God had struggles with doubt and personal testing. Let’s proceed by allowing the word of God to reveal to us this fact and truth: There is a God of Men and that He loves us and that this God Is and chooses to reveal Himself to men. He reveals Himself so they might have a close personal relationship to know Him, love Him and worship Him. After all, “{So}God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that [h]moves on the earth.” Note this is the actual, factual record about creation, so why would God choose not to want to have fellowship with us?
There is one primary reason for God’s reticence and that is sin. You must remember that above all God is Holy, Righteous and Just, you cannot approach God as is He was someone just like you. He is God and our sin has separated us from Him. God has provided a way to forgive our sin and remove this separation. Let’s wait a moment before addressing this solution for His solution is part of who God Is, so standby.
Going to the end of God’s Book – the Bible, the book of Revelation and note what the verse says. This will is our key verse. John, the apostle who Jesus loved, is the receiver of this testimony from Heaven. Actually this book comes from the Glorified Jesus Himself as the living, breathing Son of God in all His glory. He allowed these words to be spoken to John in the book of Revelation 21:3
And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.
Now if you are here today and you need some encouragement from the God who is, here is some real truth. Break this verse down into its various phrases– the tabernacle of God, is with men. He will dwell with them, they shall be His people, God Himself will be with them and the God who is will be their God. Look at these 4 special features as we discuss this verse-
Feature #I. The tabernacle of God is with men – The Tabernacle - this is God’s home a replica of which was tramped about by the Israelites as they traipsed in the wilderness and into the promised land until the temple was built. Then parts of the elements of the earthly tabernacle transferred into the earthly temples. And if you remember these were replica of the heavenly temple. They were copies and not the originals. This Revelation series tabernacle of God will be the original not a copy. Sanctified and purified men will exist and be present within and by the tabernacle of God. These humans being will have been translated physically and spiritually into the Kingdom or our Lord and God. He is the God who is and only He will be able to do this for only God can sanctify and cleanse us to stand in His presence and not be destroyed. We will exist with the God who is.
Feature #II. He will dwell with them. For God to dwell with man sin will have been eradicated; for sin is what destroyed people and caused our separation from God. Return with me to Genesis – which means birth or creation. God created man and woman to be in the garden with Him and to walk in the cool of the garden to have fellowship with El Shaddai – God Almighty our creator. All was in perfection, beauty and peace and harmony. There was the joy of spending time together in perfection, but this did not last. Man had a flaw not to trust in the One who was their creator. A tempter came into the garden and caused them to doubt the truth of what God had commanded. God had said, “but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” Satan questioned this “Hath God said you will surely die?” He created doubt as to the truth of what God had said about the tree and its fruit. So on the basis of their best judgement they ate and their disobedience created a legacy of sin, which Paul tells us – the wages of that sin for all men is death. Because of sin God had to remove Adam and Eve from His presence. Every time sin occurs, it is sin which separates us from God and creates enmity with God because He cannot tolerate sin.
In Revelation we are told that in this new heaven and new earth where God is living and keeping His tabernacle with men there is no sin which separates. All has been redeemed. Can you imagine living a holy pure and sinless life in the presence of God? There is no death, no disease, no aging and all is well with my soul, what a wonderful place which the God who is has prepared for us. So we will dwell with Him.
Feature # III. and they shall be His people. What an amazing statement. If you look through His story of the Bible. Yes, it is His story – Jesus is laced all through each book of the Bible. You see Jesus is God. He is a part of the Godhead who is. We have three in one – God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit these three are together one and they are God. So if we begin in Genesis and we walk through all 39 books of the Old Testament we see the God who is calling a people to be His own. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Joseph up unto Moses, Joshua then in the promised land. Leading then to the Judges, then to Eli and Samuel as Priests, then the Kings – Saul, David and Solomon. Then comes the divided Kingdoms - Judah which seem to split between those Kings that sought-after God and those who did not. And Israel which continually worshiped the Baals. All the way through the prophets – Isaiah, Ezekiel, Jerimiah and all the minor prophets like Joel, Micah and to Malachi, the peoples sin continually ruins their relationship to God and He is a jealous God. He calls and provides spiritual leaders who draw them to God; the people rebel and He punishes them. 163 times in the OT. Then the God who is uses the phrase, ”then you will know I am the Lord.” 67 times in Ezekiel alone he pronounces these words to the people and the leaders. His people don’t seem to be making it happen and don’t respond.
But the God who is was aware and continued His love toward us so while we were yet sinners, Christ was born, suffered and died for us (Rom. 5.8)
And the God who is had a plan – John 3:16 6 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 1:12 says this - 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the [e]right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
The end result is the God who is enabled a people who were not a people, both Jew and Gentile, to become part of God’s family. How did this happened? When they received Christ the Holy Spirit now took up residence in their hearts and now lives there forever.
Feature # IV. But the God who is was not yet done in establishing and completing His plan - the remainder of our verse in Revelation 21: 3 says this - God Himself will be with them and be their God.
How can this be? Even the people of God, the Jews continually sin and have hard hearts. The prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel recorded a similar promise from God. This while the nation of Israel was again loving sin more that loving God and marching off into rebellion and judgement. Jeremiah records this promise from God, 38 They shall be My people, and I will be their God; 39 then I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear Me forever, for the good of them and their children after them. 40 And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from doing them good; but I will put My fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from Me.
This promise was fulfilled in the people of God what Jesus died on the cross and the Holy Spirit came. He is working and is alive gloriously in the lives of God’s children after being saved from death to life. The Holy Spirt has been shed abroad in our hearts to give us a new heart and to live no longer to self but to live as servants to God.
Unfortunately the desired completed perfection is not yet perfectly accomplished in our lives as believers still because of sin today. How do we sin – we lack faith and demonstrate unbelief in what God is able to do.
We still have doubting hearts? Isn’t that what we are really talking about today? There is a final step in achieving this end result promised in Revelations 21:3, the reuniting of body and soul in heaven. There is a time coming soon when the God who is will make incorruptible that which is currently corruptible. He will join the souls of those men and women who are in heaven and those who are alive on the earth in a moment in the twinkling of an eye to have been fully translated into the kingdom of our God. When that happens our hearts and bodies will be made radically new so that we can exist in the presence of God. Remember He told the prophet that He would need to hide his body in the cleft of the rock and could only see His back – to see God in our present form is to die.
You will not find the God who is in the newspaper or on the nightly news channels, nor in press releases from your representatives state or local. They are full of deception and delusion Nor will you find Him in novels or periodicals or rock music, cars and drugs, sex or power.
So where can we find the God who is ? If you are a believer - know He lives in you. Know He wants to speak with you. His sheep hear His voice and He knows them. The God who is, is in all of creation- moon and stars . He is speaking in your day for day. He is in everything He created. He is in His Word, He is in prayer. He is in fellowship with believers. He is in Mother Day. if you will simply seek to find and know Him with all your heart.
Addendum
Very much like our nation is doing today. America is winging its way into deep and dark deception. This verse from Thessalonians tells the truth of today. 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie,
Deception leads to delusion and we are in that spiral in America today. We have a crisis of truth. The truth is everything that is happening in America is by choice, by plan and by actions of the leaders being counseled by those who are evil. The peril in America is not from foreign entities, or from a failing economy, or because of inflation, it is because we have chosen to worship other gods. We are not more inclusive or understanding of the truth, we are more deceptive, discriminatory and judgmental than ever because we have lost our standard – the Bible and there is no fear, honor or reverence for our God, so our unrighteous deception is causing God to send strong delusion. Our nation is deluded and far from God and sin is rampant.
But God is able in all things He is the God who is forever and ever – Amen!
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Seek Him.
Sermon May 1
God has heavenly medicine for healing the hearts of men, especially in these days of trails and tribulation brought on by the increasing deception and lying which occurs like a pestilence upon our people and our nation. We need to be praying, God have mercy on our souls, for every nation is suffering because of disobedience and the disowning of God as part of our heritage. The sacrilege and profaning of Godly values and God Himself reaches new heights of sin almost daily and it is proclaimed from the highest house tops. There is no shame or fear of God!- Oh God have mercy upon us. And we think this is bad, compared to what it says in the Book of Revelation this is merely the beginning of trials. How horrendous it will be to exist or try to exist for our children and our children’s children in the days to come.
But like it says God has medicine for His people in these days. But you must first choose to seek it and secondly after you seek it, you must take it. That means swallowing it down all the way until it becomes internalized within that individual. There is no other way to survive and have the Word of God give life to an individual. This is the way of God provided by salvation in Jesus Christ, for He is the Way and He is the only Way to receive mercy and grace in the time of need. There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin sick soul. That balm is the Son of God, Jesus Christ who shed His blood on Calvary for the likes of you and me. God has established this earth and this people as His. He created this place. He created man and women, one race with various hues, languages, customs, foods and other distinguishing traits. He created the family, the earth and commanded Men to be good stewards not fools for some crazy environmental construct which does not promote science but skepticism and mistruth, and is a means to punish and separate what God has made.
Do you remember the warning in the Bible which says in these latter days Men will demean and misconstrue that which is good?
As usual God has a cure and we can sample it to see if it is good by simply looking at the Book of Hebrews, Chapter 12, beginning at the first verse.
Let’s begin our lesson with a word of prayer – God let me say thank you for today. For the breath to breath, for the heart to beat, to sit in the sun and to know you love. Thank you for this marvelous and wondrous book – the Bible for it is life. Enrich our hearts and minds today O Lord our strength and our redeemer. AMEN
Read with me now from Hebrews 12
12 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
The Discipline of God
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. 4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:
“My son, do not despise the [c]chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens,
And scourges every son whom He receives.”
7 If[d] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11 Now no [e]chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Renew Your Spiritual Vitality
12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.
So as we begin looking at verse 1 – who is the author? No one knows for sure is it Paul or someone of the other Apostles, or is it someone unknown. Many scholars have tried to unwind this and we will not involve ourselves there. Whoever the writer _ he was filled with the Holy Spirit and was anointed of God to write this text. And we remember all of God’s word is Spirit led and Spirit bred for your edification and understanding. It is rich and powerful and sharper than a two-edged sword, piercing to the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit and is a diviner of the thoughts and intents of the heart .(Heb 4:12)
This text was written for encouragement of those who were suffering persecution, especially the Hebrew population who have converted to faith in Christ – read
12 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Point I. From the text folks were having trouble staying with their faith in Christ – could be today as many depart the truth. What causes stumbling? It is the sin which so easily surrounds, besets us or ensnares us. So in order to maintain our faith we cannot surrender but we must lay aside whatever causes us to fail and not endure. How hard is it to persevere? Only you know the answer to that, for it differs for every one of us. What trips you up may be a hiccup for me or vice versa. But what does every marathon runner do? They focus on the prize at the finish line. So first as a believer we have to realize this life is a race but it is not a simple sprint to the finish line wit is a long duration trial. We have to look toward the finish line. Answer me, Who has already gotten to the finish line? – why the author and finisher of our faith – Jesus. He is our example, He is our strong tower and He is the one who will walk, jog, and draw us to the finish line and be with us. How can He do so? Well, He has already endured the cross for you sin and my sin. We never have to pay the penalty for that sin, It has been paid in full. And to do so He has despised the shame. So there is no penalty or shame which could be put upon you our yours that the Lord Jesus has not already suffered so you do not need to fret for this. Jesus has paid it all. So don’t fear, Jesus completed the work of redemption. This is not your home and these are not your own, you have been bought with the price of Jesus blood and it is forever sealed in heaven for Jesus sacrifice was accepted and He is seated at the right hand of the Father is heaven. His word was finished. The writer also adds verse 3 for our consideration and benefit -3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. We become weary when we think we alone in our suffering and having these issues. If you keep your eyes upon Jesus – for consider Him who endured such hostility against Himself from sinners. He was on mission from God and so are you.
Point II. The writer reminds us that God allows suffering and difficulties within His sons and daughters. 4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:
“My son, do not despise the [c]chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens,
And scourges every son whom He receives.”
7 If[d] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
From the book of Proverbs Chapter 3 we receive the reminder that God is working out all things according to the purpose of His will {Eph.1.11); To will and to work for His good pleasure.{Phil.2:13) Conforming us to the image of His Son (Rom. 8). So why despise and hate the chastening {Instruction} which is being given or try to avoid it as most modern Christians do. We always believe we are doing something wrong, like not having enough faith, when we don’t receive what we want. Is God not sovereign and does He not rule in heaven and in earth. So as Paul says this light affliction will appear as nothing in eternity, so keep on keeping on.
Now there is a warning here as well - 7 If[d] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
So what should you be telling those that follow false teachers who teach a gospel of doing adequate works or not having enough faith who say all should work out for you with little or no trials -Verse 8 says - if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. Translation – you are not a child of the King, you are unsaved and without redemption, you are at enmity with God the Father and are condemned to Hell. Best pay attention and check to see if your heart is right before God right now!
Point III. As a boost or a foot stomp to point 11, God reminds us of some practical factors – read from verse 8- 9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11 Now no [e]chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Two items to relate to here – First. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? Don’t you guys remember how your parents disciplined and corrected you? Didn’t they do what they thought was best for you, despite the fact you didn’t like what you called punishment and they called a deep expression of their love for you. God’s love and greatest expression of His love can be in correction, chastening or instruction for your benefit.
We should probably examine some of our assumptions about being in the crucible of God’s love. Some might even relate to this as being the winepress of Gods chastisement. Each of us can think of those whose walk with God has been much more demanding than ours. So we have to choose how to relate to this suffering. Will we lose our faith and step away from God because of our difficulties or will we continue to understand that our paths are each different and unique and are part of God’s personal plan for us?
Notice the benefit if we accept and surrender to the will and purpose of God, walking by Faith in the midst of the trial- Verse 11. no [e]chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
God promises something which you cannot gain on your own except by standing fast in the crucible of God’s plan - the peaceable fruit of righteousness who have been trained by it. God’s word says Heb 5 :8 - 8 though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. 9 And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him. If we are to keep our eyes upon Jesus then we need to pay attention to what Jesus went through before casting off our faith – if we really love Him. Do you love Him enough to suffer for Him today?
Last point – don’t be a stumbling block preventing others from coming to Christ, vs. 12 12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.
If you fail and are not strengthened then you can prevent the lame from being healed. You need to make straight paths for others to receive the gospel yes sometimes by your grace, peace and righteousness in the midst of the suffering you are enduring – what do we sing + Let others see Jesus in you. I pray that you might do that today and let your light shine for Christ in this dark day. Standing fast as it says in Ephesians 6 – Having put on the full armor of God and having done all to stand fast in the evil day. Amen
Has Jesus Christ risen in your hearts today or in a prior day if so confess Him before men and before the angels is heaven today.
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen.
God has heavenly medicine for healing the hearts of men, especially in these days of trails and tribulation brought on by the increasing deception and lying which occurs like a pestilence upon our people and our nation. We need to be praying, God have mercy on our souls, for every nation is suffering because of disobedience and the disowning of God as part of our heritage. The sacrilege and profaning of Godly values and God Himself reaches new heights of sin almost daily and it is proclaimed from the highest house tops. There is no shame or fear of God!- Oh God have mercy upon us. And we think this is bad, compared to what it says in the Book of Revelation this is merely the beginning of trials. How horrendous it will be to exist or try to exist for our children and our children’s children in the days to come.
But like it says God has medicine for His people in these days. But you must first choose to seek it and secondly after you seek it, you must take it. That means swallowing it down all the way until it becomes internalized within that individual. There is no other way to survive and have the Word of God give life to an individual. This is the way of God provided by salvation in Jesus Christ, for He is the Way and He is the only Way to receive mercy and grace in the time of need. There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin sick soul. That balm is the Son of God, Jesus Christ who shed His blood on Calvary for the likes of you and me. God has established this earth and this people as His. He created this place. He created man and women, one race with various hues, languages, customs, foods and other distinguishing traits. He created the family, the earth and commanded Men to be good stewards not fools for some crazy environmental construct which does not promote science but skepticism and mistruth, and is a means to punish and separate what God has made.
Do you remember the warning in the Bible which says in these latter days Men will demean and misconstrue that which is good?
As usual God has a cure and we can sample it to see if it is good by simply looking at the Book of Hebrews, Chapter 12, beginning at the first verse.
Let’s begin our lesson with a word of prayer – God let me say thank you for today. For the breath to breath, for the heart to beat, to sit in the sun and to know you love. Thank you for this marvelous and wondrous book – the Bible for it is life. Enrich our hearts and minds today O Lord our strength and our redeemer. AMEN
Read with me now from Hebrews 12
12 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
The Discipline of God
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. 4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:
“My son, do not despise the [c]chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens,
And scourges every son whom He receives.”
7 If[d] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11 Now no [e]chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Renew Your Spiritual Vitality
12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.
So as we begin looking at verse 1 – who is the author? No one knows for sure is it Paul or someone of the other Apostles, or is it someone unknown. Many scholars have tried to unwind this and we will not involve ourselves there. Whoever the writer _ he was filled with the Holy Spirit and was anointed of God to write this text. And we remember all of God’s word is Spirit led and Spirit bred for your edification and understanding. It is rich and powerful and sharper than a two-edged sword, piercing to the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit and is a diviner of the thoughts and intents of the heart .(Heb 4:12)
This text was written for encouragement of those who were suffering persecution, especially the Hebrew population who have converted to faith in Christ – read
12 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the [a]author and [b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Point I. From the text folks were having trouble staying with their faith in Christ – could be today as many depart the truth. What causes stumbling? It is the sin which so easily surrounds, besets us or ensnares us. So in order to maintain our faith we cannot surrender but we must lay aside whatever causes us to fail and not endure. How hard is it to persevere? Only you know the answer to that, for it differs for every one of us. What trips you up may be a hiccup for me or vice versa. But what does every marathon runner do? They focus on the prize at the finish line. So first as a believer we have to realize this life is a race but it is not a simple sprint to the finish line wit is a long duration trial. We have to look toward the finish line. Answer me, Who has already gotten to the finish line? – why the author and finisher of our faith – Jesus. He is our example, He is our strong tower and He is the one who will walk, jog, and draw us to the finish line and be with us. How can He do so? Well, He has already endured the cross for you sin and my sin. We never have to pay the penalty for that sin, It has been paid in full. And to do so He has despised the shame. So there is no penalty or shame which could be put upon you our yours that the Lord Jesus has not already suffered so you do not need to fret for this. Jesus has paid it all. So don’t fear, Jesus completed the work of redemption. This is not your home and these are not your own, you have been bought with the price of Jesus blood and it is forever sealed in heaven for Jesus sacrifice was accepted and He is seated at the right hand of the Father is heaven. His word was finished. The writer also adds verse 3 for our consideration and benefit -3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. We become weary when we think we alone in our suffering and having these issues. If you keep your eyes upon Jesus – for consider Him who endured such hostility against Himself from sinners. He was on mission from God and so are you.
Point II. The writer reminds us that God allows suffering and difficulties within His sons and daughters. 4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin. 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:
“My son, do not despise the [c]chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens,
And scourges every son whom He receives.”
7 If[d] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
From the book of Proverbs Chapter 3 we receive the reminder that God is working out all things according to the purpose of His will {Eph.1.11); To will and to work for His good pleasure.{Phil.2:13) Conforming us to the image of His Son (Rom. 8). So why despise and hate the chastening {Instruction} which is being given or try to avoid it as most modern Christians do. We always believe we are doing something wrong, like not having enough faith, when we don’t receive what we want. Is God not sovereign and does He not rule in heaven and in earth. So as Paul says this light affliction will appear as nothing in eternity, so keep on keeping on.
Now there is a warning here as well - 7 If[d] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
So what should you be telling those that follow false teachers who teach a gospel of doing adequate works or not having enough faith who say all should work out for you with little or no trials -Verse 8 says - if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. Translation – you are not a child of the King, you are unsaved and without redemption, you are at enmity with God the Father and are condemned to Hell. Best pay attention and check to see if your heart is right before God right now!
Point III. As a boost or a foot stomp to point 11, God reminds us of some practical factors – read from verse 8- 9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11 Now no [e]chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Two items to relate to here – First. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? Don’t you guys remember how your parents disciplined and corrected you? Didn’t they do what they thought was best for you, despite the fact you didn’t like what you called punishment and they called a deep expression of their love for you. God’s love and greatest expression of His love can be in correction, chastening or instruction for your benefit.
We should probably examine some of our assumptions about being in the crucible of God’s love. Some might even relate to this as being the winepress of Gods chastisement. Each of us can think of those whose walk with God has been much more demanding than ours. So we have to choose how to relate to this suffering. Will we lose our faith and step away from God because of our difficulties or will we continue to understand that our paths are each different and unique and are part of God’s personal plan for us?
Notice the benefit if we accept and surrender to the will and purpose of God, walking by Faith in the midst of the trial- Verse 11. no [e]chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
God promises something which you cannot gain on your own except by standing fast in the crucible of God’s plan - the peaceable fruit of righteousness who have been trained by it. God’s word says Heb 5 :8 - 8 though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. 9 And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him. If we are to keep our eyes upon Jesus then we need to pay attention to what Jesus went through before casting off our faith – if we really love Him. Do you love Him enough to suffer for Him today?
Last point – don’t be a stumbling block preventing others from coming to Christ, vs. 12 12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.
If you fail and are not strengthened then you can prevent the lame from being healed. You need to make straight paths for others to receive the gospel yes sometimes by your grace, peace and righteousness in the midst of the suffering you are enduring – what do we sing + Let others see Jesus in you. I pray that you might do that today and let your light shine for Christ in this dark day. Standing fast as it says in Ephesians 6 – Having put on the full armor of God and having done all to stand fast in the evil day. Amen
Has Jesus Christ risen in your hearts today or in a prior day if so confess Him before men and before the angels is heaven today.
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen.
Sermon April 24
Resurrecting a person is/was like nothing anyone had ever seen or experienced before. No person on earth could have ever pictured or grasped the idea that a man who we know as God – Jesus, could or would raise someone from the dead. God was soon to raise Jesus as well but Sunday was a not yet come, but it was a coming.
So here we have an unknown and unchartered territory of experience and faith. God knew what He was about to do and God was looking to build faith into His children. This is always the path of increasing faith. God speaks and challenges us and then presents an opportunity where you have no clue about what God is about to do, but He wants you to be spiritually sensitive and alert to His moving and then join Him by faith.
Now some of us would like to believe that God never tests us beyond what we are able. While this is true because ultimately, He is able and He always provides the way. But it is also true He challenges your faith by presenting impossible circumstances where you must walk by faith without knowing how God has already moved. Note this statement how God has already- God has the answer already prepared for what He is going to do; but He wants to show you His ways as your faith is challenged in walking with Him.
Think of Jesus challenging the disciples to feed the 5000 with what a few loaves and some fishes. How He calmed His disciples and the raging sea with the words – “Be still.” How He actually touched a leper and spoke the words – “I will” and the man was made clean. Or consider Moses on the far side of the mountain tending his sheep. When God revealed Himself and spoke to Moses He said I am sending you to Pharaoh, God already knew what He planned to do with Moses. But Moses instead of listening to this revelation and trusting began explaining to God why this idea wouldn’t work.
Do you understand if God is leading and we are following by faith, He can do anything? You see God always challenges us at the point of our unbelief to trust Him one step further. For if He reveals Himself, He is asking you to join Him. And God already knows what He is planning on doing, but you don’t. You may actually become frightened because of the scope of what He is calling you to do.
So if God speaks to you and reveals Himself, His purposes or His ways you can expect He will drive this truth home by what He does sometime soon. And we need to know and understand that God has already provisioned all your need to accomplished that which He has is calling you to do. Our Mission in joining Him is to learn to believe and yield by responding in faith.
We see these truths played out just prior to the Crucifixion of Jesus when He raises Lazarus from the dead. In John 11, verse 25, Jesus made this statement -25 Jesus said to her {Martha), “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Mary, Martha and Lazarus were close companions of Jesus upon this earth and He often stayed in their home. 7 “Yes, Lord,” Martha replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
Jesus was about to reveal to her the truth of these words. Jesus went away and specifically waited for the death of Lazarus. Jesus was about to reveal something to Martha and His disciples that they might have never known That He was the resurrection and the life. Jesus as the Son of God knew Lazarus would die. Jesus also knew He would raise Him up from the dead. Jesus was about to boldly teach Mary His ways.
Now in verse 40 Jesus has returned and Lazarus is dead- Mary’s comment was, “if you had been here {sooner}he would not have died.
40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Remember Jesus had previously challenged Mary and Martha that He was the resurrection and the life.
But Martha was not focused on a spiritual truth she was all worried about the decaying and stinking smell of Her dead brother.
Do you suppose Jesus who had made the statement about being the resurrection and the life might be making an opportunity to prove and demonstrated who His is? So He called Lazarus forth from the grave to give His new life, but Lazarus would eventually die. But this event would take Mary and Martha beyond what they knew about God, teaching them to walk “In Him” and not according to what they knew or thought about what God in Jesus could do
Meditate on this verse 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Even today and right now God is calling and wanting us to see His glorious power of what He has done in the shedding of blood, death and burial of Jesus. Did you know that in the events of the crucifixion that the glory of God was revealed and the resurrection power was released and active by Jesus obedience? It was and it is so easy to miss it. Do you know where we see it?
We see God’s glory released in lives radically changed for Jesus.
Let’s skip toward the end of the crucifixion and read here to see the glory of God as it is revealed John Chapter 19, verses 28
28 After this, Jesus, [e]knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” 29 Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. 30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
Jesus’ Side Is Pierced
31 Therefore, because it was the Preparation Day, that the bodies should not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. 32 Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who was crucified with Him. 33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35 And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. 36 For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. 41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
From Mark 15:39 - 39 And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.
And finally there was the thief of the cross Luke 23: 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said [k]to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Do you see the glory of God being revealed in individual lives as Jesus is being sacrificed and crucified? God’s saving grace and power is being released into the lives of those who had previously been thieves, hardened professional soldiers, Businessmen and parts of the Levitical priesthood.
What a range of people God in Jesus Christ have touched into declaring for Jesus in the very hours, according to Satan, where Jesus was being defeated. Look at these men closer.
#1 A Pharisee – Nicodemus who came to Jesus by night. We find his story in John, Chapter 3. Nicodemus came to supposedly to determine who Jesus was. But the questions and answers we have recorded were different. Jesus saw the what was in the priest’s heart so there was actually a discussion of what was needed to see and to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. What was necessary in God’s kingdom to just see and then actually to enter was to be born from above. Meaning since each of us were sinners we had to have God change our hearts. This was only possible if Jesus by the Holy Spirit quickened or awakened and individual so the he or she could first “see” the kingdom and then to “enter” His kingdom. We find here that wonderful verse – John 3/16- for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. First – the God, Second that God so loved you that He would send His only Son. If you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, by faith, you can enter the kingdom of Heaven. On the day of Jesus death – this hidden disciple cast off his fear of men and by burying Jesus and bringing Him down from the cross openly professed to his family and fellow religious leaders that he loved Jesus. By this selfless act He is no longer a closet believer but has confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior.
#2 – a respected and wealthy businessman associated with the religious leaders and prominent in the community – Joseph of Arimathea. Another closet believer who on the day of Jesus death by his actions in boldly going to Pilate to request the body of Jesus. By this action Joseph was declaring his open respect and honor for the Son of God who was soon to become His risen, living Lord. Not only did He request the body of Jesus, Joseph was going to bury Him in his newly purchased tomb. We always hear that Jesus was buried in a borrowed tomb of a rich man. Joseph on the day of Jesus death by these actions was declaring to the Romans to the Jewish Leadership, to his family and to the Jewish nation that he loved this man. But today was Friday – as Satan rejoiced and the evil leaders of the Jews swaggered at their immediate success, and the disciples and the Mary’s wept and hid, Sunday was a coming and soon He would be back – resurrected and healed on Sunday. The power of the love of God had blossomed in the life of Joseph of Arimathea.
#3. The thief on the cross. Here we see a convicted felon who openly confessed and rebuked his fellow thief not to mock Jesus. He confessed to Jesus that they were receiving their just reward for their sins but that this man had done nothing to deserve this sentence. I believe God’s grace was given to this man by the Holy Spirit to know that Jesus had something in His demeanor that was wonderful, holy and represented a goodness that he, the thief, could never attain. He saw Jesus as what he a sinner could never be righteous and holy. He asked Jesus to remember him, a lowly thief, when He entered His kingdom. We remember Jesus loving and forgiving response – today thou shalt be with Me in paradise. What a promise in the midst of a horrible death. When the thief closed His eyes in death, the thief would be with Jesus in His kingdom. Forgiven and sanctified while on the cross – Hope for all for the last minute of death.
#4 – The Centurion. Totally unexpected that a battle-hardened, Marine type soldier would see Jesus as He was scourged, beaten, spat upon and mistreated by all would state of Jesus at the end, Truly this man was the Son of God. This centurion may have been the one to oversee all of Jesus punishments as He came before Pilate. He was in charge of the detachment responsible for crucifixions. His men had probably conducted hundreds of crucifixions and they were emotionally and physically hardened to these events. To some extent these soldiers may have even gotten their revenge on the Jews by perversely enjoying these events. But the Centurion’s heart had been transformed by the compassionate actions under pressure of Jesus. I am sure He could not believe that Jesus prayed for those who punished Him from the cross – Father forgive them for they know not what they do. He saw the compassion of the man for His mother as He gave Mary to John as His mother. I believe this man saw the Love of God in action and it changed Him forever.
This is the demonstrated power of the resurrection even before it happened. This was a sorrowful Friday, but Sunday was a coming; and the Lord of Lords and King of Kings was about to rise in the heavens and Oh what a glorious day. He was risen in the hearts of these men even before He rose again from the dead and His is Lord forever and ever. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen.
Resurrecting a person is/was like nothing anyone had ever seen or experienced before. No person on earth could have ever pictured or grasped the idea that a man who we know as God – Jesus, could or would raise someone from the dead. God was soon to raise Jesus as well but Sunday was a not yet come, but it was a coming.
So here we have an unknown and unchartered territory of experience and faith. God knew what He was about to do and God was looking to build faith into His children. This is always the path of increasing faith. God speaks and challenges us and then presents an opportunity where you have no clue about what God is about to do, but He wants you to be spiritually sensitive and alert to His moving and then join Him by faith.
Now some of us would like to believe that God never tests us beyond what we are able. While this is true because ultimately, He is able and He always provides the way. But it is also true He challenges your faith by presenting impossible circumstances where you must walk by faith without knowing how God has already moved. Note this statement how God has already- God has the answer already prepared for what He is going to do; but He wants to show you His ways as your faith is challenged in walking with Him.
Think of Jesus challenging the disciples to feed the 5000 with what a few loaves and some fishes. How He calmed His disciples and the raging sea with the words – “Be still.” How He actually touched a leper and spoke the words – “I will” and the man was made clean. Or consider Moses on the far side of the mountain tending his sheep. When God revealed Himself and spoke to Moses He said I am sending you to Pharaoh, God already knew what He planned to do with Moses. But Moses instead of listening to this revelation and trusting began explaining to God why this idea wouldn’t work.
Do you understand if God is leading and we are following by faith, He can do anything? You see God always challenges us at the point of our unbelief to trust Him one step further. For if He reveals Himself, He is asking you to join Him. And God already knows what He is planning on doing, but you don’t. You may actually become frightened because of the scope of what He is calling you to do.
So if God speaks to you and reveals Himself, His purposes or His ways you can expect He will drive this truth home by what He does sometime soon. And we need to know and understand that God has already provisioned all your need to accomplished that which He has is calling you to do. Our Mission in joining Him is to learn to believe and yield by responding in faith.
We see these truths played out just prior to the Crucifixion of Jesus when He raises Lazarus from the dead. In John 11, verse 25, Jesus made this statement -25 Jesus said to her {Martha), “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Mary, Martha and Lazarus were close companions of Jesus upon this earth and He often stayed in their home. 7 “Yes, Lord,” Martha replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
Jesus was about to reveal to her the truth of these words. Jesus went away and specifically waited for the death of Lazarus. Jesus was about to reveal something to Martha and His disciples that they might have never known That He was the resurrection and the life. Jesus as the Son of God knew Lazarus would die. Jesus also knew He would raise Him up from the dead. Jesus was about to boldly teach Mary His ways.
Now in verse 40 Jesus has returned and Lazarus is dead- Mary’s comment was, “if you had been here {sooner}he would not have died.
40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Remember Jesus had previously challenged Mary and Martha that He was the resurrection and the life.
But Martha was not focused on a spiritual truth she was all worried about the decaying and stinking smell of Her dead brother.
Do you suppose Jesus who had made the statement about being the resurrection and the life might be making an opportunity to prove and demonstrated who His is? So He called Lazarus forth from the grave to give His new life, but Lazarus would eventually die. But this event would take Mary and Martha beyond what they knew about God, teaching them to walk “In Him” and not according to what they knew or thought about what God in Jesus could do
Meditate on this verse 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Even today and right now God is calling and wanting us to see His glorious power of what He has done in the shedding of blood, death and burial of Jesus. Did you know that in the events of the crucifixion that the glory of God was revealed and the resurrection power was released and active by Jesus obedience? It was and it is so easy to miss it. Do you know where we see it?
We see God’s glory released in lives radically changed for Jesus.
Let’s skip toward the end of the crucifixion and read here to see the glory of God as it is revealed John Chapter 19, verses 28
28 After this, Jesus, [e]knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” 29 Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. 30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
Jesus’ Side Is Pierced
31 Therefore, because it was the Preparation Day, that the bodies should not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. 32 Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who was crucified with Him. 33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35 And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. 36 For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. 41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
From Mark 15:39 - 39 And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.
And finally there was the thief of the cross Luke 23: 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said [k]to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Do you see the glory of God being revealed in individual lives as Jesus is being sacrificed and crucified? God’s saving grace and power is being released into the lives of those who had previously been thieves, hardened professional soldiers, Businessmen and parts of the Levitical priesthood.
What a range of people God in Jesus Christ have touched into declaring for Jesus in the very hours, according to Satan, where Jesus was being defeated. Look at these men closer.
#1 A Pharisee – Nicodemus who came to Jesus by night. We find his story in John, Chapter 3. Nicodemus came to supposedly to determine who Jesus was. But the questions and answers we have recorded were different. Jesus saw the what was in the priest’s heart so there was actually a discussion of what was needed to see and to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. What was necessary in God’s kingdom to just see and then actually to enter was to be born from above. Meaning since each of us were sinners we had to have God change our hearts. This was only possible if Jesus by the Holy Spirit quickened or awakened and individual so the he or she could first “see” the kingdom and then to “enter” His kingdom. We find here that wonderful verse – John 3/16- for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. First – the God, Second that God so loved you that He would send His only Son. If you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, by faith, you can enter the kingdom of Heaven. On the day of Jesus death – this hidden disciple cast off his fear of men and by burying Jesus and bringing Him down from the cross openly professed to his family and fellow religious leaders that he loved Jesus. By this selfless act He is no longer a closet believer but has confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior.
#2 – a respected and wealthy businessman associated with the religious leaders and prominent in the community – Joseph of Arimathea. Another closet believer who on the day of Jesus death by his actions in boldly going to Pilate to request the body of Jesus. By this action Joseph was declaring his open respect and honor for the Son of God who was soon to become His risen, living Lord. Not only did He request the body of Jesus, Joseph was going to bury Him in his newly purchased tomb. We always hear that Jesus was buried in a borrowed tomb of a rich man. Joseph on the day of Jesus death by these actions was declaring to the Romans to the Jewish Leadership, to his family and to the Jewish nation that he loved this man. But today was Friday – as Satan rejoiced and the evil leaders of the Jews swaggered at their immediate success, and the disciples and the Mary’s wept and hid, Sunday was a coming and soon He would be back – resurrected and healed on Sunday. The power of the love of God had blossomed in the life of Joseph of Arimathea.
#3. The thief on the cross. Here we see a convicted felon who openly confessed and rebuked his fellow thief not to mock Jesus. He confessed to Jesus that they were receiving their just reward for their sins but that this man had done nothing to deserve this sentence. I believe God’s grace was given to this man by the Holy Spirit to know that Jesus had something in His demeanor that was wonderful, holy and represented a goodness that he, the thief, could never attain. He saw Jesus as what he a sinner could never be righteous and holy. He asked Jesus to remember him, a lowly thief, when He entered His kingdom. We remember Jesus loving and forgiving response – today thou shalt be with Me in paradise. What a promise in the midst of a horrible death. When the thief closed His eyes in death, the thief would be with Jesus in His kingdom. Forgiven and sanctified while on the cross – Hope for all for the last minute of death.
#4 – The Centurion. Totally unexpected that a battle-hardened, Marine type soldier would see Jesus as He was scourged, beaten, spat upon and mistreated by all would state of Jesus at the end, Truly this man was the Son of God. This centurion may have been the one to oversee all of Jesus punishments as He came before Pilate. He was in charge of the detachment responsible for crucifixions. His men had probably conducted hundreds of crucifixions and they were emotionally and physically hardened to these events. To some extent these soldiers may have even gotten their revenge on the Jews by perversely enjoying these events. But the Centurion’s heart had been transformed by the compassionate actions under pressure of Jesus. I am sure He could not believe that Jesus prayed for those who punished Him from the cross – Father forgive them for they know not what they do. He saw the compassion of the man for His mother as He gave Mary to John as His mother. I believe this man saw the Love of God in action and it changed Him forever.
This is the demonstrated power of the resurrection even before it happened. This was a sorrowful Friday, but Sunday was a coming; and the Lord of Lords and King of Kings was about to rise in the heavens and Oh what a glorious day. He was risen in the hearts of these men even before He rose again from the dead and His is Lord forever and ever. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen.
Sermon April 17
Resurrecting a person is/was like nothing anyone had ever seen or experienced before. No person on earth could have ever pictured or grasped the idea that a man who we know as God – Jesus, could or would raise someone from the dead. God was soon to raise Jesus as well but Sunday was a not yet come, but it was a coming.
So here we have an unknown and unchartered territory of experience and faith. God knew what He was about to do and God was looking to build faith into His children. This is always the path of increasing faith. God speaks and challenges us and then presents an opportunity where you have no clue about what God is about to do, but He wants you to be spiritually sensitive and alert to His moving and then join Him by faith.
Now some of us would like to believe that God never tests us beyond what we are able. While this is true because ultimately, He is able and He always provides the way. But it is also true He challenges your faith by presenting impossible circumstances where you must walk by faith without knowing how God has already moved. Note this statement how God has already- God has the answer already prepared for what He is going to do; but He wants to show you His ways as your faith is challenged in walking with Him.
Think of Jesus challenging the disciples to feed the 5000 with what a few loaves and some fishes. How He calmed His disciples and the raging sea with the words – “Be still.” How He actually touched a leper and spoke the words – “I will” and the man was made clean. Or consider Moses on the far side of the mountain tending his sheep. When God revealed Himself and spoke to Moses He said I am sending you to Pharaoh, God already knew what He planned to do with Moses. But Moses instead of listening to this revelation and trusting began explaining to God why this idea wouldn’t work.
Do you understand if God is leading and we are following by faith, He can do anything? You see God always challenges us at the point of our unbelief to trust Him one step further. For if He reveals Himself, He is asking you to join Him. And God already knows what He is planning on doing, but you don’t. You may actually become frightened because of the scope of what He is calling you to do.
So if God speaks to you and reveals Himself, His purposes or His ways you can expect He will drive this truth home by what He does sometime soon. And we need to know and understand that God has already provisioned all your need to accomplished that which He has is calling you to do. Our Mission in joining Him is to learn to believe and yield by responding in faith.
We see these truths played out just prior to the Crucifixion of Jesus when He raises Lazarus from the dead. In John 11, verse 25, Jesus made this statement -25 Jesus said to her {Martha), “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Mary, Martha and Lazarus were close companions of Jesus upon this earth and He often stayed in their home. 7 “Yes, Lord,” Martha replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
Jesus was about to reveal to her the truth of these words. Jesus went away and specifically waited for the death of Lazarus. Jesus was about to reveal something to Martha and His disciples that they might have never known That He was the resurrection and the life. Jesus as the Son of God knew Lazarus would die. Jesus also knew He would raise Him up from the dead. Jesus was about to boldly teach Mary His ways.
Now in verse 40 Jesus has returned and Lazarus is dead- Mary’s comment was, “if you had been here {sooner}he would not have died.
40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Remember Jesus had previously challenged Mary and Martha that He was the resurrection and the life.
But Martha was not focused on a spiritual truth she was all worried about the decaying and stinking smell of Her dead brother.
Do you suppose Jesus who had made the statement about being the resurrection and the life might be making an opportunity to prove and demonstrated who His is? So He called Lazarus forth from the grave to give His new life, but Lazarus would eventually die. But this event would take Mary and Martha beyond what they knew about God, teaching them to walk “In Him” and not according to what they knew or thought about what God in Jesus could do
Meditate on this verse 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Even today and right now God is calling and wanting us to see His glorious power of what He has done in the shedding of blood, death and burial of Jesus. Did you know that in the events of the crucifixion that the glory of God was revealed and the resurrection power was released and active by Jesus obedience? It was and it is so easy to miss it. Do you know where we see it?
We see God’s glory released in lives radically changed for Jesus.
Let’s skip toward the end of the crucifixion and read here to see the glory of God as it is revealed John Chapter 19, verses 28
28 After this, Jesus, [e]knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” 29 Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. 30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
Jesus’ Side Is Pierced
31 Therefore, because it was the Preparation Day, that the bodies should not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. 32 Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who was crucified with Him. 33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35 And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. 36 For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. 41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
From Mark 15:39 - 39 And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.
And finally there was the thief of the cross Luke 23: 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said [k]to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Do you see the glory of God being revealed in individual lives as Jesus is being sacrificed and crucified? God’s saving grace and power is being released into the lives of those who had previously been thieves, hardened professional soldiers, Businessmen and parts of the Levitical priesthood.
What a range of people God in Jesus Christ have touched into declaring for Jesus in the very hours, according to Satan, where Jesus was being defeated. Look at these men closer.
#1 A Pharisee – Nicodemus who came to Jesus by night. We find his story in John, Chapter 3.
Resurrecting a person is/was like nothing anyone had ever seen or experienced before. No person on earth could have ever pictured or grasped the idea that a man who we know as God – Jesus, could or would raise someone from the dead. God was soon to raise Jesus as well but Sunday was a not yet come, but it was a coming.
So here we have an unknown and unchartered territory of experience and faith. God knew what He was about to do and God was looking to build faith into His children. This is always the path of increasing faith. God speaks and challenges us and then presents an opportunity where you have no clue about what God is about to do, but He wants you to be spiritually sensitive and alert to His moving and then join Him by faith.
Now some of us would like to believe that God never tests us beyond what we are able. While this is true because ultimately, He is able and He always provides the way. But it is also true He challenges your faith by presenting impossible circumstances where you must walk by faith without knowing how God has already moved. Note this statement how God has already- God has the answer already prepared for what He is going to do; but He wants to show you His ways as your faith is challenged in walking with Him.
Think of Jesus challenging the disciples to feed the 5000 with what a few loaves and some fishes. How He calmed His disciples and the raging sea with the words – “Be still.” How He actually touched a leper and spoke the words – “I will” and the man was made clean. Or consider Moses on the far side of the mountain tending his sheep. When God revealed Himself and spoke to Moses He said I am sending you to Pharaoh, God already knew what He planned to do with Moses. But Moses instead of listening to this revelation and trusting began explaining to God why this idea wouldn’t work.
Do you understand if God is leading and we are following by faith, He can do anything? You see God always challenges us at the point of our unbelief to trust Him one step further. For if He reveals Himself, He is asking you to join Him. And God already knows what He is planning on doing, but you don’t. You may actually become frightened because of the scope of what He is calling you to do.
So if God speaks to you and reveals Himself, His purposes or His ways you can expect He will drive this truth home by what He does sometime soon. And we need to know and understand that God has already provisioned all your need to accomplished that which He has is calling you to do. Our Mission in joining Him is to learn to believe and yield by responding in faith.
We see these truths played out just prior to the Crucifixion of Jesus when He raises Lazarus from the dead. In John 11, verse 25, Jesus made this statement -25 Jesus said to her {Martha), “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Mary, Martha and Lazarus were close companions of Jesus upon this earth and He often stayed in their home. 7 “Yes, Lord,” Martha replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
Jesus was about to reveal to her the truth of these words. Jesus went away and specifically waited for the death of Lazarus. Jesus was about to reveal something to Martha and His disciples that they might have never known That He was the resurrection and the life. Jesus as the Son of God knew Lazarus would die. Jesus also knew He would raise Him up from the dead. Jesus was about to boldly teach Mary His ways.
Now in verse 40 Jesus has returned and Lazarus is dead- Mary’s comment was, “if you had been here {sooner}he would not have died.
40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Remember Jesus had previously challenged Mary and Martha that He was the resurrection and the life.
But Martha was not focused on a spiritual truth she was all worried about the decaying and stinking smell of Her dead brother.
Do you suppose Jesus who had made the statement about being the resurrection and the life might be making an opportunity to prove and demonstrated who His is? So He called Lazarus forth from the grave to give His new life, but Lazarus would eventually die. But this event would take Mary and Martha beyond what they knew about God, teaching them to walk “In Him” and not according to what they knew or thought about what God in Jesus could do
Meditate on this verse 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
Even today and right now God is calling and wanting us to see His glorious power of what He has done in the shedding of blood, death and burial of Jesus. Did you know that in the events of the crucifixion that the glory of God was revealed and the resurrection power was released and active by Jesus obedience? It was and it is so easy to miss it. Do you know where we see it?
We see God’s glory released in lives radically changed for Jesus.
Let’s skip toward the end of the crucifixion and read here to see the glory of God as it is revealed John Chapter 19, verses 28
28 After this, Jesus, [e]knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” 29 Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. 30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
Jesus’ Side Is Pierced
31 Therefore, because it was the Preparation Day, that the bodies should not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. 32 Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who was crucified with Him. 33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35 And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. 36 For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. 39 And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. 40 Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. 41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
From Mark 15:39 - 39 And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.
And finally there was the thief of the cross Luke 23: 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said [k]to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Do you see the glory of God being revealed in individual lives as Jesus is being sacrificed and crucified? God’s saving grace and power is being released into the lives of those who had previously been thieves, hardened professional soldiers, Businessmen and parts of the Levitical priesthood.
What a range of people God in Jesus Christ have touched into declaring for Jesus in the very hours, according to Satan, where Jesus was being defeated. Look at these men closer.
#1 A Pharisee – Nicodemus who came to Jesus by night. We find his story in John, Chapter 3.
Sermon April 10
Do you remember dental hygiene training as you grew up? We were all taught about dental caries or tooth decay and what we needed to do to prevent our teeth from falling out of our heads. And they showed us pictures of people who for whatever reason had terrible teeth and how you could get really sick from these diseases. How disgusting we thought. I will never get that way. But we all now have seen people whose teeth have fallen out of their heads. So it is true all the effects that can happened to a person because of bad teeth.
But there is a far more serious disease which has infected us as a people and it is called - truth decay. Now we all smile because of this kind of funny title, but this disease has far more serious impacts. For tooth decay can only kill the human body, while truth decay can doom the soul for an eternity in hell. This is a far greater disorder that the simple problem of tooth decay.
How has this happened? Quite simply according to the bible- John 3:19 -And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
Men and women prefer sin rather than living in the truth. This has proven out since the garden of Eden. God gave us a perfect environment and yet what are we doing? According to His word – All have sinned. The wages of that sin is death and this creates enmity with God. We remain happy in our sin until God begins to illuminate our spirits, so that we can finally recognize our need and call upon His for salvation; for we need a savior. And there is only one name given among men whereby we must be saved and that is the name of Jesus. {Acts 4}
Now we can see truth decay all around us everywhere. From the time you get up in the morning and begin to read, listen or interact internally or with the culture around us, there is constant lying, denying and deception going on in everything. This extends from kindergarten to the highest courts in the land, on all media types – printed, radio, TV, internet and social interactions of all sorts. Truth in speaking and behaving and in personal relationships also seems to be more than lacking – I believe to a large extent society has become amoral. That is there are no morals. The prime driver is what’s in it for me. Self is dominant.
Isn’t it strange somehow the Bible parallels real life? Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem will lead to His death, but this portion of scripture highlights the increasing separation between light and dark for as He descends into Jerusalem. The darkness is clearly illuminated. Let’s read from Luke 19 to find the story of Jesus entry from light into darkness – verse 28 begins,
28 When He had said this, He went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 And it came to pass, when He drew near to [g]Bethphage and Bethany, at the mountain called Olivet, that He sent two of His disciples, 30 saying, “Go into the village opposite you, where as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Loose it and bring it here. 31 And if anyone asks you, ‘Why are you loosing it?’ thus you shall say to him, ‘Because the Lord has need of it.’ ”
32 So those who were sent went their way and found it just as He had said to them. 33 But as they were loosing the colt, the owners of it said to them, “Why are you loosing the colt?”
34 And they said, “The Lord has need of him.” 35 Then they brought him to Jesus. And they threw their own clothes on the colt, and they set Jesus on him. 36 And as He went, many spread their clothes on the road.
37 Then, as He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, 38 saying:
“ ‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!’
Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
39 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.”
40 But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
Jesus Weeps over Jerusalem
41 Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, 44 and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
45 Then He went into the temple and began to drive out those who [h]bought and sold in it, 46 saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house [i]is a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’”
Prayer - May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and to our understanding.
To understand truth decay we must fully comprehend two basic items in Jesus Christ our Lord. First, He is the light of the world John 8:12 - Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
And Jesus said in John 14:6 – I am the way the truth and life, no man(one) cometh to the Father but by Me.
So Jesus is both the light, the life and the truth for all men. As the Son of God, who now sits at the right hand of the Father, we can verify these as true and absolute. Why? Because they are the truth. Others may say in our day these are not their truth or their reality; but it is like the weather, our birth date, electricity, gravity and our death day, these are real but you have no control over them, whether you believe them or not they are real.
Christ then is the embodiment of truth and He represents both life and light to all men, whether you believe this reality or not.
Truth decay begins when we are born into sin and we exist in a fallen world. Everything the deceiver does is intended to cast doubt upon the truth and distort it. And Satan has been a liar from the beginning.
Notice the progression in our text
Jesus on the mount of Olives sends two into the city to secure a place for the Passover celebration vs. 28-35. So they brought the virgin colt of an ass to Jesus and He rode this animal into Jerusalem. By these actions He is declaring Himself, the fulfillment of a prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, which declare Him as the coming King.
Jesus then proceeds into Jerusalem and is declared by the people as the coming Messiah in verse 38 - saying:
“ ‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!’
As Jesus goes from the Mount of Olives into the city we begin to see the variance between the light of life which shine into the darkness and the ever-present darkness both in men and in the world.
I. The people react emotionally for they see this one coming and they react to what they remember from Old Testament scripture about the coming King. This group of thousands maybe more would be many of the same who would be stirred up just a few days later crying – Crucify Him, Crucify Him, Give us Barabbas. This shows us the depth of darkness and unreliability of men within themselves when sin rules their lives and they themselves are immersed in darkness.
II. The religious leaders didn’t represent God’s truth. They were living a lie and were in eternal darkness apart from God. Think about this. This is why evil is attaching our children in the schools today? For if the leadership is corrupted; and they are teaching the younger ones, basically indoctrinating them in lies, but are representing it as truth. where is this or any nation headed? As in Jesus day if the religious leaders are unable to recognize the truth of who Jesus is, then darkness which is evil is spreading. They are creating truth decay, instead of the truth they teach a lie.
They asked Jesus to command His disciples and of course the people to stop what they were doing – in verses 39-40 -39 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.”40 But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
The Pharisees here were trying to keep people from recognizing the truth of who Jesus is. For in the emotion of the moment and in the vague recognition of a future King coming on the colt of an ass, there is the potential some may actually believe that Jesus as Yeshua, the coming messiah. By casting doubt upon the proceedings and calling out the Pharisees are attempting to cast doubt on the legitimacy of His entry and cause fear and misunderstanding – They are creating darkness in the minds of men. Does this sound familiar when truth is presented- this is how you create truth decay
Now in the middle of all this we see Jesus reflect over Jerusalem vs 41 and following - 41 Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For days will come upon you when your enemies will embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, 44 and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”
Jesus weeps over Jerusalem – Jesus the one who represents the Truth and Light of God unto men, begins to weep as He descends into the darkness of men. “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.
What a despairing cry for His people. Jerusalem, which represents the heart of the city of God, on earth for God’s people, is so immersed in darkness. So dark in sin and unbelief that God’s people did not recognize the hour of their visitation from God in this day. Nor did they understand the message which the Truth and Light giver had which would make for peace for themselves and for all future generations. The pervasive evil of darkness has so obscured Jesus and His message they missed it.
Here is an analogy – Every Airport runway in America has what we call approach minimums. Meaning when the weather is bad you can only safely go so low to land without incident. If you choose to go below these established minimums you risk killing yourself and all your passengers. Jesus life and truth represents the runway of salvation. There are minimums for finding this runway. These include – recognizing you are a sinner, that you desperately need a savior; and you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart unto salvation; then your call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. But if you try to land on the runway of Truth and Life without the minimums you may miss the runway entirely and be destroyed. In our story Jesus weeps because the runway is so obscured by the fog of sin, misinformation and untruths being taught His people they missed Him in the hour of their visitation. This had and continues to have eternal and the most serious of consequences as they missed the Son of God who would take away their sin now and for eternity.
The enemy is creating truth decay since the beginning of life. Did He not say in the very beginning to Eve-“hath God said?” And has he not continued to cast doubt in the hearts of men through the centuries to destroy what God has made? Is the deceiver, not Lucifer, the one who said in Isaiah 14:14 – ‘I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.?’
Now take what you have heard and hopefully learned and apply it to what is happening around you in the world, in the media, in the US Congress, at the border, in the industry, in the confusion in the economy, in the schools and the wars raging across the world and what do you find? Darkness created by sin, fueled by lies, deceptions and untruths and a denial of the very basic premise that there is one God. He is ruler in the heavens and His Son is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Apart from Him you may live life for a while but you eventually will die and live eternally in darkness, torment and terror in Hell. In Him, as Lord and Savior, you have all Truth, Righteousness and the presence of the Holy Spirit living inside of you.
How does this help you? Walk into a totally dark room and tell me what you can see or perceive? Almost nothing is happening - no sounds, no sensing, no nothing, just darkness greets you. You may even bump into something. Now switch on the light and now all is seen in truth.
With the light of God actually living within you, you see and you cannot remain the same. If you do you are totally quenching the Holy Spirit or you have never actually received Him. There are no exceptions. Light and truth within you will give you what it says is verse 42- the things that make for your peace! This is peace with God and the peace of God which passes all understanding present. His Spirit and presence will permeate all parts of your life. Your very life will want to proclaim Him by what you say, how you speak, how you share what you have with others. In all areas of your life you will wish to proclaim the joy of your salvation. Is this true of you or has darkness crept in unawares? Jesus last act in our text is to cleanse the temple and destroy truth decay. He wants to do the same in all our lives today. Will you invite Him in for revival right now to cleanse His temple within you? Will you surrender all today? Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or help. He loves you. Amen.
Do you remember dental hygiene training as you grew up? We were all taught about dental caries or tooth decay and what we needed to do to prevent our teeth from falling out of our heads. And they showed us pictures of people who for whatever reason had terrible teeth and how you could get really sick from these diseases. How disgusting we thought. I will never get that way. But we all now have seen people whose teeth have fallen out of their heads. So it is true all the effects that can happened to a person because of bad teeth.
But there is a far more serious disease which has infected us as a people and it is called - truth decay. Now we all smile because of this kind of funny title, but this disease has far more serious impacts. For tooth decay can only kill the human body, while truth decay can doom the soul for an eternity in hell. This is a far greater disorder that the simple problem of tooth decay.
How has this happened? Quite simply according to the bible- John 3:19 -And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
Men and women prefer sin rather than living in the truth. This has proven out since the garden of Eden. God gave us a perfect environment and yet what are we doing? According to His word – All have sinned. The wages of that sin is death and this creates enmity with God. We remain happy in our sin until God begins to illuminate our spirits, so that we can finally recognize our need and call upon His for salvation; for we need a savior. And there is only one name given among men whereby we must be saved and that is the name of Jesus. {Acts 4}
Now we can see truth decay all around us everywhere. From the time you get up in the morning and begin to read, listen or interact internally or with the culture around us, there is constant lying, denying and deception going on in everything. This extends from kindergarten to the highest courts in the land, on all media types – printed, radio, TV, internet and social interactions of all sorts. Truth in speaking and behaving and in personal relationships also seems to be more than lacking – I believe to a large extent society has become amoral. That is there are no morals. The prime driver is what’s in it for me. Self is dominant.
Isn’t it strange somehow the Bible parallels real life? Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem will lead to His death, but this portion of scripture highlights the increasing separation between light and dark for as He descends into Jerusalem. The darkness is clearly illuminated. Let’s read from Luke 19 to find the story of Jesus entry from light into darkness – verse 28 begins,
28 When He had said this, He went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 And it came to pass, when He drew near to [g]Bethphage and Bethany, at the mountain called Olivet, that He sent two of His disciples, 30 saying, “Go into the village opposite you, where as you enter you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Loose it and bring it here. 31 And if anyone asks you, ‘Why are you loosing it?’ thus you shall say to him, ‘Because the Lord has need of it.’ ”
32 So those who were sent went their way and found it just as He had said to them. 33 But as they were loosing the colt, the owners of it said to them, “Why are you loosing the colt?”
34 And they said, “The Lord has need of him.” 35 Then they brought him to Jesus. And they threw their own clothes on the colt, and they set Jesus on him. 36 And as He went, many spread their clothes on the road.
37 Then, as He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, 38 saying:
“ ‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!’
Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
39 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.”
40 But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
Jesus Weeps over Jerusalem
41 Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, 44 and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
45 Then He went into the temple and began to drive out those who [h]bought and sold in it, 46 saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house [i]is a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’”
Prayer - May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and to our understanding.
To understand truth decay we must fully comprehend two basic items in Jesus Christ our Lord. First, He is the light of the world John 8:12 - Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
And Jesus said in John 14:6 – I am the way the truth and life, no man(one) cometh to the Father but by Me.
So Jesus is both the light, the life and the truth for all men. As the Son of God, who now sits at the right hand of the Father, we can verify these as true and absolute. Why? Because they are the truth. Others may say in our day these are not their truth or their reality; but it is like the weather, our birth date, electricity, gravity and our death day, these are real but you have no control over them, whether you believe them or not they are real.
Christ then is the embodiment of truth and He represents both life and light to all men, whether you believe this reality or not.
Truth decay begins when we are born into sin and we exist in a fallen world. Everything the deceiver does is intended to cast doubt upon the truth and distort it. And Satan has been a liar from the beginning.
Notice the progression in our text
Jesus on the mount of Olives sends two into the city to secure a place for the Passover celebration vs. 28-35. So they brought the virgin colt of an ass to Jesus and He rode this animal into Jerusalem. By these actions He is declaring Himself, the fulfillment of a prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, which declare Him as the coming King.
Jesus then proceeds into Jerusalem and is declared by the people as the coming Messiah in verse 38 - saying:
“ ‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!’
As Jesus goes from the Mount of Olives into the city we begin to see the variance between the light of life which shine into the darkness and the ever-present darkness both in men and in the world.
I. The people react emotionally for they see this one coming and they react to what they remember from Old Testament scripture about the coming King. This group of thousands maybe more would be many of the same who would be stirred up just a few days later crying – Crucify Him, Crucify Him, Give us Barabbas. This shows us the depth of darkness and unreliability of men within themselves when sin rules their lives and they themselves are immersed in darkness.
II. The religious leaders didn’t represent God’s truth. They were living a lie and were in eternal darkness apart from God. Think about this. This is why evil is attaching our children in the schools today? For if the leadership is corrupted; and they are teaching the younger ones, basically indoctrinating them in lies, but are representing it as truth. where is this or any nation headed? As in Jesus day if the religious leaders are unable to recognize the truth of who Jesus is, then darkness which is evil is spreading. They are creating truth decay, instead of the truth they teach a lie.
They asked Jesus to command His disciples and of course the people to stop what they were doing – in verses 39-40 -39 And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.”40 But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
The Pharisees here were trying to keep people from recognizing the truth of who Jesus is. For in the emotion of the moment and in the vague recognition of a future King coming on the colt of an ass, there is the potential some may actually believe that Jesus as Yeshua, the coming messiah. By casting doubt upon the proceedings and calling out the Pharisees are attempting to cast doubt on the legitimacy of His entry and cause fear and misunderstanding – They are creating darkness in the minds of men. Does this sound familiar when truth is presented- this is how you create truth decay
Now in the middle of all this we see Jesus reflect over Jerusalem vs 41 and following - 41 Now as He drew near, He saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. 43 For days will come upon you when your enemies will embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, 44 and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.”
Jesus weeps over Jerusalem – Jesus the one who represents the Truth and Light of God unto men, begins to weep as He descends into the darkness of men. “If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.
What a despairing cry for His people. Jerusalem, which represents the heart of the city of God, on earth for God’s people, is so immersed in darkness. So dark in sin and unbelief that God’s people did not recognize the hour of their visitation from God in this day. Nor did they understand the message which the Truth and Light giver had which would make for peace for themselves and for all future generations. The pervasive evil of darkness has so obscured Jesus and His message they missed it.
Here is an analogy – Every Airport runway in America has what we call approach minimums. Meaning when the weather is bad you can only safely go so low to land without incident. If you choose to go below these established minimums you risk killing yourself and all your passengers. Jesus life and truth represents the runway of salvation. There are minimums for finding this runway. These include – recognizing you are a sinner, that you desperately need a savior; and you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart unto salvation; then your call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. But if you try to land on the runway of Truth and Life without the minimums you may miss the runway entirely and be destroyed. In our story Jesus weeps because the runway is so obscured by the fog of sin, misinformation and untruths being taught His people they missed Him in the hour of their visitation. This had and continues to have eternal and the most serious of consequences as they missed the Son of God who would take away their sin now and for eternity.
The enemy is creating truth decay since the beginning of life. Did He not say in the very beginning to Eve-“hath God said?” And has he not continued to cast doubt in the hearts of men through the centuries to destroy what God has made? Is the deceiver, not Lucifer, the one who said in Isaiah 14:14 – ‘I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.?’
Now take what you have heard and hopefully learned and apply it to what is happening around you in the world, in the media, in the US Congress, at the border, in the industry, in the confusion in the economy, in the schools and the wars raging across the world and what do you find? Darkness created by sin, fueled by lies, deceptions and untruths and a denial of the very basic premise that there is one God. He is ruler in the heavens and His Son is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Apart from Him you may live life for a while but you eventually will die and live eternally in darkness, torment and terror in Hell. In Him, as Lord and Savior, you have all Truth, Righteousness and the presence of the Holy Spirit living inside of you.
How does this help you? Walk into a totally dark room and tell me what you can see or perceive? Almost nothing is happening - no sounds, no sensing, no nothing, just darkness greets you. You may even bump into something. Now switch on the light and now all is seen in truth.
With the light of God actually living within you, you see and you cannot remain the same. If you do you are totally quenching the Holy Spirit or you have never actually received Him. There are no exceptions. Light and truth within you will give you what it says is verse 42- the things that make for your peace! This is peace with God and the peace of God which passes all understanding present. His Spirit and presence will permeate all parts of your life. Your very life will want to proclaim Him by what you say, how you speak, how you share what you have with others. In all areas of your life you will wish to proclaim the joy of your salvation. Is this true of you or has darkness crept in unawares? Jesus last act in our text is to cleanse the temple and destroy truth decay. He wants to do the same in all our lives today. Will you invite Him in for revival right now to cleanse His temple within you? Will you surrender all today? Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or help. He loves you. Amen.
Sermon April 3
Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?
Lesson - What should we be doing? Why do I ask this question? We you know the day and the hour we live in America today. And we are aware of rampant inflation everything cost more and our money is worth less. It may soon be worthless if the administration continues its reckless idiocy. War is on the horizon and we are discussing an NBC event as if it some casual isolated happening that will not have world-wide impact on health and humanity. We are destroying our food supply because of our cutting the supply of oil – farmers cannot afford to run their equipment and the supply of fertilizer both foreign and domestic either comes from outside the US or it costs so much to produce and comes from oil derivatives. The administration is destroying the economy for the sake of and in the name of their elitist green new deal philosophy and accelerating the destruction of an otherwise once thriving economy.
Hate is everywhere. So can you define what is a woman? Or when does life begin? Or a million other questions that any farm born person can answer without question. In the womb and a woman has a womb. Soon and very soon they are coming to take away our freedom to worship. These progressives, no they are regressives, for they are actively destroying the constitution and will be putting this nation in peril and weakening us by having open borders and no military defensive or offensive capabilities. The elite wants to destruct and rule you. So I ask again what should you be doing?
Should we hate, destroy, run rampant go for it or should we look for the answers in our Bible, then allow God to direct our path? I thinks we know the answer.
The apostle Peter writing in 1st Peter is addressing the churches who are in the midst of suffering persecution. Persecution is coming from both from the Roman authorities and from the Jewish religious leaders. They are being persecuted as enemies of the state- isn’t that amazing. And you know what happens to their homes, their children and their possessions – the enrich the state and individual leaders. This has happen to the Canadian Truckers already and here to others as well – the cake baker in Oregon. So what does Peter say to them as inspired by the Holy Spirit in the Word -
1st Peter Chapter 2: 1-
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
The Chosen Stone and His Chosen People
4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
Living Before the World
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
What follows are two more sections about
1. Submitting to the government v.13-17
2. Submitting to unkind Masters v.18-20
And verses 21 through 25 are the story of the Suffering Servant of God and the way He suffered is the way we are to suffer. His example is never to revile but, in all ways, trusting God that He will bring vindication, judgement and justice in the end.
The sub-title for our lesson is What should we be doing in these final days or not so final days until the Lord comes? What is a body to do for our Lord in times like these?
Pray with me - Lord we pray you open our hearts and our thoughts, as we come before you to hear Your voice, lead us in the paths of righteousness everlasting - Amen
So Peter gets right on it he tells us what we should be doing in these days of trials and persecution –
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
A two-step process – Step 1 - Laying aside and Step 2 desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby. In Step 1, there goes all lying, cheating, evil speaking and envious criticism. So we are to watch our tongues as James tells us, for the tongue causes fires to rage.
Step 2 and we need to honestly assess where we stand on this- as Newborn babes we are to desire the sincere milk of the word, that we may grow thereby. Do you still have a burning desire for the Word of God to fill you or are you like me, sometimes complacent. If we are, we need to repent for the second part of this verse should cause us to pause – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. Have you asked Jesus Christ in your heart? If you have, then you know the grace and love of the Lord Jesus and what He has done for you on the cross. If you want a personal relationship, and to be strong as a Christian and to have faith that in God, then you need the Word of God in You. Jesus in His high priestly prayer in John 17, said as He prayed, “Thy word is truth.” He also said I am the way the truth and the life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me. So when we ask Jesus into our hearts by faith, we receive new life. We keep this new life fresh and by receiving the bread of life which is found in immersing ourselves in the Word of God. John 6:63 provides the capstone -
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. So if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious and want to be continually filled you will continue to have a desire for the Word, not the milk so much but the Meat of the Word and will continue to study and glean all you can. I am sure you all check out guides and books that explain things in greater detail like cook books, how to use you phone- YouTube training videos, and the like. So why are you avoiding the Word of God- it is your life.
Step 3- Orient yourselves to become His chosen Stones and His chosen People vs 4-5 4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. You are coming to Jesus who is a living stone rejected by men, but chosen by God and precious. The implication here is this also applies to you for also are rejected by men and chosen by God and are precious to Him. After all He sent Jesus to pay the penalty for your sin and mine, so you are infinitely precious in His sight. As living stones birthed by God, you are being built up into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood- praying and leading others. Why so you can offer up spiritual sacrifices - your serviced and your life which are to be acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Also note from whom your leadership comes - 6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. Your leader is the cornerstone – Jesus is the cornerstone. He is also the rock of Ages cleft for you and I our savior Immanuel .
Point 4 – note your special assignment and call to ministry as your response to what should we be doing – notice – verses 9-10: 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
A chosen generation – of the Lord
A royal priesthood – ordained by Jesus Christ
A holy nation – you are God’s children in His Son. A very peculiar and special people who have been anointed by the Holy Spirit.
Why has God done this?- That you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; to witness to the nature of an awesome God and His saving grace. Foot stomp this - our job is to call attention to God. To call to and to tell others of His glory, His majesty, His saving grace and the wonderous beauty of His Son.
Last point – You are to live Him before the World. You are to be salt and light. A candlestick on a hill radiates light and you and I are it. Read verses 11-12:
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
So don’t live as the world lives, live differently as led by the Holy Spirit of God. For if He is not leading you will not be able to follow in your own weaknesses.
Don’t lust after what the eyes sees, or what the mind thinks or the flesh desires. As a pilgrim on a dedicated journey toward the city of God and your heavenly rest don’t conflict or stress your souls by lust. Stay strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Make your conduct honorable, above board. Leave no room in your behavior which might cause others to question or to wonder about your character, your integrity and your reputation. Are you a man or woman {there are only two sexes according to the Word of God, 1 race, and 1 marriage, 1 creation not an evolution}who can stand before God and men with a clean conscience? Maybe not perfect, but you are forgiven, and are covered by His righteousness in the blood of the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. If the answer is yes, then you are following the Lord. But maybe your aren’t there yet. If that is the case then don’t quit don’t give up, you are here and God is not done with you yet and He is calling to you to obey. Will you respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and come to the Lord Jesus today?
So then the end of being a believer is not to vegetate and sit in church and worship here but to follow what Peter has said in verse 12 – that others by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Your works are to be lived before others. That means we will be criticized and ostracized, cast out even. But in the midst of the hostilities do not forget who you are. You are children of the King and your life and light in the midst of the darkness may bring others to the source of all light – Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Where are you letting your light shine before men today?
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or help. He loves you. Amen
Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?
Lesson - What should we be doing? Why do I ask this question? We you know the day and the hour we live in America today. And we are aware of rampant inflation everything cost more and our money is worth less. It may soon be worthless if the administration continues its reckless idiocy. War is on the horizon and we are discussing an NBC event as if it some casual isolated happening that will not have world-wide impact on health and humanity. We are destroying our food supply because of our cutting the supply of oil – farmers cannot afford to run their equipment and the supply of fertilizer both foreign and domestic either comes from outside the US or it costs so much to produce and comes from oil derivatives. The administration is destroying the economy for the sake of and in the name of their elitist green new deal philosophy and accelerating the destruction of an otherwise once thriving economy.
Hate is everywhere. So can you define what is a woman? Or when does life begin? Or a million other questions that any farm born person can answer without question. In the womb and a woman has a womb. Soon and very soon they are coming to take away our freedom to worship. These progressives, no they are regressives, for they are actively destroying the constitution and will be putting this nation in peril and weakening us by having open borders and no military defensive or offensive capabilities. The elite wants to destruct and rule you. So I ask again what should you be doing?
Should we hate, destroy, run rampant go for it or should we look for the answers in our Bible, then allow God to direct our path? I thinks we know the answer.
The apostle Peter writing in 1st Peter is addressing the churches who are in the midst of suffering persecution. Persecution is coming from both from the Roman authorities and from the Jewish religious leaders. They are being persecuted as enemies of the state- isn’t that amazing. And you know what happens to their homes, their children and their possessions – the enrich the state and individual leaders. This has happen to the Canadian Truckers already and here to others as well – the cake baker in Oregon. So what does Peter say to them as inspired by the Holy Spirit in the Word -
1st Peter Chapter 2: 1-
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
The Chosen Stone and His Chosen People
4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
Living Before the World
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
What follows are two more sections about
1. Submitting to the government v.13-17
2. Submitting to unkind Masters v.18-20
And verses 21 through 25 are the story of the Suffering Servant of God and the way He suffered is the way we are to suffer. His example is never to revile but, in all ways, trusting God that He will bring vindication, judgement and justice in the end.
The sub-title for our lesson is What should we be doing in these final days or not so final days until the Lord comes? What is a body to do for our Lord in times like these?
Pray with me - Lord we pray you open our hearts and our thoughts, as we come before you to hear Your voice, lead us in the paths of righteousness everlasting - Amen
So Peter gets right on it he tells us what we should be doing in these days of trials and persecution –
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
A two-step process – Step 1 - Laying aside and Step 2 desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby. In Step 1, there goes all lying, cheating, evil speaking and envious criticism. So we are to watch our tongues as James tells us, for the tongue causes fires to rage.
Step 2 and we need to honestly assess where we stand on this- as Newborn babes we are to desire the sincere milk of the word, that we may grow thereby. Do you still have a burning desire for the Word of God to fill you or are you like me, sometimes complacent. If we are, we need to repent for the second part of this verse should cause us to pause – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. Have you asked Jesus Christ in your heart? If you have, then you know the grace and love of the Lord Jesus and what He has done for you on the cross. If you want a personal relationship, and to be strong as a Christian and to have faith that in God, then you need the Word of God in You. Jesus in His high priestly prayer in John 17, said as He prayed, “Thy word is truth.” He also said I am the way the truth and the life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me. So when we ask Jesus into our hearts by faith, we receive new life. We keep this new life fresh and by receiving the bread of life which is found in immersing ourselves in the Word of God. John 6:63 provides the capstone -
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. So if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious and want to be continually filled you will continue to have a desire for the Word, not the milk so much but the Meat of the Word and will continue to study and glean all you can. I am sure you all check out guides and books that explain things in greater detail like cook books, how to use you phone- YouTube training videos, and the like. So why are you avoiding the Word of God- it is your life.
Step 3- Orient yourselves to become His chosen Stones and His chosen People vs 4-5 4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. You are coming to Jesus who is a living stone rejected by men, but chosen by God and precious. The implication here is this also applies to you for also are rejected by men and chosen by God and are precious to Him. After all He sent Jesus to pay the penalty for your sin and mine, so you are infinitely precious in His sight. As living stones birthed by God, you are being built up into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood- praying and leading others. Why so you can offer up spiritual sacrifices - your serviced and your life which are to be acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Also note from whom your leadership comes - 6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. Your leader is the cornerstone – Jesus is the cornerstone. He is also the rock of Ages cleft for you and I our savior Immanuel .
Point 4 – note your special assignment and call to ministry as your response to what should we be doing – notice – verses 9-10: 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
A chosen generation – of the Lord
A royal priesthood – ordained by Jesus Christ
A holy nation – you are God’s children in His Son. A very peculiar and special people who have been anointed by the Holy Spirit.
Why has God done this?- That you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; to witness to the nature of an awesome God and His saving grace. Foot stomp this - our job is to call attention to God. To call to and to tell others of His glory, His majesty, His saving grace and the wonderous beauty of His Son.
Last point – You are to live Him before the World. You are to be salt and light. A candlestick on a hill radiates light and you and I are it. Read verses 11-12:
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
So don’t live as the world lives, live differently as led by the Holy Spirit of God. For if He is not leading you will not be able to follow in your own weaknesses.
Don’t lust after what the eyes sees, or what the mind thinks or the flesh desires. As a pilgrim on a dedicated journey toward the city of God and your heavenly rest don’t conflict or stress your souls by lust. Stay strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Make your conduct honorable, above board. Leave no room in your behavior which might cause others to question or to wonder about your character, your integrity and your reputation. Are you a man or woman {there are only two sexes according to the Word of God, 1 race, and 1 marriage, 1 creation not an evolution}who can stand before God and men with a clean conscience? Maybe not perfect, but you are forgiven, and are covered by His righteousness in the blood of the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. If the answer is yes, then you are following the Lord. But maybe your aren’t there yet. If that is the case then don’t quit don’t give up, you are here and God is not done with you yet and He is calling to you to obey. Will you respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and come to the Lord Jesus today?
So then the end of being a believer is not to vegetate and sit in church and worship here but to follow what Peter has said in verse 12 – that others by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Your works are to be lived before others. That means we will be criticized and ostracized, cast out even. But in the midst of the hostilities do not forget who you are. You are children of the King and your life and light in the midst of the darkness may bring others to the source of all light – Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Where are you letting your light shine before men today?
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or help. He loves you. Amen
Sermon March 27
Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?
Lesson - What should we be doing? Why do I ask this question? We you know the day and the hour we live in America today. And we are aware of rampant inflation everything cost more and our money is worth less. It may soon be worthless if the administration continues its reckless idiocy. War is on the horizon and we are discussing an NBC event as if it some casual isolated happening that will not have world-wide impact on health and humanity. We are destroying our food supply because of our cutting the supply of oil – farmers cannot afford to run their equipment and the supply of fertilizer both foreign and domestic either comes from outside the US or it costs so much to produce and comes from oil derivatives. The administration is destroying the economy for the sake of and in the name of their elitist green new deal philosophy and accelerating the destruction of an otherwise once thriving economy.
Hate is everywhere. So can you define what is a woman? Or when does life begin? Or a million other questions that any farm born person can answer without question. In the womb and a woman has a womb. Soon and very soon they are coming to take away our freedom to worship. These progressives, no they are regressives, for they are actively destroying the constitution and will be putting this nation in peril and weakening us by having open borders and no military defensive or offensive capabilities. The elite wants to destruct and rule you. So I ask again what should you be doing?
Should we hate, destroy, run rampant go for it or should we look for the answers in our Bible, then allow God to direct our path? I thinks we know the answer.
The apostle Peter writing in 1st Peter is addressing the churches who are in the midst of suffering persecution. Persecution is coming from both from the Roman authorities and from the Jewish religious leaders. They are being persecuted as enemies of the state- isn’t that amazing. And you know what happens to their homes, their children and their possessions – the enrich the state and individual leaders. This has happen to the Canadian Truckers already and here to others as well – the cake baker in Oregon. So what does Peter say to them as inspired by the Holy Spirit in the Word -
1st Peter Chapter 2: 1-
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
The Chosen Stone and His Chosen People
4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
Living Before the World
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
What follows are two more sections about
1. Submitting to the government v.13-17
2. Submitting to unkind Masters v.18-20
And verses 21 through 25 are the story of the Suffering Servant of God and the way He suffered is the way we are to suffer. His example is never to revile but, in all ways, trusting God that He will bring vindication, judgement and justice in the end.
The sub-title for our lesson is What should we be doing in these final days or not so final days until the Lord comes? What is a body to do for our Lord in times like these?
Pray with me - Lord we pray you open our hearts and our thoughts, as we come before you to hear Your voice, lead us in the paths of righteousness everlasting - Amen
So Peter gets right on it he tells us what we should be doing in these days of trials and persecution –
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
A two-step process – Step 1 - Laying aside and Step 2 desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby. In Step 1, there goes all lying, cheating, evil speaking and envious criticism. So we are to watch our tongues as James tells us, for the tongue causes fires to rage.
Step 2 and we need to honestly assess where we stand on this- as Newborn babes we are to desire the sincere milk of the word, that we may grow thereby. Do you still have a burning desire for the Word of God to fill you or are you like me, sometimes complacent. If we are, we need to repent for the second part of this verse should cause us to pause – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. Have you asked Jesus Christ in your heart? If you have, then you know the grace and love of the Lord Jesus and what He has done for you on the cross. If you want a personal relationship, and to be strong as a Christian and to have faith that in God, then you need the Word of God in You. Jesus in His high priestly prayer in John 17, said as He prayed, “Thy word is truth.” He also said I am the way the truth and the life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me. So when we ask Jesus into our hearts by faith, we receive new life. We keep this new life fresh and by receiving the bread of life which is found in immersing ourselves in the Word of God. John 6:63 provides the capstone -
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. So if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious and want to be continually filled you will continue to have a desire for the Word, not the milk so much but the Meat of the Word and will continue to study and glean all you can. I am sure you all check out guides and books that explain things in greater detail like cook books, how to use you phone- YouTube training videos, and the like. So why are you avoiding the Word of God- it is your life.
Step 3- Orient yourselves to become His chosen Stones and His chosen People vs 4-5 4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. You are coming to Jesus who is a living stone rejected by men, but chosen by God and precious. The implication here is this also applies to you for also are rejected by men and chosen by God and are precious to Him. After all He sent Jesus to pay the penalty for your sin and mine, so you are infinitely precious in His sight. As living stones birthed by God, you are being built up into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood- praying and leading others. Why so you can offer up spiritual sacrifices - your serviced and your life which are to be acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Also note from whom your leadership comes - 6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. Your leader is the cornerstone – Jesus is the cornerstone. He is also the rock of Ages cleft for you and I our savior Immanuel .
Point 4 – note your special assignment and call to ministry as your response to what should we be doing – notice – verses 9-10: 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
A chosen generation – of the Lord
A royal priesthood – ordained by Jesus Christ
A holy nation – you are God’s children in His Son. A very peculiar and special people who have been anointed by the Holy Spirit.
Why has God done this?- That you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; to witness to the nature of an awesome God and His saving grace. Foot stomp this - our job is to call attention to God. To call to and to tell others of His glory, His majesty, His saving grace and the wonderous beauty of His Son.
Last point – You are to live Him before the World. You are to be salt and light. A candlestick on a hill radiates light and you and I are it. Read verses 11-12:
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
So don’t live as the world lives, live differently as led by the Holy Spirit of God. For if He is not leading you will not be able to follow in your own weaknesses.
Don’t lust after what the eyes sees, or what the mind thinks or the flesh desires. As a pilgrim on a dedicated journey toward the city of God and your heavenly rest don’t conflict or stress your souls by lust. Stay strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Make your conduct honorable, above board. Leave no room in your behavior which might cause others to question or to wonder about your character, your integrity and your reputation. Are you a man or woman {there are only two sexes according to the Word of God, 1 race, and 1 marriage, 1 creation not an evolution}who can stand before God and men with a clean conscience? Maybe not perfect, but you are forgiven, and are covered by His righteousness in the blood of the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. If the answer is yes, then you are following the Lord. But maybe your aren’t there yet. If that is the case then don’t quit don’t give up, you are here and God is not done with you yet and He is calling to you to obey. Will you respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and come to the Lord Jesus today?
So then the end of being a believer is not to vegetate and sit in church and worship here but to follow what Peter has said in verse 12 – that others by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Your works are to be lived before others. That means we will be criticized and ostracized, cast out even. But in the midst of the hostilities do not forget who you are. You are children of the King and your life and light in the midst of the darkness may bring others to the source of all light – Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Where are you letting your light shine before men today?
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or help. He loves you. Amen
Who have you invited to church today who needs to know Jesus Christ?
Lesson - What should we be doing? Why do I ask this question? We you know the day and the hour we live in America today. And we are aware of rampant inflation everything cost more and our money is worth less. It may soon be worthless if the administration continues its reckless idiocy. War is on the horizon and we are discussing an NBC event as if it some casual isolated happening that will not have world-wide impact on health and humanity. We are destroying our food supply because of our cutting the supply of oil – farmers cannot afford to run their equipment and the supply of fertilizer both foreign and domestic either comes from outside the US or it costs so much to produce and comes from oil derivatives. The administration is destroying the economy for the sake of and in the name of their elitist green new deal philosophy and accelerating the destruction of an otherwise once thriving economy.
Hate is everywhere. So can you define what is a woman? Or when does life begin? Or a million other questions that any farm born person can answer without question. In the womb and a woman has a womb. Soon and very soon they are coming to take away our freedom to worship. These progressives, no they are regressives, for they are actively destroying the constitution and will be putting this nation in peril and weakening us by having open borders and no military defensive or offensive capabilities. The elite wants to destruct and rule you. So I ask again what should you be doing?
Should we hate, destroy, run rampant go for it or should we look for the answers in our Bible, then allow God to direct our path? I thinks we know the answer.
The apostle Peter writing in 1st Peter is addressing the churches who are in the midst of suffering persecution. Persecution is coming from both from the Roman authorities and from the Jewish religious leaders. They are being persecuted as enemies of the state- isn’t that amazing. And you know what happens to their homes, their children and their possessions – the enrich the state and individual leaders. This has happen to the Canadian Truckers already and here to others as well – the cake baker in Oregon. So what does Peter say to them as inspired by the Holy Spirit in the Word -
1st Peter Chapter 2: 1-
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
The Chosen Stone and His Chosen People
4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.
9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
Living Before the World
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
What follows are two more sections about
1. Submitting to the government v.13-17
2. Submitting to unkind Masters v.18-20
And verses 21 through 25 are the story of the Suffering Servant of God and the way He suffered is the way we are to suffer. His example is never to revile but, in all ways, trusting God that He will bring vindication, judgement and justice in the end.
The sub-title for our lesson is What should we be doing in these final days or not so final days until the Lord comes? What is a body to do for our Lord in times like these?
Pray with me - Lord we pray you open our hearts and our thoughts, as we come before you to hear Your voice, lead us in the paths of righteousness everlasting - Amen
So Peter gets right on it he tells us what we should be doing in these days of trials and persecution –
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
A two-step process – Step 1 - Laying aside and Step 2 desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby. In Step 1, there goes all lying, cheating, evil speaking and envious criticism. So we are to watch our tongues as James tells us, for the tongue causes fires to rage.
Step 2 and we need to honestly assess where we stand on this- as Newborn babes we are to desire the sincere milk of the word, that we may grow thereby. Do you still have a burning desire for the Word of God to fill you or are you like me, sometimes complacent. If we are, we need to repent for the second part of this verse should cause us to pause – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. Have you asked Jesus Christ in your heart? If you have, then you know the grace and love of the Lord Jesus and what He has done for you on the cross. If you want a personal relationship, and to be strong as a Christian and to have faith that in God, then you need the Word of God in You. Jesus in His high priestly prayer in John 17, said as He prayed, “Thy word is truth.” He also said I am the way the truth and the life. No man cometh to the Father but by Me. So when we ask Jesus into our hearts by faith, we receive new life. We keep this new life fresh and by receiving the bread of life which is found in immersing ourselves in the Word of God. John 6:63 provides the capstone -
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. So if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious and want to be continually filled you will continue to have a desire for the Word, not the milk so much but the Meat of the Word and will continue to study and glean all you can. I am sure you all check out guides and books that explain things in greater detail like cook books, how to use you phone- YouTube training videos, and the like. So why are you avoiding the Word of God- it is your life.
Step 3- Orient yourselves to become His chosen Stones and His chosen People vs 4-5 4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. You are coming to Jesus who is a living stone rejected by men, but chosen by God and precious. The implication here is this also applies to you for also are rejected by men and chosen by God and are precious to Him. After all He sent Jesus to pay the penalty for your sin and mine, so you are infinitely precious in His sight. As living stones birthed by God, you are being built up into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood- praying and leading others. Why so you can offer up spiritual sacrifices - your serviced and your life which are to be acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Also note from whom your leadership comes - 6 Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion
A chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”
7 Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who [b]are disobedient,
“The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone,”
8 and “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. Your leader is the cornerstone – Jesus is the cornerstone. He is also the rock of Ages cleft for you and I our savior Immanuel .
Point 4 – note your special assignment and call to ministry as your response to what should we be doing – notice – verses 9-10: 9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
A chosen generation – of the Lord
A royal priesthood – ordained by Jesus Christ
A holy nation – you are God’s children in His Son. A very peculiar and special people who have been anointed by the Holy Spirit.
Why has God done this?- That you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; to witness to the nature of an awesome God and His saving grace. Foot stomp this - our job is to call attention to God. To call to and to tell others of His glory, His majesty, His saving grace and the wonderous beauty of His Son.
Last point – You are to live Him before the World. You are to be salt and light. A candlestick on a hill radiates light and you and I are it. Read verses 11-12:
11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
So don’t live as the world lives, live differently as led by the Holy Spirit of God. For if He is not leading you will not be able to follow in your own weaknesses.
Don’t lust after what the eyes sees, or what the mind thinks or the flesh desires. As a pilgrim on a dedicated journey toward the city of God and your heavenly rest don’t conflict or stress your souls by lust. Stay strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Make your conduct honorable, above board. Leave no room in your behavior which might cause others to question or to wonder about your character, your integrity and your reputation. Are you a man or woman {there are only two sexes according to the Word of God, 1 race, and 1 marriage, 1 creation not an evolution}who can stand before God and men with a clean conscience? Maybe not perfect, but you are forgiven, and are covered by His righteousness in the blood of the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. If the answer is yes, then you are following the Lord. But maybe your aren’t there yet. If that is the case then don’t quit don’t give up, you are here and God is not done with you yet and He is calling to you to obey. Will you respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and come to the Lord Jesus today?
So then the end of being a believer is not to vegetate and sit in church and worship here but to follow what Peter has said in verse 12 – that others by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Your works are to be lived before others. That means we will be criticized and ostracized, cast out even. But in the midst of the hostilities do not forget who you are. You are children of the King and your life and light in the midst of the darkness may bring others to the source of all light – Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Where are you letting your light shine before men today?
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or help. He loves you. Amen
Sermon March 20
Today’s lesson is a practical lesson on contending earnestly for the faith. What does this mean? Many of us spout these words but few have a clear understanding of what they mean. First is the word contend; secondly, what does earnestly mean for us, and last but not least, when we say contend earnestly for the faith; what do the words “for the faith” imply, either implicitly or explicitly?
Let’s begin our study with a word of prayer- Father we humbly ask that you would speak to us today about standing for Your word, for Your Son and for Your truth. May our hearts and minds be stayed upon you’re your Word, Oh Lord, for Your Word is truth. We ask this in the name of Jesus – Amen
Now to ground ourselves on what we will be learning about today turn to the Book of Jude. It is a small book, right before the last book of the Bible- Revelation.
Reading, now from Jude- 3 Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. 4 For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord [b]God and our Lord Jesus Christ.
You can spend some time reading after church from verse 4 to verse 14. For we are jumping there to discuss how you and I are to contend for our faith. Jude vs. 14, since the is only 1 chapter in Jude, verse 14 -
14 Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men also, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, 15 to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.”
Apostates Predicted
16 These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. 17 But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: 18 how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. 19 These are [i]sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.
Maintain Your Life with God
20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
Now may God add His blessing to the reading and the application of His word to our lives. Amen
Three objectives before we parse the verses themselves –
1. What is contending for the faith?
2. What does earnestly mean?
3. What does for the faith mean?
1. What is contending for the faith?
Jesus said there would be opposition ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. (John 15:20) In many of the new testament letters Paul is bolstering the church because of the opposition to Jesus which has been initiated and created by persecution of the body of believers - (1 Thess. 2:14-16). Contending means to actively stand up for what you believe despite the fact that there are those who will not like what you say, or the way you live. Most especially the hateful opposition will despise you because of the name of Jesus Christ which you stand by. Again read John 15.20. Contending is standing strong against those who deny its truth and call you all sorts of vile names, cut off your opportunity to work, and many other evil things. Why do they do this? Simple they hate you because they love darkness rather than the light. (Jn. 3.19)
2. What does earnestly mean?
It means with all your heart and soul and mind and strength, not casually or partially or as you have time. If you ever bought a house in my day you had to put down earnest money, in most case 10% or more. If you decided to opt out for no good reason you would lose this money. That was what earnest meant. You would do all you needed to do to go through with the home purchase because you didn’t want to lose those thousands of dollar. So I was earnest about going through with the deal and would not just casually say, Ah, I’m tired today and don’t feel like completing the deal I‘m going fishing instead. To be earnest means to put all I have into doing what I promised to do. Contend for the faith.
3. What does for the faith mean? How did you come to faith in Jesus Christ? Well someone had to tell you about what Jesus has done for you to save you from your sins. You had to be convicted by the Word of God that you were a sinner and the wages of that sin was death. And your Father in heaven was angry with you because of your sin, but He sent Jesus to you to save you from your sin. Jesus’ death on the cross, His burial and resurrection from the dead, 3 days later, paid your sin debt and by faith you had to believe this was true. God the Father , sent the Holy Spirit and He quickened your heart to believe and confess that Jesus was Lord. Specifically, Romans 10:9-10, 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
So by faith you received salvation and in the twinkling of an eye, you became a new creation and passed from death to life. This is the gospel of faith for which you must contend not just one part the whole pie. And with this comes some additional items such as the infallible, inerrant and perfect Word of God, the Bible. Creation occurred as it is taught in scripture. There is one race, two sexes male and female and we are indelibly stamped from creation and you can’t change it. Marriage is a gift of God and children are a fruit of the womb and not just “a choice.” He created them and put them in the mother’s womb by rape, incest or indiscriminate sex with another of the opposite sex.
Now you may have a better understanding of what we mean by earnestly contending for the faith. But there is one more piece – it means all of it. Now we cannot let slip one element of our faith for that is how the enemy slips in unnoticed and takes away our faith. We must stay true to the whole set of truths in God’s word. It is all true. Duet 30 .17 - But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them,
One of my prior pastors always talked about the slippery slope and its true, just look how America has fallen away from God. It all starts if your heart turns away so you do not hear. That is the first subtle step down the slippery slope and then after a while all hell breaks loose. This is America today. God is no longer preserving and protecting> He is allowing the spirit of deception and the spirit of antichrist to reign because we have sent God packing. We no longer need or want Him according to public sentiment and so He has allowed sin to be blossoming in this country. The fruits of sinful behaviors of the flesh are clearly catalogued in God’s Word in Galatians, Chapter 5 we read the following-v 19-21:
19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: [d]adultery, [e]fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, [f]murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Notice the last verse which should concern us all, that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. So people who practice such things cannot and do not contend for the faith for their hearts are divided and against God’s will. Examine yourselves to ensure you are not conflicted.
Now to our text for earnestly contending for the faith in our day may be very uncomfortable and distressing to you and to those around you. Jesus said you will have tribulation and distresses, so expect them. Contending for the faith means to stand in the public square if necessary and defend the very truth of God’s Word, despite what others may do or say to you. In our world of instant twitter storms, repression of the truth by the media and outright lying of our leadership you can expect massive feedback and repression regarding speaking the truth. There are those in jail right now who are political prisoners for speaking the truth. You can look at how the Canadian PM has destroyed and stolen from the Truckers in Canada. Those men and women now have no sources of income, nor can they drive their vehicles. Their trucks have been smashed, destroyed and impounded. It is still freezing cold up there. This has already occurred to some here in the US even before the Canadian events of the past few weeks.
I. First, We have been told what to expect, see vs.14-15
14 Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men{what men?- ungodly men see vs 4} also, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands {more than 10 K, it is plural}of His saints, 15 to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.”
God was and is already planning judgement against the ungodly since Adam’s seventh son. Judgement against ungodly deed, ungodly ways and what the ungodly have spoken about Himself, His people and His Son
II. God provides a listing of their characteristics: 16 These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. 17 But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: 18 how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. 19 These are [i]sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the {Holy}Spirit.
These are those who go against the Word of God and you as you proclaim God’s Truth. Remember God has a plan for your life. You are not your own, you have been bought with a price and you are to glorify God in your body. You and I are also commended to Go and tell all. And God has uniquely equipped you with Himself in the Holy Spirit as you go. But you will notice that this also causes division in our churches and you are seeing this now with CRT and the rise of progressivism/ regressives in our churches. Many are falling away within denominations. Just what do you think sensual persons are? They live by how they feel and that determines what is right, but with you that is not so! Nor are there multiple ways to heaven – according to this book there is only one way to heaven Acts 4:12 - 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” That is the name of Jesus. He is the only one who has paid God’s price for redemption for your sin by His blood. This of all points must be broadcast and contended for in the culture. And there is only one standard for our behavior and that is the Word of God. There can be no other standard.
Point III. God provides a means of how we are to behave in this day - 20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
First you are beloved- a child of God. What an honor what a treasure do you have any idea of how blessed we are? Building yourselves up – striving to study and show yourselves approved of God. A workman who need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth- the Bible. Asking God and seeking God to help you to pray in the Spirit for yourselves and others at all times, without ceasing. {1 Thess. 4:16}. Looking for the Lord Jesus’ mercy on us daily for ourselves and others. Mercy instead of Judgement for ourselves and for others is necessary daily.
Now remember your calling from Paul in
2 Tim 2:3-4 3 You therefore must endure[a] hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please Him who enlisted him as a soldier.
Today’s lesson is a practical lesson on contending earnestly for the faith. What does this mean? Many of us spout these words but few have a clear understanding of what they mean. First is the word contend; secondly, what does earnestly mean for us, and last but not least, when we say contend earnestly for the faith; what do the words “for the faith” imply, either implicitly or explicitly?
Let’s begin our study with a word of prayer- Father we humbly ask that you would speak to us today about standing for Your word, for Your Son and for Your truth. May our hearts and minds be stayed upon you’re your Word, Oh Lord, for Your Word is truth. We ask this in the name of Jesus – Amen
Now to ground ourselves on what we will be learning about today turn to the Book of Jude. It is a small book, right before the last book of the Bible- Revelation.
Reading, now from Jude- 3 Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. 4 For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord [b]God and our Lord Jesus Christ.
You can spend some time reading after church from verse 4 to verse 14. For we are jumping there to discuss how you and I are to contend for our faith. Jude vs. 14, since the is only 1 chapter in Jude, verse 14 -
14 Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men also, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, 15 to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.”
Apostates Predicted
16 These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. 17 But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: 18 how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. 19 These are [i]sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.
Maintain Your Life with God
20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
Now may God add His blessing to the reading and the application of His word to our lives. Amen
Three objectives before we parse the verses themselves –
1. What is contending for the faith?
2. What does earnestly mean?
3. What does for the faith mean?
1. What is contending for the faith?
Jesus said there would be opposition ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. (John 15:20) In many of the new testament letters Paul is bolstering the church because of the opposition to Jesus which has been initiated and created by persecution of the body of believers - (1 Thess. 2:14-16). Contending means to actively stand up for what you believe despite the fact that there are those who will not like what you say, or the way you live. Most especially the hateful opposition will despise you because of the name of Jesus Christ which you stand by. Again read John 15.20. Contending is standing strong against those who deny its truth and call you all sorts of vile names, cut off your opportunity to work, and many other evil things. Why do they do this? Simple they hate you because they love darkness rather than the light. (Jn. 3.19)
2. What does earnestly mean?
It means with all your heart and soul and mind and strength, not casually or partially or as you have time. If you ever bought a house in my day you had to put down earnest money, in most case 10% or more. If you decided to opt out for no good reason you would lose this money. That was what earnest meant. You would do all you needed to do to go through with the home purchase because you didn’t want to lose those thousands of dollar. So I was earnest about going through with the deal and would not just casually say, Ah, I’m tired today and don’t feel like completing the deal I‘m going fishing instead. To be earnest means to put all I have into doing what I promised to do. Contend for the faith.
3. What does for the faith mean? How did you come to faith in Jesus Christ? Well someone had to tell you about what Jesus has done for you to save you from your sins. You had to be convicted by the Word of God that you were a sinner and the wages of that sin was death. And your Father in heaven was angry with you because of your sin, but He sent Jesus to you to save you from your sin. Jesus’ death on the cross, His burial and resurrection from the dead, 3 days later, paid your sin debt and by faith you had to believe this was true. God the Father , sent the Holy Spirit and He quickened your heart to believe and confess that Jesus was Lord. Specifically, Romans 10:9-10, 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
So by faith you received salvation and in the twinkling of an eye, you became a new creation and passed from death to life. This is the gospel of faith for which you must contend not just one part the whole pie. And with this comes some additional items such as the infallible, inerrant and perfect Word of God, the Bible. Creation occurred as it is taught in scripture. There is one race, two sexes male and female and we are indelibly stamped from creation and you can’t change it. Marriage is a gift of God and children are a fruit of the womb and not just “a choice.” He created them and put them in the mother’s womb by rape, incest or indiscriminate sex with another of the opposite sex.
Now you may have a better understanding of what we mean by earnestly contending for the faith. But there is one more piece – it means all of it. Now we cannot let slip one element of our faith for that is how the enemy slips in unnoticed and takes away our faith. We must stay true to the whole set of truths in God’s word. It is all true. Duet 30 .17 - But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them,
One of my prior pastors always talked about the slippery slope and its true, just look how America has fallen away from God. It all starts if your heart turns away so you do not hear. That is the first subtle step down the slippery slope and then after a while all hell breaks loose. This is America today. God is no longer preserving and protecting> He is allowing the spirit of deception and the spirit of antichrist to reign because we have sent God packing. We no longer need or want Him according to public sentiment and so He has allowed sin to be blossoming in this country. The fruits of sinful behaviors of the flesh are clearly catalogued in God’s Word in Galatians, Chapter 5 we read the following-v 19-21:
19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: [d]adultery, [e]fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, [f]murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Notice the last verse which should concern us all, that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. So people who practice such things cannot and do not contend for the faith for their hearts are divided and against God’s will. Examine yourselves to ensure you are not conflicted.
Now to our text for earnestly contending for the faith in our day may be very uncomfortable and distressing to you and to those around you. Jesus said you will have tribulation and distresses, so expect them. Contending for the faith means to stand in the public square if necessary and defend the very truth of God’s Word, despite what others may do or say to you. In our world of instant twitter storms, repression of the truth by the media and outright lying of our leadership you can expect massive feedback and repression regarding speaking the truth. There are those in jail right now who are political prisoners for speaking the truth. You can look at how the Canadian PM has destroyed and stolen from the Truckers in Canada. Those men and women now have no sources of income, nor can they drive their vehicles. Their trucks have been smashed, destroyed and impounded. It is still freezing cold up there. This has already occurred to some here in the US even before the Canadian events of the past few weeks.
I. First, We have been told what to expect, see vs.14-15
14 Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men{what men?- ungodly men see vs 4} also, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands {more than 10 K, it is plural}of His saints, 15 to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.”
God was and is already planning judgement against the ungodly since Adam’s seventh son. Judgement against ungodly deed, ungodly ways and what the ungodly have spoken about Himself, His people and His Son
II. God provides a listing of their characteristics: 16 These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. 17 But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: 18 how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. 19 These are [i]sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the {Holy}Spirit.
These are those who go against the Word of God and you as you proclaim God’s Truth. Remember God has a plan for your life. You are not your own, you have been bought with a price and you are to glorify God in your body. You and I are also commended to Go and tell all. And God has uniquely equipped you with Himself in the Holy Spirit as you go. But you will notice that this also causes division in our churches and you are seeing this now with CRT and the rise of progressivism/ regressives in our churches. Many are falling away within denominations. Just what do you think sensual persons are? They live by how they feel and that determines what is right, but with you that is not so! Nor are there multiple ways to heaven – according to this book there is only one way to heaven Acts 4:12 - 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” That is the name of Jesus. He is the only one who has paid God’s price for redemption for your sin by His blood. This of all points must be broadcast and contended for in the culture. And there is only one standard for our behavior and that is the Word of God. There can be no other standard.
Point III. God provides a means of how we are to behave in this day - 20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
First you are beloved- a child of God. What an honor what a treasure do you have any idea of how blessed we are? Building yourselves up – striving to study and show yourselves approved of God. A workman who need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth- the Bible. Asking God and seeking God to help you to pray in the Spirit for yourselves and others at all times, without ceasing. {1 Thess. 4:16}. Looking for the Lord Jesus’ mercy on us daily for ourselves and others. Mercy instead of Judgement for ourselves and for others is necessary daily.
Now remember your calling from Paul in
2 Tim 2:3-4 3 You therefore must endure[a] hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please Him who enlisted him as a soldier.
Sermon March 13
In the disaster happening in Kiev, in the de-construction of America, is the devaluation of teaching and in the elimination of truth, righteousness and justice in America, many wonder where is the God of Jacob and the Son of God, Jesus Christ.
You will also notice how quiet it is across the East and Far East, while all this focus is on Ukraine. Yes all is quite on the eastern front which is a prelude to coming attractions across this earth. But you should be aware the scope of what you are seeing is horrendous and evil, but there is even greater evil in the offing, as events precede to the great tribulation.
We always hear the question in the midst of this, why would a good God allow all this pain and suffering which is happening here and across the world? While you today may not be involved with Ukraine perhaps you have a situation, a sickness, a difficulty, a loved one facing death, or some traumatic unrelenting and unsolvable difficulty. You are asking where is God?
There is a real problem which is created by this question which perhaps you have not considered? That problem is uncertainty in many cases leads to fear and worry about our lives, our family and our well-being. Fear can cause us to retreat from God and lose hope. Did you ever despair over something which has happened in your life, and ask God why did you allow this to happen? Well I know I have? So what is the remedy, what is the solution? Psalm 46 might be a good place to being our journey back to faith in God.
What is the background of this Psalm? The dreaded Assyrian army was marching south to Judah. They marched on Jerusalem and drew up in battle array. Behind them were the defeated and burning cities in Syria. Hezekiah had originally thought to buy off Sennacherib by sending a bribe, but the Assyrian King realized he could not have a vulnerable rear and press on to conquer, so he came against Judah. So he send an emissary Rabshakeh with a demand to open the gates and surrender, submitting to his army. Buoyed by the message of Isaiah the profit, Hezekiah refused to comply with this demand. Rabshakeh mocked and taunted the Jews in Jerusalem while surrounding Jerusalem. But he chose to mock the God of the Jews and demeaned their faith in God Almighty and His ability to protect them. That night God sent one Angel to deal with the besieging army. One night 185,000 members of the Assyrian army perished and Jerusalem and the people of God were saved.
Now a word of caution and warning – God does not always choose to perform such astounding feats for His people. God is Almighty, His wonders to perform, but He is sovereign and performs according to the council of His will and not according to our demands/desires.
But what this Psalm does do is assures us that God does and can handle, in His will and in His timing, events which may seem like total disasters to us. He makes all things new and used these types of circumstances to build your faith and trust in Him. Let’s study this Psalm.
Psalm - 46
God is our refuge and strength,
a[a] very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear,
even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the [b]midst of the sea;
3 Though its waters roar and be troubled,
though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
4 There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,
The holy place of the [c]tabernacle of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her, she shall not be [d]moved;
God shall help her, just [e]at the break of dawn.
6 The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved;
He uttered His voice, the earth melted.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
Who has made desolations in the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;
He burns the chariot in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
This psalm divides into three parts marked specifically by the word- Selah
A. Verses 1 through 3 refer to God being our refuge and strength. A friend of mine’s dad lived through the constant bombing in England during the second world war. At the beginning they hid in the kitchen. But as the war progressed and the bombing became worse and then daily, they could no longer be safe, as houses around them were destroyed. So his father built a strong shelter behind the house, covered with steel and iron, dug into the earth- this was their refuge and strength. Literally the words here mean- Elohim (God) is a place in which to go quietly for our protection. The great God, our creator, is where we can go quietly for our protection when disaster is on the way. And He invites you personally to come be in fellowship with Him, regardless of the outcome. He know what is best for your life and He is directing that plan. Do you believe this?
B. How powerful He is – a very present in time of trouble. The word for trouble literally means “in tight places.” Who has never been in tight places? Ever prayed for God’s deliverance when you put yourself in that place, and the prayer was just basically “help?” You didn’t have a clue how of if God would rescue you and yet He did almost without understanding how it was accomplished? God is able to rescue you from any circumstance, if He choose to do so. Remember Joseph – God rescues him but never in a way He expected I am sure. I bet Joseph would have liked to go home, but it seemed for a while as if he might never see home again. After Potiphar’s wife lied and Pharaoh’s butler forgot his interpretation of his dream and promise to ask for release. It was not to be so for God’s plan and purpose for Joseph was to be 2nd to the Pharaoh in Egypt and serve God’s purposes. He groomed Him for this purpose. So God is all powerful and is a present help in our times of trouble.
C. How permanent He is (46:2-3). 2 Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the [b]midst of the sea;
The word for earth here can be translated as “land” and the word for removed, can be translated as “changed” or “changed hands.” So the verse could be read as, “ Therefore we will not fear thought the land change hands.” In other words our refuge in God is so secure we have nothing to fear even though invasion might come. This had come to Judah, and even though the city of Jerusalem was threatened, Hezekiah’s refuge was as permanent as before.
3 Though its waters roar and be troubled,
though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
This is a view of the land being in total upheaval from natural or even unnatural events today such as an atomic bomb or some national disaster of huge proportions. This would be the reaction to tectonic plates colliding with the splash of angry, turbulent, tsunami waves hitting the coasts and destroying all things. This is vivid symbolic way of saying despite invasions and upheavals of all kinds, never fear! Our refuge in God is safe no matter what might fall. Our strength is in the Lord who made heaven and earth, for our God is creator and ruler of all. We are saved and safe in Him and His love. Selah
Section II. Is about the River -verse 4, a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,
The word here means a constantly flowing river, not just a creek. Hezekiah in our story had made provision for a siege by hiding the source of life-giving water. He diverted the stream from the Kidron valley, 1777 feet, hewn out of solid rock and covered the spring so no enemy would not know it was there. So throughout a siege there would be “ a river, the streams of which made glad the city of God.” The enemy knew nothing about this unfailing source of supply which was available to the city of God. This same supply is available to you from the Holy Spirit. He is the one who supplies direct assistance to the believer. See John 14:26-27, 26 But the [a]Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Today you have the same provision from the Son of God to refresh you and support you in times of trouble and God in Christ will never leave you or forsake you. You are His forever if you have asked in your heart to receive Him. There was something else besides the marvelous river (vs.4), there was also the mysterious resident! God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved. God shall help the city and His residents. Who is this mysterious someone – we know Him- He was in the temple at 12 yrs. of age. He was in the upper room after the resurrection and He is in the middle of the 7 lampstands of the churches in the book of Revelation. It is Jesus our Lord. He was always in their midst. He said where two or three are gathered in My name there am I in the midst of them. And the mysterious resident is Immanuel – God with us! The marvelous river within is the fountain of living water. God reminded the nation in Jeremiah 2:13 of a very sad circumstance - “For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, And hewn themselves cisterns—broken cisterns that can hold no water.” God is the fountain of living waters. Jesus said He was the living water to the Samaritan woman in John’s Gospel. Jesus promised that out of us would flow rivers of living water (Jn7:37-38). We also have within us the mysterious resident – Immanuel God with us – Jesus Christ our Lord. So to believers these evidences should be present and real, evidence of His deliverance and sustainment. Selah – what do you think of that.! Amen
Now we still have Section III – the Ruler.
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
Who has made desolations in the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;
He burns the chariot in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
So to do Him- the Ruler- justice is going to take as much time and effort. So I need to break this lesson into two sessions. Verses 8 -11 will be for next week. Your homework is to meditate of these verses and look at the character and nature of God.
But before we end in Summary:
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
In the disaster happening in Kiev, in the de-construction of America, is the devaluation of teaching and in the elimination of truth, righteousness and justice in America, many wonder where is the God of Jacob and the Son of God, Jesus Christ.
You will also notice how quiet it is across the East and Far East, while all this focus is on Ukraine. Yes all is quite on the eastern front which is a prelude to coming attractions across this earth. But you should be aware the scope of what you are seeing is horrendous and evil, but there is even greater evil in the offing, as events precede to the great tribulation.
We always hear the question in the midst of this, why would a good God allow all this pain and suffering which is happening here and across the world? While you today may not be involved with Ukraine perhaps you have a situation, a sickness, a difficulty, a loved one facing death, or some traumatic unrelenting and unsolvable difficulty. You are asking where is God?
There is a real problem which is created by this question which perhaps you have not considered? That problem is uncertainty in many cases leads to fear and worry about our lives, our family and our well-being. Fear can cause us to retreat from God and lose hope. Did you ever despair over something which has happened in your life, and ask God why did you allow this to happen? Well I know I have? So what is the remedy, what is the solution? Psalm 46 might be a good place to being our journey back to faith in God.
What is the background of this Psalm? The dreaded Assyrian army was marching south to Judah. They marched on Jerusalem and drew up in battle array. Behind them were the defeated and burning cities in Syria. Hezekiah had originally thought to buy off Sennacherib by sending a bribe, but the Assyrian King realized he could not have a vulnerable rear and press on to conquer, so he came against Judah. So he send an emissary Rabshakeh with a demand to open the gates and surrender, submitting to his army. Buoyed by the message of Isaiah the profit, Hezekiah refused to comply with this demand. Rabshakeh mocked and taunted the Jews in Jerusalem while surrounding Jerusalem. But he chose to mock the God of the Jews and demeaned their faith in God Almighty and His ability to protect them. That night God sent one Angel to deal with the besieging army. One night 185,000 members of the Assyrian army perished and Jerusalem and the people of God were saved.
Now a word of caution and warning – God does not always choose to perform such astounding feats for His people. God is Almighty, His wonders to perform, but He is sovereign and performs according to the council of His will and not according to our demands/desires.
But what this Psalm does do is assures us that God does and can handle, in His will and in His timing, events which may seem like total disasters to us. He makes all things new and used these types of circumstances to build your faith and trust in Him. Let’s study this Psalm.
Psalm - 46
God is our refuge and strength,
a[a] very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear,
even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the [b]midst of the sea;
3 Though its waters roar and be troubled,
though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
4 There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,
The holy place of the [c]tabernacle of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her, she shall not be [d]moved;
God shall help her, just [e]at the break of dawn.
6 The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved;
He uttered His voice, the earth melted.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
Who has made desolations in the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;
He burns the chariot in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
This psalm divides into three parts marked specifically by the word- Selah
A. Verses 1 through 3 refer to God being our refuge and strength. A friend of mine’s dad lived through the constant bombing in England during the second world war. At the beginning they hid in the kitchen. But as the war progressed and the bombing became worse and then daily, they could no longer be safe, as houses around them were destroyed. So his father built a strong shelter behind the house, covered with steel and iron, dug into the earth- this was their refuge and strength. Literally the words here mean- Elohim (God) is a place in which to go quietly for our protection. The great God, our creator, is where we can go quietly for our protection when disaster is on the way. And He invites you personally to come be in fellowship with Him, regardless of the outcome. He know what is best for your life and He is directing that plan. Do you believe this?
B. How powerful He is – a very present in time of trouble. The word for trouble literally means “in tight places.” Who has never been in tight places? Ever prayed for God’s deliverance when you put yourself in that place, and the prayer was just basically “help?” You didn’t have a clue how of if God would rescue you and yet He did almost without understanding how it was accomplished? God is able to rescue you from any circumstance, if He choose to do so. Remember Joseph – God rescues him but never in a way He expected I am sure. I bet Joseph would have liked to go home, but it seemed for a while as if he might never see home again. After Potiphar’s wife lied and Pharaoh’s butler forgot his interpretation of his dream and promise to ask for release. It was not to be so for God’s plan and purpose for Joseph was to be 2nd to the Pharaoh in Egypt and serve God’s purposes. He groomed Him for this purpose. So God is all powerful and is a present help in our times of trouble.
C. How permanent He is (46:2-3). 2 Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the [b]midst of the sea;
The word for earth here can be translated as “land” and the word for removed, can be translated as “changed” or “changed hands.” So the verse could be read as, “ Therefore we will not fear thought the land change hands.” In other words our refuge in God is so secure we have nothing to fear even though invasion might come. This had come to Judah, and even though the city of Jerusalem was threatened, Hezekiah’s refuge was as permanent as before.
3 Though its waters roar and be troubled,
though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
This is a view of the land being in total upheaval from natural or even unnatural events today such as an atomic bomb or some national disaster of huge proportions. This would be the reaction to tectonic plates colliding with the splash of angry, turbulent, tsunami waves hitting the coasts and destroying all things. This is vivid symbolic way of saying despite invasions and upheavals of all kinds, never fear! Our refuge in God is safe no matter what might fall. Our strength is in the Lord who made heaven and earth, for our God is creator and ruler of all. We are saved and safe in Him and His love. Selah
Section II. Is about the River -verse 4, a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,
The word here means a constantly flowing river, not just a creek. Hezekiah in our story had made provision for a siege by hiding the source of life-giving water. He diverted the stream from the Kidron valley, 1777 feet, hewn out of solid rock and covered the spring so no enemy would not know it was there. So throughout a siege there would be “ a river, the streams of which made glad the city of God.” The enemy knew nothing about this unfailing source of supply which was available to the city of God. This same supply is available to you from the Holy Spirit. He is the one who supplies direct assistance to the believer. See John 14:26-27, 26 But the [a]Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Today you have the same provision from the Son of God to refresh you and support you in times of trouble and God in Christ will never leave you or forsake you. You are His forever if you have asked in your heart to receive Him. There was something else besides the marvelous river (vs.4), there was also the mysterious resident! God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved. God shall help the city and His residents. Who is this mysterious someone – we know Him- He was in the temple at 12 yrs. of age. He was in the upper room after the resurrection and He is in the middle of the 7 lampstands of the churches in the book of Revelation. It is Jesus our Lord. He was always in their midst. He said where two or three are gathered in My name there am I in the midst of them. And the mysterious resident is Immanuel – God with us! The marvelous river within is the fountain of living water. God reminded the nation in Jeremiah 2:13 of a very sad circumstance - “For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, And hewn themselves cisterns—broken cisterns that can hold no water.” God is the fountain of living waters. Jesus said He was the living water to the Samaritan woman in John’s Gospel. Jesus promised that out of us would flow rivers of living water (Jn7:37-38). We also have within us the mysterious resident – Immanuel God with us – Jesus Christ our Lord. So to believers these evidences should be present and real, evidence of His deliverance and sustainment. Selah – what do you think of that.! Amen
Now we still have Section III – the Ruler.
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
Who has made desolations in the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;
He burns the chariot in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
So to do Him- the Ruler- justice is going to take as much time and effort. So I need to break this lesson into two sessions. Verses 8 -11 will be for next week. Your homework is to meditate of these verses and look at the character and nature of God.
But before we end in Summary:
- God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble - Therefore we will not fear
- In you flow rivers of living water, if you are His child. He is the living water
- We also have within us the mysterious resident – Immanuel God with us – Jesus Christ our Lord.
- He is our refuge and our strength. He is God and He is over all circumstances, problems and sicknesses. Do you trust Him?
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
Sermon March 5
Some practical applications of Jesus’s word right from the Scripture to apply to our lives today. To show how God’s word meets our lives today we will look how this word applies to us in our day and time
We will study from Matthew chapter 5 vs 11-25, with an abbreviated look at verses 24-25.
Point I. How do you regard trials and tribulations, difficulties if you will on your road to cross that river? Most of us dread the aspect of suffering and for many years churches taught if you were suffering as a believer you were doing something wrong. Our brother tele-evangelists of the prosperity gospel also regard suffering as not having sufficient or tenacious enough faith. If we study our bibles that was not true compared to what was happening in Jesus day. But, first let’s look and see what Jesus says about suffering in Matthew 5:11-12, a subtitle for this section might be - Blessed are you when you suffer for the Lord
11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
You should rejoice if you are chosen to suffer for Christ, You have been considered worthy of His trials. This may be a hard thing for many believers today who do not want to ‘suffer or be persecuted’ but according to Jesus, if they “did it to Him they will do it to you” for a “servant is not above His Master.” (Matt 10:24). You will note in the book of Acts is several instances the disciples when punished and admonished not to teach in the name of Jesus – came back from the incident and prayed for greater boldness. Let us seek to have greater boldness today for the kingdom of heaven and His righteousness today. Jesus and the Father sent the Holy Spirit to give you the words to speak, so speak them.
Point II. Believers Are Salt and Light {meaning we are to speak and live our lives to cleanse and purify and to dispel the darkness.}Here in verses 13 to 16 Jesus provides the exemplar of the life and times of the believer. We are not to hide but to proclaim and project the new life in you to others. Hear what the Holy Spirit would instruct you – Matt 13-16
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Salt is meant to cleanse and purify, that is the role of the Holy Spirit in you and hence it should be an outcome of the love of Christ within you. Live your life in the marketplace with Jesus as your guide. Remember you are not to lose your “saltiness.” If you do of what use are you to the kingdom of Heaven?
You are also the light of the world. Jesus declared to you that, “He was the way the Truth and the Life, and no man cometh to Father but by Him.” If you are then “in Him,” is His light not it you who are reflections of His light? How then will anyone find the light if you hide His light under a basket. According to Him you are to set your light of lampstand to your house and then unto the world. Have you been and are you being obedient to this command? If not, then who are you?
III. Christ fulfills the Law so you may be saved and blessed. Read with me please verses 17 to 20.
17 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one [b]jot or one [c]tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus states it very directly and succinctly that the reason He came was to fulfill the law and the promise of God to sent a savior. Yes, the Father sent a sacrifice, a perfect sacrifice for sin and the sins of mankind. This was necessary to pay the sin debt which no human was able to pay for we are all born under the sin of Adam and Even.
All the law and the institutions of the Abramic and Mosaic covenants for the law and the sacrificial systems were pointed to the shedding of blood for the forgiveness of sins. And as the prophetic part of this the Father promised a savior. But because of the perversion of the teachers and the falling away of the priesthood, the people were taught to expect a deliverer who would restore the nation of Israel to the glories and might of King David.
But one mightier and stronger was present, the Son of God, whose name was Jesus. Jesus asked the Pharisees a question in Matthew 22:42-43, 42 saying, “What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?”
They said to Him, “The Son of David.”
43 He said to them, “How then does David in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord,..?”
Jesus while being a real human being just like you and I was different. Totally human, yet without sin. This is because His seed in Mary’s womb came from the Holy Spirit’s quickening and not from man. David calls Him Lord in the Spirits presence because He is greater than all and He is David’s Lord and King. He is God. But the God who loves you, only wants what is best from you. Are you living for Him day by day? Does He give your life purpose and meaning because of His sacrifice and death on the cross for your sin? He arose and sent the Holy Spirit to help you to live for Him.
Are you?
Last point – Evil and Murder Begins in the Heart v 21-25. Your homework for the week is to read this remaining text and to see it is the attitude of your heart which counts. I simply want to offer to you that according to Jesus and the Bible all sin begins in the heart and mind. Jesus pointed out here you heart attitude counts before God and impacts what you do with and before men. If you have sin between you and the Father and the Holy Spirit is in you here is what you need to do before attending church, giving gifts in Jesus name or before attempting to honor God in your life. Read and obey verses 23 and 24. These are a prescription for Christian fellowship
23 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift
Summary:
• Blessed are you when you suffer for the Lord
• Believers Are Salt and Light
• Christ fulfills the Law so you may be saved and blessed
• What is the condition of your heart- If your heart is good your deeds will be good, for a tree is known by its fruit.
Being a child of Jesus Christ is enabling and grants us clarity in understanding the events and truths of the our times despite the world and Satan who works against us. God has provided The way. Let us walk aware of how Jesus walked and wants you to walk today. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
Some practical applications of Jesus’s word right from the Scripture to apply to our lives today. To show how God’s word meets our lives today we will look how this word applies to us in our day and time
We will study from Matthew chapter 5 vs 11-25, with an abbreviated look at verses 24-25.
Point I. How do you regard trials and tribulations, difficulties if you will on your road to cross that river? Most of us dread the aspect of suffering and for many years churches taught if you were suffering as a believer you were doing something wrong. Our brother tele-evangelists of the prosperity gospel also regard suffering as not having sufficient or tenacious enough faith. If we study our bibles that was not true compared to what was happening in Jesus day. But, first let’s look and see what Jesus says about suffering in Matthew 5:11-12, a subtitle for this section might be - Blessed are you when you suffer for the Lord
11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
You should rejoice if you are chosen to suffer for Christ, You have been considered worthy of His trials. This may be a hard thing for many believers today who do not want to ‘suffer or be persecuted’ but according to Jesus, if they “did it to Him they will do it to you” for a “servant is not above His Master.” (Matt 10:24). You will note in the book of Acts is several instances the disciples when punished and admonished not to teach in the name of Jesus – came back from the incident and prayed for greater boldness. Let us seek to have greater boldness today for the kingdom of heaven and His righteousness today. Jesus and the Father sent the Holy Spirit to give you the words to speak, so speak them.
Point II. Believers Are Salt and Light {meaning we are to speak and live our lives to cleanse and purify and to dispel the darkness.}Here in verses 13 to 16 Jesus provides the exemplar of the life and times of the believer. We are not to hide but to proclaim and project the new life in you to others. Hear what the Holy Spirit would instruct you – Matt 13-16
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Salt is meant to cleanse and purify, that is the role of the Holy Spirit in you and hence it should be an outcome of the love of Christ within you. Live your life in the marketplace with Jesus as your guide. Remember you are not to lose your “saltiness.” If you do of what use are you to the kingdom of Heaven?
You are also the light of the world. Jesus declared to you that, “He was the way the Truth and the Life, and no man cometh to Father but by Him.” If you are then “in Him,” is His light not it you who are reflections of His light? How then will anyone find the light if you hide His light under a basket. According to Him you are to set your light of lampstand to your house and then unto the world. Have you been and are you being obedient to this command? If not, then who are you?
III. Christ fulfills the Law so you may be saved and blessed. Read with me please verses 17 to 20.
17 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one [b]jot or one [c]tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus states it very directly and succinctly that the reason He came was to fulfill the law and the promise of God to sent a savior. Yes, the Father sent a sacrifice, a perfect sacrifice for sin and the sins of mankind. This was necessary to pay the sin debt which no human was able to pay for we are all born under the sin of Adam and Even.
All the law and the institutions of the Abramic and Mosaic covenants for the law and the sacrificial systems were pointed to the shedding of blood for the forgiveness of sins. And as the prophetic part of this the Father promised a savior. But because of the perversion of the teachers and the falling away of the priesthood, the people were taught to expect a deliverer who would restore the nation of Israel to the glories and might of King David.
But one mightier and stronger was present, the Son of God, whose name was Jesus. Jesus asked the Pharisees a question in Matthew 22:42-43, 42 saying, “What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?”
They said to Him, “The Son of David.”
43 He said to them, “How then does David in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord,..?”
Jesus while being a real human being just like you and I was different. Totally human, yet without sin. This is because His seed in Mary’s womb came from the Holy Spirit’s quickening and not from man. David calls Him Lord in the Spirits presence because He is greater than all and He is David’s Lord and King. He is God. But the God who loves you, only wants what is best from you. Are you living for Him day by day? Does He give your life purpose and meaning because of His sacrifice and death on the cross for your sin? He arose and sent the Holy Spirit to help you to live for Him.
Are you?
Last point – Evil and Murder Begins in the Heart v 21-25. Your homework for the week is to read this remaining text and to see it is the attitude of your heart which counts. I simply want to offer to you that according to Jesus and the Bible all sin begins in the heart and mind. Jesus pointed out here you heart attitude counts before God and impacts what you do with and before men. If you have sin between you and the Father and the Holy Spirit is in you here is what you need to do before attending church, giving gifts in Jesus name or before attempting to honor God in your life. Read and obey verses 23 and 24. These are a prescription for Christian fellowship
23 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift
Summary:
• Blessed are you when you suffer for the Lord
• Believers Are Salt and Light
• Christ fulfills the Law so you may be saved and blessed
• What is the condition of your heart- If your heart is good your deeds will be good, for a tree is known by its fruit.
Being a child of Jesus Christ is enabling and grants us clarity in understanding the events and truths of the our times despite the world and Satan who works against us. God has provided The way. Let us walk aware of how Jesus walked and wants you to walk today. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
Sermon Feb 27
In the early part of John’s Gospel, in Chapter 3, verse 19, Jesus makes this statement while address Nicodemus - 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.
Darkness versus the Light seems to be a main theme of the Bible as we progress from Genesis to Revelation. In Genesis God spoke and there was light out of the darkness and all through Exodus, Job, Isaiah and other books, the contrast between those who walk in the light and those who live in the darkness is quite evident and pronounced. As we tell people there is no middle ground or point of compromise between the light and the darkness of sin. Sin only does what darkness does it occupies the places where the light was before. When the light recedes or is extinguished then darkness triumphs over the light.
Here is story concern light and dark and one avenue which presents itself when we look to how we contend as a believer with the darkness of sin and foulness.
A young girl once consulted with her minister. "I cannot stick it out any longer. I am the only Christian in the place where I work. I get nothing but taunts and sneers. It is more than I can stand. I am going to quit."
"Will you tell me," asked the minister, "where lights are placed?"
"What has that to do with it?" the young Christian asked him rather bluntly.
"Never mind," the minister replied. "Answer my question: Where are lights placed?"
"I suppose in dark places," she replied.
"Yes, and that is why you have been put in that factory where there is such spiritual darkness and where there is no other Christian to shine for the Lord."
The young Christian realized for the first time the opportunity that was hers. She felt she could not fail God by allowing her light to go out. She went back to the factory with renewed faith and determination understanding this is where God had placed her. She was to let her light shine in that dark place. Before long, she was the catalyst of leading nine other girls to the Light of Jesus Christ.
Jesus provides even greater clarity of light and dark in Matthew’s gospel, Chapter 6, verses 22& 23 :22 “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is [a]good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is [b]bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
There is no partial Christianity and response to the gospel. If you have received Jesus Christ and are walking in fellowship with the one who sticks closer than a brother your whole body not just your eye will be full of light. Why because your eye is the lamp of your body. Whatever is in your whole body is reflected and comes out of your eye. So there are no partial light bringers either your body is full of light or it isn’t. Remember the “light shineth in the darkness and the darkness could not understand it.
In the same manner if you heart and mind are full of darkness, your evil and wicked intents will be manifested and reflected in who you are and your eye will contain and reflect the evil within you. Remember only God can change a heart and if you are a sinner today you must call upon the name of the Lord to be saved; and He will surely give you rest when you trust His name and confess Him as Lord and Savior to the Father above.
What then is the importance of this knowledge of light and dark to you as a believer today? Jesus said, {Luke 8:10} ““To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables. As events proceed in the coming days 2nd Timothy gives a dire description of the shallowness, evil and hatefulness of the people of our day- men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, [b]unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power.
This is a pretty ravenous bunch, full of darkness and we are to avoid them. So we need to be able to clearly distinguish between light and dark, for the darkness is only getting stronger. What deeds in America today might we use our awareness to give us a perspective of currently happening here and around the world.
You might say we have been surrounded by thickening darkness in America. Oppressive spiritual, physical and emotional darkness has been coming from the father of lies and the deceiver from the beginning. This darkness was facilitated by an uneven change of political power by a selected few over the will of the people, with the courts upholding this evil. Then mix in COVID with its fear of death which is a combination of physical and spiritual pain, separation and darkness. Then, more mis-information about everything about the pandemic from masks to medicines and the restriction of treatments which could have saved many lives – more darkness. Hospitals which have been incentivized to promote death by congressional mandates {CARES Act} for payment for every person admitted for COVID, placed on a respirators and given a specific set of drugs. Then give a 20% bonus if deceased. Makes money for all and eliminates unnecessary people who are of minimal social value. And more keeps following – military blunders and disasters in foreign affairs. Cutting off oil, enabling inflation and generally destroying the economy and then blaming it on COVID and the prior president. What a wonderful dark world we have to enjoy. Is there hope and light anywhere you ask your heart when you are hearing about all this darkness, death, destruction? And appears it is being done in a coordinated manor which touches all of our society and yet many still disagree. So what is a person to do?
We are to have faith and trust in the Lord. If we are learning anything about God He is faithful, what He says He will do He does. Over and over again in the Scripture’s God speaks to Men and encourages them to have faith. This was a constant challenge to the early disciples to continue to look to the Lord and have faith despite what they saw around them. This lesson might apply to us today. As we are continuing to learn to have faith and trust in the Lord for He is with us? Do we understand that we are Children of His Light and His light is the light of men and therefore our light to protect and defend us?
Being a child of the light then gives us perception and understanding, without deception into the events of our day. The light of Christ enables the determination of evil, false hoods and rumors – isn’t the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Truth. He enables us by faith to abide in His truth and to not just understand but to know. To know means to actually experience by events the truth in our spirits what God is telling us is true, not just my guess of what is the truth.
Having us be children of the light also provides security. Yes security of the believe as once saved always saved. And no you just can’t trip and lose your salvation. The Word says- that you may know you have eternal life (1Jn. 5:13}. Security also for those who worry about death and eternity. Today’s events and the increasing darkness and evil can cause even believers who are not well grounded to panic and run for the hills. But brother you don’t need to run to the Hills- for your redemption drawth nigh and you are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise unto the day of redemption . So worry not about your life or what you shall do but put your trust and confidence in the word of God and learn to live by it and in it for it is your guide and your truth to the future.
Am I saying ignore what is happening in the world? The short answer is no, be aware but don’t panic for Christ is with your to guide and
There is another major point from scripture which we need to discuss and this is from 1 John 1: 5. 5This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.
If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
Great news from God’s heart to your heart- God never lies, never cheats, never shades the truth and never does evil, or goes back on His Word. What He promises He keeps, He is the original promise <covenant> keeper for all men. There is no darkness or evil in Him and He gives you the promise of live eternal where He will be. He is all truth in all things and He is God Almighty. Amen
As a believer in Christ, 1 Jn. 2:11 should speak directly to us - But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. The Spirit of Truth enables you to know the truth which sets you free from the law of sin and death. This spiritual light which is in you enables you to understand that you can’t hate your brother and walk as Jesus walked and be a believer. You are only fooling yourselves if you try to do so. Unfortunately many have deceived themselves and the truth was not in them, so they don’t know where they are going which is to hell and death.
So being a child of the Light of Jesus Christ is enabling and grants us clarity in perceiving the events and truths of the end times despite the hate thrown against us. God has provided the way. Let us walk as Jesus walked today. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
In the early part of John’s Gospel, in Chapter 3, verse 19, Jesus makes this statement while address Nicodemus - 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.
Darkness versus the Light seems to be a main theme of the Bible as we progress from Genesis to Revelation. In Genesis God spoke and there was light out of the darkness and all through Exodus, Job, Isaiah and other books, the contrast between those who walk in the light and those who live in the darkness is quite evident and pronounced. As we tell people there is no middle ground or point of compromise between the light and the darkness of sin. Sin only does what darkness does it occupies the places where the light was before. When the light recedes or is extinguished then darkness triumphs over the light.
Here is story concern light and dark and one avenue which presents itself when we look to how we contend as a believer with the darkness of sin and foulness.
A young girl once consulted with her minister. "I cannot stick it out any longer. I am the only Christian in the place where I work. I get nothing but taunts and sneers. It is more than I can stand. I am going to quit."
"Will you tell me," asked the minister, "where lights are placed?"
"What has that to do with it?" the young Christian asked him rather bluntly.
"Never mind," the minister replied. "Answer my question: Where are lights placed?"
"I suppose in dark places," she replied.
"Yes, and that is why you have been put in that factory where there is such spiritual darkness and where there is no other Christian to shine for the Lord."
The young Christian realized for the first time the opportunity that was hers. She felt she could not fail God by allowing her light to go out. She went back to the factory with renewed faith and determination understanding this is where God had placed her. She was to let her light shine in that dark place. Before long, she was the catalyst of leading nine other girls to the Light of Jesus Christ.
Jesus provides even greater clarity of light and dark in Matthew’s gospel, Chapter 6, verses 22& 23 :22 “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is [a]good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is [b]bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
There is no partial Christianity and response to the gospel. If you have received Jesus Christ and are walking in fellowship with the one who sticks closer than a brother your whole body not just your eye will be full of light. Why because your eye is the lamp of your body. Whatever is in your whole body is reflected and comes out of your eye. So there are no partial light bringers either your body is full of light or it isn’t. Remember the “light shineth in the darkness and the darkness could not understand it.
In the same manner if you heart and mind are full of darkness, your evil and wicked intents will be manifested and reflected in who you are and your eye will contain and reflect the evil within you. Remember only God can change a heart and if you are a sinner today you must call upon the name of the Lord to be saved; and He will surely give you rest when you trust His name and confess Him as Lord and Savior to the Father above.
What then is the importance of this knowledge of light and dark to you as a believer today? Jesus said, {Luke 8:10} ““To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables. As events proceed in the coming days 2nd Timothy gives a dire description of the shallowness, evil and hatefulness of the people of our day- men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, [b]unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power.
This is a pretty ravenous bunch, full of darkness and we are to avoid them. So we need to be able to clearly distinguish between light and dark, for the darkness is only getting stronger. What deeds in America today might we use our awareness to give us a perspective of currently happening here and around the world.
You might say we have been surrounded by thickening darkness in America. Oppressive spiritual, physical and emotional darkness has been coming from the father of lies and the deceiver from the beginning. This darkness was facilitated by an uneven change of political power by a selected few over the will of the people, with the courts upholding this evil. Then mix in COVID with its fear of death which is a combination of physical and spiritual pain, separation and darkness. Then, more mis-information about everything about the pandemic from masks to medicines and the restriction of treatments which could have saved many lives – more darkness. Hospitals which have been incentivized to promote death by congressional mandates {CARES Act} for payment for every person admitted for COVID, placed on a respirators and given a specific set of drugs. Then give a 20% bonus if deceased. Makes money for all and eliminates unnecessary people who are of minimal social value. And more keeps following – military blunders and disasters in foreign affairs. Cutting off oil, enabling inflation and generally destroying the economy and then blaming it on COVID and the prior president. What a wonderful dark world we have to enjoy. Is there hope and light anywhere you ask your heart when you are hearing about all this darkness, death, destruction? And appears it is being done in a coordinated manor which touches all of our society and yet many still disagree. So what is a person to do?
We are to have faith and trust in the Lord. If we are learning anything about God He is faithful, what He says He will do He does. Over and over again in the Scripture’s God speaks to Men and encourages them to have faith. This was a constant challenge to the early disciples to continue to look to the Lord and have faith despite what they saw around them. This lesson might apply to us today. As we are continuing to learn to have faith and trust in the Lord for He is with us? Do we understand that we are Children of His Light and His light is the light of men and therefore our light to protect and defend us?
Being a child of the light then gives us perception and understanding, without deception into the events of our day. The light of Christ enables the determination of evil, false hoods and rumors – isn’t the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Truth. He enables us by faith to abide in His truth and to not just understand but to know. To know means to actually experience by events the truth in our spirits what God is telling us is true, not just my guess of what is the truth.
Having us be children of the light also provides security. Yes security of the believe as once saved always saved. And no you just can’t trip and lose your salvation. The Word says- that you may know you have eternal life (1Jn. 5:13}. Security also for those who worry about death and eternity. Today’s events and the increasing darkness and evil can cause even believers who are not well grounded to panic and run for the hills. But brother you don’t need to run to the Hills- for your redemption drawth nigh and you are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise unto the day of redemption . So worry not about your life or what you shall do but put your trust and confidence in the word of God and learn to live by it and in it for it is your guide and your truth to the future.
Am I saying ignore what is happening in the world? The short answer is no, be aware but don’t panic for Christ is with your to guide and
There is another major point from scripture which we need to discuss and this is from 1 John 1: 5. 5This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.
If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
Great news from God’s heart to your heart- God never lies, never cheats, never shades the truth and never does evil, or goes back on His Word. What He promises He keeps, He is the original promise <covenant> keeper for all men. There is no darkness or evil in Him and He gives you the promise of live eternal where He will be. He is all truth in all things and He is God Almighty. Amen
As a believer in Christ, 1 Jn. 2:11 should speak directly to us - But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. The Spirit of Truth enables you to know the truth which sets you free from the law of sin and death. This spiritual light which is in you enables you to understand that you can’t hate your brother and walk as Jesus walked and be a believer. You are only fooling yourselves if you try to do so. Unfortunately many have deceived themselves and the truth was not in them, so they don’t know where they are going which is to hell and death.
So being a child of the Light of Jesus Christ is enabling and grants us clarity in perceiving the events and truths of the end times despite the hate thrown against us. God has provided the way. Let us walk as Jesus walked today. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
Sermon Feb 20
Difficult is the Way from Matthew, Chapter 7, 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and[d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
I Never Knew You
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
Build on the Rock
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
Pray- May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and to our understanding and application. We pray this in Jesus name. Amen
Difficult is the Way which leads to life and eternity with Jesus Christ. What does this and what should this mean to us who belong to Jesus Christ? To you and I, who have received by grace the free offering of life and are part of the “whosoever will may come” fellowship in Him.
Jesus explains here that some who claim to follow Him are not, in fact, true disciples. Shocking isn’t it! True Christian discipleship- are those willing to live for Christ and are “in Him” as Paul uses the term throughout his letters. True Christian discipleship is genuine when it arise from a heart and mind transformed by God’s grace (Rom 12:1-2). Jesus wants us to recognizes this inner transformation will inevitably bear fruit and that fruit will be real (vs.17-20). True Christian disciples have been transformed and their lifestyle proves it by their actions and their lives. Does this mean they are perfect and without fault? The answer inevitably is no, they remain flawed and will have to battle and turn from sin until the day they die. This is what we mean by – difficult is the way. It does mean however that the pattern of their life now suggests they are on a different path (the narrow gate). It would no longer be accurate in the True Christian disciples’ life to describe them as “workers of lawlessness (v.23). They are those who have entered into an authentic personal relationship with Jesus and are now seeking to know what and how to walk with Him. They are those who want to be on mission with God and obedient to His leading.
So, difficult is the way which leads to life
Things to watch out for as you walk this way:
I. Broad is the way that leads to destruction, the right way is much narrower. To understand this path and walk in this way you need to know some truths as you encounter the word of God
II. Next - Beware of who is delivering the messages to your heart and mind. Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. Now many of us think I can recognize these guys after all they all wear black hats and they are always doing bad things. This is a recognized falsehood and over simplification by the enemy {Satan} who creates another Judas who willingly sneaks into the camp of believers undetected. This is one who looks, smells and tastes a lot like you.
Secondly if your heart is not right, you may become duped if you aren’t allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you In John 14:26 – Jesus tells us here: “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.
Look first at Jesus promises - “The Helper, whom I shall send to you from the Father. He is the Holy Spirit of promise, who is one just like Jesus. He is the Spirit of truth.
Then in John 16:13, Jesus gives us more information about Him and His work in us-
However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
Not only will the Holy Spirit lead us in truth, but all of God’s truth, and the truth of what others say and do. But this person is, God in you, has a direct connection to Jesus and the heavenly Father. For whatever He hears in the throne room of heaven He will speak direct to you. This is always true for it is the word of God. Why doesn’t this work all the time? This is because the receiver is sometimes overcome by the static of the world, or fixed on its own self-centered frequency or the signal is too weak because of failing to tune to the transmitter. Ever had a hard time hearing what God is saying then you know what I mean. According to this verse given us by Jesus the problem is not God and not that He is not trying to message us but we are out of touch. Maybe we have sinned, been disobedient or are holding grudges against others and our connection is disabled until we repent and return to God? Check out your connections folks God is speaking. Question is are you hearing Him?
We aren’t finished with this section, because not only does God provide the Holy Spirit to lead, guide, and direct, but Jesus give us some common-sense approaches to those who would sow discord among believers as emissaries of Satan. In verses 15-17, He says “You will know them by their fruits. And in verses 18-21 by What kind of tree and fruit is produced in their life? (thistle, good or soured). Go back now for when we began our lesson today we talked about True Christian discipleship. This type of discipleship is marked by and is genuine when it arises from a heart and mind radically transformed by God’s grace (Rom 12:1-2). On the other hand as described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 2:14. we find the description of one who is not transformed but is still living in sin, unregenerate from God called the natural man
But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
So a natural man or woman who is outside the family of God ( a Judas type) cannot discern or know the truth of the Word or Spirit of God for their spirit is of this world and not of God. So their fruit would be worldly and have thistles. To know this look at the lies and lives we have seen this past week in the news and about Canada and the US. Their fruit is blatantly evil. And look how critical race theory is being taught in our seminaries and being discussed as a tool for leadership within Baptist churches. This is sin and there is no excuse other than the Spirit of anti-Christ living in our denomination. Every time we try to import something manmade of the world into the church we find it is not of God. Beware the prince and power of the Air and his messages to you the church – guard your heart.
And also test other believers who tell a good story, but their life’s work may not result in heaven, but hell fires.
III. Another aide to helping you walk the difficult way is to Build your life of the truth of God’s Word and a follow on to this is be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only.
Building your life of the truth of God’s Word means you need to have a solid foundation on what you believe about the bible. Evaluate these questions – Who is the author? What do believe about the author? Is God all mighty and all powerful, all knowing and able to do all things. Is He all present and if so does He do all things for your good?
Does God’s book contain lies, untruths and if so why would He do that if He is perfect, holy, righteous and without sin? Why would He create you and lead you into sin, Why would He send a savior if you didn’t need one?
What does the Bible say about this book? 2 Tim 3:16 – All scripture is given by inspiration of God. 2 Peter 1 also says, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but [c]holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. Word of God pieces even to the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit and the joints and marrow and is a divider of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb. 4:12).
If you have confidence in the Bible and its author then you have your life as you heed the word of God and actually disciple yourself to obey it.
This is why our original text tells us that - difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
Proverbs 3:13-14 says this - 13Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding;
14 For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold.
So there is indeed wisdom in His book and more importantly you will hear God speak through His word and knock on the door of your heart.
IV. Lastly one final way to make walking the Way less arduous, is to make your heart ready and available for the Holy Spirit to be your teacher. You may remember the parable told by Jesus of the different soils. How one dried up quickly and couldn’t sustain life. How one never had a chance for the seed was snatched away before it could blossom. Or the soil which was chocked out by weeds or the cares of the world; or the one which bloomed quickly for a while failed because of shallow soil and the died out.
Know this your spiritual heart is a tender vessel. For you to have become a believer, God had to allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate your heart and mind and draw you unto Himself. Since your conversion by faith, if you continually fill your heart and mind with today’s media filth, language, morals and corrupt videos of sleazy women and evil, foulmouthed disrespectful men; and continually intake what the world is offering in supposed truth of supposed value, you will be led astray because of your heart hardening and falling away. God knows the soil of your heart needs continual irrigation by the His Word, listening to and seeking God in prayer, without ceasing. You will need fellowship with other believers and you will need to continually seek after God. If you do so He will assist you in establishing and building your life on the Rock of Ages.
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:
Build your life on the Rock of Ages for this is a difficult path. And remember from last week when you lack faith that is the time to run to Him and ask His help to increase your faith and forgive your unbelief. He is able and He can do all things. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
Difficult is the Way from Matthew, Chapter 7, 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 [c]Because narrow is the gate and[d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
You Will Know Them by Their Fruits
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
I Never Knew You
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
Build on the Rock
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
Pray- May God add His blessing to the reading of His Word and to our understanding and application. We pray this in Jesus name. Amen
Difficult is the Way which leads to life and eternity with Jesus Christ. What does this and what should this mean to us who belong to Jesus Christ? To you and I, who have received by grace the free offering of life and are part of the “whosoever will may come” fellowship in Him.
Jesus explains here that some who claim to follow Him are not, in fact, true disciples. Shocking isn’t it! True Christian discipleship- are those willing to live for Christ and are “in Him” as Paul uses the term throughout his letters. True Christian discipleship is genuine when it arise from a heart and mind transformed by God’s grace (Rom 12:1-2). Jesus wants us to recognizes this inner transformation will inevitably bear fruit and that fruit will be real (vs.17-20). True Christian disciples have been transformed and their lifestyle proves it by their actions and their lives. Does this mean they are perfect and without fault? The answer inevitably is no, they remain flawed and will have to battle and turn from sin until the day they die. This is what we mean by – difficult is the way. It does mean however that the pattern of their life now suggests they are on a different path (the narrow gate). It would no longer be accurate in the True Christian disciples’ life to describe them as “workers of lawlessness (v.23). They are those who have entered into an authentic personal relationship with Jesus and are now seeking to know what and how to walk with Him. They are those who want to be on mission with God and obedient to His leading.
So, difficult is the way which leads to life
Things to watch out for as you walk this way:
I. Broad is the way that leads to destruction, the right way is much narrower. To understand this path and walk in this way you need to know some truths as you encounter the word of God
- God is always at work in the world around you and has been working since eternity past
- God has been pursuing you to in a continuing love relationship which is real and personal
- God invites you to unto Himself to become involved with His work
- God speaks to you through His Word, prayer, circumstances and the church to reveal Himself, His purposes and His ways.
- This invitation by God always leads you to a crisis of belief which requires faith and action
- Joining His activity allows you to experience and know God as you obey Him and He accomplishes His work through you.
II. Next - Beware of who is delivering the messages to your heart and mind. Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. Now many of us think I can recognize these guys after all they all wear black hats and they are always doing bad things. This is a recognized falsehood and over simplification by the enemy {Satan} who creates another Judas who willingly sneaks into the camp of believers undetected. This is one who looks, smells and tastes a lot like you.
Secondly if your heart is not right, you may become duped if you aren’t allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you In John 14:26 – Jesus tells us here: “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.
Look first at Jesus promises - “The Helper, whom I shall send to you from the Father. He is the Holy Spirit of promise, who is one just like Jesus. He is the Spirit of truth.
Then in John 16:13, Jesus gives us more information about Him and His work in us-
However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
Not only will the Holy Spirit lead us in truth, but all of God’s truth, and the truth of what others say and do. But this person is, God in you, has a direct connection to Jesus and the heavenly Father. For whatever He hears in the throne room of heaven He will speak direct to you. This is always true for it is the word of God. Why doesn’t this work all the time? This is because the receiver is sometimes overcome by the static of the world, or fixed on its own self-centered frequency or the signal is too weak because of failing to tune to the transmitter. Ever had a hard time hearing what God is saying then you know what I mean. According to this verse given us by Jesus the problem is not God and not that He is not trying to message us but we are out of touch. Maybe we have sinned, been disobedient or are holding grudges against others and our connection is disabled until we repent and return to God? Check out your connections folks God is speaking. Question is are you hearing Him?
We aren’t finished with this section, because not only does God provide the Holy Spirit to lead, guide, and direct, but Jesus give us some common-sense approaches to those who would sow discord among believers as emissaries of Satan. In verses 15-17, He says “You will know them by their fruits. And in verses 18-21 by What kind of tree and fruit is produced in their life? (thistle, good or soured). Go back now for when we began our lesson today we talked about True Christian discipleship. This type of discipleship is marked by and is genuine when it arises from a heart and mind radically transformed by God’s grace (Rom 12:1-2). On the other hand as described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 2:14. we find the description of one who is not transformed but is still living in sin, unregenerate from God called the natural man
But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
So a natural man or woman who is outside the family of God ( a Judas type) cannot discern or know the truth of the Word or Spirit of God for their spirit is of this world and not of God. So their fruit would be worldly and have thistles. To know this look at the lies and lives we have seen this past week in the news and about Canada and the US. Their fruit is blatantly evil. And look how critical race theory is being taught in our seminaries and being discussed as a tool for leadership within Baptist churches. This is sin and there is no excuse other than the Spirit of anti-Christ living in our denomination. Every time we try to import something manmade of the world into the church we find it is not of God. Beware the prince and power of the Air and his messages to you the church – guard your heart.
And also test other believers who tell a good story, but their life’s work may not result in heaven, but hell fires.
III. Another aide to helping you walk the difficult way is to Build your life of the truth of God’s Word and a follow on to this is be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only.
Building your life of the truth of God’s Word means you need to have a solid foundation on what you believe about the bible. Evaluate these questions – Who is the author? What do believe about the author? Is God all mighty and all powerful, all knowing and able to do all things. Is He all present and if so does He do all things for your good?
Does God’s book contain lies, untruths and if so why would He do that if He is perfect, holy, righteous and without sin? Why would He create you and lead you into sin, Why would He send a savior if you didn’t need one?
What does the Bible say about this book? 2 Tim 3:16 – All scripture is given by inspiration of God. 2 Peter 1 also says, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but [c]holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. Word of God pieces even to the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit and the joints and marrow and is a divider of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb. 4:12).
If you have confidence in the Bible and its author then you have your life as you heed the word of God and actually disciple yourself to obey it.
This is why our original text tells us that - difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
Proverbs 3:13-14 says this - 13Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding;
14 For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, And her gain than fine gold.
So there is indeed wisdom in His book and more importantly you will hear God speak through His word and knock on the door of your heart.
IV. Lastly one final way to make walking the Way less arduous, is to make your heart ready and available for the Holy Spirit to be your teacher. You may remember the parable told by Jesus of the different soils. How one dried up quickly and couldn’t sustain life. How one never had a chance for the seed was snatched away before it could blossom. Or the soil which was chocked out by weeds or the cares of the world; or the one which bloomed quickly for a while failed because of shallow soil and the died out.
Know this your spiritual heart is a tender vessel. For you to have become a believer, God had to allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate your heart and mind and draw you unto Himself. Since your conversion by faith, if you continually fill your heart and mind with today’s media filth, language, morals and corrupt videos of sleazy women and evil, foulmouthed disrespectful men; and continually intake what the world is offering in supposed truth of supposed value, you will be led astray because of your heart hardening and falling away. God knows the soil of your heart needs continual irrigation by the His Word, listening to and seeking God in prayer, without ceasing. You will need fellowship with other believers and you will need to continually seek after God. If you do so He will assist you in establishing and building your life on the Rock of Ages.
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:
Build your life on the Rock of Ages for this is a difficult path. And remember from last week when you lack faith that is the time to run to Him and ask His help to increase your faith and forgive your unbelief. He is able and He can do all things. Amen
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not or you are not sure, He tells us that whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13, or seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask for more information or hep. He loves you. Amen
Sermon Feb 13
Matthew 6:25-34 Seek Ye First
25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one [j]cubit to his [k]stature?
28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not [l]arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
When I was a kid growing up, a common expression in my generation was, “What’s your worry?” Meaning of course to the one being questioned, what are you so concerned and worried about? This was generally discerned from looking at a person’s posture, facial expressions and overall demeanor.
This is not to say however, we don’t have a bunch of things to worry about. Our government is putting the final touches on a vaccine passport which will soon be required for all we do, eat, drink, travel and recreate/work. It will be mandatory for all things. We also have unrestrained entry across our borders with no idea how many, what diseases and what hates they bring. You know if you can’t change the elections or voting laws and you let 10+Million illegal aliens into the country and allow voting without ID, you will be able to win a majority as long as you give free everything and don’t require anything. They’ll vote for you, no problem. Now you see why there is no push to control the southern border. But, the Northern border will soon be restricted to American truckers from assisting the Canadian Freedom convoy. Your wonderful HHS secretary has volunteered to assist as needed in halting the “rioters and insurrectionists against the Canadian government.” So you can bet the American truckers planning on coming from California will be assailed on every front by the Homeland secretary and his minions. Another wonder is more than double 7.5% inflation is what you are facing, with a 100% increase in cost of building materials, a 40% increase in durable goods, a 30% increase in price of a gallon of gasoline, and with approximately $256 dollar increase in living expenses each month. And there are less and less people working every month for those un-vax-ed criminals and no loads are being fired despite the Courts halting the mandates. Private companies are being required to conform or lose federal dollars. And you know dollars count more than people, especially in health care or medicines. You still don’t get proper care in large Hospitals for Covid as the financial incentives to have you die far outweigh the incentives {costs} of keeping you alive.
Needless to say there are lots of things about to keep you awake and worried at night if you let them.
Jesus says believers should have and demonstrate faith to live a different way. Let’s re-read our text and frame our discussion and understanding on God’s provision and not our own. You see you and I can become so transfixed on our own solutions to our problems that we exclude the providence and hand of God as the means for our deliverance. In many cases our Father is the only one with adequate resources and the opportunity to insert Himself into solving our most difficult and stressing problems. Back now to Matthew 6:25
25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one [j]cubit to his [k]stature?
You know Jesus would have been a kicker debater. Look at this logic applied to problems similar to today in what Jews and Gentiles were facing in Jesus day. For there was no fast food and no grocery stores of the magnitude and variety of what we have at our finger tips today. So what are the key elements here
1. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?
2. neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them
3. Are you not of more value than they?
So Jesus confronts the concept of personal fears with both statements and questions. Isn’t life more than food and clothing? and the birds don’t reap nor sow, but your Father in heaven feeds them. And then asks this incredible question- Are you not of more value than they? Of course you are to God, you are much more valuable. He valued your eternal soul and life that He sent His Son to pay the penalty for your sinfulness before Him. If that doesn’t convince you of the love of God what will? Jesus at the beginning of this discourse makes this statement – verse 25 - Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Let’s change is slightly Verily, Verily or Truly, Truly Jesus says do not worry about your life, eating, drinking and wearing clothes. So if Jesus says it do you have enough faith to believe in His ability to provide? Does this mean you do nothing? No it means you do all you can in faith believing He will provide. Should you now confess you don’t quite have enough faith to believe what He says?
Next He makes this statement – verse 27 Which of you by worrying can add one [j]cubit to his [k]stature?
28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not [l]arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?
So Jesus challenges His hearers to what can worrying do for you? So again in verse 31 He says do not worry. Beginning and ending have the idea of worry provides nothing, so do not worry, for it adds zero, nil, nothing for your life. In fact worry can so drive you from worship that instead of praying and seeking God you are losing you grip on faith and not seeking Him.
But Jesus wants to put some measure upon the idea of having faith in God so what does He do? Well He paints a might word picture which I think most of us can grasp quite clearly. In the first verses He uses the birds who neither reap nor sow but He feeds them. Here He is talking specifically about worrying about what we are wearing and uses the idea of a flower. The lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not [l]arrayed like one of these.
So lilies don’t toil or spin to make their adornments. Their beauty, scent and form come from their Maker in Heaven not by anything which they have done themselves. The idea being is God provides and we don’t have to worry or stress or lose sleep over our needs. God knows our needs and we can become transfixed over solving and struggling to make enough to satisfy our needs that we omit God from our equation and ignore His provision. Ever done this? I know I have.
Here is the backhand comeback which is our challenge from Jesus even for today-
30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you
Good question don’t you think- will He not much more clothe you, do you believe this? And then comes the O you of little faith?
The challenge comes again directly to the disciples and to us today will He not much more clothe you O you of little faith?
Jesus is challenging us at the point of our faith. Are we really living a life of faith or a life of living by sight? Remember – Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. {Heb.11.1}
I believe I need to live more by faith than I am living today. I believe the evidence of our times is going to require us to confess areas of unbelief and to ask God to forgive our unbelief and to move us to our next step of faith or belief. This is how God grew the disciples and We have the Holy Spirit to help us for He is the Teacher and He will teach us the truth, God’s truth.
But that was only the second round, we are not quite to the major bullet or take away but it is coming in this round of scripture. Begin now at Verse -31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Here is a major point often unnoticed -31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. Jesus begins the summation again telling us not to worry about all we have discussed already and then drops in this little jewel – for these things are what the Gentiles seek. The original point of emphasis here is to embarrass the Jews about worrying but it is not that solely. Why? Jesus came first to redeem Israel His chosen people but they are rejecting Him. Jesus ministry will also include reconciliation for the Gentiles. So while Jews were specifically trained in their scriptures to avoid lusting after these things, the Gentiles by nature were not, but both nations worry and both nations despite religious training and education did not follow the law and prophets.
So I want to interject a thematic point here which many of us never consider. Jesus ultimately becomes savior for both Jew and Gentile by His shed blood at Calvary. Further Jesus and the disciples both minister to the Greeks and the Gentiles, men and women. There are folks today who criticize Christians for not being racially equal or sensitive or inclusive and multi-cultural, loving and caring about others. Jesus by His very life, death and sacrifice are testimony that this is not true. Believers Jew, Gentile, Greek, men and scandalously women of all colors, nationalities, ages and ethnic groups were and continue to be included in the circle of Christianity in love of Christ. Be bold about arguing this point.
Now finishing up the text and the key verses for meditation today - 32For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
There is a certainty and assuredness in these words of Jesus who is speaking directly to us today concerning His truth. He says your heavenly Father knows you need all repeat all these things. If Jesus says is do you suppose it might possibly be true?
Then Jesus tells us where to set our objective and goal. He says But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. We must keep our eyes on Jesus and seek the kingdom of God and to be like Him in His righteousness. Then and only then all these things shall be added unto you and I. Here we are questioned and challenged again is do we have the faith to believe or are we unbelieving of this text - “19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus {Phil.4.19}?
But there is more for us – if you have faith to believe up to this point then don’t worry about tomorrow. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Tomorrow will take care of itself if we are seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. So the key command and emphasis by Jesus is encapsulated in this idea of focusing on the Kingdom of God/Heaven to the exclusion of worry. If God is all powerful and all-knowing and all present everywhere, He knows the future and what is best for you. Be like Peter continually seeking to be with Jesus and He will draw near to you and keep and preserve you. Remember to seek Ye first the Kingdom of God. It is in His word- by faith, Trust Him, only Trust Him, now.
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not, He tells us, whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13 and seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask to know Jesus today. He love you. Amen
Matthew 6:25-34 Seek Ye First
25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one [j]cubit to his [k]stature?
28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not [l]arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
When I was a kid growing up, a common expression in my generation was, “What’s your worry?” Meaning of course to the one being questioned, what are you so concerned and worried about? This was generally discerned from looking at a person’s posture, facial expressions and overall demeanor.
This is not to say however, we don’t have a bunch of things to worry about. Our government is putting the final touches on a vaccine passport which will soon be required for all we do, eat, drink, travel and recreate/work. It will be mandatory for all things. We also have unrestrained entry across our borders with no idea how many, what diseases and what hates they bring. You know if you can’t change the elections or voting laws and you let 10+Million illegal aliens into the country and allow voting without ID, you will be able to win a majority as long as you give free everything and don’t require anything. They’ll vote for you, no problem. Now you see why there is no push to control the southern border. But, the Northern border will soon be restricted to American truckers from assisting the Canadian Freedom convoy. Your wonderful HHS secretary has volunteered to assist as needed in halting the “rioters and insurrectionists against the Canadian government.” So you can bet the American truckers planning on coming from California will be assailed on every front by the Homeland secretary and his minions. Another wonder is more than double 7.5% inflation is what you are facing, with a 100% increase in cost of building materials, a 40% increase in durable goods, a 30% increase in price of a gallon of gasoline, and with approximately $256 dollar increase in living expenses each month. And there are less and less people working every month for those un-vax-ed criminals and no loads are being fired despite the Courts halting the mandates. Private companies are being required to conform or lose federal dollars. And you know dollars count more than people, especially in health care or medicines. You still don’t get proper care in large Hospitals for Covid as the financial incentives to have you die far outweigh the incentives {costs} of keeping you alive.
Needless to say there are lots of things about to keep you awake and worried at night if you let them.
Jesus says believers should have and demonstrate faith to live a different way. Let’s re-read our text and frame our discussion and understanding on God’s provision and not our own. You see you and I can become so transfixed on our own solutions to our problems that we exclude the providence and hand of God as the means for our deliverance. In many cases our Father is the only one with adequate resources and the opportunity to insert Himself into solving our most difficult and stressing problems. Back now to Matthew 6:25
25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one [j]cubit to his [k]stature?
You know Jesus would have been a kicker debater. Look at this logic applied to problems similar to today in what Jews and Gentiles were facing in Jesus day. For there was no fast food and no grocery stores of the magnitude and variety of what we have at our finger tips today. So what are the key elements here
1. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?
2. neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them
3. Are you not of more value than they?
So Jesus confronts the concept of personal fears with both statements and questions. Isn’t life more than food and clothing? and the birds don’t reap nor sow, but your Father in heaven feeds them. And then asks this incredible question- Are you not of more value than they? Of course you are to God, you are much more valuable. He valued your eternal soul and life that He sent His Son to pay the penalty for your sinfulness before Him. If that doesn’t convince you of the love of God what will? Jesus at the beginning of this discourse makes this statement – verse 25 - Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Let’s change is slightly Verily, Verily or Truly, Truly Jesus says do not worry about your life, eating, drinking and wearing clothes. So if Jesus says it do you have enough faith to believe in His ability to provide? Does this mean you do nothing? No it means you do all you can in faith believing He will provide. Should you now confess you don’t quite have enough faith to believe what He says?
Next He makes this statement – verse 27 Which of you by worrying can add one [j]cubit to his [k]stature?
28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not [l]arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?
So Jesus challenges His hearers to what can worrying do for you? So again in verse 31 He says do not worry. Beginning and ending have the idea of worry provides nothing, so do not worry, for it adds zero, nil, nothing for your life. In fact worry can so drive you from worship that instead of praying and seeking God you are losing you grip on faith and not seeking Him.
But Jesus wants to put some measure upon the idea of having faith in God so what does He do? Well He paints a might word picture which I think most of us can grasp quite clearly. In the first verses He uses the birds who neither reap nor sow but He feeds them. Here He is talking specifically about worrying about what we are wearing and uses the idea of a flower. The lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not [l]arrayed like one of these.
So lilies don’t toil or spin to make their adornments. Their beauty, scent and form come from their Maker in Heaven not by anything which they have done themselves. The idea being is God provides and we don’t have to worry or stress or lose sleep over our needs. God knows our needs and we can become transfixed over solving and struggling to make enough to satisfy our needs that we omit God from our equation and ignore His provision. Ever done this? I know I have.
Here is the backhand comeback which is our challenge from Jesus even for today-
30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you
Good question don’t you think- will He not much more clothe you, do you believe this? And then comes the O you of little faith?
The challenge comes again directly to the disciples and to us today will He not much more clothe you O you of little faith?
Jesus is challenging us at the point of our faith. Are we really living a life of faith or a life of living by sight? Remember – Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. {Heb.11.1}
I believe I need to live more by faith than I am living today. I believe the evidence of our times is going to require us to confess areas of unbelief and to ask God to forgive our unbelief and to move us to our next step of faith or belief. This is how God grew the disciples and We have the Holy Spirit to help us for He is the Teacher and He will teach us the truth, God’s truth.
But that was only the second round, we are not quite to the major bullet or take away but it is coming in this round of scripture. Begin now at Verse -31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Here is a major point often unnoticed -31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. Jesus begins the summation again telling us not to worry about all we have discussed already and then drops in this little jewel – for these things are what the Gentiles seek. The original point of emphasis here is to embarrass the Jews about worrying but it is not that solely. Why? Jesus came first to redeem Israel His chosen people but they are rejecting Him. Jesus ministry will also include reconciliation for the Gentiles. So while Jews were specifically trained in their scriptures to avoid lusting after these things, the Gentiles by nature were not, but both nations worry and both nations despite religious training and education did not follow the law and prophets.
So I want to interject a thematic point here which many of us never consider. Jesus ultimately becomes savior for both Jew and Gentile by His shed blood at Calvary. Further Jesus and the disciples both minister to the Greeks and the Gentiles, men and women. There are folks today who criticize Christians for not being racially equal or sensitive or inclusive and multi-cultural, loving and caring about others. Jesus by His very life, death and sacrifice are testimony that this is not true. Believers Jew, Gentile, Greek, men and scandalously women of all colors, nationalities, ages and ethnic groups were and continue to be included in the circle of Christianity in love of Christ. Be bold about arguing this point.
Now finishing up the text and the key verses for meditation today - 32For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
There is a certainty and assuredness in these words of Jesus who is speaking directly to us today concerning His truth. He says your heavenly Father knows you need all repeat all these things. If Jesus says is do you suppose it might possibly be true?
Then Jesus tells us where to set our objective and goal. He says But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. We must keep our eyes on Jesus and seek the kingdom of God and to be like Him in His righteousness. Then and only then all these things shall be added unto you and I. Here we are questioned and challenged again is do we have the faith to believe or are we unbelieving of this text - “19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus {Phil.4.19}?
But there is more for us – if you have faith to believe up to this point then don’t worry about tomorrow. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Tomorrow will take care of itself if we are seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. So the key command and emphasis by Jesus is encapsulated in this idea of focusing on the Kingdom of God/Heaven to the exclusion of worry. If God is all powerful and all-knowing and all present everywhere, He knows the future and what is best for you. Be like Peter continually seeking to be with Jesus and He will draw near to you and keep and preserve you. Remember to seek Ye first the Kingdom of God. It is in His word- by faith, Trust Him, only Trust Him, now.
Do you know Jesus Christ? If not, He tells us, whosoever will may come? Read Romans 10:9-13 and seek myself or any believer in Christ, or call the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and ask to know Jesus today. He love you. Amen
Sermon Feb 6
Parables about value- Matthew 13:44-58
44 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46 who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, 48 which, when it was full, they drew to shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad away. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, 50 and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.”
51 [d]Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?” They said to Him, “Yes, [e]Lord.”
52 Then He said to them, “Therefore every [f]scribe instructed [g]concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old.”
53 Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these parables, that He departed from there. 54 When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works? 55 Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, [h]Joses, Simon, and Judas? 56 And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this Man get all these things?” 57 So they were offended at Him.
But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.” 58 Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
We see Jesus teaching here about value. What do you suppose Jesus was trying to instruct the disciples about? What is important or what is of value. Perhaps before we begin digging into what Jesus was teaching, let’s talk about value and define it.
What exactly in this world today do you value? What exactly might you consider valuable or of worth and important for some reason or another? What might that thing or those things be?
Perhaps there is more than one degree of worth or value? There is self-worth, price or cost value worth {net worth perhaps,} or worldly worth as a more general category. And finally what God might consider of high value or worth. As we being parsing this it becomes evident that there are three primary categories of worth/value.
Under self-worth – is defined as what we think about ourselves. This worth come from how others relate to us about ourselves and our family, how they raised us, and what we received from them. All these contribute to our self-worth, but self-worth can also lead us to self-loathing so we need to understand there are two end points on this continuum.
Cost value or net worth relates to things, possessions and what do we own or control, which we consider of value. Much of this comes from the world’s values system, which we copy for ourselves. Gold, silver, prestige, power over others, jewelry, cars, clothes and the like. Net worth is the sum total of all these possessions which we accumulate and the sum of all of them together? Control and being the BMOC are included in this realm for net worth is also what we may think we are worth.
Now what does God value? – clean hands, a pure heart, humility, fear of the Lord, faith in God, in His Word and what His Son has done. To love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind and strength. There may be other attributes such as you can think or remember. Here’s another one – obedience is better than sacrifice. Honor and the list goes on. The point is this – of what value do you treasure, honor obey and love Jesus? I ask this question because Jesus is challenging the thinking of His disciples. They are so earthly minded and not heavenly oriented. Could this be you and I today. Go quickly through the verses. There is a progression of the value proposition presented by Jesus.
44. kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy. Heavenly treasure brings great joy to all who would seek it and grasp it. Is this your focus?
45 $ 46 found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. The value of the pearl of great price is found in God’s kingdom, not man’s. The pearl is treasuring what God has planned and called us to do for us, beyond what our struggles can bring!
47 - 52. Those that seek the pearl of great price or the treasure hidden in a field will garner a prize of untold value. It is given to those who enter the Kingdom of Heaven and not sell their souls for what is tied to the earth. Those that pursue those things which perish and have value on earth have received their reward and it is temporary. Those that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength and shall mount up with wings like eagles, nor faint nor weaken. God lifts them up on high for eternity.
49-50 Refer to Judgement which is coming soon. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, 50 and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” The end of the age is the end of the age of Men and the great Judge with His angels is coming to judge the quick and the dead. The wicked are those which value things of earth and self over and beyond their respect and honor for God. In the Old Testament sense this is disobedience to the command – Thou shalt have no other God’s before Me. Jesus who looks at the heart will come and judge each according to their thoughts and intents of their heart and who have no other Gods before them.
So Jesus was deeply challenging His disciples in the application of this idea to themselves. then as ever good teacher says, do you get this idea? Jesus in the midst of this, knows full well what Satan is doing. The Lord is aware that the Pharisees and His own neighbors together will ask Jesus about this exact point and He is challenging His disciples to believe and have faith because of who He. Jesus is God.
So now they have moved . In vs. 53 it says, He departed from there. 54 When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works? 55 Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary?
Those who do not seek and search for lasting value in the Kingdom of heaven are concerned about this lowly carpenter’s son. See what they say! Look at what they value and certainly it is not the Son of God. They value the worldly systems with its perks, lies, half-truths and lack of knowledge. How could this common carpenter be anything but a peon carpenter, and what could He impart of any real or lasting value, especially as the world determines value. Beside we know His heritage and His brothers and sisters. So to sum it up as Jesus is of no consequence or value to them. They said, 57 {So} they were offended at Him.
That is not all. The disciples who swore they too heard and knew the lesson He was teaching. But when the practical exam and application came, they flunked out of school. Jesus had to bring them back to the lesson He was teaching about. Did they value Jesus or the world? Jesus said, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.” What is the result of failing to understand, honor and respect the name, mission and purpose of the Lord Jesus? Verse 58 tells us -58 Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief. Unbelief, disrespect and dishonoring the Lord Jesus leads to death. Jesus chose not to do many mighty works of healing, delivery and salvation because of their unbelief. So dishonor equals unbelief and is treated as disrespect. Yet, Jesus has given you redemption, renewal and eternal life through His blood.
Eph. 1.3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Now look at today’s world with its lies about abortion, the border, events in America and the capital, the oil crisis, the cost of gas and heating oil. What is happening to the Constitution of the US of A? Why would you trust in a world that is passing away and not in the eternal Son of God? So I ask you the same question again do you see there is great value in Jesus Christ? Or are you of a second opinion? Perhaps you need to review the question and definition of True value that is eternal and permanent and is only in Jesus Christ our Lord.
Christ to the believer, is our all in all. He is sufficient for all things and He is the Lord and giver of Life to all who believe. Amen
Will you surrender to Him today?
Parables about value- Matthew 13:44-58
44 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46 who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, 48 which, when it was full, they drew to shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad away. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, 50 and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.”
51 [d]Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?” They said to Him, “Yes, [e]Lord.”
52 Then He said to them, “Therefore every [f]scribe instructed [g]concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old.”
53 Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these parables, that He departed from there. 54 When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works? 55 Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, [h]Joses, Simon, and Judas? 56 And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this Man get all these things?” 57 So they were offended at Him.
But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.” 58 Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
We see Jesus teaching here about value. What do you suppose Jesus was trying to instruct the disciples about? What is important or what is of value. Perhaps before we begin digging into what Jesus was teaching, let’s talk about value and define it.
What exactly in this world today do you value? What exactly might you consider valuable or of worth and important for some reason or another? What might that thing or those things be?
Perhaps there is more than one degree of worth or value? There is self-worth, price or cost value worth {net worth perhaps,} or worldly worth as a more general category. And finally what God might consider of high value or worth. As we being parsing this it becomes evident that there are three primary categories of worth/value.
Under self-worth – is defined as what we think about ourselves. This worth come from how others relate to us about ourselves and our family, how they raised us, and what we received from them. All these contribute to our self-worth, but self-worth can also lead us to self-loathing so we need to understand there are two end points on this continuum.
Cost value or net worth relates to things, possessions and what do we own or control, which we consider of value. Much of this comes from the world’s values system, which we copy for ourselves. Gold, silver, prestige, power over others, jewelry, cars, clothes and the like. Net worth is the sum total of all these possessions which we accumulate and the sum of all of them together? Control and being the BMOC are included in this realm for net worth is also what we may think we are worth.
Now what does God value? – clean hands, a pure heart, humility, fear of the Lord, faith in God, in His Word and what His Son has done. To love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind and strength. There may be other attributes such as you can think or remember. Here’s another one – obedience is better than sacrifice. Honor and the list goes on. The point is this – of what value do you treasure, honor obey and love Jesus? I ask this question because Jesus is challenging the thinking of His disciples. They are so earthly minded and not heavenly oriented. Could this be you and I today. Go quickly through the verses. There is a progression of the value proposition presented by Jesus.
44. kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy. Heavenly treasure brings great joy to all who would seek it and grasp it. Is this your focus?
45 $ 46 found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. The value of the pearl of great price is found in God’s kingdom, not man’s. The pearl is treasuring what God has planned and called us to do for us, beyond what our struggles can bring!
47 - 52. Those that seek the pearl of great price or the treasure hidden in a field will garner a prize of untold value. It is given to those who enter the Kingdom of Heaven and not sell their souls for what is tied to the earth. Those that pursue those things which perish and have value on earth have received their reward and it is temporary. Those that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength and shall mount up with wings like eagles, nor faint nor weaken. God lifts them up on high for eternity.
49-50 Refer to Judgement which is coming soon. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, 50 and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” The end of the age is the end of the age of Men and the great Judge with His angels is coming to judge the quick and the dead. The wicked are those which value things of earth and self over and beyond their respect and honor for God. In the Old Testament sense this is disobedience to the command – Thou shalt have no other God’s before Me. Jesus who looks at the heart will come and judge each according to their thoughts and intents of their heart and who have no other Gods before them.
So Jesus was deeply challenging His disciples in the application of this idea to themselves. then as ever good teacher says, do you get this idea? Jesus in the midst of this, knows full well what Satan is doing. The Lord is aware that the Pharisees and His own neighbors together will ask Jesus about this exact point and He is challenging His disciples to believe and have faith because of who He. Jesus is God.
So now they have moved . In vs. 53 it says, He departed from there. 54 When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works? 55 Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary?
Those who do not seek and search for lasting value in the Kingdom of heaven are concerned about this lowly carpenter’s son. See what they say! Look at what they value and certainly it is not the Son of God. They value the worldly systems with its perks, lies, half-truths and lack of knowledge. How could this common carpenter be anything but a peon carpenter, and what could He impart of any real or lasting value, especially as the world determines value. Beside we know His heritage and His brothers and sisters. So to sum it up as Jesus is of no consequence or value to them. They said, 57 {So} they were offended at Him.
That is not all. The disciples who swore they too heard and knew the lesson He was teaching. But when the practical exam and application came, they flunked out of school. Jesus had to bring them back to the lesson He was teaching about. Did they value Jesus or the world? Jesus said, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.” What is the result of failing to understand, honor and respect the name, mission and purpose of the Lord Jesus? Verse 58 tells us -58 Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief. Unbelief, disrespect and dishonoring the Lord Jesus leads to death. Jesus chose not to do many mighty works of healing, delivery and salvation because of their unbelief. So dishonor equals unbelief and is treated as disrespect. Yet, Jesus has given you redemption, renewal and eternal life through His blood.
Eph. 1.3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Now look at today’s world with its lies about abortion, the border, events in America and the capital, the oil crisis, the cost of gas and heating oil. What is happening to the Constitution of the US of A? Why would you trust in a world that is passing away and not in the eternal Son of God? So I ask you the same question again do you see there is great value in Jesus Christ? Or are you of a second opinion? Perhaps you need to review the question and definition of True value that is eternal and permanent and is only in Jesus Christ our Lord.
Christ to the believer, is our all in all. He is sufficient for all things and He is the Lord and giver of Life to all who believe. Amen
Will you surrender to Him today?
Sermon January 26
Jesus originally invited the Andrew, Peter, James and John to “Follow Him and I will make you fishers of men.” So sometime after they had been walking with Jesus and:
Now we just rumbled quickly over some very serious points or flaws inclusive of, flaws in the religious leaders and flaws in the world. There are two specific instigators of these worldly problems, yourself and Satan. You personally because of original sin, you are by nature sinful and apart from God. You inherited this nature from Adam and Eve. Look at your news, however you consume it, the hateful and murderous responses of people are the same today as they were in Noah’s day where every man did what was right in their own eyes.
The second problems is that the prince of the power of the air owns the air waves and he knows your weaknesses and he tempts you and I on the basis of our weaknesses. However, when you choose to sin, that’s right – when you choose to sin as a believer you have to jump over 1 Cor 10:13. For as a believer, sinning is no longer your nature and you no longer have to comply. Jesus has canceled the power of sin and set you free.
But Jesus has some additional work for those who would follow Him. Now I want you to remember before we look at what Jesus commands believers to do and be, that He has supplied Himself; one just like Him to assist you in meeting this work. Read with me now from Matthew Chapter 16 verses 24-28 - 24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. 28 Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”
Pray - May God give us understanding to apply Your word daily in each of our lives, and what we have heard right now. Amen
A quick review then, for us, our task is to follow Jesus and in following Jesus we have certain directions which need to be followed from our text to have a close fellowship with Him.
I. see verse 24 - If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow Me.
First Jesus notes to His disciples and us that while following Him is part of the critical path, self-denial and taking up one’s cross are necessary in order to adequately follow Jesus. Why? Because Jesus said so. Let’s examine this to unpack the truth and make us aware of what He means for us to know and obey. The disciples because of their knowledge of Rome and Roman rule were probably quite aware of the idea and use of crucifixion. Roman use of crucifixion for punishment was a common thing in Jerusalem at this time. It was a terribly punishing and excruciating method of tortuous death. Your use the weakness of the body of the individual against the prisoner, thirst, exposure and fatigue to strangulate the person himself. Using the analogy of taking up one’s cross and following Him meant an explicit decision, which was life changing and potentially a death sentence. Did you realize the level of commitment that Jesus was asking from you when you first became a believer? I am not sure I did, honestly. Following Jesus which is the idea contained in the phrase – If anyone desires to come after Me. let Him deny Himself asserts a radical denial of self which can only come from a heart change because our nature is radically self-centered. Heart changes only occur and last because the Holy Spirit has implanted the knowledge of the love of God in a person and they become no longer self-centered but God centered. They have been changed by the might hand of God in an instant, in the blink of an eye. God cleansed your heart and made you acceptable to Himself. A willingness exists now in your reconditioned heart to be God centered and not man centered. What a wonderful thing God has done. Now it is no longer what I want but what does God want with my life, which counts? As the disciples understood and those Muslims who convert to Christianity understand - death can happen at any time.
Self-denial and heart conversion are essential for committing yourself to following Jesus. This is your burden, your cross if you will - your absolute and total commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. Your life you should now understand and recognize is not your life, but His life to use as you surrender and serve Him.
II. Verses 25-26 now - 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? Here is the dilemma each believer faces. This is a real conundrum for America today. Read the verses again and consider, as it say in vs 25-25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. The disciples were very aware as they confronted the religious leaders that a commitment to Jesus might mean death. Jesus here gives them a caution – if you pledge your commitment to Himself you may try to minimize the pain, discomfort and distress of your physical life by not being what He wants you to be. Remember Jesus knows your heart and soul and mind and strength. If you minimize your Christianity to get along, to be accommodating or inclusive or whatever the current term for compromising your faith, you risk losing your eternal life in Christ. Exhibiting this type of behavior actually means you weren’t really saved and a real believer to begin with. But say you are dancing between two opinions, having a divided heart and mind- you could lose your eternal way to heaven. Jesus then asks the next question -26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? In coming to Jesus you almost had everything you needed for all sufficiency in Christ Jesus, But you choose the easy way of denying Christ to others or to yourself and you lost your way. So you were almost saved and going to Heaven but not totally committed to Him so you lose your way and die eternally. Question is again were you really saved to begin with? Where are you today?
The struggle for wealth and riches can also be a stumbling block. {Matt. 6:33}To have vast quantities of worldly riches but having sold your soul for them is death. This is the great contrast between having spiritual wisdom and discernment and living for the “profit” of worldly riches by personal effort. To strive for good things in this world is not a sin but when they become your “idol” it is for your profit and gain and not your relationship with God. Then perhaps you have gained worldly riches but have indeed have lost your own soul.
Continuing with the remainder of the verse this point is emphasized - Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? Can you pay the entry fee to get into heaven with your earnings or what you have achieved? Surely you know the answer to this, nothing you have or have achieved or earned is sufficient to pay your entry price into heaven. You have nothing to give in exchange for your soul. The only payment sufficient in itself is grace. God’s grace which comes by faith in Jesus Christ. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Eph.2: 8-9). Jesus reminds us very simply in John 14:6 He is the way and no man commeth unto the Father but by Me- paraphrased from NKJV.
Again this is a work of grace and continuous struggle for the soul and purpose of you and I as believers. Are we surrendering to the voice of God by the Holy Spirit to be obedient to the last thing that Jesus has commanded us? Scripture says “we are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling.” Not blind fear and irrational trembling but righteous fear of the Lord and trembling to be obedient in all we are called to do.
III. Verse 27 – for the 27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.
So what should the perspective of the servant of the Living Christ be? I believe it is to keep our eyes on Jesus and to learn to walk in His ways and not our own, doing what Jesus has commanded. We need to be mindful as Paul continually tells us of the terror of the Lord, but forgetting what is behind and keeping our eyes on the upward calling of Jesus Christ. Paul’s focus was always on the end game but being obedient now to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
In this reference Jesus gives His reference to His association with men. He is the son of Man who is coming soon. The fact He names Himself the Son of Man is good news for He is relating to you and I since He came as God in the flesh to become the perfect sacrifice for sin. He is the God man and without Him there is no sacrifice for sin equivalent to pay your sin debt. At the same time this verse reminds us He will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.
He is also The righteous Judge for all peoples because of His sacrifice for sin. The specific judgement referenced here is most likely the white throne judgement where those who are unbelieving will be judged. Remember all authority in heaven and earth has been given unto Jesus because of His sinless sacrifice. So He has the authority given by God to judge all of humanity because of their depravity and sin.
If you remember the parable of the sheep and the goats you will remember that the sheep on the right hand are preserved unto eternity. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. (Matt. 25. 34) And those goats on the left, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels:
But remember for the believer judgement is already present is your life after having believed in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is living in you now and He is responsible for convicting you of sin, righteousness and convicting you of what is to come (Jn. 16:7ff). But remember Believers will also be judged on the basis of how they have lived their lives for Christ. Were we obedient to the call of Christ? What have we done for advancing God’s kingdom here on earth? Have we lived honorably for Jesus and our Father? Have we been obedient to all we knew to do in the Bible? All questions to be addressed face to face with Jesus at the Bema Judgement of believers, where all our lives will be evaluated and reviewed. One thing we should not do is judge someone’s salvation? This is the work of God not men, this is what we are not to judge.
Is there fear in this judgement at the mercy seat of the Lamb? I believe the answer is no. No fear will be present for according to God’s Word, perfect love casts out all fear. And you and I will be perfected in love at that time, so the judgement will be a profound lesson and a blessing for each of us.
IV. Verse 28- 28 Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” Jesus next made this startling statement that there were some standing there with Him who would not taste death before they saw Him coming in His kingdom. The problem, of course, is that those disciples have all died, yet Christ has not come in power and glory to set up His kingdom. The problem is solved if we disregard the chapter break and consider the first eight verses of the next chapter as an explanation of His enigmatic statement. These verses describe the incident on the Mount of Transfiguration. There Peter, James, and John saw Christ transfigured. They were actually privileged to have a preview of Christ in the glory of His kingdom. This was a blessing to these three privileged disciples to see the Transfiguration of Jesus as they were soon to be sorely tested by the crucifixion.
If you are a believer in Jesus Christ you have also been transfigured and are now being conformed to the image of your Lord. That is a fact but Jesus wants all disciples now and forever more to count the cost of being a follower of Jesus Christ. It is not to be saved then to sit in the pew and wait for heaven. It is learning to walk humbly daily and learning to rely on Jesus and denying self. But you have a holy Helper straight from the throne room of heaven. He will help you walk as you should if you will to set your heart towards Him daily. Amen
Jesus originally invited the Andrew, Peter, James and John to “Follow Him and I will make you fishers of men.” So sometime after they had been walking with Jesus and:
- had experienced the hate of the Pharisees and Sadducees,
- spent time seeing the difference between how the world looked on people and how Jesus served and treated people with sicknesses, infirmities and horrible disfigurements and diseases,
- and how Jesus honored, respected and loved His Father in heaven.
Now we just rumbled quickly over some very serious points or flaws inclusive of, flaws in the religious leaders and flaws in the world. There are two specific instigators of these worldly problems, yourself and Satan. You personally because of original sin, you are by nature sinful and apart from God. You inherited this nature from Adam and Eve. Look at your news, however you consume it, the hateful and murderous responses of people are the same today as they were in Noah’s day where every man did what was right in their own eyes.
The second problems is that the prince of the power of the air owns the air waves and he knows your weaknesses and he tempts you and I on the basis of our weaknesses. However, when you choose to sin, that’s right – when you choose to sin as a believer you have to jump over 1 Cor 10:13. For as a believer, sinning is no longer your nature and you no longer have to comply. Jesus has canceled the power of sin and set you free.
But Jesus has some additional work for those who would follow Him. Now I want you to remember before we look at what Jesus commands believers to do and be, that He has supplied Himself; one just like Him to assist you in meeting this work. Read with me now from Matthew Chapter 16 verses 24-28 - 24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. 28 Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”
Pray - May God give us understanding to apply Your word daily in each of our lives, and what we have heard right now. Amen
A quick review then, for us, our task is to follow Jesus and in following Jesus we have certain directions which need to be followed from our text to have a close fellowship with Him.
I. see verse 24 - If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow Me.
First Jesus notes to His disciples and us that while following Him is part of the critical path, self-denial and taking up one’s cross are necessary in order to adequately follow Jesus. Why? Because Jesus said so. Let’s examine this to unpack the truth and make us aware of what He means for us to know and obey. The disciples because of their knowledge of Rome and Roman rule were probably quite aware of the idea and use of crucifixion. Roman use of crucifixion for punishment was a common thing in Jerusalem at this time. It was a terribly punishing and excruciating method of tortuous death. Your use the weakness of the body of the individual against the prisoner, thirst, exposure and fatigue to strangulate the person himself. Using the analogy of taking up one’s cross and following Him meant an explicit decision, which was life changing and potentially a death sentence. Did you realize the level of commitment that Jesus was asking from you when you first became a believer? I am not sure I did, honestly. Following Jesus which is the idea contained in the phrase – If anyone desires to come after Me. let Him deny Himself asserts a radical denial of self which can only come from a heart change because our nature is radically self-centered. Heart changes only occur and last because the Holy Spirit has implanted the knowledge of the love of God in a person and they become no longer self-centered but God centered. They have been changed by the might hand of God in an instant, in the blink of an eye. God cleansed your heart and made you acceptable to Himself. A willingness exists now in your reconditioned heart to be God centered and not man centered. What a wonderful thing God has done. Now it is no longer what I want but what does God want with my life, which counts? As the disciples understood and those Muslims who convert to Christianity understand - death can happen at any time.
Self-denial and heart conversion are essential for committing yourself to following Jesus. This is your burden, your cross if you will - your absolute and total commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. Your life you should now understand and recognize is not your life, but His life to use as you surrender and serve Him.
II. Verses 25-26 now - 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? Here is the dilemma each believer faces. This is a real conundrum for America today. Read the verses again and consider, as it say in vs 25-25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. The disciples were very aware as they confronted the religious leaders that a commitment to Jesus might mean death. Jesus here gives them a caution – if you pledge your commitment to Himself you may try to minimize the pain, discomfort and distress of your physical life by not being what He wants you to be. Remember Jesus knows your heart and soul and mind and strength. If you minimize your Christianity to get along, to be accommodating or inclusive or whatever the current term for compromising your faith, you risk losing your eternal life in Christ. Exhibiting this type of behavior actually means you weren’t really saved and a real believer to begin with. But say you are dancing between two opinions, having a divided heart and mind- you could lose your eternal way to heaven. Jesus then asks the next question -26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? In coming to Jesus you almost had everything you needed for all sufficiency in Christ Jesus, But you choose the easy way of denying Christ to others or to yourself and you lost your way. So you were almost saved and going to Heaven but not totally committed to Him so you lose your way and die eternally. Question is again were you really saved to begin with? Where are you today?
The struggle for wealth and riches can also be a stumbling block. {Matt. 6:33}To have vast quantities of worldly riches but having sold your soul for them is death. This is the great contrast between having spiritual wisdom and discernment and living for the “profit” of worldly riches by personal effort. To strive for good things in this world is not a sin but when they become your “idol” it is for your profit and gain and not your relationship with God. Then perhaps you have gained worldly riches but have indeed have lost your own soul.
Continuing with the remainder of the verse this point is emphasized - Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? Can you pay the entry fee to get into heaven with your earnings or what you have achieved? Surely you know the answer to this, nothing you have or have achieved or earned is sufficient to pay your entry price into heaven. You have nothing to give in exchange for your soul. The only payment sufficient in itself is grace. God’s grace which comes by faith in Jesus Christ. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Eph.2: 8-9). Jesus reminds us very simply in John 14:6 He is the way and no man commeth unto the Father but by Me- paraphrased from NKJV.
Again this is a work of grace and continuous struggle for the soul and purpose of you and I as believers. Are we surrendering to the voice of God by the Holy Spirit to be obedient to the last thing that Jesus has commanded us? Scripture says “we are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling.” Not blind fear and irrational trembling but righteous fear of the Lord and trembling to be obedient in all we are called to do.
III. Verse 27 – for the 27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.
So what should the perspective of the servant of the Living Christ be? I believe it is to keep our eyes on Jesus and to learn to walk in His ways and not our own, doing what Jesus has commanded. We need to be mindful as Paul continually tells us of the terror of the Lord, but forgetting what is behind and keeping our eyes on the upward calling of Jesus Christ. Paul’s focus was always on the end game but being obedient now to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
In this reference Jesus gives His reference to His association with men. He is the son of Man who is coming soon. The fact He names Himself the Son of Man is good news for He is relating to you and I since He came as God in the flesh to become the perfect sacrifice for sin. He is the God man and without Him there is no sacrifice for sin equivalent to pay your sin debt. At the same time this verse reminds us He will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.
He is also The righteous Judge for all peoples because of His sacrifice for sin. The specific judgement referenced here is most likely the white throne judgement where those who are unbelieving will be judged. Remember all authority in heaven and earth has been given unto Jesus because of His sinless sacrifice. So He has the authority given by God to judge all of humanity because of their depravity and sin.
If you remember the parable of the sheep and the goats you will remember that the sheep on the right hand are preserved unto eternity. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. (Matt. 25. 34) And those goats on the left, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels:
But remember for the believer judgement is already present is your life after having believed in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is living in you now and He is responsible for convicting you of sin, righteousness and convicting you of what is to come (Jn. 16:7ff). But remember Believers will also be judged on the basis of how they have lived their lives for Christ. Were we obedient to the call of Christ? What have we done for advancing God’s kingdom here on earth? Have we lived honorably for Jesus and our Father? Have we been obedient to all we knew to do in the Bible? All questions to be addressed face to face with Jesus at the Bema Judgement of believers, where all our lives will be evaluated and reviewed. One thing we should not do is judge someone’s salvation? This is the work of God not men, this is what we are not to judge.
Is there fear in this judgement at the mercy seat of the Lamb? I believe the answer is no. No fear will be present for according to God’s Word, perfect love casts out all fear. And you and I will be perfected in love at that time, so the judgement will be a profound lesson and a blessing for each of us.
IV. Verse 28- 28 Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” Jesus next made this startling statement that there were some standing there with Him who would not taste death before they saw Him coming in His kingdom. The problem, of course, is that those disciples have all died, yet Christ has not come in power and glory to set up His kingdom. The problem is solved if we disregard the chapter break and consider the first eight verses of the next chapter as an explanation of His enigmatic statement. These verses describe the incident on the Mount of Transfiguration. There Peter, James, and John saw Christ transfigured. They were actually privileged to have a preview of Christ in the glory of His kingdom. This was a blessing to these three privileged disciples to see the Transfiguration of Jesus as they were soon to be sorely tested by the crucifixion.
If you are a believer in Jesus Christ you have also been transfigured and are now being conformed to the image of your Lord. That is a fact but Jesus wants all disciples now and forever more to count the cost of being a follower of Jesus Christ. It is not to be saved then to sit in the pew and wait for heaven. It is learning to walk humbly daily and learning to rely on Jesus and denying self. But you have a holy Helper straight from the throne room of heaven. He will help you walk as you should if you will to set your heart towards Him daily. Amen
Sermon Jan 23
Jim's most recent Sermon
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be [d]burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless {forgiven}; 15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, 16 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
17 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; 18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. The Word of God written for you.
Today as we walk with the Lord, perhaps we should turn our hearts to this matter of faith. We studied on Friday the Father who brought his demon possessed child to the disciples and they could not cast it out. (Matt.17). Jesus rebukes the disciples for their lack of faith and challenges the father who asked Jesus, “if you can cast it out.” The father then repents for he had enough faith to bring the child to Jesus but lacked faith for healing by Jesus. He makes an important statement to Jesus – “forgive my unbelief.” We should consider this a learning opportunity for ourselves as we sometimes face this same decision point where God is challenging our faith. Our daily walk to “Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men” is a constant struggle just as it was with the disciples. For three- and one-half years they walked with the master yet when it came to the understanding that Jesus came to die, they did not understand or learn from event to event Jesus was challenging their understanding of Himself, who God was and is and each step required additional faith. Sometimes they failed like with healing this demon possessed child. They failed at the crucifixion and the resurrection, at the feeding of the 5000 and the 4000, and in many other cases.
As a matter of fact one of the disciples Paul, or Saul of Tarsus was persecuting believers, delivering them to prison, torture and death. How is it that God can use such abject failures and establish the kingdom of heaven here on the earth with success? Paul even states in one of his letters or epistles in the NT that he was/is the least of all the disciples but still Jesus Christ called him by name- “Saul, Saul, why persecuteth thou Me?” (Acts)
Again, how is it that God is able to transform abject failures into Kingdom material? This is done by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Eph. 1:13-14 says, 13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who[a] is the [b]guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. When God began illuminating your hearts giving you enough faith to receive His as Lord and convicting you of your sin, He sealed you with the Holy Spirit of promise to eternity. He in your heart’s temple is where God dwells. By this He made you a new creature.
That is why the question in our text is relevant – verse 11- what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness? Your walk as a believer in Christ with Him leading and the Holy Spirit teaching is a challenge each day to your level of faith. Jesus leading and you following is always going to result in new challenges to your faith. Each next step is going to require more faith than the one before. So today are you trusting God more by faith or are you limiting your faith?
According to our teachings which we continue to learn, we are to walk by faith and not by sight?
So what can limit our faith? Our past, Our personal choices, sin, fear, disobedience, misunderstanding, each of these can limit our faith in our Lord. Anything which limits our faith makes us feckless Christians; meaning weak and useless to the purposes of God.
Our past can limit our faith – God has recreated us in Christ as new creatures 2 Cor. 5:17, old things have passed away behold all things have become new. Some believers are so oriented on the past that they are consumed by passed failures and never achieve the freedom in Christ that God wants us to achieve. Think of Peter in his denying Christ three times. When he heard the crow of the rooster it all came back to him what Jesus said. “Before the cock crows twice you will deny Me three times.” Even though Peter repented, he could have been limited for the rest of his ministry by this failure. But Jesus love restored him by challenging his motives. Did Peter go on to fail again of course he did by treating the Gentiles differently when the Jews were present. But Peter was forgiven and moved on.
Paul gives us the clear mindset of what we need to not be limited by past failures. Listen to what he says in Philippians 3-12 Not that I have already attained,[a] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have [b]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Forgetting the things of the past, eye toward what is ahead. Understanding that we have been forgiven in Christ, which we must confess and repent continuously. If we say we have no the sin the truth is not in us. {1 Jn.}
Our personal choices can limit our faith. If we continually choose to sin or to have doubts, then we need to address our faith. Have we really met the living Christ and have we truly believed that His salvation has set us free from the law of sin and death? Then if this is true, why are we continuing to choose to sin and be disobedient to God? God has promised every believer spiritual gifts to those who believe – temperance is one of the gifts. Jesus says if any of you lacks wisdom, ask of Him who give all things liberally and He will help you make wise choices, if you are of faith. Remember - Without faith it is impossible to please Him. He who comes to God must believe that He is and a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Heb. 11.6)
Here is a biggie- fear can limit our faith. There are many types of fear. Fear of failure as you work for God, fear of being spurned for being a Christian, fear of impacting your economics and finances because you are a Christian, fear of what others might say, fear of being rejected at work, fear of death for being a Christian. There are lots of fears available to weaken your testimony and weaken your relationship with Christ. Start to overcome your fear by studying the Word of God, realize that God’s perfect loves casts out all fear. Remember what Jesus told you, “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” Neither height nor depth nor any created thing shall be able to separate you from the love of God.
If we are honest all these fears about witnessing, our testimony and sharing the love of Christ are troublesome for we are really pondering our death in many cases. That is why in today’s culture speaking truth about life styles, race, gender, equity {reparations}, the family, challenging CRT in our schools, being labeled as domestic terrorists and the like is potentially very dangerous, even life threatening. Jesus made this not optional for the believer. He said, Luke 9: 23-25, 23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross [a]daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.” Jesus wants us to realize our real life is not here and now. Our life is in Christ. He knows our life’s plan and He wants us to join Him in the work. What work? Redeeming a lost world for the Kingdom of Heaven is the work and we are on mission with Him. He will always go with us and before us in whatever He calls us to do.
We have already alluded to willful disobedience, in addressing our lack of faith. We posed the question - did we actually believe and receive genuine salvation in the first place or did we have true faith initially? We as humans have created a category of disobedience which we define as periodic slipping out of character to God’s desired plan for our lives. Unfortunately God does not have this category in His rulebook. All sin is willful sin, regardless of how you may choose to define it, according to God. To sin as a believer is to willfully disobey the Word of God and choose to sin, despite what you know about God. There is no excuses other than a fallen nature which has been redeemed by the blood of Christ. According again to God’s Word Luke 9:23 “let Him deny Himself and take up His cross and follow Me.”
Misunderstanding is a big word, what are we actually talking about? Misunderstanding and misinterpreting the Word of God is what we need to discuss. Foolishly taking a verse or a series of verses out of context can lead to denying the truth in God’s word and cause you to believe something which is not the truth. To do this you actually have to deny the functioning of the Holy Spirit. 13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. (John 16:13). Many of the sects which operate today tell you there is some essential truth which you are missing from the Word of God, and you need to go here or there, or do this or that to be saved. It is a lie and is not blessed but cursed of God. Those that walk in these ways are doomed and those that formed this ungodly lie or in for severe punishment.
Let’s sum it up. Jesus, as He walked through the chapters of Matthew, was dramatically teaching His disciples that each encounter with Him and what He was asking them to do was going to require more faith. Just like the journey you are on right now if you are a believer. Each step of obedience is going to require more faith and God is waiting on your next step of faith.
Faith is confidence in God’s will, purpose and plan for your life. Will you perfectly execute all God has planned for you in Jesus Christ? I would pray that would be so but most likely you will fail along the way. Question is what will you allow this failure to do? Will you allow failure to define your future with Jesus regardless of what happen? Perhaps it will be a moral or sexual failure? Or perhaps you cheated, lied or told untruths about another? Do you realize that your sin is keeping you from your relationship with God? Sin separates us from God, keeps Him from hearing our prayers and creates enmity between us and God.
Jesus cries out to you if you don’t know Him and says Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. He cries out to the believer and says Repent therefore and return that your sins may be washed away in order that times of refreshing can come from being in the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3.19)
Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things unseen.{Heb 11.1} It is that mustard seed element with which you together with a Holy God can move the mountains in men and women’s hearts. Faith must be worked at by trusting in God’s word- remember faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
Faith is what enabled you to be saved. {By grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God not of works, lest any man should boast}. Faith is trusting in God’s truth leading you to repentance, confession and being reestablished in your faith. True faith will lead you to learn the love of God will enable you to face any uncertainty even your death for the rewards at the end far exceed anything which we should desire to keep us here. God’s retirement plan and benefits are out of this world. Having faith in God should lead us to trust Him wherever He may take us.
Wherever He leads I’ll go. I’ll follow My Christ where’er He goes, Wherever He leads I’ll go.
The worst part about allowing your faith to be limited is you miss the full rich plan established by the Father for your life and you do not grow to be all He knows you can be. That is the despair of limiting faith to stand in the Father’s / Jesus presence and know you did not do all you could have done for Him. So we have a message to tell - Keep our eyes on the end goal- Jesus is coming again: and to know the love of Christ and share it will others so they too can know Him and be with Him in eternity. This is what our original scripture was telling us. Amen
Jim's most recent Sermon
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be [d]burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
14 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless {forgiven}; 15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, 16 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
17 You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; 18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. The Word of God written for you.
Today as we walk with the Lord, perhaps we should turn our hearts to this matter of faith. We studied on Friday the Father who brought his demon possessed child to the disciples and they could not cast it out. (Matt.17). Jesus rebukes the disciples for their lack of faith and challenges the father who asked Jesus, “if you can cast it out.” The father then repents for he had enough faith to bring the child to Jesus but lacked faith for healing by Jesus. He makes an important statement to Jesus – “forgive my unbelief.” We should consider this a learning opportunity for ourselves as we sometimes face this same decision point where God is challenging our faith. Our daily walk to “Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men” is a constant struggle just as it was with the disciples. For three- and one-half years they walked with the master yet when it came to the understanding that Jesus came to die, they did not understand or learn from event to event Jesus was challenging their understanding of Himself, who God was and is and each step required additional faith. Sometimes they failed like with healing this demon possessed child. They failed at the crucifixion and the resurrection, at the feeding of the 5000 and the 4000, and in many other cases.
As a matter of fact one of the disciples Paul, or Saul of Tarsus was persecuting believers, delivering them to prison, torture and death. How is it that God can use such abject failures and establish the kingdom of heaven here on the earth with success? Paul even states in one of his letters or epistles in the NT that he was/is the least of all the disciples but still Jesus Christ called him by name- “Saul, Saul, why persecuteth thou Me?” (Acts)
Again, how is it that God is able to transform abject failures into Kingdom material? This is done by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Eph. 1:13-14 says, 13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who[a] is the [b]guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. When God began illuminating your hearts giving you enough faith to receive His as Lord and convicting you of your sin, He sealed you with the Holy Spirit of promise to eternity. He in your heart’s temple is where God dwells. By this He made you a new creature.
That is why the question in our text is relevant – verse 11- what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness? Your walk as a believer in Christ with Him leading and the Holy Spirit teaching is a challenge each day to your level of faith. Jesus leading and you following is always going to result in new challenges to your faith. Each next step is going to require more faith than the one before. So today are you trusting God more by faith or are you limiting your faith?
According to our teachings which we continue to learn, we are to walk by faith and not by sight?
So what can limit our faith? Our past, Our personal choices, sin, fear, disobedience, misunderstanding, each of these can limit our faith in our Lord. Anything which limits our faith makes us feckless Christians; meaning weak and useless to the purposes of God.
Our past can limit our faith – God has recreated us in Christ as new creatures 2 Cor. 5:17, old things have passed away behold all things have become new. Some believers are so oriented on the past that they are consumed by passed failures and never achieve the freedom in Christ that God wants us to achieve. Think of Peter in his denying Christ three times. When he heard the crow of the rooster it all came back to him what Jesus said. “Before the cock crows twice you will deny Me three times.” Even though Peter repented, he could have been limited for the rest of his ministry by this failure. But Jesus love restored him by challenging his motives. Did Peter go on to fail again of course he did by treating the Gentiles differently when the Jews were present. But Peter was forgiven and moved on.
Paul gives us the clear mindset of what we need to not be limited by past failures. Listen to what he says in Philippians 3-12 Not that I have already attained,[a] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have [b]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Forgetting the things of the past, eye toward what is ahead. Understanding that we have been forgiven in Christ, which we must confess and repent continuously. If we say we have no the sin the truth is not in us. {1 Jn.}
Our personal choices can limit our faith. If we continually choose to sin or to have doubts, then we need to address our faith. Have we really met the living Christ and have we truly believed that His salvation has set us free from the law of sin and death? Then if this is true, why are we continuing to choose to sin and be disobedient to God? God has promised every believer spiritual gifts to those who believe – temperance is one of the gifts. Jesus says if any of you lacks wisdom, ask of Him who give all things liberally and He will help you make wise choices, if you are of faith. Remember - Without faith it is impossible to please Him. He who comes to God must believe that He is and a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Heb. 11.6)
Here is a biggie- fear can limit our faith. There are many types of fear. Fear of failure as you work for God, fear of being spurned for being a Christian, fear of impacting your economics and finances because you are a Christian, fear of what others might say, fear of being rejected at work, fear of death for being a Christian. There are lots of fears available to weaken your testimony and weaken your relationship with Christ. Start to overcome your fear by studying the Word of God, realize that God’s perfect loves casts out all fear. Remember what Jesus told you, “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” Neither height nor depth nor any created thing shall be able to separate you from the love of God.
If we are honest all these fears about witnessing, our testimony and sharing the love of Christ are troublesome for we are really pondering our death in many cases. That is why in today’s culture speaking truth about life styles, race, gender, equity {reparations}, the family, challenging CRT in our schools, being labeled as domestic terrorists and the like is potentially very dangerous, even life threatening. Jesus made this not optional for the believer. He said, Luke 9: 23-25, 23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross [a]daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.” Jesus wants us to realize our real life is not here and now. Our life is in Christ. He knows our life’s plan and He wants us to join Him in the work. What work? Redeeming a lost world for the Kingdom of Heaven is the work and we are on mission with Him. He will always go with us and before us in whatever He calls us to do.
We have already alluded to willful disobedience, in addressing our lack of faith. We posed the question - did we actually believe and receive genuine salvation in the first place or did we have true faith initially? We as humans have created a category of disobedience which we define as periodic slipping out of character to God’s desired plan for our lives. Unfortunately God does not have this category in His rulebook. All sin is willful sin, regardless of how you may choose to define it, according to God. To sin as a believer is to willfully disobey the Word of God and choose to sin, despite what you know about God. There is no excuses other than a fallen nature which has been redeemed by the blood of Christ. According again to God’s Word Luke 9:23 “let Him deny Himself and take up His cross and follow Me.”
Misunderstanding is a big word, what are we actually talking about? Misunderstanding and misinterpreting the Word of God is what we need to discuss. Foolishly taking a verse or a series of verses out of context can lead to denying the truth in God’s word and cause you to believe something which is not the truth. To do this you actually have to deny the functioning of the Holy Spirit. 13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. (John 16:13). Many of the sects which operate today tell you there is some essential truth which you are missing from the Word of God, and you need to go here or there, or do this or that to be saved. It is a lie and is not blessed but cursed of God. Those that walk in these ways are doomed and those that formed this ungodly lie or in for severe punishment.
Let’s sum it up. Jesus, as He walked through the chapters of Matthew, was dramatically teaching His disciples that each encounter with Him and what He was asking them to do was going to require more faith. Just like the journey you are on right now if you are a believer. Each step of obedience is going to require more faith and God is waiting on your next step of faith.
Faith is confidence in God’s will, purpose and plan for your life. Will you perfectly execute all God has planned for you in Jesus Christ? I would pray that would be so but most likely you will fail along the way. Question is what will you allow this failure to do? Will you allow failure to define your future with Jesus regardless of what happen? Perhaps it will be a moral or sexual failure? Or perhaps you cheated, lied or told untruths about another? Do you realize that your sin is keeping you from your relationship with God? Sin separates us from God, keeps Him from hearing our prayers and creates enmity between us and God.
Jesus cries out to you if you don’t know Him and says Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. He cries out to the believer and says Repent therefore and return that your sins may be washed away in order that times of refreshing can come from being in the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3.19)
Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things unseen.{Heb 11.1} It is that mustard seed element with which you together with a Holy God can move the mountains in men and women’s hearts. Faith must be worked at by trusting in God’s word- remember faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
Faith is what enabled you to be saved. {By grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God not of works, lest any man should boast}. Faith is trusting in God’s truth leading you to repentance, confession and being reestablished in your faith. True faith will lead you to learn the love of God will enable you to face any uncertainty even your death for the rewards at the end far exceed anything which we should desire to keep us here. God’s retirement plan and benefits are out of this world. Having faith in God should lead us to trust Him wherever He may take us.
Wherever He leads I’ll go. I’ll follow My Christ where’er He goes, Wherever He leads I’ll go.
The worst part about allowing your faith to be limited is you miss the full rich plan established by the Father for your life and you do not grow to be all He knows you can be. That is the despair of limiting faith to stand in the Father’s / Jesus presence and know you did not do all you could have done for Him. So we have a message to tell - Keep our eyes on the end goal- Jesus is coming again: and to know the love of Christ and share it will others so they too can know Him and be with Him in eternity. This is what our original scripture was telling us. Amen
Sermon Jan 16
A righteous life produces a blessed man or woman. Reference Psalm 1- Blessed is the man or woman who walketh not in the council of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful, but his delight is in the law of the Lord and in it he doth meditate day and night. And he shall be like tree planted by the river of waters.
We are called to live a righteous life so that we can be blessed of God as men and women of God. Psalm 112 sandwiched in between Psalm 111 which talks to what the Lord has done and His works, and Psalm 113- Israel’s great Psalm of Praise, the great Hallel. Now we should not ignore the placement of Psalms together, for God never does anything except by design. These three Psalms are a package. Psalm 111 the works and miracles of what has accomplished. Psalm 112 how these works should impact the men and women of God; and Psalm 113- why we must, should and want to praise Him for His love and goodness. He is our Father, our El Shaddai and our Savior.
Now may God bless us as we approach His word. May the Holy Spirit illuminate our hearts and give us not just understanding but wisdom for application and to be useful to the Lord. Amen
Psalm 112 - Praise[a] the Lord!
Blessed is the man who fears the Lord,
Who delights greatly in His commandments.
2 His descendants will be mighty on earth;
The generation of the upright will be blessed.
3 Wealth and riches will be in his house,
And his righteousness [b]endures forever.
4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness;
He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
5 A good man deals graciously and lends;
He will guide his affairs with discretion.
6 Surely he will never be shaken;
The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.
7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings;
His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8 His heart is established;
He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies.
9 He has dispersed abroad,
He has given to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever;
His [c]horn will be exalted with honor.
10 The wicked will see it and be grieved;
He will gnash his teeth and melt away;
The desire of the wicked shall perish
Now, may God add His blessing to the reading of His Word. AMEN
As we begin we need to understand that these verses are written from a strictly Hebrew perspective and do not reflect modern ways concerning women and other more recent mores. This is sometimes a point of contention in interpretation. Israel was a male dominated society and as such the words and mores reflect this idea. We will bump into a few of these concerns as we parse these verses. You will note I will abbreviate much discussion which could go much deeper, but based upon our needs for today and the rifts in society and in the world, we need to focus on verses 5 through 8. But you will notice that the remainder of the verses support the behavior and wisdom demonstrated by how the Blessed Man or Woman lives privately and publicly.
The foundation for you to be a Blessed Man or Woman is found in verses 1 and 2- Blessed is the man who fears the Lord,
Who delights greatly in His commandments.
The Blessed person here has two secrets- He loves the Lord and He loves His Word. What is established and repeater here is the foundation of a righteous life begins with these two sources. First, a clear, honest, deferential and reverential awe in honoring God Almighty, His Son and in roles of the Holy Spirit. God is God and we are not. Without a clear understanding of this relationship and who God is we fail. The second secret of the Blessed person is a love for the Word of God. Without the Love of the Word you will have a hard time maintaining the love towards the Lord. Only by the washing of the water of the Word, and the constant standing before the Word of God will you have the ability to maintain a clean heart, and to renew a right spirit within you. Ref. Psalm 51- David’s repentance. Again, this is foundational without these two loves operating the Holy Spirit will not be able to use you and establish a truly righteous life.
Move now to verses 2 through 4
2His descendants will be mighty on earth; The generation of the upright will be blessed.
3 Wealth and riches will be in his house,
And his righteousness [b]endures forever.
4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness; He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
Each of the blessings promised here come from the Old Testament covenant of blessings which were established in the Abramic covenant and matured through Isaac, Jacob and Moses. Again if you study Deuteronomy 28 you find that the guarantees for wealth, riches and the like are promised by faithfulness to God and His Word. Jesus on the contrary never made promises concerning earthly riches but focused on heavenly rewards and the benefits of being blessed {Matt. 5 speaks to Blessed are.}
One of the outcomes of righteous living is it blesses not only you but your offspring. This is called spiritual influence. You have the opportunity to influence not only your children, other people and other generations. Might does not always mean powerful but influential to others. This is not often something we consider but it is powerful for you and for others. We often call this righteous influence -fellowship.
In verses 3 -5, and 9, what should our relationship to material wealth be? Under the old covenant, material wealth was one of the evidences of the Lord’s blessing on His people as they moved into the Promised Land. This explains why the apostles were shocked when Jesus said that it was difficult for rich people to enter God’s kingdom. If rich people could not be saved, then who could?
To Job’s three friends, the fact that Job had lost everything was proof that God was punishing him for his sins. It was faulty logic, but they held it tenaciously. The persons depicted in this psalm are righteous before the Lord and did not acquire their wealth in some unlawful manner. The righteous person was generous in his use of the wealth the Lord gave him, sharing it with the poor and lending it freely without interest (Deut. 23:19-20). He was certainly not miserly or covetous, and he was obedient to the Lord’s admonition to care for the poor and needy. When he quoted verse 9 in 2 Corinthians 9:9, the apostle Paul used him as an example for believers today to follow.
Whereas, the word “horn” in verse 9 is an image of power and dignity (Luke 1:69). Because of the Blessed person’s generosity, the Lord allowed him to be lifted up in the eyes of his peers. As you see the Blessed persons faith in the Lord and love for those in need, you cannot help but think of the promise in Matthew 6:33.
Now go to verses 5 to 8 .5 A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion.
6 Surely, he will never be shaken; The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.
7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8 His heart is established; He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies.
We have already spoken to verse 5 but remember the traits and characteristics of the Blessed Man begin in verse 1 and flow through to the children {sons} so they have the opportunity to become mighty and moral persons; and to the family so their substance is enriched because of their fear of the Lord and his love of His word. In summary there is the promise of a house full of riches and a heart full of righteousness.
Now is these remaining verses we shall study the security of the Blessed Man or Woman
Surely, he will never be shaken- The promise of everlasting security- such a person is immovable This world and its rocks and foundations will surely pass away as mentioned in the book of Revelation. This is the type of security perspective needed today for in this environment of falsehoods, lies and deception exhibited at all levels of government, we the people of God need to be steadfast in the promises of God, not being daily twisted by the winds of outrageous fortune.
Not only is there everlasting security in the perspective of the Blessed Men and Women but there is – Note is verses 7 and 8 there are two things recorded about the upright man or woman. Bad news does not shake Him or Her for his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. We are all overtaken sometimes by bad news – a death, bank fails, lightning strikes, hurricane, tornado, some disaster. God does not exempt us from difficulties or disaster. What He does allow is to rest our hearts on Him. Bad news need not shake us God remains on His throne.
Good news does not shun Him. There may be bad news but persons of faith know that good news is ultimately on the way. Believers all the only ones with the right and promise to be optimistic about the final future. All others are false promises very much like fake news, they are not based upon the truth of God’s word or His sworn promises.
I want to press again on these three verses look what they say
he will never be shaken; Confidence in the Lord His God and Savior – strengthened by the Holy Spirit.
will be in everlasting remembrance. This is a two-way idea; (a.) for God will never leave you or forsake you. He has written your name in the Lamb’s book of Life and He has sealed you by the Holy Spirit unto the day of redemption. (b.) While you may waver in your remembrance of His goodness, mercy and love for a bit, but you will return because God continues to draw you via the Holy Spirit to Himself.
not afraid of evil tidings; (surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will come to dwell is the house {temple} of the Almighty forever. This is the blessing from God for your life. Evil tidings for a moment but in perspective as Paul says are but a momentary light affliction (2 Cor 4:17)
Their heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
Their heart is established; He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies
Our heart to remain steadfast must go back to the foundation of our faith. Trust in the Lord, fear Him and live in and according to the Word of God. These Psalms are incredible as we study and learn from them we learn first principles over and over. The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom so verse 1 is foundational for everything that follows in the Psalm. Each trait or benefit which comes because of our practice of living these words flows from verse 1.
To prove this look at the remaining verses –
9 He has dispersed abroad,
He has given to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever;
His [c]horn will be exalted with honor.
10 The wicked will see it and be grieved;
He will gnash his teeth and melt away;
The desire of the wicked shall perish
All these traits are the outgrowth of a righteous life. Your righteous life leads to benefits not just to you, to your family, but to your nation and to others outside.
Dispersed abroad what is dispersed abroad? Money maybe, the Word of God maybe, the truth of who God is maybe, the love of God maybe? Out of the blessing of a good heart flow Good fruit.
Given to the poor -sounds like duty, no more than that. This is giving with exceptional good measure out of the love of God and the knowledge of what He has given to us.
God exalts and honors us forever not because we deserve it but because He loves us and cares for us. Eph 1:3 says, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
One more final blessing is promised to the Blessed men and women is their enemies will have the opportunity to witness your blessedness and will gnash their teeth because of what God has done for you. Isn’t that something beware those in power today for your reward is coming and you will not rejoice in that day as you think in your hearts Oh men and women who rejoice in your evil and wickedness. We pray God grants you the mercy to repent and receive Jesus Christ before that day, in a place called Hell which you reject.
AMEN
A righteous life produces a blessed man or woman. Reference Psalm 1- Blessed is the man or woman who walketh not in the council of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful, but his delight is in the law of the Lord and in it he doth meditate day and night. And he shall be like tree planted by the river of waters.
We are called to live a righteous life so that we can be blessed of God as men and women of God. Psalm 112 sandwiched in between Psalm 111 which talks to what the Lord has done and His works, and Psalm 113- Israel’s great Psalm of Praise, the great Hallel. Now we should not ignore the placement of Psalms together, for God never does anything except by design. These three Psalms are a package. Psalm 111 the works and miracles of what has accomplished. Psalm 112 how these works should impact the men and women of God; and Psalm 113- why we must, should and want to praise Him for His love and goodness. He is our Father, our El Shaddai and our Savior.
Now may God bless us as we approach His word. May the Holy Spirit illuminate our hearts and give us not just understanding but wisdom for application and to be useful to the Lord. Amen
Psalm 112 - Praise[a] the Lord!
Blessed is the man who fears the Lord,
Who delights greatly in His commandments.
2 His descendants will be mighty on earth;
The generation of the upright will be blessed.
3 Wealth and riches will be in his house,
And his righteousness [b]endures forever.
4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness;
He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
5 A good man deals graciously and lends;
He will guide his affairs with discretion.
6 Surely he will never be shaken;
The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.
7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings;
His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8 His heart is established;
He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies.
9 He has dispersed abroad,
He has given to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever;
His [c]horn will be exalted with honor.
10 The wicked will see it and be grieved;
He will gnash his teeth and melt away;
The desire of the wicked shall perish
Now, may God add His blessing to the reading of His Word. AMEN
As we begin we need to understand that these verses are written from a strictly Hebrew perspective and do not reflect modern ways concerning women and other more recent mores. This is sometimes a point of contention in interpretation. Israel was a male dominated society and as such the words and mores reflect this idea. We will bump into a few of these concerns as we parse these verses. You will note I will abbreviate much discussion which could go much deeper, but based upon our needs for today and the rifts in society and in the world, we need to focus on verses 5 through 8. But you will notice that the remainder of the verses support the behavior and wisdom demonstrated by how the Blessed Man or Woman lives privately and publicly.
The foundation for you to be a Blessed Man or Woman is found in verses 1 and 2- Blessed is the man who fears the Lord,
Who delights greatly in His commandments.
The Blessed person here has two secrets- He loves the Lord and He loves His Word. What is established and repeater here is the foundation of a righteous life begins with these two sources. First, a clear, honest, deferential and reverential awe in honoring God Almighty, His Son and in roles of the Holy Spirit. God is God and we are not. Without a clear understanding of this relationship and who God is we fail. The second secret of the Blessed person is a love for the Word of God. Without the Love of the Word you will have a hard time maintaining the love towards the Lord. Only by the washing of the water of the Word, and the constant standing before the Word of God will you have the ability to maintain a clean heart, and to renew a right spirit within you. Ref. Psalm 51- David’s repentance. Again, this is foundational without these two loves operating the Holy Spirit will not be able to use you and establish a truly righteous life.
Move now to verses 2 through 4
2His descendants will be mighty on earth; The generation of the upright will be blessed.
3 Wealth and riches will be in his house,
And his righteousness [b]endures forever.
4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness; He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
Each of the blessings promised here come from the Old Testament covenant of blessings which were established in the Abramic covenant and matured through Isaac, Jacob and Moses. Again if you study Deuteronomy 28 you find that the guarantees for wealth, riches and the like are promised by faithfulness to God and His Word. Jesus on the contrary never made promises concerning earthly riches but focused on heavenly rewards and the benefits of being blessed {Matt. 5 speaks to Blessed are.}
One of the outcomes of righteous living is it blesses not only you but your offspring. This is called spiritual influence. You have the opportunity to influence not only your children, other people and other generations. Might does not always mean powerful but influential to others. This is not often something we consider but it is powerful for you and for others. We often call this righteous influence -fellowship.
In verses 3 -5, and 9, what should our relationship to material wealth be? Under the old covenant, material wealth was one of the evidences of the Lord’s blessing on His people as they moved into the Promised Land. This explains why the apostles were shocked when Jesus said that it was difficult for rich people to enter God’s kingdom. If rich people could not be saved, then who could?
To Job’s three friends, the fact that Job had lost everything was proof that God was punishing him for his sins. It was faulty logic, but they held it tenaciously. The persons depicted in this psalm are righteous before the Lord and did not acquire their wealth in some unlawful manner. The righteous person was generous in his use of the wealth the Lord gave him, sharing it with the poor and lending it freely without interest (Deut. 23:19-20). He was certainly not miserly or covetous, and he was obedient to the Lord’s admonition to care for the poor and needy. When he quoted verse 9 in 2 Corinthians 9:9, the apostle Paul used him as an example for believers today to follow.
Whereas, the word “horn” in verse 9 is an image of power and dignity (Luke 1:69). Because of the Blessed person’s generosity, the Lord allowed him to be lifted up in the eyes of his peers. As you see the Blessed persons faith in the Lord and love for those in need, you cannot help but think of the promise in Matthew 6:33.
Now go to verses 5 to 8 .5 A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion.
6 Surely, he will never be shaken; The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.
7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8 His heart is established; He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies.
We have already spoken to verse 5 but remember the traits and characteristics of the Blessed Man begin in verse 1 and flow through to the children {sons} so they have the opportunity to become mighty and moral persons; and to the family so their substance is enriched because of their fear of the Lord and his love of His word. In summary there is the promise of a house full of riches and a heart full of righteousness.
Now is these remaining verses we shall study the security of the Blessed Man or Woman
Surely, he will never be shaken- The promise of everlasting security- such a person is immovable This world and its rocks and foundations will surely pass away as mentioned in the book of Revelation. This is the type of security perspective needed today for in this environment of falsehoods, lies and deception exhibited at all levels of government, we the people of God need to be steadfast in the promises of God, not being daily twisted by the winds of outrageous fortune.
Not only is there everlasting security in the perspective of the Blessed Men and Women but there is – Note is verses 7 and 8 there are two things recorded about the upright man or woman. Bad news does not shake Him or Her for his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. We are all overtaken sometimes by bad news – a death, bank fails, lightning strikes, hurricane, tornado, some disaster. God does not exempt us from difficulties or disaster. What He does allow is to rest our hearts on Him. Bad news need not shake us God remains on His throne.
Good news does not shun Him. There may be bad news but persons of faith know that good news is ultimately on the way. Believers all the only ones with the right and promise to be optimistic about the final future. All others are false promises very much like fake news, they are not based upon the truth of God’s word or His sworn promises.
I want to press again on these three verses look what they say
he will never be shaken; Confidence in the Lord His God and Savior – strengthened by the Holy Spirit.
will be in everlasting remembrance. This is a two-way idea; (a.) for God will never leave you or forsake you. He has written your name in the Lamb’s book of Life and He has sealed you by the Holy Spirit unto the day of redemption. (b.) While you may waver in your remembrance of His goodness, mercy and love for a bit, but you will return because God continues to draw you via the Holy Spirit to Himself.
not afraid of evil tidings; (surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will come to dwell is the house {temple} of the Almighty forever. This is the blessing from God for your life. Evil tidings for a moment but in perspective as Paul says are but a momentary light affliction (2 Cor 4:17)
Their heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
Their heart is established; He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies
Our heart to remain steadfast must go back to the foundation of our faith. Trust in the Lord, fear Him and live in and according to the Word of God. These Psalms are incredible as we study and learn from them we learn first principles over and over. The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom so verse 1 is foundational for everything that follows in the Psalm. Each trait or benefit which comes because of our practice of living these words flows from verse 1.
To prove this look at the remaining verses –
9 He has dispersed abroad,
He has given to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever;
His [c]horn will be exalted with honor.
10 The wicked will see it and be grieved;
He will gnash his teeth and melt away;
The desire of the wicked shall perish
All these traits are the outgrowth of a righteous life. Your righteous life leads to benefits not just to you, to your family, but to your nation and to others outside.
Dispersed abroad what is dispersed abroad? Money maybe, the Word of God maybe, the truth of who God is maybe, the love of God maybe? Out of the blessing of a good heart flow Good fruit.
Given to the poor -sounds like duty, no more than that. This is giving with exceptional good measure out of the love of God and the knowledge of what He has given to us.
God exalts and honors us forever not because we deserve it but because He loves us and cares for us. Eph 1:3 says, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
One more final blessing is promised to the Blessed men and women is their enemies will have the opportunity to witness your blessedness and will gnash their teeth because of what God has done for you. Isn’t that something beware those in power today for your reward is coming and you will not rejoice in that day as you think in your hearts Oh men and women who rejoice in your evil and wickedness. We pray God grants you the mercy to repent and receive Jesus Christ before that day, in a place called Hell which you reject.
AMEN
Sermon Jan 9
Ephesians 2:8-10 says, 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that should walk in them.
May God add His blessing to the reading of His word and our understanding and application. Amen
Happy New Year to you and yours and let’s allow the Word of God to lead, guide and direct us in righteousness and accountability in 2022.
Let’s not stray from the path defined in His Word for us and not ignore, but put in perspective the worldliness, sinfulness, depravity and hate being generated within the American culture. It is real and there is real fear mongering going about this new COVID.
Do you know there is a loving God out there who has heard the prayers and suffering of His people and has responded by sending a mild variant which may be His blessing in inoculating us against this man-made strain of CCP virus called COVID-19. Our GOD has done what pharmaceutical companies and our government have not done and provided a real time serum for protecting people from this strain. How about an AMEN for this mild variant- Omicron for God has provided a real vaccine to generate antibodies and protect us.
Now let’s thank and praise God for His Word. Consider this phrase from our text - and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works.
Have you ever considered the great work of God which He had to do to bring you to salvation? The phrase “and that not of yourselves” should give us great pause for we set great store by what we are trying to achieve in our lives. Did you catch that? By what we are trying to achieve, yes what we are trying to achieve. We by nature are self-absorbed. Just look at a baby. The only thing a baby knows is its own needs and doesn’t give a rip about mom or dad. They cry continually and demand - Fix me food, clean and dry me, let me sleep – these are the focus of small babies. But even when we get older we are major self-indulgent and possessive. You might remember the rule of toys. What’s mine is mine and you can’t have it. And by the way what is yours is mine, because I am bigger, stronger, faster or smarter. This condition is built in to our human sinful nature, which was inherited from our long lost great many times over grandparents- Adam and Eve.
Selfishness comes from and is generated by sinfulness. For God to make us aware of Himself, He has to overcome our sinful nature- read Romans Chapters 3- 6 to get a full picture but I will give you this -Romans 3:23 All have sinned and come short of the glory of God, and the wages of our sin is death- Rom. 6:23. All of us have needed to come to the recognition of our sinful condition in order to receive God’s grace, and have a mustard seed of faith outside of ourselves to know God as loving, forgiving and drawing all men unto Himself by chords of love.
So God Himself, through sending His Son, has given you the opportunity to recognize you needed a savior. And that Savior was the one and only person who could pay the penalty for your sin. The sinless Son of God payed it all.
According to God’s word, your sin debt before you received Jesus Christ was unpayable. There is nothing you could have offered a Holy God to pay for your sin. Your condition was so critical you could never have recognized this need for yourself. You and I were so totally immersed in sin and unaware of our offensiveness to the Living God. So if Jesus had not come and had not made the promise of the Holy Spirit coming of “one just like Him” and the indwelling of the disciples by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, you would never have had the opportunity to confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus was Lord.
There is one more very important biblical concept which we must not forget as we look at how God moved to give us salvation – the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Jesus had to be perfectly sinless from beginning to end. So beginning with conception through His crucifixion He had to be absolutely perfect. No lies, no deceit, no fibs, no nothing start to finish. So the Father then honoring His promises from years ago in the Prophets delivers the promise by Himself, Jesus on earth. Jesus is God, manifesting God the Father on earth in His body. Totally Son of Man and Son of God indwelt together.
Are you getting the picture of the salvation miracle which God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit collaboratively executed? This holy plan of God which when Jesus satisfied, enabled the sinless Son of God, to pay the price for your sin and bring you back into fellowship with the Father. You were made originally to be in fellowship with God and your purpose was and is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. But until the blinders of sin were removed and the Holy Spirit quickened your heart you had no way of finding Him.
Remember nowhere in the bible does sinful man come to know and love God. God always has to come to you. So reflecting on these verses we come to clearly realize there is no path to God but by Jesus; and you and I had little or nothing to do with our salvation. The quickening or illumination of our mind and spirit was only enabled by the saving power of God’s Holy Spirit in your life, sent by your Father in Heaven. Glory and praise be to God who gives us this victory in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Let’s review our verse now with this context and understand that we cannot save ourselves. Here are the verses -8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that should walk in them.
Let’s focus on key words-
1. By grace are you saved- who’s grace? God’s grace – meaning the unmerited favor of God. Instead of Justice and destruction which we deserved, He gave you His favor. So He chose to offer you His favor to save you.
2. Through Faith- this is tricky, for without God giving you faith by grace you would not have recognized His favor. God the Father through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, enabled you to have enough faith to receive the Son of God and trust in Him. You finally recognized your sinful condition and asked Him to save you from Hell and not to be separated for the loving kindness of God for eternity.
3. and that not of yourself- we have covered this one extensively – you could never pay the price of a perfect sacrifice by your blood. Only the blood of Jesus redeems you. No individual works would ever be sufficient to pay your personal sin debt.
4. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for {unto}good works, This is a wonderful reality, when you understand the timeless perspective of the Father outside of this world. Your life is His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works which flow out of your new holy relationship with God via salvation. Your being saving has radically changed the direction of your life and is part of the plan of God not just for you but for the whole world. Good works now come because of your new nature in Him and these come because you now have a new nature which is God oriented and not self-centered. You are the redeemed of God- Let the redeemed say so! AMEN
5. which God prepared beforehand that should walk in them. Again, the perspective of God who is all seeing, all knowing, all powerful, who is outside of time and is God almighty and Sovereign in all. He knew you before time began and you are His child, created for His good pleasure. The good works and goodness which is now yours in Christ is demonstrated as we walk in fellowship with Him. And He knows the good works which you shall do as you walk in Him.
So understand and rejoice, for you are more than blessed in our Father for He has given you new life. He is holy and He is pure, He is perfect and His love never fails. He is the initiator, He is the one who completes and He has chosen you and loves you forever. So you should – “Rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing and in all things give thanks for the this is the will of God, in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Jesus loves you.
Amen.
Ephesians 2:8-10 says, 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that should walk in them.
May God add His blessing to the reading of His word and our understanding and application. Amen
Happy New Year to you and yours and let’s allow the Word of God to lead, guide and direct us in righteousness and accountability in 2022.
Let’s not stray from the path defined in His Word for us and not ignore, but put in perspective the worldliness, sinfulness, depravity and hate being generated within the American culture. It is real and there is real fear mongering going about this new COVID.
Do you know there is a loving God out there who has heard the prayers and suffering of His people and has responded by sending a mild variant which may be His blessing in inoculating us against this man-made strain of CCP virus called COVID-19. Our GOD has done what pharmaceutical companies and our government have not done and provided a real time serum for protecting people from this strain. How about an AMEN for this mild variant- Omicron for God has provided a real vaccine to generate antibodies and protect us.
Now let’s thank and praise God for His Word. Consider this phrase from our text - and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works.
Have you ever considered the great work of God which He had to do to bring you to salvation? The phrase “and that not of yourselves” should give us great pause for we set great store by what we are trying to achieve in our lives. Did you catch that? By what we are trying to achieve, yes what we are trying to achieve. We by nature are self-absorbed. Just look at a baby. The only thing a baby knows is its own needs and doesn’t give a rip about mom or dad. They cry continually and demand - Fix me food, clean and dry me, let me sleep – these are the focus of small babies. But even when we get older we are major self-indulgent and possessive. You might remember the rule of toys. What’s mine is mine and you can’t have it. And by the way what is yours is mine, because I am bigger, stronger, faster or smarter. This condition is built in to our human sinful nature, which was inherited from our long lost great many times over grandparents- Adam and Eve.
Selfishness comes from and is generated by sinfulness. For God to make us aware of Himself, He has to overcome our sinful nature- read Romans Chapters 3- 6 to get a full picture but I will give you this -Romans 3:23 All have sinned and come short of the glory of God, and the wages of our sin is death- Rom. 6:23. All of us have needed to come to the recognition of our sinful condition in order to receive God’s grace, and have a mustard seed of faith outside of ourselves to know God as loving, forgiving and drawing all men unto Himself by chords of love.
So God Himself, through sending His Son, has given you the opportunity to recognize you needed a savior. And that Savior was the one and only person who could pay the penalty for your sin. The sinless Son of God payed it all.
According to God’s word, your sin debt before you received Jesus Christ was unpayable. There is nothing you could have offered a Holy God to pay for your sin. Your condition was so critical you could never have recognized this need for yourself. You and I were so totally immersed in sin and unaware of our offensiveness to the Living God. So if Jesus had not come and had not made the promise of the Holy Spirit coming of “one just like Him” and the indwelling of the disciples by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, you would never have had the opportunity to confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that Jesus was Lord.
There is one more very important biblical concept which we must not forget as we look at how God moved to give us salvation – the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Jesus had to be perfectly sinless from beginning to end. So beginning with conception through His crucifixion He had to be absolutely perfect. No lies, no deceit, no fibs, no nothing start to finish. So the Father then honoring His promises from years ago in the Prophets delivers the promise by Himself, Jesus on earth. Jesus is God, manifesting God the Father on earth in His body. Totally Son of Man and Son of God indwelt together.
Are you getting the picture of the salvation miracle which God the Father, God the Son and the Holy Spirit collaboratively executed? This holy plan of God which when Jesus satisfied, enabled the sinless Son of God, to pay the price for your sin and bring you back into fellowship with the Father. You were made originally to be in fellowship with God and your purpose was and is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. But until the blinders of sin were removed and the Holy Spirit quickened your heart you had no way of finding Him.
Remember nowhere in the bible does sinful man come to know and love God. God always has to come to you. So reflecting on these verses we come to clearly realize there is no path to God but by Jesus; and you and I had little or nothing to do with our salvation. The quickening or illumination of our mind and spirit was only enabled by the saving power of God’s Holy Spirit in your life, sent by your Father in Heaven. Glory and praise be to God who gives us this victory in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Let’s review our verse now with this context and understand that we cannot save ourselves. Here are the verses -8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that should walk in them.
Let’s focus on key words-
1. By grace are you saved- who’s grace? God’s grace – meaning the unmerited favor of God. Instead of Justice and destruction which we deserved, He gave you His favor. So He chose to offer you His favor to save you.
2. Through Faith- this is tricky, for without God giving you faith by grace you would not have recognized His favor. God the Father through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, enabled you to have enough faith to receive the Son of God and trust in Him. You finally recognized your sinful condition and asked Him to save you from Hell and not to be separated for the loving kindness of God for eternity.
3. and that not of yourself- we have covered this one extensively – you could never pay the price of a perfect sacrifice by your blood. Only the blood of Jesus redeems you. No individual works would ever be sufficient to pay your personal sin debt.
4. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for {unto}good works, This is a wonderful reality, when you understand the timeless perspective of the Father outside of this world. Your life is His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works which flow out of your new holy relationship with God via salvation. Your being saving has radically changed the direction of your life and is part of the plan of God not just for you but for the whole world. Good works now come because of your new nature in Him and these come because you now have a new nature which is God oriented and not self-centered. You are the redeemed of God- Let the redeemed say so! AMEN
5. which God prepared beforehand that should walk in them. Again, the perspective of God who is all seeing, all knowing, all powerful, who is outside of time and is God almighty and Sovereign in all. He knew you before time began and you are His child, created for His good pleasure. The good works and goodness which is now yours in Christ is demonstrated as we walk in fellowship with Him. And He knows the good works which you shall do as you walk in Him.
So understand and rejoice, for you are more than blessed in our Father for He has given you new life. He is holy and He is pure, He is perfect and His love never fails. He is the initiator, He is the one who completes and He has chosen you and loves you forever. So you should – “Rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing and in all things give thanks for the this is the will of God, in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Jesus loves you.
Amen.
Sermon Jan 2
Life Principles Psalm 33:10-12_ A promise from 10The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing;
He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect.
11 The counsel of the Lord stands forever,
The plans of His heart to all generations.
12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
The people He has chosen as His own inheritance.
So how do believers prosper not just survive in 2022. Simple answer by looking to the Word of God and trusting in its author – the Lord our God.
So what is happening in the culture? There is increasing media hatred {information bureau} and lying to prevent the truth from being heard and understood. There is the increasing pursuit of believers, and those who would even have the audacity to question the state in any way shape or form. There is the politization of the various government agencies (Gestapo, Brown shirts, SS) to pursue churches, individuals, mothers/dads anyone who question school boards being deemed as domestic terrorists. There is more and more lying by officials and more false statements and there are now two separate justice systems – One for political prisoners and one for those who are approved of the state.
Well, it wasn’t much different for the disciples in Jesus day, everything was run by either the corrupt Sanhedrin {Pharisees and Sadducees}or the Romans; who paid the Jewish leaders and tax collectors. So how did the disciples react in those days under the pressure of all that dishonesty and hate? Well they prayed for more power and the ability to witness and praised God for the opportunity to suffer for Him. And the earth was shaken and boldness followed. So the book of Acts and the letters of Paul, Peter, John, James, others were meant to bolster the churches to continue the pursuit of holiness, and righteousness, spreading the gospel/good news of Jesus. There was no backing down, there was no surrender nor was their reticence for the power of God was manifest upon all who believed.
Last week and prior we have been looking at the promises of God. Well we started today with a promise of God and that is how we should go into the new year, building on the promises of God. I don’t like or believe in New Year’s resolutions, nine time out of ten they fail to be achieved either from giving in or in simply omitting them from memory.
What I do believe in is in asking our Father – how do you wish us as a church to focus on 2022 and allow You, Oh Lord to direct our steps. I pray you also have been seeking God for your path and hopefully our path in this coming year. I believe I have a word from our Lord concerning our journey to achieve great success, as did David the King. Why, because the Lord was with Him. I King 18:14. And we need to ensure that we ask and seek the Lord to go with us and guide our steps.
I hope you have a vision for the future which is asking God to more fully use us in the coming years. We need to understand He wants His kingdom to advance and that means reaching others for the gospel of our Lord. So we need to do more.
OK so the question is what then is the game plan for success as God moves us forward to achieve His will and not our own plans?
There are two major points from two different scriptures which we need to attend and they come direct from the lips of Jesus. First principles apply so read with me from the gospel of Luke, chapter 4 verses Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit [a]into the wilderness, 2 being [b]tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days, He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry.
3 And the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”
4 But Jesus answered him, saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, [c]but by every word of God.’ ”
5 [d]Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. 7 Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”
8 And Jesus answered and said to him, [e]“Get behind Me, Satan! [f]For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”
9 Then he brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here. 10 For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you,’11 and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.’ ” 12 And Jesus answered and said to him, “It has been said, ‘You shall not [g]tempt the Lord your God.’ ”
Our lesson today will deal only with Jesus response to temptations 1 and 2 and will not directly address temptation number 3. Incidentally, it is not the temptations of Satan which should interest us, but Jesus’ response. As His response will enable us to find direction for 2022 as His people and as a church. Two responses;
1. It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, [c]but by every word of God.’ ”
2. e]“Get behind Me, Satan! [f]For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”
Direction from God direct to the heart of men. Not just for today but forever. Clearer words have never been spoken and consider the source. Given the source is God how could there be cleared words for your heart and mine. So understand that first principles by which to live by here are first principles for Jesus while on earth, and for you and I.
Number 1 is Chapter 4:verse 4 . It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, [c]but by every word of God.’ ”
And Jesus answered him, saying It is written. Now we could spend all day on the theological implications of this verse alone. We need the Clift notes version to take home the meat. First by this statement Jesus affirms the value of the Old Testament in the life of the believers for that is what was written then. In this chapter three times Jesus met Satan’s temptations with Scripture from Deuteronomy.
Jesus know that only God’s Word can provide the strength needed to overcome Satan’s wiles, His darts and arrows.
Note Jesus did not challenge Satan’s assertion that He could turn the stone to bread if He wished. His reply pointed to the higher value of living by the Word of God than Satan’s appeal to the flesh and self-will. Jesus pointed out that something more important than the physical would guide Him, and should guide believers as well.
Principle #1 for 2022- Jesus tells us God’s word is truth - Sanctify them {Believers} through thy truth: thy word is truth.
{Jn. 17.17} and by gaining the truth, we find Jesus is not only the way to salvation , and not only the truth of God’s love but He is the Life of light and men. And in Him we have eternal and everlasting life. First principles apply all this in 2022 despite how you feel. God’s word and His Son must be studied and applied.
Principle Number 2. e]“Get behind Me, Satan! [f]For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”Luke 4:8 Jesus’ answer, is from Deuteronomy 6:13, and points to a higher value of the spiritual versus the physical. This is the message His response emphasizes - There is no power, no glory, no prestige, and no dominion in this world that is worth more than being the servant of the living God. You have been called from above to serve Him and love Him {John 15:16} As such you should together understand there is no greater value in this world or a more glorious pursuit than worshiping the Lord your God. We as Christians must work, yes work to be diligent to put the Lord first in all things and allow nothing to stand in the way of loving Him and serving Him with all that they have and are. How did Jesus summarize it? “ And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. {Mark 11:30}
First principles for 2022 require putting Him first, regardless of the circumstances you find yourself laboring in. Consider the disciples in the Great Commission- how where they to proceed? They needed to trust by faith that the God who saved them, was the God who loved them, and was the God who keeps His promises and walks with each of us and He will enable it to happen.
We have one more First principles for 2022 from the book of John, Chapter 4. You might remember this is the woman at the well. She has come to faith in Jesus and is departed now to tell her fellow Samaritans all that has transpired between Her and the Messiah; who she now recognizes, but the disciples doing earthly things are missing the mark so Jesus must re-orient them. This discussion follows_ 31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. 32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Has any man brought him ought to eat? 34 Jesus said unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work. 35 Say you not, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. 36 And he that reaps receiveth wages, and gathers fruit unto life eternal: that both he that sows and he that reaps may rejoice together.37 And herein is that saying true, One sows, and another reaps.
38 I sent you to reap that whereon you bestowed no labor: other men labored, and you are entered into their labors.
The Key First Principle for 2022 which follows from this text is in verse 34. 34 Jesus said unto them, My meat{food} is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work. Jesus states His meat His food is to do the will of Him who sent Me. Jesus most likely echoed Deut. 8:3 where Moses states, “man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD” (cf. Matt. 4:4; Luke 4:4). So when Jesus had a divine encounter where He talked with the Samaritan woman. In this activity, Jesus was performing the will of the Father by leading this woman to salvation and knowledge of the Messiah Himself. In this activity and obedience He received greater sustenance and satisfaction than any mere physical food could offer Him.
Here is another First Principle for 2022 -Obedience to and dependence upon God’s will summed up Jesus’ entire life. His food is to do the will of Him who sent Me As believers it should also to do God’s will. But don’t miss the remainder of the verse for the “Fields are white unto harvest” and God wants you to be part of His harvest team, no excuses folks. According to verse 36 there are spiritual blessing called wages which are given to both the sowers and the reapers in the harvest. You also gather fruit unto eternal life- what a blessing. Don’t you want to apply first principles in 2022 to reap the benefits of being obedient to God? Surely, He only wants what is best for you. {attribute of God’s love}
Summary. Jesus was performing his Father’s will in His exchange with the Samaritan woman, and that was greater sustenance and more satisfying than any food the disciples could offer him. He came to do the Father’s will which He always did it (8:29). His works were the works of God, and when He said, it is finished, He had successfully completed God’s mission .
“Keep your eyes on Jesus and His First Principles to find your way in 2022.” Amen.
Life Principles Psalm 33:10-12_ A promise from 10The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing;
He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect.
11 The counsel of the Lord stands forever,
The plans of His heart to all generations.
12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
The people He has chosen as His own inheritance.
So how do believers prosper not just survive in 2022. Simple answer by looking to the Word of God and trusting in its author – the Lord our God.
So what is happening in the culture? There is increasing media hatred {information bureau} and lying to prevent the truth from being heard and understood. There is the increasing pursuit of believers, and those who would even have the audacity to question the state in any way shape or form. There is the politization of the various government agencies (Gestapo, Brown shirts, SS) to pursue churches, individuals, mothers/dads anyone who question school boards being deemed as domestic terrorists. There is more and more lying by officials and more false statements and there are now two separate justice systems – One for political prisoners and one for those who are approved of the state.
Well, it wasn’t much different for the disciples in Jesus day, everything was run by either the corrupt Sanhedrin {Pharisees and Sadducees}or the Romans; who paid the Jewish leaders and tax collectors. So how did the disciples react in those days under the pressure of all that dishonesty and hate? Well they prayed for more power and the ability to witness and praised God for the opportunity to suffer for Him. And the earth was shaken and boldness followed. So the book of Acts and the letters of Paul, Peter, John, James, others were meant to bolster the churches to continue the pursuit of holiness, and righteousness, spreading the gospel/good news of Jesus. There was no backing down, there was no surrender nor was their reticence for the power of God was manifest upon all who believed.
Last week and prior we have been looking at the promises of God. Well we started today with a promise of God and that is how we should go into the new year, building on the promises of God. I don’t like or believe in New Year’s resolutions, nine time out of ten they fail to be achieved either from giving in or in simply omitting them from memory.
What I do believe in is in asking our Father – how do you wish us as a church to focus on 2022 and allow You, Oh Lord to direct our steps. I pray you also have been seeking God for your path and hopefully our path in this coming year. I believe I have a word from our Lord concerning our journey to achieve great success, as did David the King. Why, because the Lord was with Him. I King 18:14. And we need to ensure that we ask and seek the Lord to go with us and guide our steps.
I hope you have a vision for the future which is asking God to more fully use us in the coming years. We need to understand He wants His kingdom to advance and that means reaching others for the gospel of our Lord. So we need to do more.
OK so the question is what then is the game plan for success as God moves us forward to achieve His will and not our own plans?
There are two major points from two different scriptures which we need to attend and they come direct from the lips of Jesus. First principles apply so read with me from the gospel of Luke, chapter 4 verses Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit [a]into the wilderness, 2 being [b]tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days, He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry.
3 And the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”
4 But Jesus answered him, saying, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, [c]but by every word of God.’ ”
5 [d]Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. 7 Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”
8 And Jesus answered and said to him, [e]“Get behind Me, Satan! [f]For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”
9 Then he brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here. 10 For it is written: ‘He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you,’11 and, ‘In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.’ ” 12 And Jesus answered and said to him, “It has been said, ‘You shall not [g]tempt the Lord your God.’ ”
Our lesson today will deal only with Jesus response to temptations 1 and 2 and will not directly address temptation number 3. Incidentally, it is not the temptations of Satan which should interest us, but Jesus’ response. As His response will enable us to find direction for 2022 as His people and as a church. Two responses;
1. It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, [c]but by every word of God.’ ”
2. e]“Get behind Me, Satan! [f]For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”
Direction from God direct to the heart of men. Not just for today but forever. Clearer words have never been spoken and consider the source. Given the source is God how could there be cleared words for your heart and mine. So understand that first principles by which to live by here are first principles for Jesus while on earth, and for you and I.
Number 1 is Chapter 4:verse 4 . It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, [c]but by every word of God.’ ”
And Jesus answered him, saying It is written. Now we could spend all day on the theological implications of this verse alone. We need the Clift notes version to take home the meat. First by this statement Jesus affirms the value of the Old Testament in the life of the believers for that is what was written then. In this chapter three times Jesus met Satan’s temptations with Scripture from Deuteronomy.
Jesus know that only God’s Word can provide the strength needed to overcome Satan’s wiles, His darts and arrows.
Note Jesus did not challenge Satan’s assertion that He could turn the stone to bread if He wished. His reply pointed to the higher value of living by the Word of God than Satan’s appeal to the flesh and self-will. Jesus pointed out that something more important than the physical would guide Him, and should guide believers as well.
Principle #1 for 2022- Jesus tells us God’s word is truth - Sanctify them {Believers} through thy truth: thy word is truth.
{Jn. 17.17} and by gaining the truth, we find Jesus is not only the way to salvation , and not only the truth of God’s love but He is the Life of light and men. And in Him we have eternal and everlasting life. First principles apply all this in 2022 despite how you feel. God’s word and His Son must be studied and applied.
Principle Number 2. e]“Get behind Me, Satan! [f]For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”Luke 4:8 Jesus’ answer, is from Deuteronomy 6:13, and points to a higher value of the spiritual versus the physical. This is the message His response emphasizes - There is no power, no glory, no prestige, and no dominion in this world that is worth more than being the servant of the living God. You have been called from above to serve Him and love Him {John 15:16} As such you should together understand there is no greater value in this world or a more glorious pursuit than worshiping the Lord your God. We as Christians must work, yes work to be diligent to put the Lord first in all things and allow nothing to stand in the way of loving Him and serving Him with all that they have and are. How did Jesus summarize it? “ And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. {Mark 11:30}
First principles for 2022 require putting Him first, regardless of the circumstances you find yourself laboring in. Consider the disciples in the Great Commission- how where they to proceed? They needed to trust by faith that the God who saved them, was the God who loved them, and was the God who keeps His promises and walks with each of us and He will enable it to happen.
We have one more First principles for 2022 from the book of John, Chapter 4. You might remember this is the woman at the well. She has come to faith in Jesus and is departed now to tell her fellow Samaritans all that has transpired between Her and the Messiah; who she now recognizes, but the disciples doing earthly things are missing the mark so Jesus must re-orient them. This discussion follows_ 31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. 32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Has any man brought him ought to eat? 34 Jesus said unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work. 35 Say you not, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. 36 And he that reaps receiveth wages, and gathers fruit unto life eternal: that both he that sows and he that reaps may rejoice together.37 And herein is that saying true, One sows, and another reaps.
38 I sent you to reap that whereon you bestowed no labor: other men labored, and you are entered into their labors.
The Key First Principle for 2022 which follows from this text is in verse 34. 34 Jesus said unto them, My meat{food} is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work. Jesus states His meat His food is to do the will of Him who sent Me. Jesus most likely echoed Deut. 8:3 where Moses states, “man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD” (cf. Matt. 4:4; Luke 4:4). So when Jesus had a divine encounter where He talked with the Samaritan woman. In this activity, Jesus was performing the will of the Father by leading this woman to salvation and knowledge of the Messiah Himself. In this activity and obedience He received greater sustenance and satisfaction than any mere physical food could offer Him.
Here is another First Principle for 2022 -Obedience to and dependence upon God’s will summed up Jesus’ entire life. His food is to do the will of Him who sent Me As believers it should also to do God’s will. But don’t miss the remainder of the verse for the “Fields are white unto harvest” and God wants you to be part of His harvest team, no excuses folks. According to verse 36 there are spiritual blessing called wages which are given to both the sowers and the reapers in the harvest. You also gather fruit unto eternal life- what a blessing. Don’t you want to apply first principles in 2022 to reap the benefits of being obedient to God? Surely, He only wants what is best for you. {attribute of God’s love}
Summary. Jesus was performing his Father’s will in His exchange with the Samaritan woman, and that was greater sustenance and more satisfying than any food the disciples could offer him. He came to do the Father’s will which He always did it (8:29). His works were the works of God, and when He said, it is finished, He had successfully completed God’s mission .
“Keep your eyes on Jesus and His First Principles to find your way in 2022.” Amen.
Sermon Dec 26
Life Principles Isiah 55:11- So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me [c]void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
So when God speaks it is a promise of what He intends to do. Christmas was and is the delivery by God, of a promise made by Him to Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, in the midst of their sin and disobedience as His chosen people.
After how many centuries did the promise linger before God sent His savior? We actually have no real way of knowing. We do know what was in the mind of God, as we look in His Book and see the unfolding of the plan of God. When that happens we come to a resolute conclusion. God despite and is some cases in spite of the circumstances was working all things out to the council of His will and driving toward a plan of salvation for all peoples.
The baby Jesus was and is the final and complete revelation of the will of God. He was and is God in the flesh, the one who came to take away the sin of the world. He came to reconcile man to God by removing the enmity of willful sin between them and the Father.
This is the true promise of Christmas in the form of a sinless baby born in a manger of a virgin. He is the perfect fulfillment of the plan of God for His life satisfies all the prophecies made in God’s word.
The first coming of the son of God as a baby does not cancel but emphasizes the second coming of the Son of Man. For when He comes then, He does not come as a babe in the manger. He comes then as the Royal King, Lord of Lords in full splendor and majesty, to redeem His people and creation from all the ravages of sin and Satan. Satan whose whole purpose is the destruction- See what it says in John 10: 10 The thief {Satan}does not come except {but} to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Jesus is countering the desire of Satan who simply desires to destroy anything which God cherishes and to erase and destroy it. Jesus contrasted his purpose in coming with the thief (Satan). Jesus had spoken of thieves and robbers (plural, v. 8), but now he referred to the thief (singular, v. 10). The contrast between Jesus and His purposes and Satan and his purposes could not be greater. The thief seeks to destroy people’s lives (8:44), while Jesus has come so that his followers might have life abundantly. This is what Jesus coming the first time was to establish, the Kingdom of Heaven which is present every time He is present and eventually come to all who believe in the Son of God.
The first coming of the Son had to happened to enable the second coming of Jesus in power. So what might some of the promises of God be which have impacted me directly. Here are a select few to begin your contemplation:
Noah – to be fruitful and multiply. Rainbow sign of God’s promise
Abraham - “Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.
2 I will make you a great nation;
I will bless you
And make your name great;
Moses – the promise of God’s presence as they went out of Egypt -Ex. 33:12
A second part was the promise of a Land flowing with Milk and Honey – the promised land
Joshua - So the Lord gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took possession of it and dwelt in it. Jos.21:43 – a promise fulfilled.
Solomon -
{1 Kings 8:20) So the Lord has fulfilled His word which He spoke; and I have filled the position of my father David, and sit on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised; and I have built a temple for the name of the Lord God of Israel.
I believe you can now get the idea when God speaks He fulfills His promises from our Key verse in Isaiah 55. Remember the Lord is not slack concerning His promises but faithful.
Luke 29:14 says,- Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” Thanks for the promises of God.
This is a great promise of God, the promise of His coming, the advent of the Holy Spirit which Jesus spoke about to the disciples in the upper room before His crucifixion. So without the coming in response to His miraculous promise of His birth, then, there is no future promise of the anointing of the Holy Spirit in believers. Now there are prophetic indications of this coming of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament but here we clearly know how God promised to make it available to His people.
Do you see now how the promises of God build all the way from creation and Adam and Eve to the people of God and the nation of God, even unto today. We also see this ill refutable truth that when God makes a promise or indicates a punishment for disobedience, He is consistent through all the ages in exercising correction. I continue to mention Deut 28: verse 1 says, “ if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth.” This pronouncement is straight forward and there should be no misunderstanding as we read and comprehend. Now read verse 15 - if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you: and then He names all sorts of curses. So God is consistent and never changes. This trait of God is called immutability. God never changes He is eternally consistent. When it comes to consistency immutability is the ideal, God never breaks His promises. So the promises of God are important markers for us to understand as we walk with Him.
Here is a promise for today – John 1:12 - 12 But {to}as many as received Him, to them He gave the [e]right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. So if you have believed in your heart and confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and the Son of God you can and are saved.
Now being saved is an important distinction for the final promise of His coming. For in the second coming if you do not belong to the Son of God you will not be in heaven with Him but in a place called Hell. This is the eternal promise of God concerning sheep and goats, wheat and chaff. And there are several parables which apply here. If you are a child of the King you are recognized as a sheep and as wheat, you will be eternally blessed of God. If you are chaff or goats you will be eternally damned because you have rejected the invitation of God for salvation in the name of Jesus.
There is a future promise of God for which we should prepare ourselves according to the testimony of scripture {We are told
1 Peter 10-11 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be [b]burned up. }
And according Jesus, He tells us in Matthew
36 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of [f]heaven, but My Father only. 37 But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.
He also says later in that same chapter v.44 44 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
So there is the promise of His unexpected and untimed return upon the face of His earth. This promise was made by God Himself in Christ. He is coming again to rule and to reign on Earth as the King of all Kings. There will be no other. It is said, He will rule with a rod of iron. His word will be law and He will begin to set things right.
Now this Christmas what gift might you offer this onetime babe in a manger who is not exalted in the heavens with the name above all names. That at the name of Jesus every knee would bow in heaven and on the earth and under the earth. The King of heaven and earth. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness? How s
Life Principles Isiah 55:11- So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me [c]void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
So when God speaks it is a promise of what He intends to do. Christmas was and is the delivery by God, of a promise made by Him to Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, in the midst of their sin and disobedience as His chosen people.
After how many centuries did the promise linger before God sent His savior? We actually have no real way of knowing. We do know what was in the mind of God, as we look in His Book and see the unfolding of the plan of God. When that happens we come to a resolute conclusion. God despite and is some cases in spite of the circumstances was working all things out to the council of His will and driving toward a plan of salvation for all peoples.
The baby Jesus was and is the final and complete revelation of the will of God. He was and is God in the flesh, the one who came to take away the sin of the world. He came to reconcile man to God by removing the enmity of willful sin between them and the Father.
This is the true promise of Christmas in the form of a sinless baby born in a manger of a virgin. He is the perfect fulfillment of the plan of God for His life satisfies all the prophecies made in God’s word.
The first coming of the son of God as a baby does not cancel but emphasizes the second coming of the Son of Man. For when He comes then, He does not come as a babe in the manger. He comes then as the Royal King, Lord of Lords in full splendor and majesty, to redeem His people and creation from all the ravages of sin and Satan. Satan whose whole purpose is the destruction- See what it says in John 10: 10 The thief {Satan}does not come except {but} to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Jesus is countering the desire of Satan who simply desires to destroy anything which God cherishes and to erase and destroy it. Jesus contrasted his purpose in coming with the thief (Satan). Jesus had spoken of thieves and robbers (plural, v. 8), but now he referred to the thief (singular, v. 10). The contrast between Jesus and His purposes and Satan and his purposes could not be greater. The thief seeks to destroy people’s lives (8:44), while Jesus has come so that his followers might have life abundantly. This is what Jesus coming the first time was to establish, the Kingdom of Heaven which is present every time He is present and eventually come to all who believe in the Son of God.
The first coming of the Son had to happened to enable the second coming of Jesus in power. So what might some of the promises of God be which have impacted me directly. Here are a select few to begin your contemplation:
Noah – to be fruitful and multiply. Rainbow sign of God’s promise
Abraham - “Get out of your country,
From your family
And from your father’s house,
To a land that I will show you.
2 I will make you a great nation;
I will bless you
And make your name great;
Moses – the promise of God’s presence as they went out of Egypt -Ex. 33:12
A second part was the promise of a Land flowing with Milk and Honey – the promised land
Joshua - So the Lord gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took possession of it and dwelt in it. Jos.21:43 – a promise fulfilled.
Solomon -
{1 Kings 8:20) So the Lord has fulfilled His word which He spoke; and I have filled the position of my father David, and sit on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised; and I have built a temple for the name of the Lord God of Israel.
I believe you can now get the idea when God speaks He fulfills His promises from our Key verse in Isaiah 55. Remember the Lord is not slack concerning His promises but faithful.
Luke 29:14 says,- Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” Thanks for the promises of God.
This is a great promise of God, the promise of His coming, the advent of the Holy Spirit which Jesus spoke about to the disciples in the upper room before His crucifixion. So without the coming in response to His miraculous promise of His birth, then, there is no future promise of the anointing of the Holy Spirit in believers. Now there are prophetic indications of this coming of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament but here we clearly know how God promised to make it available to His people.
Do you see now how the promises of God build all the way from creation and Adam and Eve to the people of God and the nation of God, even unto today. We also see this ill refutable truth that when God makes a promise or indicates a punishment for disobedience, He is consistent through all the ages in exercising correction. I continue to mention Deut 28: verse 1 says, “ if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth.” This pronouncement is straight forward and there should be no misunderstanding as we read and comprehend. Now read verse 15 - if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you: and then He names all sorts of curses. So God is consistent and never changes. This trait of God is called immutability. God never changes He is eternally consistent. When it comes to consistency immutability is the ideal, God never breaks His promises. So the promises of God are important markers for us to understand as we walk with Him.
Here is a promise for today – John 1:12 - 12 But {to}as many as received Him, to them He gave the [e]right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. So if you have believed in your heart and confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and the Son of God you can and are saved.
Now being saved is an important distinction for the final promise of His coming. For in the second coming if you do not belong to the Son of God you will not be in heaven with Him but in a place called Hell. This is the eternal promise of God concerning sheep and goats, wheat and chaff. And there are several parables which apply here. If you are a child of the King you are recognized as a sheep and as wheat, you will be eternally blessed of God. If you are chaff or goats you will be eternally damned because you have rejected the invitation of God for salvation in the name of Jesus.
There is a future promise of God for which we should prepare ourselves according to the testimony of scripture {We are told
1 Peter 10-11 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be [b]burned up. }
And according Jesus, He tells us in Matthew
36 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of [f]heaven, but My Father only. 37 But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.
He also says later in that same chapter v.44 44 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
So there is the promise of His unexpected and untimed return upon the face of His earth. This promise was made by God Himself in Christ. He is coming again to rule and to reign on Earth as the King of all Kings. There will be no other. It is said, He will rule with a rod of iron. His word will be law and He will begin to set things right.
Now this Christmas what gift might you offer this onetime babe in a manger who is not exalted in the heavens with the name above all names. That at the name of Jesus every knee would bow in heaven and on the earth and under the earth. The King of heaven and earth. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness? How s
Christmas Eve Sermon
Do you know what the world does not have this blessed Christmas Eve? Well I’ll tell you. Believers have the blessed hope of Jesus Christ, Immanuel – that is God with us. He came once on the first Christmas morn and He is physically coming again soon, to redeem His creation and redeem His people to spend eternity with Him. How long is eternity – well I believe it is forever.
As believers we have hope. Our Hope is not an empty hope, as is the world’s pitch toward some undefined hope. Our hope is real hope, hope in a person who is eternal; who is both King of Kings and Lord of Lords; whose first coming was foretold by the prophets of old. But He chose to come to earth to give His life a ransom for many.
Every year at this time we celebrate and recreate and reread about His first coming as a baby. We have already read it tonight but let’s review it again. Please turn with me to Luke’s gospel.
Luke, chapter 2:8-16 8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. {same as usual}9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly {sore}afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a [d]manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill[e] toward men!”
15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.
Did you know that God is always concerned for the people? Our natural response when confronted with the supernatural is to cower in fear. What does the angel say - Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people? Each Christmas encounter in the bible the Angel says don’t be afraid.
The Christmas story in these few verses establishes some specific points which should be unwrapped for they are presents to you from your heavenly Father for this Christmas.
First Point - the birth of Jesus is prophetic, in that the birth of Jesus is the fulfillment of multiple old testament scriptures . Micha 5, Isaiah 7,8. 9,11 and others {50,53}, Jeremiah and others.
So Jesus birth is God’s response to the sinful condition of men and He{Jesus} is the satisfaction of the promises God foretold in His books of the law, the psalms and the prophets of their foretelling. Hence Jesus birth is a response to prophecy.
Second Point - Jesus birth is a proclamation of the good tidings of God’s truth. The angelic announcement or proclamation in v.9 says, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
Great joy and good news for all people for God is addressing the needs of His people. He is sending a holy child to meet the needs of sinful mankind. The proclamation is to all men who should know it and be aware of the good news of the gospel of Jesus, the Christ. Christmas is a time of Proclaiming the good news is what we must continue to do.
Third point - The greeting by the angel is personal for all men, but specifically to men of good will. Scripture tells us in 2nd Peter 3:9 the Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all
should come to repentance. God wants all men to know about repentance and hence the salvation provided in Jesus Christ.
In John 15:16 Jesus emphasizes the point of personal to men of good will. He says, 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and ordained you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, and whatsoever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.
Salvation is open for all people but some do not choose to receive the free gift of salvation. So to some God has come and chosen them. He has appointed the chosen to go and bear fruit. Understand and know this, the Fruit of salvation is to accomplish works in the Spirit of God. But each has received a special invitation, which is unique and personal to each one who is called. This coming and choosing is personal and reflects the absolute sovereignty of God.
Fourth point - the virgin birth reflects the plan of God. The celebration of the birthday of Christ is but the latest revelation and unfolding of the eternal plan of God to redeem a lost people unto Himself. Look at the text in verse 11 . The angel announces the event using these words; Savior, Christ and Lord born in the city of David - Bethlehem. These specific words reflect and provide much information on God’s viewpoint and mindset as to why He needed to send Jesus. raised in the scriptures. For example the word – “Savior” is only used here and in one other place in the Gospels. Here and in John 6:44- savior meaning the – one who saves. Then we have reference to the word –“Christ” meaning the equivalent of the Greek word Messiah – the “anointed” one, the one who provides salvation. Only by Jesus does this happen
And last the specific term Lord - meaning God Himself is present. To reemphasize this point both Matthew 1:23 and Isaiah 8:8, use the word Immanuel. The name Immanuel means God with us. So God Himself is present in this child and now He in human flesh. He will live with us- Amen. But there is more for God’s plan also involves you. In Jeremiah 29:1, we find God saying, “I have a plan for you. A plan for welfare not calamity to give you a future and a hope.” Christmas is a reminder of the very unique and personal plan God wants to work out in your life. Will you open that present today and start a daily walk with Jesus?
So there is great Hope for believers all year long but the Hope is Christ is greatly reflected at this time in the birth of a baby in Bethlehem.
The Gospel of John in Chapter 1, beginning in verse 14 summarizes what God did that Christmas in Jesus for all of us.
Scripture says, 14 And the Word {Jesus is that Word, the logos or prime reason He is God}became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. {A sinless, holy and perfect person, unlike us, not born with a sin nature.}
Continuing in verse 15 John {the Baptist}bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me [f]is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ ”
16 [g]And of His fullness {all the fulness of God}we have all received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. {Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and the gifts of grace, mercy and truth come from Him.
Summary Christ’s 5 p’s of Christmas
Jesus birth provisioned a new future of us all. So please listen don’t tune me out for God is not finished. Note the tense of the verb, is not finished. He continues even to today for He is not dead but alive- resurrected. So God’s Son’s life, death, burial and ascension provisioned a new future for all who receive Him. By faith each one who receives His offer of “whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord” shall be saved.
The last or fifth P is peace on earth good will toward men delivered in salvation by the Holy Spirit penetrating the hearts of men. Peace in your hearts today. Amen
Merry Hope filled and Joyous Christmas to you.
Do you know what the world does not have this blessed Christmas Eve? Well I’ll tell you. Believers have the blessed hope of Jesus Christ, Immanuel – that is God with us. He came once on the first Christmas morn and He is physically coming again soon, to redeem His creation and redeem His people to spend eternity with Him. How long is eternity – well I believe it is forever.
As believers we have hope. Our Hope is not an empty hope, as is the world’s pitch toward some undefined hope. Our hope is real hope, hope in a person who is eternal; who is both King of Kings and Lord of Lords; whose first coming was foretold by the prophets of old. But He chose to come to earth to give His life a ransom for many.
Every year at this time we celebrate and recreate and reread about His first coming as a baby. We have already read it tonight but let’s review it again. Please turn with me to Luke’s gospel.
Luke, chapter 2:8-16 8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. {same as usual}9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly {sore}afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a [d]manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill[e] toward men!”
15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.
Did you know that God is always concerned for the people? Our natural response when confronted with the supernatural is to cower in fear. What does the angel say - Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people? Each Christmas encounter in the bible the Angel says don’t be afraid.
The Christmas story in these few verses establishes some specific points which should be unwrapped for they are presents to you from your heavenly Father for this Christmas.
First Point - the birth of Jesus is prophetic, in that the birth of Jesus is the fulfillment of multiple old testament scriptures . Micha 5, Isaiah 7,8. 9,11 and others {50,53}, Jeremiah and others.
So Jesus birth is God’s response to the sinful condition of men and He{Jesus} is the satisfaction of the promises God foretold in His books of the law, the psalms and the prophets of their foretelling. Hence Jesus birth is a response to prophecy.
Second Point - Jesus birth is a proclamation of the good tidings of God’s truth. The angelic announcement or proclamation in v.9 says, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
Great joy and good news for all people for God is addressing the needs of His people. He is sending a holy child to meet the needs of sinful mankind. The proclamation is to all men who should know it and be aware of the good news of the gospel of Jesus, the Christ. Christmas is a time of Proclaiming the good news is what we must continue to do.
Third point - The greeting by the angel is personal for all men, but specifically to men of good will. Scripture tells us in 2nd Peter 3:9 the Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all
should come to repentance. God wants all men to know about repentance and hence the salvation provided in Jesus Christ.
In John 15:16 Jesus emphasizes the point of personal to men of good will. He says, 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and ordained you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, and whatsoever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.
Salvation is open for all people but some do not choose to receive the free gift of salvation. So to some God has come and chosen them. He has appointed the chosen to go and bear fruit. Understand and know this, the Fruit of salvation is to accomplish works in the Spirit of God. But each has received a special invitation, which is unique and personal to each one who is called. This coming and choosing is personal and reflects the absolute sovereignty of God.
Fourth point - the virgin birth reflects the plan of God. The celebration of the birthday of Christ is but the latest revelation and unfolding of the eternal plan of God to redeem a lost people unto Himself. Look at the text in verse 11 . The angel announces the event using these words; Savior, Christ and Lord born in the city of David - Bethlehem. These specific words reflect and provide much information on God’s viewpoint and mindset as to why He needed to send Jesus. raised in the scriptures. For example the word – “Savior” is only used here and in one other place in the Gospels. Here and in John 6:44- savior meaning the – one who saves. Then we have reference to the word –“Christ” meaning the equivalent of the Greek word Messiah – the “anointed” one, the one who provides salvation. Only by Jesus does this happen
And last the specific term Lord - meaning God Himself is present. To reemphasize this point both Matthew 1:23 and Isaiah 8:8, use the word Immanuel. The name Immanuel means God with us. So God Himself is present in this child and now He in human flesh. He will live with us- Amen. But there is more for God’s plan also involves you. In Jeremiah 29:1, we find God saying, “I have a plan for you. A plan for welfare not calamity to give you a future and a hope.” Christmas is a reminder of the very unique and personal plan God wants to work out in your life. Will you open that present today and start a daily walk with Jesus?
So there is great Hope for believers all year long but the Hope is Christ is greatly reflected at this time in the birth of a baby in Bethlehem.
The Gospel of John in Chapter 1, beginning in verse 14 summarizes what God did that Christmas in Jesus for all of us.
Scripture says, 14 And the Word {Jesus is that Word, the logos or prime reason He is God}became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. {A sinless, holy and perfect person, unlike us, not born with a sin nature.}
Continuing in verse 15 John {the Baptist}bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me [f]is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ ”
16 [g]And of His fullness {all the fulness of God}we have all received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. {Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and the gifts of grace, mercy and truth come from Him.
Summary Christ’s 5 p’s of Christmas
Jesus birth provisioned a new future of us all. So please listen don’t tune me out for God is not finished. Note the tense of the verb, is not finished. He continues even to today for He is not dead but alive- resurrected. So God’s Son’s life, death, burial and ascension provisioned a new future for all who receive Him. By faith each one who receives His offer of “whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord” shall be saved.
The last or fifth P is peace on earth good will toward men delivered in salvation by the Holy Spirit penetrating the hearts of men. Peace in your hearts today. Amen
Merry Hope filled and Joyous Christmas to you.
Sermon Dec. 19
Let’s pray – please God come and speak to us today so we might truly have a Merry Christ mas this year. In Jesus name we pray, Amen!
For unto us a child is born
Unto us a Son is given
And His Name shall be called
Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God,
The everlasting Father, The Prince of peace
And with Him nothing is Impossible
He is able to do all things. He was at creation and He will be at the end of all days. He is King of Kings and Lords of Lords and He shall reign forever and ever!
Amen.
Merry Christmas the Lord has come!
Luke Chapter 1 vs. 29-38: 29 But [f]when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I [g]do not know a man?”
35 And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
38 Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
We read these verse as if this is some tale from a summary account. For example, instead of a newspaper, radio or TV station reporting on all the horrible and detailed events that have occurred as the tornado progressed through a town. We get the top line Tornado ravages downtown and fills in the name of the city. The article or broadcast then proceeds to discuss the swath and area of destruction. It then say how many people were killed without the individual stories which present the immediate horror of being thrown, trampled, ravaged by flying debris or whatever. The TV also provides no discussion on the family or the impact for wife, children, or husband and other family members. This account of scripture misses the resultant emotion, critical decisions and issues which are confronting Mary, her parents and Joseph and his parents. It might be worth spending some time over this Holiday studying this passage in its entirety.
I want to stress and highlight two major issues. The first and foremost is God and the incredible statement made by the angel in verse 37 -37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
And when we have studied this verse to move to Mary’s statement of faith in verse 38 “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.”
These are two incredibly rich and powerful statement which highlight who God is first and then show what should our response in faith now.
Let’s examine the statement in verse 37 of Luke Chapter 1-37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
For with God nothing will be impossible is the statement by the Angel to Mary. Now we believe the angel speaking is Gabriel. Do you think that this angel might have some knowledge of the awesome might of El Shaddai? He has been around God and His messenger and servant since the beginning of time. What experience might Gabriel reflect on to make the statement 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Do you supposed that Gabriel might have seen some awesome and might acts of God which give this angel perspective of this being true for God the Father? Beside God being the truth and speaking the truth always as part of His character and never lying do you supposed He might be able to testify to the absolute purity of the nature of God.
Gabriel speaking to us might begin with Psalm 40 verse 5 as a reminder –
5Many, Lord my God,
are the wonders you have done,
the things you planned for us.
None can compare with you;
where I to speak and tell of your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.
So be reminded we are going to hit the highlights of why Gabriel might say, 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Let’s begin with creation. You do understand they are created beings? According to God responding to Job in Chapter 38 vs 4 &7. God asked Job, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation … and all the angels shouted for joy?” (Job 38:4,7). So Gabriel was there at the beginning and He saw the whole event – The big bang of creation through all six days of different creative events inclusive of and ending in man and women’s creation. Do you supposed Gabriel might understand the creative power and nature of God?
Then we have the flood and the saving act of Noah and his family and many animals on an ark. The Father regretted the day He made man and wished to begin anew because the heart of man was evil. This first began when God kicked Adam and Eve. The disease of sin was now spreading though out the entire created universe. In a few short years sin was so prevalent and unrestrained that God chose to end the world. The act of destruction was worldwide but the preserving hand of God continued.
Then how about God’s choosing a people for Himself. Abraham, then Isaac, then Jacob and leading to Joseph. You talk about a family which had its trials, warts and sins visible to generations this has been done with the Jews. Why would choose the Israelites as His chosen people? We can all read through Genesis and see all the problems they had. According to God’s word Deuteronomy 7:7 says, "It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the LORD set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples, but it is because the LORD loves you and is keeping the oath that he swore to your fathers,” I believe Gabriel might have firsthand knowledge of God’s continuing love for a people who many times rebelled against God, but God redeemed Him.
The end of Genesis is of course the nation of Israel in Egypt for 400 years under Pharaoh and crying out under cruel persecution for their new ruler was one who no longer knew God. Then God raises up a leader in Moses, although reluctant, God directs Moses’ path to intersect with Pharaoh. God uses men to provide deliverance. I believe Gabriel might have had direct support to the Father is the plagues and deliverances God provided, especially at the Red Sea.
So we have many events cascading thorough the ages with the Israelites. The fearful encounter in Exodus Chapter 19 of the nation of Israel with God at Mount Sinai. God writing on tablets of stone the10 Commandments, not wishes but commandments. Gabriel as God’s messenger was most likely aware of God provided correction and instruction in the law, the laying down of the tabernacle and the sacrifices which represented a holy offering to God.
Then where else might Gabriel have seen the power, majesty and love of God demonstrated? Perhaps in the giving of three Kings to a nation whose heart was departing from God – No heart for God – King Saul, then whole heart - King David, then a King with half a heart for God -Solomon.
Then the nation split because of rebellion and sin and their hearts turned away and they departed, no longer worshiping God but serving and worshiping idols of wood and of men. So God’s love sent prophets to warn them but these were rejected and in many cased killed because of the hatred and lust of men. Gabriel would have been made aware as would all heaven of the vileness and nature of sinful men and how hateful they had become. But Gabriel would have continually seen the heart of God extended to the repentant remnants of His people who because of distress and sin turned from their wickedness and God forgave them and restored His relationship with men and would send a savior to these same creatures.
But perhaps as we have read at the beginning His greatest redemptive and loving act was to send Christ Jesus into the world to save mankind from eternal damnation and separation from Himself. For you remember the chief end of man according to the Shorter Catechism is- Man’s chief end is to glorify God, [a] and to enjoy him forever. God created man to give glory to Himself and to serve Him. Because of sin we because of Adam’s sin and the covenant with God we have received condemnation -The covenant being made with Adam [a], not only for himself, but for his posterity; all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell with him, in his first transgression [b].
This sinful estate in which we fell man is original sin and is a disease which all humans suffer. All mankind by their fall lost fellowship and communion with God , are under His wrath and His curse, and so made liable to all miseries in this life, to death itself, and to the pains of hell forever. Because of this God had to send a savior. Gabriel would have been a participant in some means since creation waiting for the unfolding of God’s will in sending His greatest gift to redeem us.
So God knowing all this had to provide a sinless solution to the problem of sin and the evil inherent in man. So God’s greatest work and might act was to send a baby His Son from the throne room of heaven to provided forgiveness of sin by the shedding of His blood on a cross to set people free. God the Father not only sent His Son to Mary but used His best messenger angel to provide greetings and blessings to Mary.
So you suppose an angel who sang and watched at creation and knew that the Father said it was good! Who had made man and women and formed them out of the dust of the earth. Who had seen man sin and watched God work through many ages past to bring redemption to men would not say know God, 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Do you believe this is so or do you still doubt that God has all things under His control? Well what was Mary’s response to this invitation to take part in God’s work? Read with me again our text- begin with verse29 - 29 But [f]when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I [g]do not know a man?”
35 And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.
Now this was entirely new to Mary and she is still a very young woman. This was a new thought to be pregnant by the hand and person of God through the Holy Spirit. I am sure a lot of thoughts quickly processed through her head:
Where does God have you today? Are you in some need of good news? Maybe you were a believer but have grown weary in walking with the Lord. He can and will restore you if you repent and turn back to Him.
Maybe you thought yourself to be a believer but you really needed a new Christmas message, not some holiday cheer but some real hope for you tomorrow and in your future. You can trust Him He is forever and ever.
Or perhaps you never really knew Him, but today your heart and your understanding have been enlightened and quickened and you realize you need a savior! Who is Christ the Lord. Whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. You need right now to do the same, call upon Him, Jesus the Christ and He will save you now!
Amen
Let’s pray – please God come and speak to us today so we might truly have a Merry Christ mas this year. In Jesus name we pray, Amen!
For unto us a child is born
Unto us a Son is given
And His Name shall be called
Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God,
The everlasting Father, The Prince of peace
And with Him nothing is Impossible
He is able to do all things. He was at creation and He will be at the end of all days. He is King of Kings and Lords of Lords and He shall reign forever and ever!
Amen.
Merry Christmas the Lord has come!
Luke Chapter 1 vs. 29-38: 29 But [f]when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I [g]do not know a man?”
35 And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
38 Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
We read these verse as if this is some tale from a summary account. For example, instead of a newspaper, radio or TV station reporting on all the horrible and detailed events that have occurred as the tornado progressed through a town. We get the top line Tornado ravages downtown and fills in the name of the city. The article or broadcast then proceeds to discuss the swath and area of destruction. It then say how many people were killed without the individual stories which present the immediate horror of being thrown, trampled, ravaged by flying debris or whatever. The TV also provides no discussion on the family or the impact for wife, children, or husband and other family members. This account of scripture misses the resultant emotion, critical decisions and issues which are confronting Mary, her parents and Joseph and his parents. It might be worth spending some time over this Holiday studying this passage in its entirety.
I want to stress and highlight two major issues. The first and foremost is God and the incredible statement made by the angel in verse 37 -37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
And when we have studied this verse to move to Mary’s statement of faith in verse 38 “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.”
These are two incredibly rich and powerful statement which highlight who God is first and then show what should our response in faith now.
Let’s examine the statement in verse 37 of Luke Chapter 1-37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
For with God nothing will be impossible is the statement by the Angel to Mary. Now we believe the angel speaking is Gabriel. Do you think that this angel might have some knowledge of the awesome might of El Shaddai? He has been around God and His messenger and servant since the beginning of time. What experience might Gabriel reflect on to make the statement 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Do you supposed that Gabriel might have seen some awesome and might acts of God which give this angel perspective of this being true for God the Father? Beside God being the truth and speaking the truth always as part of His character and never lying do you supposed He might be able to testify to the absolute purity of the nature of God.
Gabriel speaking to us might begin with Psalm 40 verse 5 as a reminder –
5Many, Lord my God,
are the wonders you have done,
the things you planned for us.
None can compare with you;
where I to speak and tell of your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.
So be reminded we are going to hit the highlights of why Gabriel might say, 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Let’s begin with creation. You do understand they are created beings? According to God responding to Job in Chapter 38 vs 4 &7. God asked Job, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation … and all the angels shouted for joy?” (Job 38:4,7). So Gabriel was there at the beginning and He saw the whole event – The big bang of creation through all six days of different creative events inclusive of and ending in man and women’s creation. Do you supposed Gabriel might understand the creative power and nature of God?
Then we have the flood and the saving act of Noah and his family and many animals on an ark. The Father regretted the day He made man and wished to begin anew because the heart of man was evil. This first began when God kicked Adam and Eve. The disease of sin was now spreading though out the entire created universe. In a few short years sin was so prevalent and unrestrained that God chose to end the world. The act of destruction was worldwide but the preserving hand of God continued.
Then how about God’s choosing a people for Himself. Abraham, then Isaac, then Jacob and leading to Joseph. You talk about a family which had its trials, warts and sins visible to generations this has been done with the Jews. Why would choose the Israelites as His chosen people? We can all read through Genesis and see all the problems they had. According to God’s word Deuteronomy 7:7 says, "It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the LORD set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples, but it is because the LORD loves you and is keeping the oath that he swore to your fathers,” I believe Gabriel might have firsthand knowledge of God’s continuing love for a people who many times rebelled against God, but God redeemed Him.
The end of Genesis is of course the nation of Israel in Egypt for 400 years under Pharaoh and crying out under cruel persecution for their new ruler was one who no longer knew God. Then God raises up a leader in Moses, although reluctant, God directs Moses’ path to intersect with Pharaoh. God uses men to provide deliverance. I believe Gabriel might have had direct support to the Father is the plagues and deliverances God provided, especially at the Red Sea.
So we have many events cascading thorough the ages with the Israelites. The fearful encounter in Exodus Chapter 19 of the nation of Israel with God at Mount Sinai. God writing on tablets of stone the10 Commandments, not wishes but commandments. Gabriel as God’s messenger was most likely aware of God provided correction and instruction in the law, the laying down of the tabernacle and the sacrifices which represented a holy offering to God.
Then where else might Gabriel have seen the power, majesty and love of God demonstrated? Perhaps in the giving of three Kings to a nation whose heart was departing from God – No heart for God – King Saul, then whole heart - King David, then a King with half a heart for God -Solomon.
Then the nation split because of rebellion and sin and their hearts turned away and they departed, no longer worshiping God but serving and worshiping idols of wood and of men. So God’s love sent prophets to warn them but these were rejected and in many cased killed because of the hatred and lust of men. Gabriel would have been made aware as would all heaven of the vileness and nature of sinful men and how hateful they had become. But Gabriel would have continually seen the heart of God extended to the repentant remnants of His people who because of distress and sin turned from their wickedness and God forgave them and restored His relationship with men and would send a savior to these same creatures.
But perhaps as we have read at the beginning His greatest redemptive and loving act was to send Christ Jesus into the world to save mankind from eternal damnation and separation from Himself. For you remember the chief end of man according to the Shorter Catechism is- Man’s chief end is to glorify God, [a] and to enjoy him forever. God created man to give glory to Himself and to serve Him. Because of sin we because of Adam’s sin and the covenant with God we have received condemnation -The covenant being made with Adam [a], not only for himself, but for his posterity; all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell with him, in his first transgression [b].
This sinful estate in which we fell man is original sin and is a disease which all humans suffer. All mankind by their fall lost fellowship and communion with God , are under His wrath and His curse, and so made liable to all miseries in this life, to death itself, and to the pains of hell forever. Because of this God had to send a savior. Gabriel would have been a participant in some means since creation waiting for the unfolding of God’s will in sending His greatest gift to redeem us.
So God knowing all this had to provide a sinless solution to the problem of sin and the evil inherent in man. So God’s greatest work and might act was to send a baby His Son from the throne room of heaven to provided forgiveness of sin by the shedding of His blood on a cross to set people free. God the Father not only sent His Son to Mary but used His best messenger angel to provide greetings and blessings to Mary.
So you suppose an angel who sang and watched at creation and knew that the Father said it was good! Who had made man and women and formed them out of the dust of the earth. Who had seen man sin and watched God work through many ages past to bring redemption to men would not say know God, 37 For with God nothing will be impossible.”
Do you believe this is so or do you still doubt that God has all things under His control? Well what was Mary’s response to this invitation to take part in God’s work? Read with me again our text- begin with verse29 - 29 But [f]when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
34 Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I [g]do not know a man?”
35 And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.
Now this was entirely new to Mary and she is still a very young woman. This was a new thought to be pregnant by the hand and person of God through the Holy Spirit. I am sure a lot of thoughts quickly processed through her head:
- My parents will have a hard time with this, as will Joseph and his family?
- She also would be despised, scorned and rejected of men and the religious Jews because of her decision.
- What does the law of God say in His word? There was no mention of this topic in anything she had read or studied?
- If this is from God – can I trust Him? I believe this was the final and most important question which she had to answer in her heart. Could she trust God with her life and this child? This is a big responsibility to carry the Son of God. This was Messiah the promised one and she was to be the Mother of the Lord
Where does God have you today? Are you in some need of good news? Maybe you were a believer but have grown weary in walking with the Lord. He can and will restore you if you repent and turn back to Him.
Maybe you thought yourself to be a believer but you really needed a new Christmas message, not some holiday cheer but some real hope for you tomorrow and in your future. You can trust Him He is forever and ever.
Or perhaps you never really knew Him, but today your heart and your understanding have been enlightened and quickened and you realize you need a savior! Who is Christ the Lord. Whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. You need right now to do the same, call upon Him, Jesus the Christ and He will save you now!
Amen
Sermon Dec. 12
Joy to the world the Lord is come is a great beginning, for it states the fact of the coming of the long promised one, the messiah, the savior of Israel. Of course this is disputed by many of today’s Jews and even those who call themselves Christians. Many falsely believe He was a spirit body, never actually alive, just a ghost if you will. Others believe He was just a good person, an example of the best of humankind, who was mentally deranged, who claimed that He had done great things but was unbalanced. Others do not even trust but deny the historical record and believe this man is just a figment, a story meant to deceive and draw people into some religious cultic activity for which is empty of truth.
That is why the second part of the verse of Joy to World is important to understand what Christmas actually means. Here are the words
Joy to the world the Lord is come, let earth receive her King.
Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing.
So it is not enough just to recognize His arrival upon the earth which of course is significant. For God sent Him (Jesus) here on mission to save a lost and dying world. But of greater significance and importance is to recognize that He is King. King of Kings and Lord of Lords as we hear from Handle’s Messiah. In order for you and I to actually receive Him as King we must prepare Him room in our hearts. When that happens Heaven and Nature sings. In Park Victoria Baptist Church whenever someone came to salvation we used to sing – Ring the Bells of Heaven remembering what Jesus said about one sinner repenting that all heaven rejoiced. That is why it is important to know the savior at Christmas. He is the greatest gift ever given to men and we should rejoice at the wonder of His love.
So preparation of the heart is mission essential for recognizing who Jesus is and to have faith in His coming. Jesus understood the necessity of faith and continually rebuked His supposed disciples for their lack of faith, Matthew’s gospel in Chapter 17 beginning in verse 16 relates -16 I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him.”
17 “You unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me.”18 Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment.
19 Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?”
20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
This was not the last time Jesus rebuked them for little faith even at upper room after His resurrection He said in Mark 16:14, Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.
Without faith it is impossible to please God. He who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Heb. 11:6)
This is why Christmas should be important to us Christmas should be an encouragement of the faithfulness of our God and His promises to us throughout the ages. Often, we sing-
How silently, how silently
The wondrous gift is given!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of His heaven.
No ear may hear His coming;
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive Him,
Still The dear Christ enters in.
As Jesus entered into the earth from heaven He continually comes to human hearts in the same manner. So being refreshed at Christmas time is important to be strengthened in the promises of God and His faithfulness.
To do so, I would like to take you on a quick survey of a few verses in the Old Testament which give us a great description of who Jesus would be and how he would interact and lead His people. This is the encouragement we should be seeking from God about who Jesus is and what kind of people He would want us to be, who are supposed to reflect the wonder and holiness of our God.
Three different chapters is Isaiah, Chapters 9, 11 and 60 with just a few but significant verses from each.
Chapter 9 has three particular verses which we shall review and try to understand- verse 2 is where we begin-\
2The people who walked in darkness Have seen a great light;
Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, Upon them a light has shined.
This means that the Lord God of Heaven promised to Israel and through Israel to all believers a Redeemer who is the messiah. Here Isaiah continued the theme of light and darkness by announcing that the darkness and despair “will not be upon her who is distressed, as when at first” (9:1). The Redeemer who will come and will bring light to this dreary and sin filled world as the dawning of a new day (v. 2; Luke 1:78, 79; John 8:12). Now we can be sure and know that this prophecy refers to Jesus because of the way it is quoted and referred to in Matthew 4:13–15.{look it up later} Darkness of course refers to the darkness of sin and the problem with the evil in the heart of men. The reason God flooded the earth was because all the thoughts of men were perpetually evil. We see this ever so clearly today by looking into our culture – music, entertainment, sexual perversion and trafficking, drug culture, race baiting Our legislature, our government at all levels reflects the abandonment of God and the embracing of our own sinful values which are dark and evil Check out Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?
Back to Isaiah, Chapter 9, verses 6-7
6For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
The Gift-Child in this passage is the same divine Child as Immanuel. Meaning that this God is with us – Immanuel. This child is given to men from God {as a reminder we find this in the book of John - for God so loved the world He gave, He gave} Here again, using the prophetic perfect, Isaiah sees Him in his time on earth, as though He were already born and present in the earth distributing His rule. This ruler is:
Wonderful, Counsellor (pele’ yō‘ēts) is actually one term in Hebrew. A wonder is indicative of a miracle. Counsellor is often used in parallel with king (cf. Mic. 4:9). Thus miraculous counsel is given by this God-like King. The mighty God (El Gibōr) is the strongest of these titles. In Isaiah, El is always used of God and never refers to man. Gibōr means “Hero.” Together they describe One who is indeed God Himself.
Everlasting Father(abī‘ad) literally means Father of Eternity. He alone is the source of eternal life.
Prince of Peace (Sar-Shalōm) indicates that the mighty God will be a benevolent ruler bringing eternal peace on earth through the establishment of His kingdom. Thus the obscure figure of Immanuel is now brought to clear light: He is Himself God incarnate!
Christ’s rule shall have no end it is eternal, judgement and justice will reign eternally for His beginning until the end. This is an interesting last part for the zeal of the Lord will accomplish it. We know from Isaiah 55 something about the zeal of the Lord, when God speaks a word it is so, there is no stopping it. So the zeal of the Lord is the purpose of the Lord and it is unstoppable just as He has spoken it. Amen
What else can we know about this ruler to come? go to Isaiah, Chapter 11:1-5 1There shall come forth a [a]Rod from the [b]stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall [c]grow out of his roots
Remember that Jesse is the father of David, and a branch shall come from His roots. This indicates there are some problems in the children of David after Solomon and the divided Kingdom. But a righteous Branch shall grow from the lineage of David.
2 The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him,
The Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
The Spirit of counsel and might,
The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.
So the Spirit of the LORD will rest upon the savior. As the Spirit of the Lord came upon David when he was anointed king, so He will rest upon David’s descendant, Christ, who will eventually rule the world.
The Spirit of the Lord gives the king his skills to rule, a truth clearly seen in Christ’s ministry (Luke 4:14).
Also note the Holy Spirit is mentioned by Isaiah more than by any other prophet. Meaning Isaiah is aware of the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit upon the life of the believer as He enabled him to accomplish God’s work. These attributes caused by the Spirit’s anointing here demonstrated the enabling of the seven distinct ministries of the Holy Spirit which are—exalting the Lord’s rule, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, fear (or reverence).
3 His delight is in the fear of the Lord,
And He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes,
Nor decide by the hearing of His ears;
This foretells the statement of Jesus about His not being here on His own account but He must be about His Father’s business. Notice His judgement is not based upon externals of what He sees and hears but out of the heart. “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Luke 6:45
4 But with righteousness He shall judge the poor,
And decide with equity for the meek of the earth; He shall strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He shall slay the wicked.
Jesus ministry the first time was to save men from their sin and wickedness. So the first time on this earth He came as the suffering servant. His battle was a spiritual battle with the forces of evil in the heavenly places. He came to set you free from the law of sin and death. The second or next time He comes He will set the entire creation free from the rule of sin and death and eradicate sin from the earth and His people.
5 Righteousness shall be the belt of His loins,
And faithfulness the belt of His waist.
Jesus life was and He remainss righteous and faithful. He accomplished all God had purposed for Him to accomplish. At the end of His suffering on the cross Jesus declare, “It is finished.” Tetelestai in the Greek means paid in full, so Jesus paid it all and gave you and I new life in the progress.
So what is the benefit of what we have just studied:
#1. God is faithful – what He promised to do 6 to 7 hundred years before the birth of Christ, He made predictions of what Jesus would be like and who He would be.
#2. The actual coming of His promise was a real person – His Son who would be the fulfillment of all God had promised for our redemption and delivery
#3. We should have joy in the midst of this evil for the baby in Bethlehem is the promise of God’s ultimate favor and deliverance beginning the day you believe
#4. You must have faith in God and in His Son to receive the promises of God
#5. Power of the Holy Spirit comes to all who believe and He enables you to receive all God had provided for you.
Amen.
Joy to the world the Lord is come is a great beginning, for it states the fact of the coming of the long promised one, the messiah, the savior of Israel. Of course this is disputed by many of today’s Jews and even those who call themselves Christians. Many falsely believe He was a spirit body, never actually alive, just a ghost if you will. Others believe He was just a good person, an example of the best of humankind, who was mentally deranged, who claimed that He had done great things but was unbalanced. Others do not even trust but deny the historical record and believe this man is just a figment, a story meant to deceive and draw people into some religious cultic activity for which is empty of truth.
That is why the second part of the verse of Joy to World is important to understand what Christmas actually means. Here are the words
Joy to the world the Lord is come, let earth receive her King.
Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing.
So it is not enough just to recognize His arrival upon the earth which of course is significant. For God sent Him (Jesus) here on mission to save a lost and dying world. But of greater significance and importance is to recognize that He is King. King of Kings and Lord of Lords as we hear from Handle’s Messiah. In order for you and I to actually receive Him as King we must prepare Him room in our hearts. When that happens Heaven and Nature sings. In Park Victoria Baptist Church whenever someone came to salvation we used to sing – Ring the Bells of Heaven remembering what Jesus said about one sinner repenting that all heaven rejoiced. That is why it is important to know the savior at Christmas. He is the greatest gift ever given to men and we should rejoice at the wonder of His love.
So preparation of the heart is mission essential for recognizing who Jesus is and to have faith in His coming. Jesus understood the necessity of faith and continually rebuked His supposed disciples for their lack of faith, Matthew’s gospel in Chapter 17 beginning in verse 16 relates -16 I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him.”
17 “You unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me.”18 Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment.
19 Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?”
20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
This was not the last time Jesus rebuked them for little faith even at upper room after His resurrection He said in Mark 16:14, Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.
Without faith it is impossible to please God. He who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Heb. 11:6)
This is why Christmas should be important to us Christmas should be an encouragement of the faithfulness of our God and His promises to us throughout the ages. Often, we sing-
How silently, how silently
The wondrous gift is given!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of His heaven.
No ear may hear His coming;
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive Him,
Still The dear Christ enters in.
As Jesus entered into the earth from heaven He continually comes to human hearts in the same manner. So being refreshed at Christmas time is important to be strengthened in the promises of God and His faithfulness.
To do so, I would like to take you on a quick survey of a few verses in the Old Testament which give us a great description of who Jesus would be and how he would interact and lead His people. This is the encouragement we should be seeking from God about who Jesus is and what kind of people He would want us to be, who are supposed to reflect the wonder and holiness of our God.
Three different chapters is Isaiah, Chapters 9, 11 and 60 with just a few but significant verses from each.
Chapter 9 has three particular verses which we shall review and try to understand- verse 2 is where we begin-\
2The people who walked in darkness Have seen a great light;
Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, Upon them a light has shined.
This means that the Lord God of Heaven promised to Israel and through Israel to all believers a Redeemer who is the messiah. Here Isaiah continued the theme of light and darkness by announcing that the darkness and despair “will not be upon her who is distressed, as when at first” (9:1). The Redeemer who will come and will bring light to this dreary and sin filled world as the dawning of a new day (v. 2; Luke 1:78, 79; John 8:12). Now we can be sure and know that this prophecy refers to Jesus because of the way it is quoted and referred to in Matthew 4:13–15.{look it up later} Darkness of course refers to the darkness of sin and the problem with the evil in the heart of men. The reason God flooded the earth was because all the thoughts of men were perpetually evil. We see this ever so clearly today by looking into our culture – music, entertainment, sexual perversion and trafficking, drug culture, race baiting Our legislature, our government at all levels reflects the abandonment of God and the embracing of our own sinful values which are dark and evil Check out Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?
Back to Isaiah, Chapter 9, verses 6-7
6For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
The Gift-Child in this passage is the same divine Child as Immanuel. Meaning that this God is with us – Immanuel. This child is given to men from God {as a reminder we find this in the book of John - for God so loved the world He gave, He gave} Here again, using the prophetic perfect, Isaiah sees Him in his time on earth, as though He were already born and present in the earth distributing His rule. This ruler is:
Wonderful, Counsellor (pele’ yō‘ēts) is actually one term in Hebrew. A wonder is indicative of a miracle. Counsellor is often used in parallel with king (cf. Mic. 4:9). Thus miraculous counsel is given by this God-like King. The mighty God (El Gibōr) is the strongest of these titles. In Isaiah, El is always used of God and never refers to man. Gibōr means “Hero.” Together they describe One who is indeed God Himself.
Everlasting Father(abī‘ad) literally means Father of Eternity. He alone is the source of eternal life.
Prince of Peace (Sar-Shalōm) indicates that the mighty God will be a benevolent ruler bringing eternal peace on earth through the establishment of His kingdom. Thus the obscure figure of Immanuel is now brought to clear light: He is Himself God incarnate!
Christ’s rule shall have no end it is eternal, judgement and justice will reign eternally for His beginning until the end. This is an interesting last part for the zeal of the Lord will accomplish it. We know from Isaiah 55 something about the zeal of the Lord, when God speaks a word it is so, there is no stopping it. So the zeal of the Lord is the purpose of the Lord and it is unstoppable just as He has spoken it. Amen
What else can we know about this ruler to come? go to Isaiah, Chapter 11:1-5 1There shall come forth a [a]Rod from the [b]stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall [c]grow out of his roots
Remember that Jesse is the father of David, and a branch shall come from His roots. This indicates there are some problems in the children of David after Solomon and the divided Kingdom. But a righteous Branch shall grow from the lineage of David.
2 The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him,
The Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
The Spirit of counsel and might,
The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.
So the Spirit of the LORD will rest upon the savior. As the Spirit of the Lord came upon David when he was anointed king, so He will rest upon David’s descendant, Christ, who will eventually rule the world.
The Spirit of the Lord gives the king his skills to rule, a truth clearly seen in Christ’s ministry (Luke 4:14).
Also note the Holy Spirit is mentioned by Isaiah more than by any other prophet. Meaning Isaiah is aware of the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit upon the life of the believer as He enabled him to accomplish God’s work. These attributes caused by the Spirit’s anointing here demonstrated the enabling of the seven distinct ministries of the Holy Spirit which are—exalting the Lord’s rule, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, fear (or reverence).
3 His delight is in the fear of the Lord,
And He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes,
Nor decide by the hearing of His ears;
This foretells the statement of Jesus about His not being here on His own account but He must be about His Father’s business. Notice His judgement is not based upon externals of what He sees and hears but out of the heart. “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Luke 6:45
4 But with righteousness He shall judge the poor,
And decide with equity for the meek of the earth; He shall strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He shall slay the wicked.
Jesus ministry the first time was to save men from their sin and wickedness. So the first time on this earth He came as the suffering servant. His battle was a spiritual battle with the forces of evil in the heavenly places. He came to set you free from the law of sin and death. The second or next time He comes He will set the entire creation free from the rule of sin and death and eradicate sin from the earth and His people.
5 Righteousness shall be the belt of His loins,
And faithfulness the belt of His waist.
Jesus life was and He remainss righteous and faithful. He accomplished all God had purposed for Him to accomplish. At the end of His suffering on the cross Jesus declare, “It is finished.” Tetelestai in the Greek means paid in full, so Jesus paid it all and gave you and I new life in the progress.
So what is the benefit of what we have just studied:
#1. God is faithful – what He promised to do 6 to 7 hundred years before the birth of Christ, He made predictions of what Jesus would be like and who He would be.
#2. The actual coming of His promise was a real person – His Son who would be the fulfillment of all God had promised for our redemption and delivery
#3. We should have joy in the midst of this evil for the baby in Bethlehem is the promise of God’s ultimate favor and deliverance beginning the day you believe
#4. You must have faith in God and in His Son to receive the promises of God
#5. Power of the Holy Spirit comes to all who believe and He enables you to receive all God had provided for you.
Amen.
Sermon Dec. 5
Christmas in 2021 is a struggle if your focus is on the world and the problems that you and I are each dealing with daily. Perhaps you are experiencing sickness, health issues, financial or family problems, as well as, enduring the hate and many falsehoods which are abounding across this nation on TV and the internet. Evil is rampant and far exceeds anything we have ever experienced in the past. For those who are 55 and older this is not the country we grew up in. None of this filth, sickness and evil at this level was overtly present when we were young. I am sure it existed but not openly and in your face like to day. Everyone touts their sin on the web and in public. There is no shame in people today. But that is the past and we must deal with today. So what can we do to understand how to walk with our Lord today.
Let’s review the birth of Jesus and look at that dark night when God changed everything with a baby. Read with me from Luke, Chapter 1, verses 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.”
This shows us the God had a plan was already at work in the midst of the problems brought on by the invasion of Rome, the rebellious hearts of the Jews and their elevation of the traditions of men over the Words of God in the commandments. Darkness and evil were acceleration in this nativity night for the birth of Jesus.
Following in Chapter 2, verse 9, we read: 9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.
10 Then the angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
God in the midst of darkness, sin, despair and destruction of His people was bringing the Kingdom of God and Heaven to be at hand. Is this not the message of John the Baptist and Jesus Himself – Repent for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand!
So darkness can only do what darkness does and that is to obscure the truth. And Jesus is the truth, the only real truth. And that is what sin which is the darkness, has been doing for thousands of years. Hiding and denying the truth of who Jesus is. It is the sickness which infects every created being on this planet, except one, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ.
So let’s review what happened that night in Bethlehem-
1. The shepherds steeped in the darkness of night and fully immersed in the plague of sin, are interrupted by a great light.
2. They are greeted with a totally unexpected messenger of light – in this case an angel.
3. They encountered the glory of God and were afraid. But the message was fear not, rejoice, “I bring you good tidings of great joy for unto you is born this day in the city of David, a savior who is Christ the Lord.
4. So out of darkness, into great light and the glory of God. Sin no longer surrounds them.
5. To you said the messenger is born this day, a baby, who is the promised Savior from the teaching in the prophets and the law.
6. He will save you from your sin.
In case you missed it, this is the message of salvation which comes to all people.
This message came in the midst of the great evil for the Jewish people. Their nation had been invaded and the Romans were occupying them causing them great sorrow. The sins of the Hebrews had repeatedly forced God to execute judgement upon the nation because of their failure to honor God. El Shaddai allowed the invasion of the Romans to cause His people to repent, but sadly they had not. So God sent a baby, His Son and from our experience in raising children a baby changes everything.
So for those alive in Jerusalem at that time when the light came, on that blessed night everything changed. For God had sent the promised messiah of Israel. But He would not be recognized as the Savior by all, because Jesus was not the expected conqueror which the people wanted. The people were totally disoriented to God because the Pharisees and Sadducees were not teaching the word of God but the traditions of Men. You see Jesus came the first to time as the suffering servant who was to die for the sin of the people and bring the opportunity of salvation to all peoples.
So, God’s plan from eternity past was not defeated, but everything occurred and was in place just as He had orchestrated it. The new testament used the term “in the fulness of time.”
Let’s review how God comes into the human heart today
1. Those who are steeped in the darkness of night and fully immersed in the plague of sin, are interrupted by a great light.
2. They are greeted with a totally unexpected messenger of light – usually the Holy Spirit.
3. He causes them to encounter the glory of God and see their sin. The message form the Holy Spirit is fear not, rejoice, “for He brings to you good tidings of great joy. And in the Bethlehem of your heart He introduces you to the savior who is Christ the Lord.
4. So then comes the opportunity to come out of darkness, into great light so sin no longer surrounds them.
5. At that moment is born in the heart that day, a baby, who is the promised Savior, who is Christ the Lord – to whomever will call upon the name of the Lord to be saved.
6. For He will save you from your sin.
God’s redemption never changes. In Galatians 4 it says this beginning verse 4, 4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born[a] of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.
6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, [b]“Abba, Father!” 7 Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir [c]of God [d]through Christ.
So if you know Jesus Christ are you living as a Son and an heir. Do you accept by faith all the promises of God and know that this is not your home? So why are you fretting about this life and what you shall eat, and what you shall wear, and how will you survive? Where is your faith? In your money and in your abilities? In your 401K and investments, in your (whatever)--------you fill in the blank, Trust in the Lord fear Him. He is your giver and sustainer of Life. All things come from Him.
We must repent of our ways and learn to walk in the fear of the Lord for this is the very beginning of wisdom.
Jesus told us in Marks Gospel Chapter 12:33 - And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself,
is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
Loving God is how this all begins and is sustained. Why do you think God gave us Christmas, to remember to love? Love God first and then learn to love others as ourselves.
Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Jesus.
Amen
Christmas in 2021 is a struggle if your focus is on the world and the problems that you and I are each dealing with daily. Perhaps you are experiencing sickness, health issues, financial or family problems, as well as, enduring the hate and many falsehoods which are abounding across this nation on TV and the internet. Evil is rampant and far exceeds anything we have ever experienced in the past. For those who are 55 and older this is not the country we grew up in. None of this filth, sickness and evil at this level was overtly present when we were young. I am sure it existed but not openly and in your face like to day. Everyone touts their sin on the web and in public. There is no shame in people today. But that is the past and we must deal with today. So what can we do to understand how to walk with our Lord today.
Let’s review the birth of Jesus and look at that dark night when God changed everything with a baby. Read with me from Luke, Chapter 1, verses 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.”
This shows us the God had a plan was already at work in the midst of the problems brought on by the invasion of Rome, the rebellious hearts of the Jews and their elevation of the traditions of men over the Words of God in the commandments. Darkness and evil were acceleration in this nativity night for the birth of Jesus.
Following in Chapter 2, verse 9, we read: 9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.
10 Then the angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
God in the midst of darkness, sin, despair and destruction of His people was bringing the Kingdom of God and Heaven to be at hand. Is this not the message of John the Baptist and Jesus Himself – Repent for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand!
So darkness can only do what darkness does and that is to obscure the truth. And Jesus is the truth, the only real truth. And that is what sin which is the darkness, has been doing for thousands of years. Hiding and denying the truth of who Jesus is. It is the sickness which infects every created being on this planet, except one, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ.
So let’s review what happened that night in Bethlehem-
1. The shepherds steeped in the darkness of night and fully immersed in the plague of sin, are interrupted by a great light.
2. They are greeted with a totally unexpected messenger of light – in this case an angel.
3. They encountered the glory of God and were afraid. But the message was fear not, rejoice, “I bring you good tidings of great joy for unto you is born this day in the city of David, a savior who is Christ the Lord.
4. So out of darkness, into great light and the glory of God. Sin no longer surrounds them.
5. To you said the messenger is born this day, a baby, who is the promised Savior from the teaching in the prophets and the law.
6. He will save you from your sin.
In case you missed it, this is the message of salvation which comes to all people.
This message came in the midst of the great evil for the Jewish people. Their nation had been invaded and the Romans were occupying them causing them great sorrow. The sins of the Hebrews had repeatedly forced God to execute judgement upon the nation because of their failure to honor God. El Shaddai allowed the invasion of the Romans to cause His people to repent, but sadly they had not. So God sent a baby, His Son and from our experience in raising children a baby changes everything.
So for those alive in Jerusalem at that time when the light came, on that blessed night everything changed. For God had sent the promised messiah of Israel. But He would not be recognized as the Savior by all, because Jesus was not the expected conqueror which the people wanted. The people were totally disoriented to God because the Pharisees and Sadducees were not teaching the word of God but the traditions of Men. You see Jesus came the first to time as the suffering servant who was to die for the sin of the people and bring the opportunity of salvation to all peoples.
So, God’s plan from eternity past was not defeated, but everything occurred and was in place just as He had orchestrated it. The new testament used the term “in the fulness of time.”
Let’s review how God comes into the human heart today
1. Those who are steeped in the darkness of night and fully immersed in the plague of sin, are interrupted by a great light.
2. They are greeted with a totally unexpected messenger of light – usually the Holy Spirit.
3. He causes them to encounter the glory of God and see their sin. The message form the Holy Spirit is fear not, rejoice, “for He brings to you good tidings of great joy. And in the Bethlehem of your heart He introduces you to the savior who is Christ the Lord.
4. So then comes the opportunity to come out of darkness, into great light so sin no longer surrounds them.
5. At that moment is born in the heart that day, a baby, who is the promised Savior, who is Christ the Lord – to whomever will call upon the name of the Lord to be saved.
6. For He will save you from your sin.
God’s redemption never changes. In Galatians 4 it says this beginning verse 4, 4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born[a] of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.
6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, [b]“Abba, Father!” 7 Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir [c]of God [d]through Christ.
So if you know Jesus Christ are you living as a Son and an heir. Do you accept by faith all the promises of God and know that this is not your home? So why are you fretting about this life and what you shall eat, and what you shall wear, and how will you survive? Where is your faith? In your money and in your abilities? In your 401K and investments, in your (whatever)--------you fill in the blank, Trust in the Lord fear Him. He is your giver and sustainer of Life. All things come from Him.
We must repent of our ways and learn to walk in the fear of the Lord for this is the very beginning of wisdom.
Jesus told us in Marks Gospel Chapter 12:33 - And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself,
is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
Loving God is how this all begins and is sustained. Why do you think God gave us Christmas, to remember to love? Love God first and then learn to love others as ourselves.
Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Jesus.
Amen
Sermon Nov. 28
The battle you are in is an eternal battle that began before the race of men were created. Satan previously known as Lucifer, Son of the Morning was an angel created by God. He was given a high station before God, but he chose to sin and took one third of the angels with him, when he fell. Because Satan said the 5 I wills, beginning with I will ascend and I will be as God. So the wrestling between light and dark, good and evil began an eternity ago. But we need to hold onto the God we serve. His name is Jehovah. We not only serve but we need to follow Him- to keep our eyes on Him. We often sing - Lead on, O King eternal
1 Lead on, O King eternal, the day of march has come; henceforth in fields of conquest
your tents will be our home.
Through days of preparation your grace has made us strong; and now, O King eternal,
we lift our battle song.
2 Lead on, O King eternal, till sin's fierce war shall cease, and holiness shall whisper the sweet amen of peace. For not with swords' loud clashing or roll of stirring drums,
with deeds of love and mercy, the heavenly kingdom comes.
3 Lead on, O King eternal; we follow, not with fears, for gladness breaks like morning
where'er your face appears.
Your cross is lifted o'er us, we journey in its light; the crown awaits the conquest;
lead on, O God of might.
Author: Ernest W. Shurtleff
These days we are living in are setting the stage for the completion of this eternal battle, which we know is going to happen soon according to prophecy and the promises contained in the Word of God.
You know, Dalton and Debbie had it right, 3 or 4 years ago when they took the verse from Isaiah 5:20-21 and made those bumper stickers. Let’s review those verses from the prophet of God:
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
We are now living in the days where evil is good, darkness is light and bitter is sweet right now. This recent trial of this teenage boy reflects the ills in our society and has just made clear in my brain and spirit what is wrong with America. And the basic idea is delusion- So where does delusion come from exactly. Read 2 Thessalonians 2: verses 10 -12 -
10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
Note these verses – did not receive and did not believe. Very important you must have faith to enter the kingdom of heaven.
So what is pushing us today to fall into this world of destruction and hate. What we have is a very limited minority of highly financed, rich, educated, motivated, destructionist who hate God, who hate honest Americans; who hate the American dream and who radically want to destroy the Constitution and rewrite it in their image so they can have dominating power over whomever they wish. This hate began in their hearts because they did not and have not received the love of the truth that they might be saved. Sin has hardened their hearts. Verse 7 from the same passage in 2nd Thessalonians, chapter 2 says: 7 For the [d]mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only [e]He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.
I believe that God is gradually pulling away His restraining hand and deception and lawlessness are increasing. This doesn’t mean the predicted last events have happened or are yet happening but preparations for those events is found in what we are seeing now. We see this battle happen every day but have seen it escalated and expounded greatly in the evil, irrational and undemocratic speech and discussions presented in our national media, in our congress and it is impacting our lives.
These regressive progressives dismiss the fact that God created America, or that there is a God who loves and cares about the affairs of men. Their hearts and consciences are so seared that they cannot believe the truth. And according to 2nd Thessalonians Chapter 2: verses 11 & 12: God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
This is so evident in the hate mongering, lies and filth being spewed out of the mouths of these regressives in the media on national new sources MSDNC, and the like. Why is this happening and what is the motivation? I believe they have been truly deceived believing that America is evil at its very core because they have believed a lie and rejected God. These are great lies but because their hearts are seared by sin and delusion, God has sent deception. Folks we are seeing the absolute depravity of men and their outright rejection of the truth. The brain washing in our schools but teachers unions and woke teachers is just another lie.
As Deb and Dalton directed our minds to the verses in Isaiah 5 thatGood is evil and evil is good, darkness is light and light is darkness, sweet is bitter and bitter is sweet for they are wise in their own eyes. We are in the midst of a major trial.
Who made the quote these are the times that try men’s souls? The answer is Thomas Paine from his pamphlet - The Crisis - “These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives everything its value. Heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods; and it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as FREEDOM should not be highly rated”
These words from Thomas Paine are profound and true. All you need to do is to look at the price Jesus paid for your freedom. He came from heaven to die on the cross to set you and I free from the law and its penalty – death. This was very costly payment but it enables you to enter heavn.
I believe that day of final judgement is approaching and may be fast occurring. The policy and dictatorial mandates keep coming fast and heavy-handed from our Reich leader despite being stayed in the courts and being patently unconstitutional? Have you read your constitution recently and are you read up on the Bill of Rights? Do you know what it means to be free? Do you have a clue what is being taken from you?
The Constitution is not just a manmade document. If you read the founders notes, the war notes of General George Washington and others? You find they all understood that this nation came about because God led them to victory while the word of God was being taught and instructed to the people and they were attempting to live by it. Those founders actually believed they were in a covenant relationship with God just as the Jews were in the Old Testament and as modified by Jesus Christ.
So how are you and I responding to this continued destructive and divisive turmoil? Are your growing move bitter and perverse disappointed daily? Are you bitter because of leadership which cares little for American citizens and is more concern with ensuring those crossing the border are given every freeby possible and placed in Republican states to dilute the vote? Or since there is no care whether it costs you more to feed, clothe, protect and shelter your family. Does it matter to you that you must be vaccinated to work, eat or have political standing in American when undocumented invaders don’t have to have papers or vaccinations and can take any job they want?
Wow! What do you think the Jews felt when the Roman’s conquered Israel and did the same thing to them? And the Romans ran the country supposedly we still run America but I am not sure. So then how do I as a Christian operate in this world? So how should we respond and gee its Christmas time already?
Well it came upon a midnight clear that glorious song of old. Of angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold. Peace on the earth, good will to men From heaven's all-gracious King. Do you think this song might give us a clue as to how to respond in our day?
So what did God do in the middle of sinful men? He sends a baby to proclaim peace, grace and mercy despite their sinful natures. And what did He send? He sent Himself in the person of His Son. God has never wanted the message of peace and deliverance by the blood of Jesus Christ to ever cease since the beginning. So this message must continue today.
Then what are we battling? Paul give us a good answer – our flesh. The flesh is that part of our new nature which is still anchored in the world. It is part of our nature but it is defeated. Paul spoke about the flesh in Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
So Step one to follow our God into spiritual warfare of today requires us to walk not according to the flesh but according to His Spirit. So set your mind on things above.
The Apostle John confirms this in 1 John 2:16 where we read - For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
Further in 1 John 4:3 we read -
and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.
So the enemy is Antichrist – those that go against God.
Step 2 then -How then do we behave – we need to follow Jesus example and walk in the Spirt or we will be unable to follow Read with me from Luke 6:27-37
27 “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,28 bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. 29 To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30 Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. 31 And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.
32 “But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, [h]hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
So we are to love, bless others, forgive, pray for others, have mercy, endure and trust God. There is some very significant meat in verses 35 and 36- 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, [h]hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
The person who is at this stage is being and is learning to walk according to the Spirit and not according to our fleshly desires. Your perspective has been altered by God and now your eyes are upon Him, looking for His great reward from on high. That is where the blessing is and will remain until we learn the truth of 2 Corinthians 9:6
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
The battle you are in is an eternal battle that began before the race of men were created. Satan previously known as Lucifer, Son of the Morning was an angel created by God. He was given a high station before God, but he chose to sin and took one third of the angels with him, when he fell. Because Satan said the 5 I wills, beginning with I will ascend and I will be as God. So the wrestling between light and dark, good and evil began an eternity ago. But we need to hold onto the God we serve. His name is Jehovah. We not only serve but we need to follow Him- to keep our eyes on Him. We often sing - Lead on, O King eternal
1 Lead on, O King eternal, the day of march has come; henceforth in fields of conquest
your tents will be our home.
Through days of preparation your grace has made us strong; and now, O King eternal,
we lift our battle song.
2 Lead on, O King eternal, till sin's fierce war shall cease, and holiness shall whisper the sweet amen of peace. For not with swords' loud clashing or roll of stirring drums,
with deeds of love and mercy, the heavenly kingdom comes.
3 Lead on, O King eternal; we follow, not with fears, for gladness breaks like morning
where'er your face appears.
Your cross is lifted o'er us, we journey in its light; the crown awaits the conquest;
lead on, O God of might.
Author: Ernest W. Shurtleff
These days we are living in are setting the stage for the completion of this eternal battle, which we know is going to happen soon according to prophecy and the promises contained in the Word of God.
You know, Dalton and Debbie had it right, 3 or 4 years ago when they took the verse from Isaiah 5:20-21 and made those bumper stickers. Let’s review those verses from the prophet of God:
20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!
We are now living in the days where evil is good, darkness is light and bitter is sweet right now. This recent trial of this teenage boy reflects the ills in our society and has just made clear in my brain and spirit what is wrong with America. And the basic idea is delusion- So where does delusion come from exactly. Read 2 Thessalonians 2: verses 10 -12 -
10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
Note these verses – did not receive and did not believe. Very important you must have faith to enter the kingdom of heaven.
So what is pushing us today to fall into this world of destruction and hate. What we have is a very limited minority of highly financed, rich, educated, motivated, destructionist who hate God, who hate honest Americans; who hate the American dream and who radically want to destroy the Constitution and rewrite it in their image so they can have dominating power over whomever they wish. This hate began in their hearts because they did not and have not received the love of the truth that they might be saved. Sin has hardened their hearts. Verse 7 from the same passage in 2nd Thessalonians, chapter 2 says: 7 For the [d]mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only [e]He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.
I believe that God is gradually pulling away His restraining hand and deception and lawlessness are increasing. This doesn’t mean the predicted last events have happened or are yet happening but preparations for those events is found in what we are seeing now. We see this battle happen every day but have seen it escalated and expounded greatly in the evil, irrational and undemocratic speech and discussions presented in our national media, in our congress and it is impacting our lives.
These regressive progressives dismiss the fact that God created America, or that there is a God who loves and cares about the affairs of men. Their hearts and consciences are so seared that they cannot believe the truth. And according to 2nd Thessalonians Chapter 2: verses 11 & 12: God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
This is so evident in the hate mongering, lies and filth being spewed out of the mouths of these regressives in the media on national new sources MSDNC, and the like. Why is this happening and what is the motivation? I believe they have been truly deceived believing that America is evil at its very core because they have believed a lie and rejected God. These are great lies but because their hearts are seared by sin and delusion, God has sent deception. Folks we are seeing the absolute depravity of men and their outright rejection of the truth. The brain washing in our schools but teachers unions and woke teachers is just another lie.
As Deb and Dalton directed our minds to the verses in Isaiah 5 thatGood is evil and evil is good, darkness is light and light is darkness, sweet is bitter and bitter is sweet for they are wise in their own eyes. We are in the midst of a major trial.
Who made the quote these are the times that try men’s souls? The answer is Thomas Paine from his pamphlet - The Crisis - “These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives everything its value. Heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods; and it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as FREEDOM should not be highly rated”
These words from Thomas Paine are profound and true. All you need to do is to look at the price Jesus paid for your freedom. He came from heaven to die on the cross to set you and I free from the law and its penalty – death. This was very costly payment but it enables you to enter heavn.
I believe that day of final judgement is approaching and may be fast occurring. The policy and dictatorial mandates keep coming fast and heavy-handed from our Reich leader despite being stayed in the courts and being patently unconstitutional? Have you read your constitution recently and are you read up on the Bill of Rights? Do you know what it means to be free? Do you have a clue what is being taken from you?
The Constitution is not just a manmade document. If you read the founders notes, the war notes of General George Washington and others? You find they all understood that this nation came about because God led them to victory while the word of God was being taught and instructed to the people and they were attempting to live by it. Those founders actually believed they were in a covenant relationship with God just as the Jews were in the Old Testament and as modified by Jesus Christ.
So how are you and I responding to this continued destructive and divisive turmoil? Are your growing move bitter and perverse disappointed daily? Are you bitter because of leadership which cares little for American citizens and is more concern with ensuring those crossing the border are given every freeby possible and placed in Republican states to dilute the vote? Or since there is no care whether it costs you more to feed, clothe, protect and shelter your family. Does it matter to you that you must be vaccinated to work, eat or have political standing in American when undocumented invaders don’t have to have papers or vaccinations and can take any job they want?
Wow! What do you think the Jews felt when the Roman’s conquered Israel and did the same thing to them? And the Romans ran the country supposedly we still run America but I am not sure. So then how do I as a Christian operate in this world? So how should we respond and gee its Christmas time already?
Well it came upon a midnight clear that glorious song of old. Of angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold. Peace on the earth, good will to men From heaven's all-gracious King. Do you think this song might give us a clue as to how to respond in our day?
So what did God do in the middle of sinful men? He sends a baby to proclaim peace, grace and mercy despite their sinful natures. And what did He send? He sent Himself in the person of His Son. God has never wanted the message of peace and deliverance by the blood of Jesus Christ to ever cease since the beginning. So this message must continue today.
Then what are we battling? Paul give us a good answer – our flesh. The flesh is that part of our new nature which is still anchored in the world. It is part of our nature but it is defeated. Paul spoke about the flesh in Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
So Step one to follow our God into spiritual warfare of today requires us to walk not according to the flesh but according to His Spirit. So set your mind on things above.
The Apostle John confirms this in 1 John 2:16 where we read - For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
Further in 1 John 4:3 we read -
and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.
So the enemy is Antichrist – those that go against God.
Step 2 then -How then do we behave – we need to follow Jesus example and walk in the Spirt or we will be unable to follow Read with me from Luke 6:27-37
27 “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,28 bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. 29 To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30 Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. 31 And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.
32 “But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, [h]hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
So we are to love, bless others, forgive, pray for others, have mercy, endure and trust God. There is some very significant meat in verses 35 and 36- 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, [h]hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
The person who is at this stage is being and is learning to walk according to the Spirit and not according to our fleshly desires. Your perspective has been altered by God and now your eyes are upon Him, looking for His great reward from on high. That is where the blessing is and will remain until we learn the truth of 2 Corinthians 9:6
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
Sermon Nov. 14
From Exodus Chapter 20 verse 8 to 11- 8 “Remember the Sabbath day (Saturday), to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
The basis for these verses in Exodus is from Genesis Chapter 2 and verse 1- 2 Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. 2 And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.
Here we understand God commanded that each seventh day (which in the Jewish calendar Saturday} belonged to Him and would not be a workday but a day set apart (i.e., holy) for rest and for time devoted to the worship of Yahweh.
The term “Sabbath” is derived from “to rest or cease from work.”
The reason or precedent for such a special observance is the creation week; a span of time equal to what man copied in practice or 7 days.
Each Sabbath day was to be a reminder to the worshiper that God whom he worshiped had indeed made everything in both realms of existence in 6 twenty-four-hour days.
The Sabbath was to stand as a counter to any ideas about evolution which are clearly prevalent in false religions to deny the existence of the one and only God – Jehovah Jireh.
Moses also, in reviewing the Decalogue, or Ten Commandments linked this observance of the Sabbath to Israel’s exodus from Egypt and specified that this was a reason for Israel to keep the Sabbath as a remember of their deliverance from Pharaoh and Egypt which represents the sin. (Deut. 5:12–15).
I have something interesting which you and I may not have recognized, but this commandment for the Sabbath is not repeated in the NT, whereas the other 9 commandments are.
In fact in the New Testament this command is nullified ( Col. 2:16, 17).
In Colossians Chapter 2 we are given a detailed description of why we don’t worship on the sabbath day. Let’s read the text but not spend a lot of time on discussing it.
Colossians 2: 11-17 11 In Him{Jesus Christ} you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, 14 having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.
16 So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.
Thus, because of Jesus we no longer are under this covenant but under the covenant of the blood of Jesus.
The Sabbath (Saturday) belonged especially to Israel under the Mosaic covenant. So the Sabbath did not and should not apply to a Christ follower or believer in the church age. For that saved person is living in a new life which is in Christ. (Galatians 2:20) I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. You should meditate on this verse for there is much to be gained by understanding the depth of the love God has for sinners who come to Him by faith in His Son.
But that is not the purpose of what I have just outlined in the reading done previously.
The word which we need to attend to is the charge given to all peoples about remembering the Sabbath day and keep it holy. While the Sabbath (Saturday) day is not observed by Christians, the purpose of having a day of rest has not been cancelled, but has been continued for New Testament believers.
If you search under the phrase – On the first day of the week, some interesting facts show up which are relevant. Check out Mark 16 - 2 Very early in the morning, on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb when the sun had risen. 3 And they said among themselves, “Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us?” 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away—for it was very large. 5 And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed.
6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. 7 But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going [a]before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.”
This is similar to what is accounted in Luke 24. So Jesus arose on the first day of the week – Sunday am, at first light. Now in Acts Chapter 20 it appears that the first day of the week, Sunday had become special to believers. Read with me verse 7- 7 Now on the first day of the week, {Sunday}when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight. We also read in 1st Corinthians Chapter 16, verse 2 On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.
So it had become practice that offerings and collections for ministry were done during these Sunday meetings even here in the city of Corinth.
In practice then, believers had made a redefinition of the day for remembering the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Sunday was that day as the first day of the week.
OK Pastor we just spent the last 15 minutes being concerned about the Sabbath day moving from Saturday for the Jews to Sunday for Christians, got it. Why is this so important?
Remember the command and discussion from our first verses in Exodus 20 verse 8 to 10: 8 “Remember the Sabbath day (Saturday), to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work….
And verse the last part of verse 11 Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
There are special blessings which are given to those who choose to keep this observance which we shall discuss shortly. But perhaps we can learn more about what happens when we choose not to obey and honor God on this day.
But before we begin how to you choose to honor God on His day, the day of rest? Answer this in your heart as you follow this lesson.
From our study of the Old Testament, when Israel or Judah as a society chose to honor God what happened. All the blessing which God promised for safety, health, heart, home and full food and fruit baskets happened. Babies, young animals, fruitful labor and the like we all rewarded because the people honored God, took seriously the traditions of the Sabbath rest and held the fear of God in their hearts.
We under a King who was good for one portion of his reign like Hezekiah or Asa, but rejected God at the end. These keeping of the Sabbath and the obedience to the Word of God were rejected the people languished under oppressors, suffered famine, pestilence or disease, poverty and destruction of the homeland and possessions.
You see there is a direct correlation between the people of God keeping the dedicated day of worship in honoring the Lord and them being an influence of salt and light, and acting as leaven in a heathen and disreputable society. The people of God may strongly desire repentance, revival and renewal but they must seek God and function as His leaven is the universal church first, their local communities wherever that is; then in the state and then in the nation.
The truth is in our day the people of God are not honoring God on His day. How much of Sunday are you willing to give God? According to Barnah only 30% of professed evangelicals spend maybe 1to 3 hrs. per Sunday being involved in worship and Bible study. How much time do you spend in actual study and worship? For the most part many others only spend 1 hr. on Sunday with worship or less. The rest of Sunday is given by most to sports, leisure, pleasure of some sort and being busy about their own business or concerns. Now this is not meant as a guilt trip but an honest evaluation of where do you spend your time?
If the people of God are serious about seeing change in our world then we need to seek God while He may be found. He has told us to Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy, are we?
What does remembering the sabbath day mean,
There are four specific things we should be remembering on this day of worship –
I. First is the beauty and wonder of God’s creation and how He has granted to us individually the opportunity and blessing to experience it.
II. Second, Sunday or the Seventh day is a weekly reminder that all true blessing come from His grace, not our labor. He has given us all things beginning with life, heart beats, breath and the ability to understand.
III. The third item is we revere Him and honor Him and keep the day holy as we seek the fullness of his presence by giving our special attention to Him and His Word on that day.
IV. The fourth item is highlighted by the remembrance of God rescuing His people from Egypt and Pharaoh – is Redemption. If we practice the love story of Jesus, which is about redemption - we will be filled with the Holy Spirit, and God and Christ will be magnified in our lives. As Christ is lifted up and He is honored in our lives He will be able to use us more and more as He redeems not only lives but uses us to impact the lives of others around us. Again this is the parable of the good seed and leaven as He moves around us. Our honoring God for His redemptive practice will not just change us but will serve to change the world around us.
Are you willing to allow God to use you for His purposes today, then begin by practicing holiness seriously on the Lord’s day? You want to see Him do great things then worship Him in holiness. Set your heart to begin doing this today. Amen
From Exodus Chapter 20 verse 8 to 11- 8 “Remember the Sabbath day (Saturday), to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
The basis for these verses in Exodus is from Genesis Chapter 2 and verse 1- 2 Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. 2 And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.
Here we understand God commanded that each seventh day (which in the Jewish calendar Saturday} belonged to Him and would not be a workday but a day set apart (i.e., holy) for rest and for time devoted to the worship of Yahweh.
The term “Sabbath” is derived from “to rest or cease from work.”
The reason or precedent for such a special observance is the creation week; a span of time equal to what man copied in practice or 7 days.
Each Sabbath day was to be a reminder to the worshiper that God whom he worshiped had indeed made everything in both realms of existence in 6 twenty-four-hour days.
The Sabbath was to stand as a counter to any ideas about evolution which are clearly prevalent in false religions to deny the existence of the one and only God – Jehovah Jireh.
Moses also, in reviewing the Decalogue, or Ten Commandments linked this observance of the Sabbath to Israel’s exodus from Egypt and specified that this was a reason for Israel to keep the Sabbath as a remember of their deliverance from Pharaoh and Egypt which represents the sin. (Deut. 5:12–15).
I have something interesting which you and I may not have recognized, but this commandment for the Sabbath is not repeated in the NT, whereas the other 9 commandments are.
In fact in the New Testament this command is nullified ( Col. 2:16, 17).
In Colossians Chapter 2 we are given a detailed description of why we don’t worship on the sabbath day. Let’s read the text but not spend a lot of time on discussing it.
Colossians 2: 11-17 11 In Him{Jesus Christ} you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, 14 having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.
16 So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.
Thus, because of Jesus we no longer are under this covenant but under the covenant of the blood of Jesus.
The Sabbath (Saturday) belonged especially to Israel under the Mosaic covenant. So the Sabbath did not and should not apply to a Christ follower or believer in the church age. For that saved person is living in a new life which is in Christ. (Galatians 2:20) I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. You should meditate on this verse for there is much to be gained by understanding the depth of the love God has for sinners who come to Him by faith in His Son.
But that is not the purpose of what I have just outlined in the reading done previously.
The word which we need to attend to is the charge given to all peoples about remembering the Sabbath day and keep it holy. While the Sabbath (Saturday) day is not observed by Christians, the purpose of having a day of rest has not been cancelled, but has been continued for New Testament believers.
If you search under the phrase – On the first day of the week, some interesting facts show up which are relevant. Check out Mark 16 - 2 Very early in the morning, on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb when the sun had risen. 3 And they said among themselves, “Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us?” 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away—for it was very large. 5 And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed.
6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. 7 But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going [a]before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.”
This is similar to what is accounted in Luke 24. So Jesus arose on the first day of the week – Sunday am, at first light. Now in Acts Chapter 20 it appears that the first day of the week, Sunday had become special to believers. Read with me verse 7- 7 Now on the first day of the week, {Sunday}when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight. We also read in 1st Corinthians Chapter 16, verse 2 On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.
So it had become practice that offerings and collections for ministry were done during these Sunday meetings even here in the city of Corinth.
In practice then, believers had made a redefinition of the day for remembering the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Sunday was that day as the first day of the week.
OK Pastor we just spent the last 15 minutes being concerned about the Sabbath day moving from Saturday for the Jews to Sunday for Christians, got it. Why is this so important?
Remember the command and discussion from our first verses in Exodus 20 verse 8 to 10: 8 “Remember the Sabbath day (Saturday), to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work….
And verse the last part of verse 11 Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
There are special blessings which are given to those who choose to keep this observance which we shall discuss shortly. But perhaps we can learn more about what happens when we choose not to obey and honor God on this day.
But before we begin how to you choose to honor God on His day, the day of rest? Answer this in your heart as you follow this lesson.
From our study of the Old Testament, when Israel or Judah as a society chose to honor God what happened. All the blessing which God promised for safety, health, heart, home and full food and fruit baskets happened. Babies, young animals, fruitful labor and the like we all rewarded because the people honored God, took seriously the traditions of the Sabbath rest and held the fear of God in their hearts.
We under a King who was good for one portion of his reign like Hezekiah or Asa, but rejected God at the end. These keeping of the Sabbath and the obedience to the Word of God were rejected the people languished under oppressors, suffered famine, pestilence or disease, poverty and destruction of the homeland and possessions.
You see there is a direct correlation between the people of God keeping the dedicated day of worship in honoring the Lord and them being an influence of salt and light, and acting as leaven in a heathen and disreputable society. The people of God may strongly desire repentance, revival and renewal but they must seek God and function as His leaven is the universal church first, their local communities wherever that is; then in the state and then in the nation.
The truth is in our day the people of God are not honoring God on His day. How much of Sunday are you willing to give God? According to Barnah only 30% of professed evangelicals spend maybe 1to 3 hrs. per Sunday being involved in worship and Bible study. How much time do you spend in actual study and worship? For the most part many others only spend 1 hr. on Sunday with worship or less. The rest of Sunday is given by most to sports, leisure, pleasure of some sort and being busy about their own business or concerns. Now this is not meant as a guilt trip but an honest evaluation of where do you spend your time?
If the people of God are serious about seeing change in our world then we need to seek God while He may be found. He has told us to Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy, are we?
What does remembering the sabbath day mean,
There are four specific things we should be remembering on this day of worship –
I. First is the beauty and wonder of God’s creation and how He has granted to us individually the opportunity and blessing to experience it.
II. Second, Sunday or the Seventh day is a weekly reminder that all true blessing come from His grace, not our labor. He has given us all things beginning with life, heart beats, breath and the ability to understand.
III. The third item is we revere Him and honor Him and keep the day holy as we seek the fullness of his presence by giving our special attention to Him and His Word on that day.
IV. The fourth item is highlighted by the remembrance of God rescuing His people from Egypt and Pharaoh – is Redemption. If we practice the love story of Jesus, which is about redemption - we will be filled with the Holy Spirit, and God and Christ will be magnified in our lives. As Christ is lifted up and He is honored in our lives He will be able to use us more and more as He redeems not only lives but uses us to impact the lives of others around us. Again this is the parable of the good seed and leaven as He moves around us. Our honoring God for His redemptive practice will not just change us but will serve to change the world around us.
Are you willing to allow God to use you for His purposes today, then begin by practicing holiness seriously on the Lord’s day? You want to see Him do great things then worship Him in holiness. Set your heart to begin doing this today. Amen
Sermon Nov 7
“Operating in Deep Waters”
5 1So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, 2 and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets.
3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” (Jesus commanded and was with them)
6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
May God bless the reading of His word and to our understanding and obedience; and may we let down our nets in deep waters and reap the harvest. Amen
The world has always been filled with evil, it is just now we are much more aware of and sensitive to it and its effects because we are caught in the middle. Oh, in the past it was easier to ignore the difficulties we saw in the world around us. We were removed, insulated if you will from the effects. After all we lived in America and that stuff we saw on our TVs and in the News was over there and not here.
This is no longer true for the evil over there, is now happening in spades here in the good ole US of A. The media is a propaganda machine filled with untruths and outright lies, parroting what it is told to speak from those who are its owners and masters. The same is true of the disinformation warfare campaigns being managed by the various internet moguls who don’t want you to know the truth.
You and I are being treated as if we are stupid, unlearned and without the ability to sort out facts from fiction. Perhaps there is a plan in all this? I believe there is and that is to take away your freedoms. The freedom of speech, to worship, to bear arms, to gather, etc. We must not let this happen. We need to get out of our comfort zones and go where God would lead us. Sometimes that involves going into deeper waters than where we generally care to venture.
We have an example here of those God is calling to walk with Him. I believe from the other Gospel accounts that Jesus had previously encountered this group of Fishermen – Peter, Andrew, James and John, and had asked them to walk with Him. (Matt. Ch. 4:18-22)
Now things in Israel were tough in those days – Rome dominated the Jewish homeland and there had been rebellions by the people, harshly put down by Roman legions. Freedoms previously enjoyed were now restricted including worship, and trade; taxes were imposed, fees and the like. Goods and services were more expensive, for the people could not conduct commerce unless they had permits from the Romans. Sounds very much like today’s economy. Also the Roman gods and worship while not overtly practiced were obviously being brought in by the Roman culture which they carried with them. This to the Jew was outright paganism and evil according to God’s teachings. The nation had allowed itself previously to be tempted and allured by pagan sexual practices and other demonic worship. God had punished the Israelites for this departure from His truths multiple times. So the people were very sensitive to this vulnerability, as were the religious leaders.
Then along comes this Nazarene carpenter who was claiming to be the Son of God. He was upsetting everything. He had been performing miracles in the countryside, teaching with power in the synagogues and walking among the people declaring “Repent, the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” These same fishermen here in Luke, had encountered Him before, but now Jesus is coming to where they work – the fishing piers. Here they are after a night of unsuccessful fishing with nothing to show and they are mending their nets and preparing for the next nights work. Let’s join them as Jesus reveals Himself to them personally and uniquely –
Luke Chapter 5 verse 1- 1So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, {sea of Galilee for us today) 2 and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets.
Notice a couple of things – Jesus had people pressing all around Him to hear the word of God, as He stood by the Sea of Galilee. There was a famine in the land for the Word of God, so when people heard the truth they pressed in on Him to hear more of the truth. They could not get enough and this is true today. With all the lies going on around us people are seeking the truth. Now they may be going around trying incorrectly to get there but they are still seeking His truth. They don’t know or recognize that truth is in the person of Jesus Christ.
Next the Fisherman were gone from the two boats and were cleaning and washing their nets getting prepared for tomorrows catch. They did not know that today they would encounter God in a miraculous way- He would speak to them in their work place about their work.
Go to verse 3, 3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
This sounds straightforward, since they were washing their nets Jesus stepped into the boat to get some distance from the crowd so He could teach in the rabbinical fashion – seated. And the fisherman were washing their nets. Now His teaching must have lasted for some time and the fisherman had continued working around Him and been listening to what He was saying. He spoke to them directly to move out a bit and sat down to teach. So in verse 4 it says:
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” (Jesus commanded and was with them)
Now, this is impressive for Simon soon to be Peter n=must have been listening to the words Jesus was teaching and their hearts had been converted by the Holy Spirit for he gives the synopsis of we’ve been at it all night with no luck but at Your Word we will go. This is going into the deep, into the unknown, into faith and not sight. Jesus is asking us all to do this today- nevertheless at Your Word. Can you say you are willing to surrender and allow God to have His way and take you into the deep today? I cannot be sure you would say yes today right now. But remember that Jesus was in the boat with the disciples then. Do you suppose He is in the boat with you today? He says to you – I am with you always. He says, I will never leave you or forsake you. Do you believe the promises of God?
Notice what happens when you exercise faith in God. It says in the passage in verse 6 When they had done this -
6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
Simon Peter began at this point to recognize that Jesus knew him, at leisure and at work, regardless of his condition and was concerned about him, his family and his future. Peter recognized there was something critically different about this Jesus and he cried out
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
You see one encounter with Jesus can radically change a life and He was calling to them as He is calling to you and I today. Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. Jesus needs men and women who will cast off into the deep and walk/fish by faith with Him today. Will you come now to Jesus who can fish for the souls of men. Amen
“Operating in Deep Waters”
5 1So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, 2 and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets.
3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” (Jesus commanded and was with them)
6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
May God bless the reading of His word and to our understanding and obedience; and may we let down our nets in deep waters and reap the harvest. Amen
The world has always been filled with evil, it is just now we are much more aware of and sensitive to it and its effects because we are caught in the middle. Oh, in the past it was easier to ignore the difficulties we saw in the world around us. We were removed, insulated if you will from the effects. After all we lived in America and that stuff we saw on our TVs and in the News was over there and not here.
This is no longer true for the evil over there, is now happening in spades here in the good ole US of A. The media is a propaganda machine filled with untruths and outright lies, parroting what it is told to speak from those who are its owners and masters. The same is true of the disinformation warfare campaigns being managed by the various internet moguls who don’t want you to know the truth.
You and I are being treated as if we are stupid, unlearned and without the ability to sort out facts from fiction. Perhaps there is a plan in all this? I believe there is and that is to take away your freedoms. The freedom of speech, to worship, to bear arms, to gather, etc. We must not let this happen. We need to get out of our comfort zones and go where God would lead us. Sometimes that involves going into deeper waters than where we generally care to venture.
We have an example here of those God is calling to walk with Him. I believe from the other Gospel accounts that Jesus had previously encountered this group of Fishermen – Peter, Andrew, James and John, and had asked them to walk with Him. (Matt. Ch. 4:18-22)
Now things in Israel were tough in those days – Rome dominated the Jewish homeland and there had been rebellions by the people, harshly put down by Roman legions. Freedoms previously enjoyed were now restricted including worship, and trade; taxes were imposed, fees and the like. Goods and services were more expensive, for the people could not conduct commerce unless they had permits from the Romans. Sounds very much like today’s economy. Also the Roman gods and worship while not overtly practiced were obviously being brought in by the Roman culture which they carried with them. This to the Jew was outright paganism and evil according to God’s teachings. The nation had allowed itself previously to be tempted and allured by pagan sexual practices and other demonic worship. God had punished the Israelites for this departure from His truths multiple times. So the people were very sensitive to this vulnerability, as were the religious leaders.
Then along comes this Nazarene carpenter who was claiming to be the Son of God. He was upsetting everything. He had been performing miracles in the countryside, teaching with power in the synagogues and walking among the people declaring “Repent, the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” These same fishermen here in Luke, had encountered Him before, but now Jesus is coming to where they work – the fishing piers. Here they are after a night of unsuccessful fishing with nothing to show and they are mending their nets and preparing for the next nights work. Let’s join them as Jesus reveals Himself to them personally and uniquely –
Luke Chapter 5 verse 1- 1So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, {sea of Galilee for us today) 2 and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets.
Notice a couple of things – Jesus had people pressing all around Him to hear the word of God, as He stood by the Sea of Galilee. There was a famine in the land for the Word of God, so when people heard the truth they pressed in on Him to hear more of the truth. They could not get enough and this is true today. With all the lies going on around us people are seeking the truth. Now they may be going around trying incorrectly to get there but they are still seeking His truth. They don’t know or recognize that truth is in the person of Jesus Christ.
Next the Fisherman were gone from the two boats and were cleaning and washing their nets getting prepared for tomorrows catch. They did not know that today they would encounter God in a miraculous way- He would speak to them in their work place about their work.
Go to verse 3, 3 Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
This sounds straightforward, since they were washing their nets Jesus stepped into the boat to get some distance from the crowd so He could teach in the rabbinical fashion – seated. And the fisherman were washing their nets. Now His teaching must have lasted for some time and the fisherman had continued working around Him and been listening to what He was saying. He spoke to them directly to move out a bit and sat down to teach. So in verse 4 it says:
4 When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” (Jesus commanded and was with them)
Now, this is impressive for Simon soon to be Peter n=must have been listening to the words Jesus was teaching and their hearts had been converted by the Holy Spirit for he gives the synopsis of we’ve been at it all night with no luck but at Your Word we will go. This is going into the deep, into the unknown, into faith and not sight. Jesus is asking us all to do this today- nevertheless at Your Word. Can you say you are willing to surrender and allow God to have His way and take you into the deep today? I cannot be sure you would say yes today right now. But remember that Jesus was in the boat with the disciples then. Do you suppose He is in the boat with you today? He says to you – I am with you always. He says, I will never leave you or forsake you. Do you believe the promises of God?
Notice what happens when you exercise faith in God. It says in the passage in verse 6 When they had done this -
6 And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
Simon Peter began at this point to recognize that Jesus knew him, at leisure and at work, regardless of his condition and was concerned about him, his family and his future. Peter recognized there was something critically different about this Jesus and he cried out
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; 10 and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” 11 So when they had brought their boats to land, they [a]forsook all and followed Him.
You see one encounter with Jesus can radically change a life and He was calling to them as He is calling to you and I today. Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. Jesus needs men and women who will cast off into the deep and walk/fish by faith with Him today. Will you come now to Jesus who can fish for the souls of men. Amen
Sermon Oct 31
The functioning of believers in HARD Times has been the root issue I have wanted to address in the last two session. COVID has been a major interrupter in the last year and now is the last two weeks. But COVID is not the real problem, COVID it is an excuse for hot blooded zealots to begin exercising control over those too lazy to exercise a republic.
Our world has been turned upside down with this evil and senseless approach to everything. Our freedom to meet and worship has been forcefully interrupted; mandates which are unconstitutional and being implemented as if they were law, causing: separation, disunity and division on the basis of race, gender, sexual preference and the like. Disruption of our normal way of life has been happening in our free market economy; deconstruction and dis-ing the idea of an “American” model as a melting pot for unity and freedom. Control language and eliminate low food prices, jack up fuel, and to disrupt the flow of goods and service across the country. These are some of the mess and elements which have been used to artificially create hard times and to stoke the fires of hate with this country.
So we have a choice as how to react to these current plagues of destruction initiated by our leadership. By the way have you begun reading Deuteronomy Chapter 28, beginning with verse 14? If not, you ought to, for you might find some striking correlations to what is happening here, and with the promises God made tin Deuteronomy, if we would reject Him and His covenant protections. There is much there for you to meditate and consider.
So for our study the Lord has led me to begin in 1Timothy Chapter 4, verse 1:
The Part I of this chapter is about the nature of living in “Hard Times” today for believers-
1Now the Spirit [a]expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons,
2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,
3 forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5 for it is [b]sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
Part II. What is needed to be a good Servant of Jesus Christ:
6 If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ,
nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
7 But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.
8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.
10 For to this end [c]we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 11 These things command and teach.
Part III. How to Nurture and take heed to Your Ministry. See (I Peter 4:10)
First, let no one despise your …whatever.. fitness to be doing God’s work
Be an Example –
12 Let no one [d]despise your {youth,}
but be an example to the believers
in word, (study)
in conduct, (Live your faith)
in love, (Love as Jesus loves you)
[e]in spirit, (Be filled evermore)
in faith, (without faith)
in purity. (be holy)
13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to [f]doctrine.
14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.
15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.
16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
Now I know we have looked at some of these ideas and word previously. I can only go where my Heavenly Father leads me in applying His word to our lives. But hold fast, this is not a copy and paste from our last time here. As a matter of fact this is all brand new based on the teaching and leading of the Holy Spirit recently.
Let’s pray- Lord Jesus and God our prayer is that you lead us and guide us in the way everlasting. Enable us to apply and walk in these truths so we can become more like Jesus each day. AMEN.
Let’s examine verses 1- I 1Now the Spirit [a]expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons,
2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,
3 forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5for it is [b]sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
This is important and bears repeating – The speaker is the Holy Spirit. He expressly says that in latter times {that would be in our time}some will depart from the faith, {some, depart means going against God or apostacy}giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, {They would listen to and obey the evil spirits of Satan and sit under his evil teaching. Some of this is occurring in our schools, all grade levels, and in our businesses and in our governing halls/courtrooms- doctrines of demons.
2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron {Why, because of their willingness to sit under the teachings of these perverts. Those who are jaded will speak, teach and live untruths to the maximum- mostly because they have no conscience. Have you not seen this in the courts, congress and from the very top of the universe today?
Because of their perversity, they will give directions 3 forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
Remember this letter is written and sent to the , most likely under the idea they were being inclusive churches. No marriage sex and certain foods makes you sinful and you can become like God if you are led to sin. This is what they were doing because of depravity and perversity, and hate for the Word of God which says the Father said, it was good. Read verse 4
.
Verse 4 and 5 is the answer for you and I. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5for it is [b]sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
God grants His goodness, mercy and grace to those who seek Him and desire to become like Him.
Now Part II begins in verse 6. Remember this part is about becoming a complete servant for the Lord Jesus Christ . This text gives guidance as to what you need to do to help yourself remain faithful and constant to God-
6 If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ,
nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
Study to show yourselves approved – workmen who need not be ashamed and teach the word to others. How? By living it out to you family, friends and in your business. Teaching your family and others as God instructs. Also,
staying in and close to the Word of God is what Christians need to be doing=The text says nourished by the Word and studying and applying good doctrine to our living day by day.
We should also 7 … reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. {exercise, spiritual exercise??What}
8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance
10 For to this end [c]we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 11 These things command and teach.
In other words do what is commanded. Could it be simpler? But, obedience is required and not optional.
There is more to be done, this is not the end.
There remains a third part {Part III}. How does God nurture and advance His ministry in you? See (I Peter 4:10)
First, let no one despise your fitness to be doing God’s work. He has called and ordained you if you are truly Holy Spirit led
John 15:16: 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.
Your mandate is from God and not from men, which is the most important anointing and calling we can experience. He has invited you to become involved in His work. This is not your ministry but His. Your job is not draw attention to yourself but to reflect the glory, power and majesty of our Lord Jesus Christ. When we realize we have a heavenly calling and mandate, which is not your own, it makes a big difference in perspective and should impact our behavior. You did not do this by your own hand. God has built and guided you step by step.
Understanding now it was God who called you and God the Holy Spirit is in you is the same model that Jesus demonstrated to His disciple. He said, I have not come to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me. So with the Holy Spirit’s filling and your body being His temple what kind of Example should you be?
12 Let no one [d]despise your {youth,}
but be an example to the believers
in word, (study and teach the word in season and out of season) 2 Tim 4:2, 2 Tim 2:15
13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to [f]doctrine. {study and live it}
14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. {1 Pet 4:10}
15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. (Rom 12:2)
16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
You cannot save yourself, only God can. This means as far as you can you need to strive to comply with this direction. Be diligent to show yourself approved- unashamed because God has chosen to invest Himself in you and you have responded in faith and love to God’s prompting. Will you be perfect – no, Will you fall or fail- that possibility always exists. But the real question is will you finish well, having given this life of Christ an done as much as you know to do to this point?
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
The functioning of believers in HARD Times has been the root issue I have wanted to address in the last two session. COVID has been a major interrupter in the last year and now is the last two weeks. But COVID is not the real problem, COVID it is an excuse for hot blooded zealots to begin exercising control over those too lazy to exercise a republic.
Our world has been turned upside down with this evil and senseless approach to everything. Our freedom to meet and worship has been forcefully interrupted; mandates which are unconstitutional and being implemented as if they were law, causing: separation, disunity and division on the basis of race, gender, sexual preference and the like. Disruption of our normal way of life has been happening in our free market economy; deconstruction and dis-ing the idea of an “American” model as a melting pot for unity and freedom. Control language and eliminate low food prices, jack up fuel, and to disrupt the flow of goods and service across the country. These are some of the mess and elements which have been used to artificially create hard times and to stoke the fires of hate with this country.
So we have a choice as how to react to these current plagues of destruction initiated by our leadership. By the way have you begun reading Deuteronomy Chapter 28, beginning with verse 14? If not, you ought to, for you might find some striking correlations to what is happening here, and with the promises God made tin Deuteronomy, if we would reject Him and His covenant protections. There is much there for you to meditate and consider.
So for our study the Lord has led me to begin in 1Timothy Chapter 4, verse 1:
The Part I of this chapter is about the nature of living in “Hard Times” today for believers-
1Now the Spirit [a]expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons,
2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,
3 forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5 for it is [b]sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
Part II. What is needed to be a good Servant of Jesus Christ:
6 If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ,
nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
7 But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.
8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.
10 For to this end [c]we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 11 These things command and teach.
Part III. How to Nurture and take heed to Your Ministry. See (I Peter 4:10)
First, let no one despise your …whatever.. fitness to be doing God’s work
Be an Example –
12 Let no one [d]despise your {youth,}
but be an example to the believers
in word, (study)
in conduct, (Live your faith)
in love, (Love as Jesus loves you)
[e]in spirit, (Be filled evermore)
in faith, (without faith)
in purity. (be holy)
13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to [f]doctrine.
14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.
15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.
16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
Now I know we have looked at some of these ideas and word previously. I can only go where my Heavenly Father leads me in applying His word to our lives. But hold fast, this is not a copy and paste from our last time here. As a matter of fact this is all brand new based on the teaching and leading of the Holy Spirit recently.
Let’s pray- Lord Jesus and God our prayer is that you lead us and guide us in the way everlasting. Enable us to apply and walk in these truths so we can become more like Jesus each day. AMEN.
Let’s examine verses 1- I 1Now the Spirit [a]expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons,
2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,
3 forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5for it is [b]sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
This is important and bears repeating – The speaker is the Holy Spirit. He expressly says that in latter times {that would be in our time}some will depart from the faith, {some, depart means going against God or apostacy}giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, {They would listen to and obey the evil spirits of Satan and sit under his evil teaching. Some of this is occurring in our schools, all grade levels, and in our businesses and in our governing halls/courtrooms- doctrines of demons.
2 speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron {Why, because of their willingness to sit under the teachings of these perverts. Those who are jaded will speak, teach and live untruths to the maximum- mostly because they have no conscience. Have you not seen this in the courts, congress and from the very top of the universe today?
Because of their perversity, they will give directions 3 forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
Remember this letter is written and sent to the , most likely under the idea they were being inclusive churches. No marriage sex and certain foods makes you sinful and you can become like God if you are led to sin. This is what they were doing because of depravity and perversity, and hate for the Word of God which says the Father said, it was good. Read verse 4
.
Verse 4 and 5 is the answer for you and I. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5for it is [b]sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
God grants His goodness, mercy and grace to those who seek Him and desire to become like Him.
Now Part II begins in verse 6. Remember this part is about becoming a complete servant for the Lord Jesus Christ . This text gives guidance as to what you need to do to help yourself remain faithful and constant to God-
6 If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ,
nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
Study to show yourselves approved – workmen who need not be ashamed and teach the word to others. How? By living it out to you family, friends and in your business. Teaching your family and others as God instructs. Also,
staying in and close to the Word of God is what Christians need to be doing=The text says nourished by the Word and studying and applying good doctrine to our living day by day.
We should also 7 … reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. {exercise, spiritual exercise??What}
8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 8 For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. 9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance
10 For to this end [c]we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe. 11 These things command and teach.
In other words do what is commanded. Could it be simpler? But, obedience is required and not optional.
There is more to be done, this is not the end.
There remains a third part {Part III}. How does God nurture and advance His ministry in you? See (I Peter 4:10)
First, let no one despise your fitness to be doing God’s work. He has called and ordained you if you are truly Holy Spirit led
John 15:16: 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.
Your mandate is from God and not from men, which is the most important anointing and calling we can experience. He has invited you to become involved in His work. This is not your ministry but His. Your job is not draw attention to yourself but to reflect the glory, power and majesty of our Lord Jesus Christ. When we realize we have a heavenly calling and mandate, which is not your own, it makes a big difference in perspective and should impact our behavior. You did not do this by your own hand. God has built and guided you step by step.
Understanding now it was God who called you and God the Holy Spirit is in you is the same model that Jesus demonstrated to His disciple. He said, I have not come to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me. So with the Holy Spirit’s filling and your body being His temple what kind of Example should you be?
12 Let no one [d]despise your {youth,}
but be an example to the believers
in word, (study and teach the word in season and out of season) 2 Tim 4:2, 2 Tim 2:15
- in conduct, (Live your faith)
- in love, (Love as Jesus loves you – Jn.13:34)
- [e]in spirit, (Be filled evermore) in faith, (without faith it is impossible to please Him {Heb 11.6}
- in purity. (as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 1 Pet 1:15)
13 Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to [f]doctrine. {study and live it}
14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership. {1 Pet 4:10}
15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. (Rom 12:2)
16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
You cannot save yourself, only God can. This means as far as you can you need to strive to comply with this direction. Be diligent to show yourself approved- unashamed because God has chosen to invest Himself in you and you have responded in faith and love to God’s prompting. Will you be perfect – no, Will you fall or fail- that possibility always exists. But the real question is will you finish well, having given this life of Christ an done as much as you know to do to this point?
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
Sermon Oct 24
“When hard times come, be a student, not a victim.”
–A victim says, “Why did this happen to me?”
–A student says, “What can I learn from this?”
–A victim complains he is being treated unfairly.
–A student thanks God he is not being treated as he deserves.
–A victim tries to get even with those who have hurt him.
–A student seeks to serve others in the midst of his difficulty.
–A victim believes the game of life is stacked against him.
–A student believes God is at work even in the worst situations.
Many of us can think of a hundred other comparisons, but the point is clear. We rarely control what happens to us, but we can always choose how we will respond.
Sometimes we will make the wrong choice and pay a heavy price for our mistake. Often, we won’t learn the right lesson until we can look back and see how God was at work in our trials.
We can’t control what happens to us, but
we can always control how we respond.
Something like that happened to a woman named Naomi. You can find her story in the Old Testament book of Ruth. It is a love story that starts with misery and ends with joy. Ruth is an account of anxiety, fear, love, and commitment that inflames the imagination and soothes the soul. It begins with despair and ends with delight.
Along the way we discover “the God who works behind the scenes,” which means the real star of the book is the Lord who works in, though, and sometimes in spite of our decisions.
Go to the book of Ruth, Chapter 1, verse1:
During the time of the judges, there was a famine in the land. A man left Bethlehem in Judah with his wife and two sons to stay in the territory of Moab for a while. 2 The man’s name was Elimelech, and his wife’s name was Naomi. The names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. They were Ephrathites from Bethlehem in Judah. They entered the fields of Moab and settled there. 3 Naomi’s husband Elimelech died, and she was left with her two sons. 4 Her sons took Moabite women as their wives: one was named Orpah and the second was named Ruth. After they lived in Moab about ten years, 5 both Mahlon and Chilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two children and without her husband (Ruth 1:1-5).
In this story we can learn three distinct lessons that will help us navigate hard times
#1: Hard Times can hit at any time
The book of Ruth opens with a note that anchors this story to a particular time and place: “During the time of the judges, there was a famine in the land” (v. 1). This means the story took place after Joshua’s death and before Saul became king. When we read the book of Judges, we may be tempted to think it was a godless time, but that would not be correct. We should think of it as a time when every man did what was right in his own eyes (Judges 21:25). As long as the judges ruled, the people served the Lord. But when a judge died, the Jews turned to idolatry. It was a recurring cycle of obedience, disobedience, judgment, suffering, desperation, and returning to the Lord. {sound familiar}
God can ring your phone any time of the day or night to give you the bad news.
In Deuteronomy 28:24 Moses warned the people that if they refused to obey the Lord, God would curse the land: “The Lord will turn the rain of your land into falling dust; it will descend on you from the sky until you are destroyed.” That means the famine in the Promised Land didn’t just happen. It was not a natural disaster. God intended the famine to send a message to His people.
When people ask me, “Do you think God can speak to us today?” I tell them, “You don’t have to worry about that. God has your number on speed dial. He can ring your phone any time of the day or night. And when he calls, you won’t be able to put him on call waiting.” God knows how to get through to any of us at any time.
#2: Hard Times causes us to make Hard Choices
If you are Elimelech, what do you do when a famine impacts your family? The land around Bethlehem was some of the most fertile ground in the Promised Land. A man who worked hard could harvest enough yearly to care for his family. So what do you do when a famine hits? Elimelech took his family and moved to Moab because it was a land of good soil and adequate rainfall. If the famine had not hit that region, perhaps he would stay for a few months or a year or two.
Elimelech was an “Ephrathite. Ephrathah was the old name for Bethlehem. It might imply that he came from a distinguished background, from a family with a long history in the region. It would be like saying, “Here is a man from Beverly Hills in Los Angeles.” That wouldn’t guarantee he had money, but it does suggest something about his background.
“Elimelech lost his life while seeking a livelihood, and found a grave where he had sought a home.”
It appears from the Scriptures that things worked out for a while. Evidently they settled in the “fields of Moab” and found lots to eat. The famine of Bethlehem was now a distant memory. But soon Elimelech dies. We aren’t told why or how, only that he died in Moab, leaving Naomi without a husband and the two boys without a father. Eventually the boys married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other named Ruth. Then suddenly the sons died and were buried in Moab. Just as suddenly ten years had passed. (Has time leaped over your plans today. God has a plan, are you walking in it?)
I read recently about a woman who, knowing she was about to die, wrote her own obituary, which summed up her 69 years this way: “I was born, I blinked, and it was over.” We could all say the same thing for the days are long, but the years are short.
Verse 1 notes that Elimelech intended to emigrate to Moab for “a while,” meaning he never intended to leave forever. This was a temporary move made into foreign territory, chosen under great duress. This was a man’s choice but God was very clear - the Israelites were to have nothing to do with Moabites:
(In Deuteronomy 23:3, 6).No Ammonite or Moabite may enter the Lord’s assembly; none of their descendants, even to the tenth generation, may ever enter the Lord’s assembly . . . Never pursue their welfare or prosperity as long as you live.
Elimelech probably didn’t mean to leave the Lord by moving to Moab, but it was a reckless and unwise move at best. An ancient foe of Israel, Moab originated from Lot’s incestuous relationship with his daughters (Genesis 19:30-38). Elimelech was leaving the land of blessing to live among pagans on the eastern side of the Dead Sea. He and his family would be exposed to the Moabite religion with its degrading idol worship and its gross sexual perversion. I think Elimelech misunderstood the risks but considered this move a temporary expedient for the sake of his family. His perspective was one sided. His choices were one sided for self not shared with God. Have you been there recently?
Freedom to disobey God always comes with consequences. God gives us that freedom.
Here is the problem in three sentences:
The problem in Israel was not the lack of bread. The problem was the lack of obedience to Jehovah God and His commandments.
This was not the first famine in the land flowing with milk and honey, and it would not be the last. This also was a personal famine on the Word of God
Regardless your good intentions or motives won’t cancel the impact of your bad decisions.
Think about rules for a moment. Did you promise to obey the rules when you got your driver’s license? Yes you did, for the moment. What matters is not whether you like the rules or agree with them; the only question is, will you obey them? You are free to have your own opinion such as when you speed, but you are free to disobey but there are consequences.
Motives matter, but in real life obedience is better than sacrifice.
God who is rich in grace, and has demonstrated great depths of mercy will forgive, but we should never presume upon Him as this is sin.
So you can’t run from your problems because your problems will follow you wherever you go. A change of scenery doesn’t produce a changed heart. Whatever you were before is what you will be and take with you wherever you go next. We all feel the urge to change things when we encounter problems. We want a new spouse or new children or a new job or a new career. We may dream of moving to a new house or into a new neighborhood. If our church doesn’t go the way we like, we want a new pastor. We think if only we could make a fresh start, things would be better. And sometimes that’s true.
But change can be an excuse not to face the problems of life head on. Running away from our trouble rarely makes things better.
Elimelech thought he would go to Moab, stay there for a while, then return home. But there are three graves in Moab. That’s where he’s buried along with his two sons. His wrong decision meant his family never made it back home. Again in the words of Samuel Cox, “Elimelech lost his life while seeking a livelihood, and found a grave where he had sought a home.”
# 3: Hard Times prepare us for God’s works of grace
Oswald Chambers wrote about the “dance of circumstance,” meaning the hand of God working through seemingly random events. Who raised up the judges? God did and does today. Who sent the famine? God did and does today. Who gave safe passage to Moab? God did and does today. Who decreed the three men of the family should die there? God did and does today. As far as we know, God never spoke directly to Elimelech, yet His Unseen Hand moves behind every event.
Whatever else you may say about your life, don’t ever forget that God oversees the tiniest details. Nothing escapes His notice, and even the most unlikely events are part of His plan for you. Everything happening today to you and those around you is by design.
When their family left Bethlehem, there were four of them, three men and one woman: Elimelech, Naomi, Mahlon and Chilion. But now Naomi has buried her three men in the mountains of Moab. When she discusses her situation with Orpah and Ruth, Naomi declares that God has turned his hand against her (Ruth 1:13). Naomi has become bitter.
Message here for us all is that God knows what he is doing even when we don’t have a clue.
So how then is Naomi prepared for a great work of grace? As our text ends, Naomi is still in Moab, far from her home both in distance geographically and separation spiritually. She is coping with the loss of her husband and her sons. She is where she shouldn’t be (in a pagan land), separated from God and from God’s people, facing the consequences of her husband’s unwise and sinful decision. She is an older widow, in the company of two younger widows. This is not a place for her and her daughters-in-laws to be in any sense.
Write this story line in big letters - HOPELESSNESS. Naomi is stuck in Moab, a widow with no hope of ever having another child, with two younger widows by her side, and these two younger women are not Jews but Moabitesses. As far as Naomi reckons, not only does she have no future, but neither do they if they stay with her.
Part of our challenge in reading the book of Ruth is that we end of the story ends. We face the same issue when we read about Joseph in the book of Genesis. How much did Joseph know about the end of the story when his brothers cast him into the pit in Genesis 37? The answer is nothing. Nada. Zip. Zero. Ask the same question when he is carted off by the Midianites and then sold as a slave to Potiphar. How much did he know about his future when Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him of rape? Or when Potiphar had him thrown into jail? Or when the cupbearer promised to remember him but forgot about him while he stayed in the prison? The answer is the same.
We like to repeat, “You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20), as if it explains all of Joseph’s endurance during hard times. But Joseph had no advance knowledge that he (a Hebrew slave!) would eventually be #2 main man and ruler in Egypt.
When I’m asked, “Does God have a blueprint for my life?” I like to reply, “Yes, but there’s only one copy, and it’s locked up in heaven, and there is no way to get a copy.” We aren’t given advance notice of what tomorrow will bring. That’s true for all of us–rich and poor, young and old, new Christian or mature believer. We all must live life, one day at a time.
NAOMI is a bruised believer, brokenhearted at what she has lost.
Naomi still believes in God, even in a foreign land, cut off from her own people. If she is bitter at the Lord, she has not turned from him. She is a bruised believer, brokenhearted at what was lost. If you and I callously say, “She got what was coming to her,” we only reveal how little we understand God’s heart. He is rich in grace, and his pockets are deep and full of mercy.
God has not given up on Naomi, no matter what she may think about Him. God is molding here character in. the fire for He has big plans that are about to unfold.
Little does she know that one day she will hold a baby in her lap who will be the grandfather of King David. Still less could she imagine that her daughter-in-law Ruth (a Moabite maiden!) will be named in the Lineage of Jesus the Messiah.
Her sadness will be turned to joy, and she will discover that where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more. But all that is yet to come.
Let’s leave this story right here, and content ourselves with the idea we serve a God who can take the worst and turn it into the best because that’s God and that is who He is. He brings Life from death, light from darkness, healing from brokenness.
God is Jehovah Rapha
Grant God the time to work.
He knows what he is doing even when we haven’t a clue.
Source of initial materials is Keep Believing Ministries.
“When hard times come, be a student, not a victim.”
–A victim says, “Why did this happen to me?”
–A student says, “What can I learn from this?”
–A victim complains he is being treated unfairly.
–A student thanks God he is not being treated as he deserves.
–A victim tries to get even with those who have hurt him.
–A student seeks to serve others in the midst of his difficulty.
–A victim believes the game of life is stacked against him.
–A student believes God is at work even in the worst situations.
Many of us can think of a hundred other comparisons, but the point is clear. We rarely control what happens to us, but we can always choose how we will respond.
Sometimes we will make the wrong choice and pay a heavy price for our mistake. Often, we won’t learn the right lesson until we can look back and see how God was at work in our trials.
We can’t control what happens to us, but
we can always control how we respond.
Something like that happened to a woman named Naomi. You can find her story in the Old Testament book of Ruth. It is a love story that starts with misery and ends with joy. Ruth is an account of anxiety, fear, love, and commitment that inflames the imagination and soothes the soul. It begins with despair and ends with delight.
Along the way we discover “the God who works behind the scenes,” which means the real star of the book is the Lord who works in, though, and sometimes in spite of our decisions.
Go to the book of Ruth, Chapter 1, verse1:
During the time of the judges, there was a famine in the land. A man left Bethlehem in Judah with his wife and two sons to stay in the territory of Moab for a while. 2 The man’s name was Elimelech, and his wife’s name was Naomi. The names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. They were Ephrathites from Bethlehem in Judah. They entered the fields of Moab and settled there. 3 Naomi’s husband Elimelech died, and she was left with her two sons. 4 Her sons took Moabite women as their wives: one was named Orpah and the second was named Ruth. After they lived in Moab about ten years, 5 both Mahlon and Chilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two children and without her husband (Ruth 1:1-5).
In this story we can learn three distinct lessons that will help us navigate hard times
#1: Hard Times can hit at any time
The book of Ruth opens with a note that anchors this story to a particular time and place: “During the time of the judges, there was a famine in the land” (v. 1). This means the story took place after Joshua’s death and before Saul became king. When we read the book of Judges, we may be tempted to think it was a godless time, but that would not be correct. We should think of it as a time when every man did what was right in his own eyes (Judges 21:25). As long as the judges ruled, the people served the Lord. But when a judge died, the Jews turned to idolatry. It was a recurring cycle of obedience, disobedience, judgment, suffering, desperation, and returning to the Lord. {sound familiar}
God can ring your phone any time of the day or night to give you the bad news.
In Deuteronomy 28:24 Moses warned the people that if they refused to obey the Lord, God would curse the land: “The Lord will turn the rain of your land into falling dust; it will descend on you from the sky until you are destroyed.” That means the famine in the Promised Land didn’t just happen. It was not a natural disaster. God intended the famine to send a message to His people.
When people ask me, “Do you think God can speak to us today?” I tell them, “You don’t have to worry about that. God has your number on speed dial. He can ring your phone any time of the day or night. And when he calls, you won’t be able to put him on call waiting.” God knows how to get through to any of us at any time.
#2: Hard Times causes us to make Hard Choices
If you are Elimelech, what do you do when a famine impacts your family? The land around Bethlehem was some of the most fertile ground in the Promised Land. A man who worked hard could harvest enough yearly to care for his family. So what do you do when a famine hits? Elimelech took his family and moved to Moab because it was a land of good soil and adequate rainfall. If the famine had not hit that region, perhaps he would stay for a few months or a year or two.
Elimelech was an “Ephrathite. Ephrathah was the old name for Bethlehem. It might imply that he came from a distinguished background, from a family with a long history in the region. It would be like saying, “Here is a man from Beverly Hills in Los Angeles.” That wouldn’t guarantee he had money, but it does suggest something about his background.
“Elimelech lost his life while seeking a livelihood, and found a grave where he had sought a home.”
It appears from the Scriptures that things worked out for a while. Evidently they settled in the “fields of Moab” and found lots to eat. The famine of Bethlehem was now a distant memory. But soon Elimelech dies. We aren’t told why or how, only that he died in Moab, leaving Naomi without a husband and the two boys without a father. Eventually the boys married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other named Ruth. Then suddenly the sons died and were buried in Moab. Just as suddenly ten years had passed. (Has time leaped over your plans today. God has a plan, are you walking in it?)
I read recently about a woman who, knowing she was about to die, wrote her own obituary, which summed up her 69 years this way: “I was born, I blinked, and it was over.” We could all say the same thing for the days are long, but the years are short.
Verse 1 notes that Elimelech intended to emigrate to Moab for “a while,” meaning he never intended to leave forever. This was a temporary move made into foreign territory, chosen under great duress. This was a man’s choice but God was very clear - the Israelites were to have nothing to do with Moabites:
(In Deuteronomy 23:3, 6).No Ammonite or Moabite may enter the Lord’s assembly; none of their descendants, even to the tenth generation, may ever enter the Lord’s assembly . . . Never pursue their welfare or prosperity as long as you live.
Elimelech probably didn’t mean to leave the Lord by moving to Moab, but it was a reckless and unwise move at best. An ancient foe of Israel, Moab originated from Lot’s incestuous relationship with his daughters (Genesis 19:30-38). Elimelech was leaving the land of blessing to live among pagans on the eastern side of the Dead Sea. He and his family would be exposed to the Moabite religion with its degrading idol worship and its gross sexual perversion. I think Elimelech misunderstood the risks but considered this move a temporary expedient for the sake of his family. His perspective was one sided. His choices were one sided for self not shared with God. Have you been there recently?
Freedom to disobey God always comes with consequences. God gives us that freedom.
Here is the problem in three sentences:
The problem in Israel was not the lack of bread. The problem was the lack of obedience to Jehovah God and His commandments.
This was not the first famine in the land flowing with milk and honey, and it would not be the last. This also was a personal famine on the Word of God
Regardless your good intentions or motives won’t cancel the impact of your bad decisions.
Think about rules for a moment. Did you promise to obey the rules when you got your driver’s license? Yes you did, for the moment. What matters is not whether you like the rules or agree with them; the only question is, will you obey them? You are free to have your own opinion such as when you speed, but you are free to disobey but there are consequences.
Motives matter, but in real life obedience is better than sacrifice.
God who is rich in grace, and has demonstrated great depths of mercy will forgive, but we should never presume upon Him as this is sin.
So you can’t run from your problems because your problems will follow you wherever you go. A change of scenery doesn’t produce a changed heart. Whatever you were before is what you will be and take with you wherever you go next. We all feel the urge to change things when we encounter problems. We want a new spouse or new children or a new job or a new career. We may dream of moving to a new house or into a new neighborhood. If our church doesn’t go the way we like, we want a new pastor. We think if only we could make a fresh start, things would be better. And sometimes that’s true.
But change can be an excuse not to face the problems of life head on. Running away from our trouble rarely makes things better.
Elimelech thought he would go to Moab, stay there for a while, then return home. But there are three graves in Moab. That’s where he’s buried along with his two sons. His wrong decision meant his family never made it back home. Again in the words of Samuel Cox, “Elimelech lost his life while seeking a livelihood, and found a grave where he had sought a home.”
# 3: Hard Times prepare us for God’s works of grace
Oswald Chambers wrote about the “dance of circumstance,” meaning the hand of God working through seemingly random events. Who raised up the judges? God did and does today. Who sent the famine? God did and does today. Who gave safe passage to Moab? God did and does today. Who decreed the three men of the family should die there? God did and does today. As far as we know, God never spoke directly to Elimelech, yet His Unseen Hand moves behind every event.
Whatever else you may say about your life, don’t ever forget that God oversees the tiniest details. Nothing escapes His notice, and even the most unlikely events are part of His plan for you. Everything happening today to you and those around you is by design.
When their family left Bethlehem, there were four of them, three men and one woman: Elimelech, Naomi, Mahlon and Chilion. But now Naomi has buried her three men in the mountains of Moab. When she discusses her situation with Orpah and Ruth, Naomi declares that God has turned his hand against her (Ruth 1:13). Naomi has become bitter.
Message here for us all is that God knows what he is doing even when we don’t have a clue.
So how then is Naomi prepared for a great work of grace? As our text ends, Naomi is still in Moab, far from her home both in distance geographically and separation spiritually. She is coping with the loss of her husband and her sons. She is where she shouldn’t be (in a pagan land), separated from God and from God’s people, facing the consequences of her husband’s unwise and sinful decision. She is an older widow, in the company of two younger widows. This is not a place for her and her daughters-in-laws to be in any sense.
Write this story line in big letters - HOPELESSNESS. Naomi is stuck in Moab, a widow with no hope of ever having another child, with two younger widows by her side, and these two younger women are not Jews but Moabitesses. As far as Naomi reckons, not only does she have no future, but neither do they if they stay with her.
Part of our challenge in reading the book of Ruth is that we end of the story ends. We face the same issue when we read about Joseph in the book of Genesis. How much did Joseph know about the end of the story when his brothers cast him into the pit in Genesis 37? The answer is nothing. Nada. Zip. Zero. Ask the same question when he is carted off by the Midianites and then sold as a slave to Potiphar. How much did he know about his future when Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him of rape? Or when Potiphar had him thrown into jail? Or when the cupbearer promised to remember him but forgot about him while he stayed in the prison? The answer is the same.
We like to repeat, “You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20), as if it explains all of Joseph’s endurance during hard times. But Joseph had no advance knowledge that he (a Hebrew slave!) would eventually be #2 main man and ruler in Egypt.
When I’m asked, “Does God have a blueprint for my life?” I like to reply, “Yes, but there’s only one copy, and it’s locked up in heaven, and there is no way to get a copy.” We aren’t given advance notice of what tomorrow will bring. That’s true for all of us–rich and poor, young and old, new Christian or mature believer. We all must live life, one day at a time.
NAOMI is a bruised believer, brokenhearted at what she has lost.
Naomi still believes in God, even in a foreign land, cut off from her own people. If she is bitter at the Lord, she has not turned from him. She is a bruised believer, brokenhearted at what was lost. If you and I callously say, “She got what was coming to her,” we only reveal how little we understand God’s heart. He is rich in grace, and his pockets are deep and full of mercy.
God has not given up on Naomi, no matter what she may think about Him. God is molding here character in. the fire for He has big plans that are about to unfold.
Little does she know that one day she will hold a baby in her lap who will be the grandfather of King David. Still less could she imagine that her daughter-in-law Ruth (a Moabite maiden!) will be named in the Lineage of Jesus the Messiah.
Her sadness will be turned to joy, and she will discover that where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more. But all that is yet to come.
Let’s leave this story right here, and content ourselves with the idea we serve a God who can take the worst and turn it into the best because that’s God and that is who He is. He brings Life from death, light from darkness, healing from brokenness.
God is Jehovah Rapha
Grant God the time to work.
He knows what he is doing even when we haven’t a clue.
Source of initial materials is Keep Believing Ministries.
Oct 17
I needed a message of hope today after yesterday. We prayed all week long in the midst of the revival for healing for Debbie Lilly. Well God did answer our prayer, not as we had hoped, but as His will was done with ultimate healing to be at home with the Lord. So as I cried in my heart and spirit for comfort, I believe God had a message for me which just maybe is a message for you today. I don’t know where you are coming from today but in this world and in this time, we need hope from the God of all hope. Not from me for I am unable to do what God does and that is He heals and comforts the human heart where no other salve of balm can reach except the balm of Gilead, that heals the sin sick soul. We need a fresh word from our Lord this day. Now this will not be a long message for we have the Lord’s Supper today. He promises to meet with us there to remember the end of all things is in His capable hands, thank God and not mans.
So for some words of comfort lets go to the book of Romans, Chapter 8. We will read the first 6 verses and then move to the end of the chapter, verses 35 to verse 39. Let’s pray and then read.
Father open our hearts to you truth. Your word is truth and press it upon our hearts and spirits so that we may worship you in Spirit and in Truth. Amen
Now to Romans 8 verse 1 -There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be [b]carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Vs. 1 no condemnation now for those who have been saved in Jesus Christ, yesterday, today and tomorrow. In chapter 7, Paul discusses the stresses of the human condition and the worries of the human heart. If you are truly in Christ you are saved. If not then you have no hope.
Vs. 2 speaks for itself - law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. What the law could not do Jesus Himself did for me, freeing me from death. I had no way to pay the debt of sin so He paid it all, for me and He gives me grace, salvation and ultimately glorification
Vs. 3 the law was unable to save me, because I was unable to keep the law perfectly. If I transgress any of the law I am guilty of it all. It is only because a sinless sacrifice saves me that I am reconciled with God by His Son.
Vs. 4 Jesus did this He fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. His resurrection provides the power of transformation to new life.
Vs. 5 the transformation, actually rebirth has recreated what God wanted for us at the beginning the ability to walk and function as spiritual beings. This was lost in the Garden.
Vs. 6 in this verse we see life versus death. To be carnally minded is ultimately death. to be spiritually minded is life and peace. This is the gift of God for us life and peace, not just for a day but for eternity. This is brought about because of God’s great love for us and for no other reason.
Now we will see the great promises of God in the following verses as we see the grace of God, that while we are in the midst of sin, we have a God who pursues and digs us out of the miry clay and sets us free from the law of sin and death.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? We are God’s children regardless of our condition. In any condition once we are His we cannot be separated from the love of Christ
36 As it is written:
“For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
As servants we need to be willing to do or be whatever God chooses. This is a hard thing. I am His servant. There can be no other way. But there is a wonder and joy to being God’s servant. The current and future benefits are His amazing love now, a transformed life and to be in His presence forever.
37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Here is the master blaster for you there in Christ’s land - No created thing inclusive of the US Government, China, pestilence, famine, old age, disease, death or any created shall ever be able to separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus your Lord. Talk about the security of the believer for now and forever more
Notice the word separate at the beginning and the end. But it states who shall separate and who shall be able to separate us from what – the love of God. I needed a love letter from God today. A personally addressed, no delays in delivery or interruptions because I just wasn’t sensing it and He came to me with these words. God is amazing.
To complete the idea map this to verse 1 - There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
There is new life in Christ but we must choose to walk in the Spirit and work to do the same through passionate obedience
I needed a message of hope today after yesterday. We prayed all week long in the midst of the revival for healing for Debbie Lilly. Well God did answer our prayer, not as we had hoped, but as His will was done with ultimate healing to be at home with the Lord. So as I cried in my heart and spirit for comfort, I believe God had a message for me which just maybe is a message for you today. I don’t know where you are coming from today but in this world and in this time, we need hope from the God of all hope. Not from me for I am unable to do what God does and that is He heals and comforts the human heart where no other salve of balm can reach except the balm of Gilead, that heals the sin sick soul. We need a fresh word from our Lord this day. Now this will not be a long message for we have the Lord’s Supper today. He promises to meet with us there to remember the end of all things is in His capable hands, thank God and not mans.
So for some words of comfort lets go to the book of Romans, Chapter 8. We will read the first 6 verses and then move to the end of the chapter, verses 35 to verse 39. Let’s pray and then read.
Father open our hearts to you truth. Your word is truth and press it upon our hearts and spirits so that we may worship you in Spirit and in Truth. Amen
Now to Romans 8 verse 1 -There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be [b]carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Vs. 1 no condemnation now for those who have been saved in Jesus Christ, yesterday, today and tomorrow. In chapter 7, Paul discusses the stresses of the human condition and the worries of the human heart. If you are truly in Christ you are saved. If not then you have no hope.
Vs. 2 speaks for itself - law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. What the law could not do Jesus Himself did for me, freeing me from death. I had no way to pay the debt of sin so He paid it all, for me and He gives me grace, salvation and ultimately glorification
Vs. 3 the law was unable to save me, because I was unable to keep the law perfectly. If I transgress any of the law I am guilty of it all. It is only because a sinless sacrifice saves me that I am reconciled with God by His Son.
Vs. 4 Jesus did this He fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. His resurrection provides the power of transformation to new life.
Vs. 5 the transformation, actually rebirth has recreated what God wanted for us at the beginning the ability to walk and function as spiritual beings. This was lost in the Garden.
Vs. 6 in this verse we see life versus death. To be carnally minded is ultimately death. to be spiritually minded is life and peace. This is the gift of God for us life and peace, not just for a day but for eternity. This is brought about because of God’s great love for us and for no other reason.
Now we will see the great promises of God in the following verses as we see the grace of God, that while we are in the midst of sin, we have a God who pursues and digs us out of the miry clay and sets us free from the law of sin and death.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? We are God’s children regardless of our condition. In any condition once we are His we cannot be separated from the love of Christ
36 As it is written:
“For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
As servants we need to be willing to do or be whatever God chooses. This is a hard thing. I am His servant. There can be no other way. But there is a wonder and joy to being God’s servant. The current and future benefits are His amazing love now, a transformed life and to be in His presence forever.
37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Here is the master blaster for you there in Christ’s land - No created thing inclusive of the US Government, China, pestilence, famine, old age, disease, death or any created shall ever be able to separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus your Lord. Talk about the security of the believer for now and forever more
Notice the word separate at the beginning and the end. But it states who shall separate and who shall be able to separate us from what – the love of God. I needed a love letter from God today. A personally addressed, no delays in delivery or interruptions because I just wasn’t sensing it and He came to me with these words. God is amazing.
To complete the idea map this to verse 1 - There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
There is new life in Christ but we must choose to walk in the Spirit and work to do the same through passionate obedience
Oct 10
I needed a message of hope today after yesterday. We prayed all week long in the midst of the revival for healing for Debbie Lilly. Well God did answer our prayer, not as we had hoped, but as His will was done with ultimate healing to be at home with the Lord. So as I cried in my heart and spirit for comfort, I believe God had a message for me which just maybe is a message for you today. I don’t know where you are coming from today but in this world and in this time, we need hope from the God of all hope. Not from me for I am unable to do what God does and that is He heals and comforts the human heart where no other salve of balm can reach except the balm of Gilead, that heals the sin sick soul. We need a fresh word from our Lord this day. Now this will not be a long message for we have the Lord’s Supper today. He promises to meet with us there to remember the end of all things is in His capable hands, thank God and not mans.
So for some words of comfort lets go to the book of Romans, Chapter 8. We will read the first 6 verses and then move to the end of the chapter, verses 35 to verse 39. Let’s pray and then read.
Father open our hearts to you truth. Your word is truth and press it upon our hearts and spirits so that we may worship you in Spirit and in Truth. Amen
Now to Romans 8 verse 1 -There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be [b]carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Vs. 1 no condemnation now for those who have been saved in Jesus Christ, yesterday, today and tomorrow. In chapter 7, Paul discusses the stresses of the human condition and the worries of the human heart. If you are truly in Christ you are saved. If not then you have no hope.
Vs. 2 speaks for itself - law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. What the law could not do Jesus Himself did for me, freeing me from death. I had no way to pay the debt of sin so He paid it all, for me and He gives me grace, salvation and ultimately glorification
Vs. 3 the law was unable to save me, because I was unable to keep the law perfectly. If I transgress any of the law I am guilty of it all. It is only because a sinless sacrifice saves me that I am reconciled with God by His Son.
Vs. 4 Jesus did this He fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. His resurrection provides the power of transformation to new life.
Vs. 5 the transformation, actually rebirth has recreated what God wanted for us at the beginning the ability to walk and function as spiritual beings. This was lost in the Garden.
Vs. 6 in this verse we see life versus death. To be carnally minded is ultimately death. to be spiritually minded is life and peace. This is the gift of God for us life and peace, not just for a day but for eternity. This is brought about because of God’s great love for us and for no other reason.
Now we will see the great promises of God in the following verses as we see the grace of God, that while we are in the midst of sin, we have a God who pursues and digs us out of the miry clay and sets us free from the law of sin and death.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? We are God’s children regardless of our condition. In any condition once we are His we cannot be separated from the love of Christ
36 As it is written:
“For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
As servants we need to be willing to do or be whatever God chooses. This is a hard thing. I am His servant. There can be no other way. But there is a wonder and joy to being God’s servant. The current and future benefits are His amazing love now, a transformed life and to be in His presence forever.
37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Here is the master blaster for you there in Christ’s land - No created thing inclusive of the US Government, China, pestilence, famine, old age, disease, death or any created shall ever be able to separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus your Lord. Talk about the security of the believer for now and forever more
Notice the word separate at the beginning and the end. But it states who shall separate and who shall be able to separate us from what – the love of God. I needed a love letter from God today. A personally addressed, no delays in delivery or interruptions because I just wasn’t sensing it and He came to me with these words. God is amazing.
To complete the idea map this to verse 1 - There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
There is new life in Christ but we must choose to walk in the Spirit and work to do the same through passionate obedience.
I needed a message of hope today after yesterday. We prayed all week long in the midst of the revival for healing for Debbie Lilly. Well God did answer our prayer, not as we had hoped, but as His will was done with ultimate healing to be at home with the Lord. So as I cried in my heart and spirit for comfort, I believe God had a message for me which just maybe is a message for you today. I don’t know where you are coming from today but in this world and in this time, we need hope from the God of all hope. Not from me for I am unable to do what God does and that is He heals and comforts the human heart where no other salve of balm can reach except the balm of Gilead, that heals the sin sick soul. We need a fresh word from our Lord this day. Now this will not be a long message for we have the Lord’s Supper today. He promises to meet with us there to remember the end of all things is in His capable hands, thank God and not mans.
So for some words of comfort lets go to the book of Romans, Chapter 8. We will read the first 6 verses and then move to the end of the chapter, verses 35 to verse 39. Let’s pray and then read.
Father open our hearts to you truth. Your word is truth and press it upon our hearts and spirits so that we may worship you in Spirit and in Truth. Amen
Now to Romans 8 verse 1 -There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be [b]carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Vs. 1 no condemnation now for those who have been saved in Jesus Christ, yesterday, today and tomorrow. In chapter 7, Paul discusses the stresses of the human condition and the worries of the human heart. If you are truly in Christ you are saved. If not then you have no hope.
Vs. 2 speaks for itself - law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. What the law could not do Jesus Himself did for me, freeing me from death. I had no way to pay the debt of sin so He paid it all, for me and He gives me grace, salvation and ultimately glorification
Vs. 3 the law was unable to save me, because I was unable to keep the law perfectly. If I transgress any of the law I am guilty of it all. It is only because a sinless sacrifice saves me that I am reconciled with God by His Son.
Vs. 4 Jesus did this He fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. His resurrection provides the power of transformation to new life.
Vs. 5 the transformation, actually rebirth has recreated what God wanted for us at the beginning the ability to walk and function as spiritual beings. This was lost in the Garden.
Vs. 6 in this verse we see life versus death. To be carnally minded is ultimately death. to be spiritually minded is life and peace. This is the gift of God for us life and peace, not just for a day but for eternity. This is brought about because of God’s great love for us and for no other reason.
Now we will see the great promises of God in the following verses as we see the grace of God, that while we are in the midst of sin, we have a God who pursues and digs us out of the miry clay and sets us free from the law of sin and death.
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? We are God’s children regardless of our condition. In any condition once we are His we cannot be separated from the love of Christ
36 As it is written:
“For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
As servants we need to be willing to do or be whatever God chooses. This is a hard thing. I am His servant. There can be no other way. But there is a wonder and joy to being God’s servant. The current and future benefits are His amazing love now, a transformed life and to be in His presence forever.
37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Here is the master blaster for you there in Christ’s land - No created thing inclusive of the US Government, China, pestilence, famine, old age, disease, death or any created shall ever be able to separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus your Lord. Talk about the security of the believer for now and forever more
Notice the word separate at the beginning and the end. But it states who shall separate and who shall be able to separate us from what – the love of God. I needed a love letter from God today. A personally addressed, no delays in delivery or interruptions because I just wasn’t sensing it and He came to me with these words. God is amazing.
To complete the idea map this to verse 1 - There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
There is new life in Christ but we must choose to walk in the Spirit and work to do the same through passionate obedience.
Sept 19
Is it possible for believers to lose their way in this world today? Whatever you want- sex, drugs, money, power, control over others, ability to lie and deceive freely without having a conscience. There is so much evil loose in the world today the people I grew up with and my mother and day, if I could adequately describe the world we live in today could not comprehend the rupture and spewing of evil and the way people are behaving today. I find it is easy to be discourage when you see evil thriving and multiplying the way it does today.
There is no such this as being a person of your word. A person of integrity who makes a promise and does what he or she promised.
Christians in the military are not being allowed to opt out of Covid shot, they including the marines are putting them is stockades. Look for all opportunities to opt out of these shots or the booster soon to disappear.
Lies appear at the very highest places in our country and the media endorses and covers all the lying
Legislation is being passed which will soon ruin voting and voting integrity, if not judges are overturning all the righteous laws. Our economy is being busted by bad policies. We are angering all our foreign partners so if we get in trouble no one will bother rescuing us. Our Constitution is being shredded by those in power who hate democracy and want to control you. And it is coming faster and faster
So what’s a body to do?
First don’t quit seek to find God and know that He has not quit working. Orient yourself to the word of God and look for those in the Word of God who have experience similar times. There is nothing new under the sun and our God reigns and rules> The heart of the King, including Biden is in the hand of the Lord. Hide God’s word daily in your head and heart- Apart from Jesus you can do how much?- Nothing is the right answer
So I am going to exert Pastors privilege and pre-empt Pastor Ron’s text for Chapter 9 of Daniel. For Daniel was a man just like us who chose to honor God and walk with Him. And because Daniel set his heart to honor God, God honored and used him mightily.
Please turn with me to Daniel Chapter 9 and verse 1: 9 In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the lineage of the Medes, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans— 2 in the first year of his reign I, Daniel, understood by the books the number of the years specified by the word of the Lord through Jeremiah the prophet, that He would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. (Jer. 25:11-12)
3 Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. (personal preparations to petition God)
4 And I prayed to the Lord my God, and made confession, and said, “O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments, 5 we (notice this pronoun, as a priest Daniel, is standing before God petitioning for the people. Just as believers in the NT have the same privilege and opportunity)have sinned and committed iniquity, we have (sin #1) done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgments. 6 Neither have we heeded Your servants the prophets,(sin#2) who spoke in Your name to our kings and our princes, to our fathers and all the people of the land. 7 O Lord, righteousness belongs to You, but to us shame of face, (compare and contrast God vs man) as it is this day—to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and all Israel, those near and those far off in all the countries to which You have driven them, because of the (sin #3) unfaithfulness which they have committed against You.
8 “O Lord, to us belongs shame of face, to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, because we have sinned against You. 9 To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, though we have rebelled against Him. (interceding for God’s mercy and forgiveness) 10 We have (sin#4) not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God, to walk in His laws, which He set before us by His servants the prophets. 11 Yes, all Israel has transgressed Your law (this is a national sin, and where we are today in America), and has departed so as not to obey Your voice; therefore the curse and the oath written in the Law of Moses the servant of God have been poured out on us, because we have sinned against Him. 12 And He has confirmed His words, (Deut.28) which He spoke against us and against our judges who judged us, by bringing upon us a great disaster; for under the whole heaven such has never been done as what has been done to Jerusalem.
13 “As it is written in the Law of Moses (Deut 28:15ff), all this disaster (curses) has come upon us; yet we (as a nation) have not made our prayer before the Lord our God, that we might turn from our iniquities and understand Your truth. (calling for national repentance)14 Therefore the Lord has kept the disaster in mind, and brought it upon us; for the Lord our God is righteous in all the works which He does, though we have not obeyed His voice.
Truth in a nutshell is this - Departing from God and His word leads to unbelief (no faith) and then ultimately to disobedience and serving sin – (Deut 30:17) - But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them. Relate unbelief to disobedience and no longer trusting and serving God will ultimately lead to death.
We are not quite done with the story of Daniel from scripture. Remember our theme is - Daniel is beloved by the Lord God Almighty. Some may say how can you say God loved Daniel so much when He marooned Him in an enemy camp, destroyed his home, killed his family members, threw him in a lion’s den, was hated by all of those in Shushan because He worshiped God as a Jew. Kept him there till he was very old and gave Daniel all these difficult tasks? What is the rest of the story {Moral of the story is God’s love is not dependent upon the difficulty of our circumstances. God made Daniel a witness and a testimony to Kings of His supreme power, His wonder working authority, His mercy and His goodness. Daniel was an instrument used by God to lead rulers to His holiness and righteousness; and as a guide and wise leader to His people the Jews.
Now the rest of the story, which will bring us to the key verse- Begin now at verse 18.
18 O my God, incline Your ear and hear; open Your eyes and see our desolations, and the city which is called by Your name; for we do not present our supplications before You because of our righteous deeds, but because of Your great mercies. (pleading for the mercy of the Lord) 19 O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and act! Do not delay for Your own sake, my God, for Your city and Your people are called by Your name.”
20 Now while I was speaking, praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the Lord my God for the holy mountain of my God, 21 yes, while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, [c]being caused to fly swiftly, reached me about the time of the evening offering.(3pm) 22 And he informed me, and talked with me, and said, “O Daniel, I have now come forth to give you skill to understand. 23 At the beginning of your supplications the [d]command went out, and I have come to tell you, for you are greatly beloved; therefore consider the matter, and understand the vision:
We will stop here. Let’s look at the Angel’s greeting. What a greeting. First point - I started when you began praying, God sent me, His messenger. He didn’t wait. He knew what was on your heart before one word was upon your tongue according to Isaiah 65:24 It shall come to pass That before they call, I will answer; And while they are still speaking, I will hear.
Daniel is called greatly beloved in the Old Testament. Mary is called highly favored one and Jesus is called My beloved Son. You are also loved by God. Remember one of our often-repeated verses is John 3:16 -For God so loved the world.
God sent His Son for you and He paid the penalty for your sin. He gave Himself for you and died for you.
Do not lose your orientation despite the press of current events. God loves you and Jesus said, I will never leave you nor forsake you! (Heb. 13:5)
What else can we learn from Daniel?
Maybe you are nowhere like Daniel but you wannabe. Take 1 step toward the master and He will come to you and aid you. He gave Himself for you and lives in you to aid you.
You must trust and you must obey to grow as a believer, will you?
Is it possible for believers to lose their way in this world today? Whatever you want- sex, drugs, money, power, control over others, ability to lie and deceive freely without having a conscience. There is so much evil loose in the world today the people I grew up with and my mother and day, if I could adequately describe the world we live in today could not comprehend the rupture and spewing of evil and the way people are behaving today. I find it is easy to be discourage when you see evil thriving and multiplying the way it does today.
There is no such this as being a person of your word. A person of integrity who makes a promise and does what he or she promised.
Christians in the military are not being allowed to opt out of Covid shot, they including the marines are putting them is stockades. Look for all opportunities to opt out of these shots or the booster soon to disappear.
Lies appear at the very highest places in our country and the media endorses and covers all the lying
Legislation is being passed which will soon ruin voting and voting integrity, if not judges are overturning all the righteous laws. Our economy is being busted by bad policies. We are angering all our foreign partners so if we get in trouble no one will bother rescuing us. Our Constitution is being shredded by those in power who hate democracy and want to control you. And it is coming faster and faster
So what’s a body to do?
First don’t quit seek to find God and know that He has not quit working. Orient yourself to the word of God and look for those in the Word of God who have experience similar times. There is nothing new under the sun and our God reigns and rules> The heart of the King, including Biden is in the hand of the Lord. Hide God’s word daily in your head and heart- Apart from Jesus you can do how much?- Nothing is the right answer
So I am going to exert Pastors privilege and pre-empt Pastor Ron’s text for Chapter 9 of Daniel. For Daniel was a man just like us who chose to honor God and walk with Him. And because Daniel set his heart to honor God, God honored and used him mightily.
Please turn with me to Daniel Chapter 9 and verse 1: 9 In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the lineage of the Medes, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans— 2 in the first year of his reign I, Daniel, understood by the books the number of the years specified by the word of the Lord through Jeremiah the prophet, that He would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. (Jer. 25:11-12)
3 Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. (personal preparations to petition God)
4 And I prayed to the Lord my God, and made confession, and said, “O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments, 5 we (notice this pronoun, as a priest Daniel, is standing before God petitioning for the people. Just as believers in the NT have the same privilege and opportunity)have sinned and committed iniquity, we have (sin #1) done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgments. 6 Neither have we heeded Your servants the prophets,(sin#2) who spoke in Your name to our kings and our princes, to our fathers and all the people of the land. 7 O Lord, righteousness belongs to You, but to us shame of face, (compare and contrast God vs man) as it is this day—to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and all Israel, those near and those far off in all the countries to which You have driven them, because of the (sin #3) unfaithfulness which they have committed against You.
8 “O Lord, to us belongs shame of face, to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, because we have sinned against You. 9 To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, though we have rebelled against Him. (interceding for God’s mercy and forgiveness) 10 We have (sin#4) not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God, to walk in His laws, which He set before us by His servants the prophets. 11 Yes, all Israel has transgressed Your law (this is a national sin, and where we are today in America), and has departed so as not to obey Your voice; therefore the curse and the oath written in the Law of Moses the servant of God have been poured out on us, because we have sinned against Him. 12 And He has confirmed His words, (Deut.28) which He spoke against us and against our judges who judged us, by bringing upon us a great disaster; for under the whole heaven such has never been done as what has been done to Jerusalem.
13 “As it is written in the Law of Moses (Deut 28:15ff), all this disaster (curses) has come upon us; yet we (as a nation) have not made our prayer before the Lord our God, that we might turn from our iniquities and understand Your truth. (calling for national repentance)14 Therefore the Lord has kept the disaster in mind, and brought it upon us; for the Lord our God is righteous in all the works which He does, though we have not obeyed His voice.
Truth in a nutshell is this - Departing from God and His word leads to unbelief (no faith) and then ultimately to disobedience and serving sin – (Deut 30:17) - But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them. Relate unbelief to disobedience and no longer trusting and serving God will ultimately lead to death.
We are not quite done with the story of Daniel from scripture. Remember our theme is - Daniel is beloved by the Lord God Almighty. Some may say how can you say God loved Daniel so much when He marooned Him in an enemy camp, destroyed his home, killed his family members, threw him in a lion’s den, was hated by all of those in Shushan because He worshiped God as a Jew. Kept him there till he was very old and gave Daniel all these difficult tasks? What is the rest of the story {Moral of the story is God’s love is not dependent upon the difficulty of our circumstances. God made Daniel a witness and a testimony to Kings of His supreme power, His wonder working authority, His mercy and His goodness. Daniel was an instrument used by God to lead rulers to His holiness and righteousness; and as a guide and wise leader to His people the Jews.
Now the rest of the story, which will bring us to the key verse- Begin now at verse 18.
18 O my God, incline Your ear and hear; open Your eyes and see our desolations, and the city which is called by Your name; for we do not present our supplications before You because of our righteous deeds, but because of Your great mercies. (pleading for the mercy of the Lord) 19 O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and act! Do not delay for Your own sake, my God, for Your city and Your people are called by Your name.”
20 Now while I was speaking, praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the Lord my God for the holy mountain of my God, 21 yes, while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, [c]being caused to fly swiftly, reached me about the time of the evening offering.(3pm) 22 And he informed me, and talked with me, and said, “O Daniel, I have now come forth to give you skill to understand. 23 At the beginning of your supplications the [d]command went out, and I have come to tell you, for you are greatly beloved; therefore consider the matter, and understand the vision:
We will stop here. Let’s look at the Angel’s greeting. What a greeting. First point - I started when you began praying, God sent me, His messenger. He didn’t wait. He knew what was on your heart before one word was upon your tongue according to Isaiah 65:24 It shall come to pass That before they call, I will answer; And while they are still speaking, I will hear.
Daniel is called greatly beloved in the Old Testament. Mary is called highly favored one and Jesus is called My beloved Son. You are also loved by God. Remember one of our often-repeated verses is John 3:16 -For God so loved the world.
God sent His Son for you and He paid the penalty for your sin. He gave Himself for you and died for you.
Do not lose your orientation despite the press of current events. God loves you and Jesus said, I will never leave you nor forsake you! (Heb. 13:5)
What else can we learn from Daniel?
- He was a man of Integrity
- He was disciplined as a believer
- He studied the Word of God
- He believed and trusted in the promises of God
- He believed in constant prayer
- He was obedient
Maybe you are nowhere like Daniel but you wannabe. Take 1 step toward the master and He will come to you and aid you. He gave Himself for you and lives in you to aid you.
You must trust and you must obey to grow as a believer, will you?
September 12
Ideas have consequences and many have found the consequences costlier in the decisions they made during the last election. Ideas can cause fear and almost choke those who might respond but because of the fear of ostracism and alienation which come with speaking your mind today many have lost the courage of their convictions. Many people today have found out that freedom is costly. Many today have forgotten those brave patriots of many years ago who paid a very dear price for advocating for freedom from the tyrannical rule of the King of England. We are relearning that nothing worth anything is ever free, but dear to those who would fight to preserve it.
This fear combined with deception, and more lies being presented daily for consumption to the general public is creating more fear and uncertainty. Whether it is our cowardly withdrawal, or COVID vaccinations which are now according to the CDC are only shots. Or the election results which are proving more and more that hoaxes were played on the gullible masses, or the destructive economic agenda, the border crisis, schools and language or whatever America is now being deconstructed. The damage is heartrending and accelerating.
Christians have become fearful and are being marginalized and this should not be happening. Yes, I said it should not be happening. Jesus is not just an idea He is God and He is a real person. You and I need to start living the book of Acts. What do you mean living the book of Acts? Well to begin with living in the midst of persecution did not slow them down it sped them up. Yes early Christians called the “way” were the original counterculture being a minority was not an issue they had Jesus. So because we are no longer the dominant emphasis in the good ole USA does not mean we should pack up, put our tail between our legs and go home. You know what the early Christians did when persecuted, in Acts, they prayed for more boldness. They prayed to be counted worthy to suffer as Christ did, enduring persecution, suffering and death. We have a lot to relearn.
A few years back I remember a story from Korean Christians. The Churches in Korea could see with spiritual eyes the weakness in the American churches. We have had it so soft for so many years that the American believers had no drive, no fire, no motivation for salvation for believers, no persistence or perseverance in prayer. Korean churches were so worried they began to do two things. First, they began to prepare to send Missionaries to America for revival, repentance and renewal. Second, they began to pray for America that we would begin to suffer persecution. This was to bring America back to its original heritage and dependence upon God not wealth. They reasoned what was good in America was that pulpits rang with the truth of God’s Word and the people learned and pursued God’s word and practiced the fear of the Lord. There is no fear of the LORD in America today, nor are the churches evangelizing and pealing the bell for righteousness across this land. Why are we not pealing the bell – fear?
So where are you today fearful or embolden? I desire that you be emboldened on the basis of the power in the Word of God.
Turn in your bibles to Colossians Chapter 2 and verse 2
2that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, [b]both of the Father and of Christ,
{understanding the fulness of salvation marks mature believers who enjoy the assurance of salvation, shared love of Christ in them}the mystery is God incarnate now in them forever.}
3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
{false teachers then and now threaten they have hidden wisdom, not true in Christ is all truth, wisdom and life}
4 Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words.
{Paul wanted none to be deceived}
5 For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing [c]to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
{though absent and a prisoner Paul delighted in their almost military good order and disciple as Christ followers.}
6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding [d]in it with thanksgiving.
{Spiritual maturity develops from the discipline of daily living and dependence on Christ. Daily we are to follow the Holy Spirit’s teaching and guidance as He applies Jesus truths from the Bible in our circumstances.}
8 Beware lest anyone [e]cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.
{Here is a clear statement of our daily problem in this world today. What is being taught is meant to rob you of the potential for fulness in Christ and deliver you to the kingdom of Satan not just now but for eternity. This is what you find on MSDNC and the various three letter networks who impose their empty philosophy, lies and deceit in our world today. This is a worldview of death for those who believe and worship at its altar. This type of worldly thinking is from below and initiated by the Prince of the Power of darkness.}
9 For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead [f]bodily; 10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all [g]principality and power.
{This is the counter punch to the dependence upon worldly thinking. God knows the truth, Jesus is the Truth and God’s word presents the Truth. The Holy Spirit enables the truth to penetrate our hearts and leads us to the spiritual truth, which requires us to be reborn. And after being reborn, we must continually renew our minds to be transformed in the image of Christ. From Jesus Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit the leadership and power of God is displaying in us and we become complete in Him.}
11 In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body [h]of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.
{Circumcision is the symbol of man’s need to be cleansed in his heart and mind and the outward sign of having faith in God. At the point of salvation, circumcision is the process of transformation from sins of the flesh to faith in God.}
13 And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses,
{You who were so hopelessly bound by the flesh, the devil and sin have no spiritual life and therefore no ability to recognize your condition or help yourselves have been made alive in Him. Only Jesus Christ has the ability to set the captives free- there is no other name under heaven, given among men, whereby one can be saved and raised to new life}
14 having wiped out the [i]handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
{all people born under sin owe God an unpayable debt for violating His law and are therefore under the sentence of death eternally. Paul compares God’s forgiveness of believers’ sins to wiping the ink off a piece of parchment. Jesus’ sacrificial death payed it all, all to Him I owe. A crimson payment written in red for all who believe, trust and confess Jesus as Lord.}
15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.
16 So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a [j]festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the [k]substance is of Christ.
{False teachers, liars and false prophets are about to bring many false regulations for diets, health and for other things. Christians are not obligated to believe but test the spirits for evil and falsehoods. Those who walk in mature faith will be able to discern deception and refute the powers of darkness who come against them. Are you walking in the power and authority God has promised you or are you a spiritual baby still unable to discern?
You may know some of the truth but your ignorance of God’s word may not just imperil you but those you love the most. Beware and be obedient today. Amen
Let’s Pray God’s deliverance and mercy upon us today and for our nation. Amen
Ideas have consequences and many have found the consequences costlier in the decisions they made during the last election. Ideas can cause fear and almost choke those who might respond but because of the fear of ostracism and alienation which come with speaking your mind today many have lost the courage of their convictions. Many people today have found out that freedom is costly. Many today have forgotten those brave patriots of many years ago who paid a very dear price for advocating for freedom from the tyrannical rule of the King of England. We are relearning that nothing worth anything is ever free, but dear to those who would fight to preserve it.
This fear combined with deception, and more lies being presented daily for consumption to the general public is creating more fear and uncertainty. Whether it is our cowardly withdrawal, or COVID vaccinations which are now according to the CDC are only shots. Or the election results which are proving more and more that hoaxes were played on the gullible masses, or the destructive economic agenda, the border crisis, schools and language or whatever America is now being deconstructed. The damage is heartrending and accelerating.
Christians have become fearful and are being marginalized and this should not be happening. Yes, I said it should not be happening. Jesus is not just an idea He is God and He is a real person. You and I need to start living the book of Acts. What do you mean living the book of Acts? Well to begin with living in the midst of persecution did not slow them down it sped them up. Yes early Christians called the “way” were the original counterculture being a minority was not an issue they had Jesus. So because we are no longer the dominant emphasis in the good ole USA does not mean we should pack up, put our tail between our legs and go home. You know what the early Christians did when persecuted, in Acts, they prayed for more boldness. They prayed to be counted worthy to suffer as Christ did, enduring persecution, suffering and death. We have a lot to relearn.
A few years back I remember a story from Korean Christians. The Churches in Korea could see with spiritual eyes the weakness in the American churches. We have had it so soft for so many years that the American believers had no drive, no fire, no motivation for salvation for believers, no persistence or perseverance in prayer. Korean churches were so worried they began to do two things. First, they began to prepare to send Missionaries to America for revival, repentance and renewal. Second, they began to pray for America that we would begin to suffer persecution. This was to bring America back to its original heritage and dependence upon God not wealth. They reasoned what was good in America was that pulpits rang with the truth of God’s Word and the people learned and pursued God’s word and practiced the fear of the Lord. There is no fear of the LORD in America today, nor are the churches evangelizing and pealing the bell for righteousness across this land. Why are we not pealing the bell – fear?
So where are you today fearful or embolden? I desire that you be emboldened on the basis of the power in the Word of God.
Turn in your bibles to Colossians Chapter 2 and verse 2
2that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, [b]both of the Father and of Christ,
{understanding the fulness of salvation marks mature believers who enjoy the assurance of salvation, shared love of Christ in them}the mystery is God incarnate now in them forever.}
3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
{false teachers then and now threaten they have hidden wisdom, not true in Christ is all truth, wisdom and life}
4 Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words.
{Paul wanted none to be deceived}
5 For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing [c]to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
{though absent and a prisoner Paul delighted in their almost military good order and disciple as Christ followers.}
6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding [d]in it with thanksgiving.
{Spiritual maturity develops from the discipline of daily living and dependence on Christ. Daily we are to follow the Holy Spirit’s teaching and guidance as He applies Jesus truths from the Bible in our circumstances.}
8 Beware lest anyone [e]cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.
{Here is a clear statement of our daily problem in this world today. What is being taught is meant to rob you of the potential for fulness in Christ and deliver you to the kingdom of Satan not just now but for eternity. This is what you find on MSDNC and the various three letter networks who impose their empty philosophy, lies and deceit in our world today. This is a worldview of death for those who believe and worship at its altar. This type of worldly thinking is from below and initiated by the Prince of the Power of darkness.}
9 For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead [f]bodily; 10 and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all [g]principality and power.
{This is the counter punch to the dependence upon worldly thinking. God knows the truth, Jesus is the Truth and God’s word presents the Truth. The Holy Spirit enables the truth to penetrate our hearts and leads us to the spiritual truth, which requires us to be reborn. And after being reborn, we must continually renew our minds to be transformed in the image of Christ. From Jesus Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit the leadership and power of God is displaying in us and we become complete in Him.}
11 In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body [h]of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.
{Circumcision is the symbol of man’s need to be cleansed in his heart and mind and the outward sign of having faith in God. At the point of salvation, circumcision is the process of transformation from sins of the flesh to faith in God.}
13 And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses,
{You who were so hopelessly bound by the flesh, the devil and sin have no spiritual life and therefore no ability to recognize your condition or help yourselves have been made alive in Him. Only Jesus Christ has the ability to set the captives free- there is no other name under heaven, given among men, whereby one can be saved and raised to new life}
14 having wiped out the [i]handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
{all people born under sin owe God an unpayable debt for violating His law and are therefore under the sentence of death eternally. Paul compares God’s forgiveness of believers’ sins to wiping the ink off a piece of parchment. Jesus’ sacrificial death payed it all, all to Him I owe. A crimson payment written in red for all who believe, trust and confess Jesus as Lord.}
15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.
16 So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a [j]festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the [k]substance is of Christ.
{False teachers, liars and false prophets are about to bring many false regulations for diets, health and for other things. Christians are not obligated to believe but test the spirits for evil and falsehoods. Those who walk in mature faith will be able to discern deception and refute the powers of darkness who come against them. Are you walking in the power and authority God has promised you or are you a spiritual baby still unable to discern?
You may know some of the truth but your ignorance of God’s word may not just imperil you but those you love the most. Beware and be obedient today. Amen
Let’s Pray God’s deliverance and mercy upon us today and for our nation. Amen
Sept 5
Today’s theme from verse 17. Galatians Chapter 4, states that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking
The gentiles and many of the Jews In Paul’s day and rejected Christ in the futility of their thinking and hardened their hearts. This is the same in modern day America, in Sept 202; and applies to many regardless of party affiliation in our nation’s capital city. They believe they are above the law and should rule you, you inbetweeners. You unwashed peasants, how dare you believe you are free.
Read with me and think about the words we are reviewing – verse 19 and following:
19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
{the gentiles) Look at what is going on in every avenue here. The economy, paying people to not work, free health care, free education and none of it is free. We are killing our grandchildren and ourselves in debt and meanwhile ruining the economy. Open borders, bringing in hundreds of thousands of unvetted aliens placing them in red or republican states and allowing them to have all the privileges of American citizens and you pay the bill. Who will all vote for the other party and permanently ensuring the continuous flow of more benefits and more money. This combined with cheating at the ballot box will ensure one party dominance perpetually.
Paul states the obvious for those who are in Christ in verse 20 and following:
20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Now there is whole lot packed in these verses which we are only going to sample today. By the way I need this reminder as much as you do today. So pray Father gives us the heart and the backbone to stand in our weakness. For when we are weak we are strong.
This is what is needed in the churches of America today and we are not talking about buildings but people who sit in the pews, me included. The churches are in desperate need of Ephesians 5:26 26 that He might [a]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
We need to be restored to the purity of holiness and sanctification of our Lord, so that we might walk in His ways.
To do so verses 25 and following have strong recommendations to which we must discipline ourselves:
25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. {Quit lying and being deceived by lying}
26 “In your anger do not sin”[d]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, (don’t remain angry}
27 and do not give the devil a foothold. {keep an open heart with God, confess you sins}
28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, {want to make a regressive red hopping mad insist on working!} doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.{thinking of others as more valuable than yourselves?
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
(this one bit me very recently. Since people are so angry today, it is so easy for hostile people to challenge even being reasonable. It is amazing} Remember you are not invulnerable either.
Verse 30 here is a very important reason to pursue God and for staying right with Him. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. He is your helper, the Spirit of Truth, the Teacher, the paraclete who is one like Christ who walks with you and beside you. He is the promise one just like Jesus who seals you unto the promised day of redemption. You and I need Him desperately to fill us, strengthen us, speak in us and through us to others.
These last two verses 31 and 32 don’t have an answer of how to successfully navigate them until you get to Chapter 5.
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Successfully achieving this command requires the help of God Almighty that is why we need to go to Chapter 5 verses 1 and 2.
1Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.
Knowing the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord gives us the courage to be self-sacrificing and servants for Him.
You will fail if you struggle in the human sense trying your best to achieve these changes only relying on Christ and the infilling of the Holy Spirit will enable us to walk this path with our Savior. Oh how we need thee ever hour we need then. Precious lord my Savior come now and help me and each of these in Jesus name. Amen
Now you see why we need continual renewal in the body and blood of our Lord.
Today’s theme from verse 17. Galatians Chapter 4, states that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking
The gentiles and many of the Jews In Paul’s day and rejected Christ in the futility of their thinking and hardened their hearts. This is the same in modern day America, in Sept 202; and applies to many regardless of party affiliation in our nation’s capital city. They believe they are above the law and should rule you, you inbetweeners. You unwashed peasants, how dare you believe you are free.
Read with me and think about the words we are reviewing – verse 19 and following:
19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
{the gentiles) Look at what is going on in every avenue here. The economy, paying people to not work, free health care, free education and none of it is free. We are killing our grandchildren and ourselves in debt and meanwhile ruining the economy. Open borders, bringing in hundreds of thousands of unvetted aliens placing them in red or republican states and allowing them to have all the privileges of American citizens and you pay the bill. Who will all vote for the other party and permanently ensuring the continuous flow of more benefits and more money. This combined with cheating at the ballot box will ensure one party dominance perpetually.
Paul states the obvious for those who are in Christ in verse 20 and following:
20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Now there is whole lot packed in these verses which we are only going to sample today. By the way I need this reminder as much as you do today. So pray Father gives us the heart and the backbone to stand in our weakness. For when we are weak we are strong.
- The truth that is in Jesus. John 14:6, Thy word is truth. John 17:17
- Put off your old self, which is being corrupted by deceitful desire
- be made new in the attitude of your minds (Romans 12:2- Be transformed)
- Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 3)
This is what is needed in the churches of America today and we are not talking about buildings but people who sit in the pews, me included. The churches are in desperate need of Ephesians 5:26 26 that He might [a]sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
We need to be restored to the purity of holiness and sanctification of our Lord, so that we might walk in His ways.
To do so verses 25 and following have strong recommendations to which we must discipline ourselves:
25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. {Quit lying and being deceived by lying}
26 “In your anger do not sin”[d]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, (don’t remain angry}
27 and do not give the devil a foothold. {keep an open heart with God, confess you sins}
28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, {want to make a regressive red hopping mad insist on working!} doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.{thinking of others as more valuable than yourselves?
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
(this one bit me very recently. Since people are so angry today, it is so easy for hostile people to challenge even being reasonable. It is amazing} Remember you are not invulnerable either.
Verse 30 here is a very important reason to pursue God and for staying right with Him. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. He is your helper, the Spirit of Truth, the Teacher, the paraclete who is one like Christ who walks with you and beside you. He is the promise one just like Jesus who seals you unto the promised day of redemption. You and I need Him desperately to fill us, strengthen us, speak in us and through us to others.
These last two verses 31 and 32 don’t have an answer of how to successfully navigate them until you get to Chapter 5.
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Successfully achieving this command requires the help of God Almighty that is why we need to go to Chapter 5 verses 1 and 2.
1Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.
Knowing the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord gives us the courage to be self-sacrificing and servants for Him.
You will fail if you struggle in the human sense trying your best to achieve these changes only relying on Christ and the infilling of the Holy Spirit will enable us to walk this path with our Savior. Oh how we need thee ever hour we need then. Precious lord my Savior come now and help me and each of these in Jesus name. Amen
Now you see why we need continual renewal in the body and blood of our Lord.
August 29
Premise - Our God, through Jesus Christ said, He would never leave us or forsake us.
Christians in today’s world need to understand and experience the supernatural presence of God, His justice, His mercy and His love. Many people including believers, over react when they hear the word supernatural. It evokes the spooky, crawly terror filled response of the dark, destructive unknown. This is because we have been programmed and fed to respond in such a manner by the media, Hollywood and our own superstitious fear of the unknown.
The word and idea of something being Super-natural is the combination of two ideas. The word super which means to be above, over or outside of something. And the second word is nature or natural, which is the realm of this worlds flora and fauna and expresses something which is seen or understood about the earth.
But God in His very being and existence is the true expression of what it means to be supernatural. His very nature is outside the realm of our experience and His nature. He chooses to interact with His children outside of what you would expect or understand. Do you suppose the encounter of Moses at the burning bush was natural or the calling of Mary by the presence of an Angel was natural? How about when He called you? How about the whale and Jonah? That was definitely something outside what you would expect.
So God has encountered us, called upon us, fellowshipped and provided His Spirit in us and promised to be with us always. All of this has been accomplished by God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit supernaturally.
The realm of the supernatural is the realm of the impossible and that is where God operates. For with God all things are possible!
If we study scripture what can we learn about the physical presence and the supernatural presence of God?
God was physically present with Adam and Eve in the Garden- He walked with Adam in the garden in the cool of the evening.
God was physically present with Abraham and Sarah when He made the promise of the future heir coming from His body in the next year.
He was supernaturally present with Joseph throughout the many trials and tribulations of His life from the coat of many colors to the sale into slavery, the falsehood stated by Potiphar’s wife until He became the second most powerful in Egypt and was reconciled to His brothers.
He was present physically with Moses in the Burning Bush and spiritually present throughout the plagues in Egypt to the crossing at the Red Sea; including struggling against unbelief in the desert, and the resultant punishment of 40 years in the wilderness before leading to the promised land.
God was physically present with Joshua as he did his recon of Jerico and met the Commander of the Lord’s armies.
And on it goes through David, the prophets such as Isaac, Jeremiah, Daniel to Malachi. He was both present spiritually and physically to others.
In the New Testament then we come face to face with the person and physical presence of God in the incarnation – God in man in Jesus. We see Jesus interacting with temple leaders, the Jews, Gentiles and the dregs of society. Then in the
Gospel of John in chapter 16, Jesus embarks on preparing the disciples for the loss of His physical presence. Jesus who met with and led them day-by-day but now is preparing for His departure to return to His Father in Heaven.
Here in John chapter 16:7 the disciples are bemoaning His going away and He says, He is going to send “one just like Me.” He, the paraclete, the one just like Jesus, “will assist you in every way just like Me.” So Jesus then and after the crucifixion, His burial, and His resurrection will walk with us supernaturally by the presence of His Holy Spirit. He the Spirit of Truth will lead and guide you just like Jesus did. He will comfort, guide, lead, assist us in praying when we are not able. He will convict the believer of sin, righteousness and reveal things to come.
The book of Acts which is called the Acts of the Apostles is in actuality the acts of the Holy Spirit. The book of Acts is the activity of the Apostles in obedience to the supernatural presence of the Holy Spirit in executing the will and command of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is the experience of the believers in completing the great commission. Jesus’ command is to go into the world and witness to others about the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
For you and I today then the supernatural presence of the Holy Spirit is present in us just as He was throughout the entire workings of Paul, Barnabas, Thomas, John and Peter as they spread the gospel throughout the known world. Which is the story of the book of Act and the various letters to the churches in the new testament.
These books reflect and witness to the working of the Holy Spirit and God supernaturally throughout time and eternity. He is working in your life today if you will simply ask
Premise - Our God, through Jesus Christ said, He would never leave us or forsake us.
Christians in today’s world need to understand and experience the supernatural presence of God, His justice, His mercy and His love. Many people including believers, over react when they hear the word supernatural. It evokes the spooky, crawly terror filled response of the dark, destructive unknown. This is because we have been programmed and fed to respond in such a manner by the media, Hollywood and our own superstitious fear of the unknown.
The word and idea of something being Super-natural is the combination of two ideas. The word super which means to be above, over or outside of something. And the second word is nature or natural, which is the realm of this worlds flora and fauna and expresses something which is seen or understood about the earth.
But God in His very being and existence is the true expression of what it means to be supernatural. His very nature is outside the realm of our experience and His nature. He chooses to interact with His children outside of what you would expect or understand. Do you suppose the encounter of Moses at the burning bush was natural or the calling of Mary by the presence of an Angel was natural? How about when He called you? How about the whale and Jonah? That was definitely something outside what you would expect.
So God has encountered us, called upon us, fellowshipped and provided His Spirit in us and promised to be with us always. All of this has been accomplished by God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit supernaturally.
The realm of the supernatural is the realm of the impossible and that is where God operates. For with God all things are possible!
If we study scripture what can we learn about the physical presence and the supernatural presence of God?
God was physically present with Adam and Eve in the Garden- He walked with Adam in the garden in the cool of the evening.
God was physically present with Abraham and Sarah when He made the promise of the future heir coming from His body in the next year.
He was supernaturally present with Joseph throughout the many trials and tribulations of His life from the coat of many colors to the sale into slavery, the falsehood stated by Potiphar’s wife until He became the second most powerful in Egypt and was reconciled to His brothers.
He was present physically with Moses in the Burning Bush and spiritually present throughout the plagues in Egypt to the crossing at the Red Sea; including struggling against unbelief in the desert, and the resultant punishment of 40 years in the wilderness before leading to the promised land.
God was physically present with Joshua as he did his recon of Jerico and met the Commander of the Lord’s armies.
And on it goes through David, the prophets such as Isaac, Jeremiah, Daniel to Malachi. He was both present spiritually and physically to others.
In the New Testament then we come face to face with the person and physical presence of God in the incarnation – God in man in Jesus. We see Jesus interacting with temple leaders, the Jews, Gentiles and the dregs of society. Then in the
Gospel of John in chapter 16, Jesus embarks on preparing the disciples for the loss of His physical presence. Jesus who met with and led them day-by-day but now is preparing for His departure to return to His Father in Heaven.
Here in John chapter 16:7 the disciples are bemoaning His going away and He says, He is going to send “one just like Me.” He, the paraclete, the one just like Jesus, “will assist you in every way just like Me.” So Jesus then and after the crucifixion, His burial, and His resurrection will walk with us supernaturally by the presence of His Holy Spirit. He the Spirit of Truth will lead and guide you just like Jesus did. He will comfort, guide, lead, assist us in praying when we are not able. He will convict the believer of sin, righteousness and reveal things to come.
The book of Acts which is called the Acts of the Apostles is in actuality the acts of the Holy Spirit. The book of Acts is the activity of the Apostles in obedience to the supernatural presence of the Holy Spirit in executing the will and command of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is the experience of the believers in completing the great commission. Jesus’ command is to go into the world and witness to others about the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
For you and I today then the supernatural presence of the Holy Spirit is present in us just as He was throughout the entire workings of Paul, Barnabas, Thomas, John and Peter as they spread the gospel throughout the known world. Which is the story of the book of Act and the various letters to the churches in the new testament.
These books reflect and witness to the working of the Holy Spirit and God supernaturally throughout time and eternity. He is working in your life today if you will simply ask
Aug 22
Lamentations 3:20 My soul still remembers And [h]sinks within me.
21 This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
22 Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,“Therefore I hope in Him!”
25 The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.
26 It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the Lord.
Introduction: This is a great passage, because it deals with one of life’s most pressing questions. As a Christian, how do you deal with sorrow? How do you cope with suffering and loss? How do you handle the emotions that accompany the difficulties you are experiencing? How should our response as Christians be different from the response of those who do not believe in or want to know the Lord?
I believe they should be and I believe that these passage in Lamentations teaches us valuable truths about dealing with loss and sorrow and experiencing the faithfulness and mercy of God. (Read Lamentations 3:19-27 and let’s pray.)
The book of Lamentations contains a series of laments concerning the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. The author, most likely Jeremiah, speaks for the nation of Israel. Throughout the book the prophet details the many losses that the Israelites suffered in the destruction of the city. He writes of the unspeakable horrors of starvation and cruelty to the people suffered in the siege leading up to the capture of the city.
Once the Babylonians took the city, they ruthlessly killed many of the people. They took the strongest and best of the survivors and marched them off as slaves into exile. They ransacked the temple; they broke down the city walls; they left the streets and houses in ruins. Everything was stripped away, and the Israelites suffered immense loss. What was even worse, the Israelites had brought all this on themselves. Sounds like what we have done in Afghanistan and what the communist progressives are trying like crazy to implement in America. This is how critical race theory will eventually play out in America if we allow it to happen. You and I must speak out against this darkness. Let’s not miss our moment!
So the Israelites and we in America have rebelled against God and defied his commands. We and they are responsible for the losses they suffered because of our sin and rebellion. America is no different and that is why God is humbling us, until we return to Him. Think on the Philistines.
The book of Lamentations was written in the aftermath of this sin and resulting incredible sorrow and loss.
So what are we to do when we are faced with sinful sorrow, regret and loss in our lives? How do you keep from sinking down under its depressing weight?
How do you keep the sorrow and troubles of the past from poisoning the present and obscuring the future? How do you find any hope to carry on? I believe we will only find that true remedy in the Word of God, the Bible. Let’s check Lamentations now.
Begin with verses 19 to 21. In these verses we find Jeremiah remembering all the sorrows that Israel had recently experienced. And the more he dwells on these sorrows, the more sorrowful he becomes. That leads us to the first truth - Dwelling on your sorrow will only increase your sorrow, frustration and discouragement.
How does it increase your sorrow? First of all, dwelling on your sorrow poisons your life with a root of bitterness. Look at verse 19: “I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.” The writer remembers. He is dealing with memories. And he uses four words to describe those memories: affliction, wandering, bitterness and gall. You keep recycling your memories, guilt and shame and it causes bitterness, gall,etc.
Dwelling on your sorrow will also lead you to depression and despair. Check verse 20. As he dwells on all these bitter memories, the author writes: “I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.” This phrase “I well remember them” is unique in the Hebrew. It’s actually the word “remember” used twice – “I remember remember them.” Some of us are so good at remembering the negatives in our lives, we don’t just remember them; we relive them! This comes to dominate our thoughts. And when you twice remember your troubles, when you dwell on the sorrows in your life, that will become depressed.
We see this at the end of verse 20: “My soul is downcast within me.”
Because of bitterness and depression and all this, dwelling on your sorrows You cannot experience hope.
You can’t look up by looking down.
You can’t find hope by dwelling on your troubles. Hope is the exact opposite of despair. So to find hope there must be a turning point. This occurs in and that’s verse 21. The author writes: “Yet this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope.”
So what does the author call to mind?
A. God is faithful in his great love for you. (22-24)
1) God’s compassions never fail.
God is faithful in his great love for you. Look at verse 22. “It is because of the Lord’s great love that we are not consumed.” The word “love” here is a word which is used for God’s covenant love and loyalty to his people. It could even be translated “God’s faithful love.”
You pick that up in some translations which speak here of God’s “mercies.” It’s the same word used in the plural in Psalm 89:1 – “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever.” It’s as if the word “love” in the singular is not enough to describe God’s great love for us. God’s love is so great it has to be in the plural. All of God, 3 in 1 loves you greatly.
That word consumed means “to be absolutely finished, to be at the end.” Ever been there? Ever felt like you were at the end of your rope? The end of the road? The end of everything, like you’ve got nothing left to give? That’s what the word “consumed” means. But verse 22 says that because of God’s great love you are not consumed, you are not finished, you are not at the end.
v.22 “for his compassions never fail.” The word “compassion” is a beautiful word in the Hebrew. In Hebrew it is literally the word “womb.” And so verse 22 speaks of God’s love towards us in terms of the tender, compassionate love that a mother has for her child that she carries in the womb. This is part of the breathtaking beauty of our God: his power, his might, his strength, his stern and absolute justice, and yet at the same time his tender and compassionate love for his children. Notice that this word is also used in the plural – “his compassions” – to emphasize further God’s wonderful, tender compassion and mercies.
“His compassions never fail.”
The phrase “never fail” is very powerful and has a similar meaning to the here. It signifies “to be finished, to be completed, and at an end.” So when you combine all the contexts and meanings of verse 22 united as one, it teaches us a precious truth. You may feel like you are at your end, but God is not finished. You shouldn’t say, “I’m done, I quit!” because God is never finished, and God will never quit until you are complete in His Son. He never fails, He will prevail, because His compassions never fail. Because of Him therefore you have hope. Praise the Lord!
2) God’s compassions are new every morning. (23)
God’s compassions never fail and are renewed daily. Verse 23 says, “They are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness!” God’s compassions and mercies are fresh and new every morning. God never serves leftovers. His compassion never grows tired or stale. He provides fresh, new, tender love and compassion each day. God’s love is sure as the sunrise and is a sign of His faithfulness and grace.
The seasons of the year testify to God’s “great and continued faithfulness, mercy and love.” It’s like that hymn we often sing: “summer and winter, springtime and harvest,” all testify to God’s faithfulness. The renewal of the promise of each new day is a reminder of God’s faithful love: God’s compassions never fail; they are new every morning. Remember the promise of the rainbow, which has been stolen by evil men and women. God’s rainbow is the promise of continuance until He comes in final judgement. He will never again destroy the earth by a flood.
3) Do as you are told in v.24, make God your portion.
Because of God’s faithful love, the writer says here: “I say to myself, ‘The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.’” What is your portion? It is whatever you are waiting for. So, let me ask, what are you waiting for today? Are you waiting for a windfall? An inheritance? A change in circumstances? Whatever is causing your sorrow to go away? Or are you waiting upon the Lord? Your portion as a believer in Christ in His person. That should be your soul’s desire and your portion. Jesus Christ and the Father never fail. Their promises are new every morning. He is the Covenant keeper and He is faith
B. God is faithful in his goodness to you. (25-27)
Verses 25-27 in the original Hebrew all begin with the same word – the word “good.” And so there are three ways God is faithful in his goodness to you.
1) Learn to trust God’s character. (25)
First of all, learn to trust God’s character. v. 25: “The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.” God is good through and through. Thomas Brooks, a Puritan author put it this way: “God, in that He is good, can give nothing, nor do nothing, but that which is good.” Learn to trust God’s character, even when things don’t seem to be going according to your plans.
Why? Because God is good! All the time! It can be no other way. Learn to trust God’s character. “The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.”
2) Learn to trust God’s timing. (26)
Secondly, learn to trust God’s timing. We see this in verse 26: “It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.” The word “salvation” here is a word that can mean “salvation or deliverance.” It often refers to salvation from sin, but it can also mean deliverance from anything – from sickness, from your enemies, or from whatever may be causing you sorrow or grief.
We need to learn to trust God’s timing. God’s timing is always good. God is never early, never late, always on time. But I’ve got to tell you, I sometimes find myself asking him, “Lord, couldn’t you be early just once in a while?” Learn to trust God’s timing instead of yours. “
3) Learn to trust God’s discipline. (27)
Learn to trust God’s character, His timing, and finally, learn to trust His discipline. Look at verse 27: “It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young.” To bear the yoke is to learn to submit to God even in the hard times. God uses the difficult times in your life for good to build character and to impart discipline in you.
Don’t think of discipline as punishment for sin. Discipline is God’s training. The book of Hebrews says that chastisement or discipline is one of God’s proofs you are his child.
Do you see the word “man” in verse 27? It’s not the usual word for man in Hebrew. This specific word means “a strong or a mighty man or woman, a warrior.” How do you become a strong warrior for the Lord? You have to bear the yoke and take up your cross and follow Him.
Don’t fight God during the hard times.
Learn to trust God’s character. Learn to trust God’s timing. Learn to trust God’s discipline.
What do these verses teach us this day? Dwelling on your difficulties only increases your sorrow. But focusing on God brings hope.
Allow me to encourage you this morning: choose to remember God’s faithfulness.
– God is faithful in his great love for you: his compassions never fail; they are new every morning.
– God is faithful in his goodness to you: learn to trust his character, his timing and his discipline in your life.
Lamentations 3:20 My soul still remembers And [h]sinks within me.
21 This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
22 Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,“Therefore I hope in Him!”
25 The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.
26 It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the Lord.
Introduction: This is a great passage, because it deals with one of life’s most pressing questions. As a Christian, how do you deal with sorrow? How do you cope with suffering and loss? How do you handle the emotions that accompany the difficulties you are experiencing? How should our response as Christians be different from the response of those who do not believe in or want to know the Lord?
I believe they should be and I believe that these passage in Lamentations teaches us valuable truths about dealing with loss and sorrow and experiencing the faithfulness and mercy of God. (Read Lamentations 3:19-27 and let’s pray.)
The book of Lamentations contains a series of laments concerning the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. The author, most likely Jeremiah, speaks for the nation of Israel. Throughout the book the prophet details the many losses that the Israelites suffered in the destruction of the city. He writes of the unspeakable horrors of starvation and cruelty to the people suffered in the siege leading up to the capture of the city.
Once the Babylonians took the city, they ruthlessly killed many of the people. They took the strongest and best of the survivors and marched them off as slaves into exile. They ransacked the temple; they broke down the city walls; they left the streets and houses in ruins. Everything was stripped away, and the Israelites suffered immense loss. What was even worse, the Israelites had brought all this on themselves. Sounds like what we have done in Afghanistan and what the communist progressives are trying like crazy to implement in America. This is how critical race theory will eventually play out in America if we allow it to happen. You and I must speak out against this darkness. Let’s not miss our moment!
So the Israelites and we in America have rebelled against God and defied his commands. We and they are responsible for the losses they suffered because of our sin and rebellion. America is no different and that is why God is humbling us, until we return to Him. Think on the Philistines.
The book of Lamentations was written in the aftermath of this sin and resulting incredible sorrow and loss.
So what are we to do when we are faced with sinful sorrow, regret and loss in our lives? How do you keep from sinking down under its depressing weight?
How do you keep the sorrow and troubles of the past from poisoning the present and obscuring the future? How do you find any hope to carry on? I believe we will only find that true remedy in the Word of God, the Bible. Let’s check Lamentations now.
Begin with verses 19 to 21. In these verses we find Jeremiah remembering all the sorrows that Israel had recently experienced. And the more he dwells on these sorrows, the more sorrowful he becomes. That leads us to the first truth - Dwelling on your sorrow will only increase your sorrow, frustration and discouragement.
How does it increase your sorrow? First of all, dwelling on your sorrow poisons your life with a root of bitterness. Look at verse 19: “I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.” The writer remembers. He is dealing with memories. And he uses four words to describe those memories: affliction, wandering, bitterness and gall. You keep recycling your memories, guilt and shame and it causes bitterness, gall,etc.
Dwelling on your sorrow will also lead you to depression and despair. Check verse 20. As he dwells on all these bitter memories, the author writes: “I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.” This phrase “I well remember them” is unique in the Hebrew. It’s actually the word “remember” used twice – “I remember remember them.” Some of us are so good at remembering the negatives in our lives, we don’t just remember them; we relive them! This comes to dominate our thoughts. And when you twice remember your troubles, when you dwell on the sorrows in your life, that will become depressed.
We see this at the end of verse 20: “My soul is downcast within me.”
Because of bitterness and depression and all this, dwelling on your sorrows You cannot experience hope.
You can’t look up by looking down.
You can’t find hope by dwelling on your troubles. Hope is the exact opposite of despair. So to find hope there must be a turning point. This occurs in and that’s verse 21. The author writes: “Yet this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope.”
So what does the author call to mind?
A. God is faithful in his great love for you. (22-24)
1) God’s compassions never fail.
God is faithful in his great love for you. Look at verse 22. “It is because of the Lord’s great love that we are not consumed.” The word “love” here is a word which is used for God’s covenant love and loyalty to his people. It could even be translated “God’s faithful love.”
You pick that up in some translations which speak here of God’s “mercies.” It’s the same word used in the plural in Psalm 89:1 – “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever.” It’s as if the word “love” in the singular is not enough to describe God’s great love for us. God’s love is so great it has to be in the plural. All of God, 3 in 1 loves you greatly.
That word consumed means “to be absolutely finished, to be at the end.” Ever been there? Ever felt like you were at the end of your rope? The end of the road? The end of everything, like you’ve got nothing left to give? That’s what the word “consumed” means. But verse 22 says that because of God’s great love you are not consumed, you are not finished, you are not at the end.
v.22 “for his compassions never fail.” The word “compassion” is a beautiful word in the Hebrew. In Hebrew it is literally the word “womb.” And so verse 22 speaks of God’s love towards us in terms of the tender, compassionate love that a mother has for her child that she carries in the womb. This is part of the breathtaking beauty of our God: his power, his might, his strength, his stern and absolute justice, and yet at the same time his tender and compassionate love for his children. Notice that this word is also used in the plural – “his compassions” – to emphasize further God’s wonderful, tender compassion and mercies.
“His compassions never fail.”
The phrase “never fail” is very powerful and has a similar meaning to the here. It signifies “to be finished, to be completed, and at an end.” So when you combine all the contexts and meanings of verse 22 united as one, it teaches us a precious truth. You may feel like you are at your end, but God is not finished. You shouldn’t say, “I’m done, I quit!” because God is never finished, and God will never quit until you are complete in His Son. He never fails, He will prevail, because His compassions never fail. Because of Him therefore you have hope. Praise the Lord!
2) God’s compassions are new every morning. (23)
God’s compassions never fail and are renewed daily. Verse 23 says, “They are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness!” God’s compassions and mercies are fresh and new every morning. God never serves leftovers. His compassion never grows tired or stale. He provides fresh, new, tender love and compassion each day. God’s love is sure as the sunrise and is a sign of His faithfulness and grace.
The seasons of the year testify to God’s “great and continued faithfulness, mercy and love.” It’s like that hymn we often sing: “summer and winter, springtime and harvest,” all testify to God’s faithfulness. The renewal of the promise of each new day is a reminder of God’s faithful love: God’s compassions never fail; they are new every morning. Remember the promise of the rainbow, which has been stolen by evil men and women. God’s rainbow is the promise of continuance until He comes in final judgement. He will never again destroy the earth by a flood.
3) Do as you are told in v.24, make God your portion.
Because of God’s faithful love, the writer says here: “I say to myself, ‘The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.’” What is your portion? It is whatever you are waiting for. So, let me ask, what are you waiting for today? Are you waiting for a windfall? An inheritance? A change in circumstances? Whatever is causing your sorrow to go away? Or are you waiting upon the Lord? Your portion as a believer in Christ in His person. That should be your soul’s desire and your portion. Jesus Christ and the Father never fail. Their promises are new every morning. He is the Covenant keeper and He is faith
B. God is faithful in his goodness to you. (25-27)
Verses 25-27 in the original Hebrew all begin with the same word – the word “good.” And so there are three ways God is faithful in his goodness to you.
1) Learn to trust God’s character. (25)
First of all, learn to trust God’s character. v. 25: “The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.” God is good through and through. Thomas Brooks, a Puritan author put it this way: “God, in that He is good, can give nothing, nor do nothing, but that which is good.” Learn to trust God’s character, even when things don’t seem to be going according to your plans.
Why? Because God is good! All the time! It can be no other way. Learn to trust God’s character. “The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.”
2) Learn to trust God’s timing. (26)
Secondly, learn to trust God’s timing. We see this in verse 26: “It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.” The word “salvation” here is a word that can mean “salvation or deliverance.” It often refers to salvation from sin, but it can also mean deliverance from anything – from sickness, from your enemies, or from whatever may be causing you sorrow or grief.
We need to learn to trust God’s timing. God’s timing is always good. God is never early, never late, always on time. But I’ve got to tell you, I sometimes find myself asking him, “Lord, couldn’t you be early just once in a while?” Learn to trust God’s timing instead of yours. “
3) Learn to trust God’s discipline. (27)
Learn to trust God’s character, His timing, and finally, learn to trust His discipline. Look at verse 27: “It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young.” To bear the yoke is to learn to submit to God even in the hard times. God uses the difficult times in your life for good to build character and to impart discipline in you.
Don’t think of discipline as punishment for sin. Discipline is God’s training. The book of Hebrews says that chastisement or discipline is one of God’s proofs you are his child.
Do you see the word “man” in verse 27? It’s not the usual word for man in Hebrew. This specific word means “a strong or a mighty man or woman, a warrior.” How do you become a strong warrior for the Lord? You have to bear the yoke and take up your cross and follow Him.
Don’t fight God during the hard times.
Learn to trust God’s character. Learn to trust God’s timing. Learn to trust God’s discipline.
What do these verses teach us this day? Dwelling on your difficulties only increases your sorrow. But focusing on God brings hope.
Allow me to encourage you this morning: choose to remember God’s faithfulness.
– God is faithful in his great love for you: his compassions never fail; they are new every morning.
– God is faithful in his goodness to you: learn to trust his character, his timing and his discipline in your life.
Aug 1
Adonai is one of the names of God. In most English translations of the Bible it is translated as "Lord" with lower case letters, whereas the name. Adonai is a form of the word adon, which comes from a root word meaning "to rule." So adon means "lord or master." Adon was used for governing authorities such as kings (Daniel 1:10). It was used for military commanders (2 Kings 5:1), teachers or mentors (2 Kings 6:5), and even oldest brothers (Genesis 32:4). And, it was also used for employers and owners of servants and slaves (Genesis 24:65).
Adonai is a form of adon that is both plural and possessive. Since Adonai uses singular pronouns when it refers to God, we know that God is one master, not many. So rather than showing plurality of the Godhead, this plural ending is a Hebrew device used to emphasize intensity. In other words, using the plural ending conveys that God is a "very great lord master."
The possessive ending personalizes our relationship. So God is not merely "our very great lord master"—He is "MY very great lord master." It is a relationship that is personal, ongoing, and two-sided. He is my master and I am His servant. Masters had a responsibility to protect, provide for, and promote their servants to earned positions of authority. Jewish servants were considered members of their masters' households. According to Paul we are all slaves. The unsaved are slaves to sin and the redeemed are slaves to righteousness in Christ. {Romans 6-15-20}.
So since we are those who are slaves to our Master Adonai who is God and who is Christ. Maybe we should understand how to behave, honor, glorify and have faith in our Master as we begin even now living in His household of the Family of God. We should be growing in righteousness, holiness, wisdom and truth as we walk in the Spirit. So perhaps we need to bone up on why it is essential to study the Word of God and know what He says.
So the focus of our lesson today is on the Bible. But to begin with the Bible is a human word. It tends to ignore the significance of what the book represents. I believe we should more correctly refer to this book as the Word of God, depending of course on the translation. Some versions are paraphrases and are not literal translations of God’s words so we need to be careful.
Then what do we mean by the word, word in your bible’s concordance here are some of the references you will find – 937 returns but let’s concentrate on a few. If you look up Psalm 119 11Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Refers to this book and our response to what we hear. Then in John1:1 we see a reference to the Eternal Word-
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Further in John 1, we have a reference to the Word becoming flesh – 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
So the Word also references itself as Jesus ,who is God and as presented to us by the Father as “This is My beloved Son.” With the admonition to “Hear Him.”
So perhaps we should pay attention. Since Jesus is the express image of the Father and He is Word made flesh and this is His book, do you think there might be a message to which we should be attuned?
So what is the Bible or as we should choose to revere it as the Word of God.
So we say This Word is the inspired, inerrant, infallible and holy word of God. How can we say that?
2 Tim 3:16-17 - 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [c]instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Now I give you the entire relevant scripture as we will refer to it later but for the moment look at just this first phrase - 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,
Now turn to 2nd Peter 1:20-21 20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private [j]interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but [k]holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
You want to know what inspired by God means well here it is in 2nd Peter verse 1. God used men to write this book but make no mistake, God’s hand led each of the writers to produce this book.
God over a period of 1600 yrs. He used 40 kings, prophets, leaders, and followers of Jesus in the writing. 37 books are in the Old Testament and 29 are in the New Testament. The Word of God was written mainly in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek. The Word of God has been translated today into 2, 883 languages. We have manuscripts available to check the accuracy of the written text from as early as 250 AD for the NT and as far in the past on Stone for portions of the OT from 1500 BC. Jesus is mentioned in every book, indirectly in Ester as God’s name is not mentioned but God’s sovereign hand preserves the Jews.
Last point for today is the Word is living. This is from Hebrews, Chapter 4, verses 12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Do you understand this truth?
Not much more to add except that anyone who says the Word of God, is not relevant for today, does not have the Holy Spirit in their life. For if they did they would understand the living word speaks because God uses it to speak to us .
So I challenge you today are you listening and in turn praying back to the Father using to the Word of God? Remember to get a word you should immerse yourself, search and seek in His Word, before He will give you a word. There is no pat formula for seeking God.
What kind of a student of the Word are you? May God increase our desire to study and show ourselves approved as we use His word for knowing doctrine, for reproof or correction when we are in error; or for our continued growth and instruction in righteousness. May we Lord be your men and women who are complete in Your book, thoroughly equipped for every good work. Amen
Adonai is one of the names of God. In most English translations of the Bible it is translated as "Lord" with lower case letters, whereas the name. Adonai is a form of the word adon, which comes from a root word meaning "to rule." So adon means "lord or master." Adon was used for governing authorities such as kings (Daniel 1:10). It was used for military commanders (2 Kings 5:1), teachers or mentors (2 Kings 6:5), and even oldest brothers (Genesis 32:4). And, it was also used for employers and owners of servants and slaves (Genesis 24:65).
Adonai is a form of adon that is both plural and possessive. Since Adonai uses singular pronouns when it refers to God, we know that God is one master, not many. So rather than showing plurality of the Godhead, this plural ending is a Hebrew device used to emphasize intensity. In other words, using the plural ending conveys that God is a "very great lord master."
The possessive ending personalizes our relationship. So God is not merely "our very great lord master"—He is "MY very great lord master." It is a relationship that is personal, ongoing, and two-sided. He is my master and I am His servant. Masters had a responsibility to protect, provide for, and promote their servants to earned positions of authority. Jewish servants were considered members of their masters' households. According to Paul we are all slaves. The unsaved are slaves to sin and the redeemed are slaves to righteousness in Christ. {Romans 6-15-20}.
So since we are those who are slaves to our Master Adonai who is God and who is Christ. Maybe we should understand how to behave, honor, glorify and have faith in our Master as we begin even now living in His household of the Family of God. We should be growing in righteousness, holiness, wisdom and truth as we walk in the Spirit. So perhaps we need to bone up on why it is essential to study the Word of God and know what He says.
So the focus of our lesson today is on the Bible. But to begin with the Bible is a human word. It tends to ignore the significance of what the book represents. I believe we should more correctly refer to this book as the Word of God, depending of course on the translation. Some versions are paraphrases and are not literal translations of God’s words so we need to be careful.
Then what do we mean by the word, word in your bible’s concordance here are some of the references you will find – 937 returns but let’s concentrate on a few. If you look up Psalm 119 11Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Refers to this book and our response to what we hear. Then in John1:1 we see a reference to the Eternal Word-
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Further in John 1, we have a reference to the Word becoming flesh – 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
So the Word also references itself as Jesus ,who is God and as presented to us by the Father as “This is My beloved Son.” With the admonition to “Hear Him.”
So perhaps we should pay attention. Since Jesus is the express image of the Father and He is Word made flesh and this is His book, do you think there might be a message to which we should be attuned?
So what is the Bible or as we should choose to revere it as the Word of God.
So we say This Word is the inspired, inerrant, infallible and holy word of God. How can we say that?
2 Tim 3:16-17 - 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [c]instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Now I give you the entire relevant scripture as we will refer to it later but for the moment look at just this first phrase - 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,
Now turn to 2nd Peter 1:20-21 20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private [j]interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but [k]holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
You want to know what inspired by God means well here it is in 2nd Peter verse 1. God used men to write this book but make no mistake, God’s hand led each of the writers to produce this book.
God over a period of 1600 yrs. He used 40 kings, prophets, leaders, and followers of Jesus in the writing. 37 books are in the Old Testament and 29 are in the New Testament. The Word of God was written mainly in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek. The Word of God has been translated today into 2, 883 languages. We have manuscripts available to check the accuracy of the written text from as early as 250 AD for the NT and as far in the past on Stone for portions of the OT from 1500 BC. Jesus is mentioned in every book, indirectly in Ester as God’s name is not mentioned but God’s sovereign hand preserves the Jews.
Last point for today is the Word is living. This is from Hebrews, Chapter 4, verses 12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Do you understand this truth?
Not much more to add except that anyone who says the Word of God, is not relevant for today, does not have the Holy Spirit in their life. For if they did they would understand the living word speaks because God uses it to speak to us .
So I challenge you today are you listening and in turn praying back to the Father using to the Word of God? Remember to get a word you should immerse yourself, search and seek in His Word, before He will give you a word. There is no pat formula for seeking God.
What kind of a student of the Word are you? May God increase our desire to study and show ourselves approved as we use His word for knowing doctrine, for reproof or correction when we are in error; or for our continued growth and instruction in righteousness. May we Lord be your men and women who are complete in Your book, thoroughly equipped for every good work. Amen
July 25
Verse 1:
What this dying world could use is a willing Man of God
Who dares to go against the grain and works without applause;
A man who'll raise the shield of Faith, protecting what is pure;
Whose love is tough and gentle; a man whose word is sure.
Verse 2:
God doesn't need an Orator who knows just what to say;
He doesn't need authorities to reason Him away;
He doesn't need an army to guarantee a win;
He just needs a Few Good Men.
Chorus:
Men full of Compassion, who Laugh and Love and Cry-
Men who'll face Eternity and aren't afraid to die-
Men who'll fight for Freedom and Honor once again-
He just needs a Few Good Men.
Verse 3:
He calls the broken derelict whose life has been renewed;
He calls the one who has the strength to stand up for the Truth.
Enlistment lines are open and He wants you to come in-
He just needs a Few Good Men.
-Chorus 3 times
Love this song but Jesus doesn’t need a few good men who strive to be their best for Him. What He actually needs are men and women who are sold out to Jesus and walking in the Spirit as Paul tells us in Philippians and Colossians. These men and women are HOLY Spirit filled and sold out for Jesus. Here is how the walk and breath in Jesus- John 15:1-5: 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you[b] will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
NOTICE the conditions for fellowship with the savior. First, our position in Christ in the Kingdom - we are branches off the vine. Second, we must live or abide in Christ Jesus. There is whole lot packed in this bullet. Third, we realize and understand our absolute dependence upon Jesus and the Holy Spirits leading
Failure to meet these means we are cast out and withered- no more spiritual fruit and they are burned end of story.
Fourth, the Word of God will reside in you and you will have a burning desire for more.
Fifth, Asking or praying to the Lord will be direct, empowered and blessed of God. In fulfilling each of these activities you will glorify God and because of your obedience you will bear fruit – a great harvest because of God’s blessings.
So who is ready to sign up? Oops wait a minute what was that in the tag line in the chorus of the song-
. Men full of Compassion, who Laugh and Love and Cry-
Men who'll face Eternity and aren't afraid to die-
Men who'll fight for Freedom and Honor once again-
He just needs a Few Good Men. Yep there it is aren’t afraid to die.
This is a tough one - Men who'll face Eternity and aren't afraid to die-.
Two types of death will occur to these good men and women who God calls to stand up for Jesus. The First death will be death to self. When the Lord reveals Himself to someone, and they call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. He or she will have to die to self. Jesus say, If any man would come after Me let him deny himself and take up His cross and follow Me. Luke 9:23 Becoming God centered and no longer being self-centered is one of the first results of true conversion.
The Second death is to learn to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Cor 5:7), trusting in the Saviors leading. If God in Christ, via the Holy Spirit is living in you, as God chose to do with Jesus, He may ask you to give your life for Him, Are you prepared to actually pay the price and give all your physical life to Christ, by dying? As you consider this question you should ponder and remember that Jesus is your Life, for in Him, He is your life for eternity. If you have but one death to give, giving it for Jesus should be considered an honor.
If we go back to our text and look at the verses we just read, these verses gave us five conditions for fellowship. Let’s read and review our text John 15:5ff, 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you[b] will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
Then we stated the conditions for fellowship: First, our position in Christ is we are branches off the vine. Second, we must abide completely in Christ Jesus. Third, we realize and understand our absolute dependence upon Jesus and the Holy Spirits leading
Not meeting these causes us to be cast out and withered- no more spiritual fruit and we are burned up
Fourth, the Word of God resides in you and you have a burning desire for more.
Fifth, Asking or praying to the Lord will be direct, empowered and blessed of God.
If we fulfill these activities we will glorify God and because of our obedience we will bear fruit. But step back and consider this if we fulfill these steps what will be the attitude of our heart? Will we not be willing to give all for Christ.
Walk with me now as we dig deeper starting with point #1. Jesus says He is the vine we are the branches. Jesus then is the source of our living and our life. He gives life to all who are His and to all things in our lives. You and I, if we are His children are branches in His life. But according to Jesus when He spoke to Nicodemus we have to have be born and have life in two dimensions. Jesus said, Ye must be born of water and the Spirit, Ye must be born again. {John 3}There is life in the human body which comes from natural child birth. This would be birth by water and the second life, would be spiritual birth and life in the Spirit. If we are alive in Christ we have had both water birth and birth in the Holy Spirit and become a child of the King. Can I have an Amen?
Point #2- He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. As we said before we must abide completely in Christ Jesus. If we were to parse Proverbs 3:5 and 6 or Psalm 37: 4 and 5, we might be surprised at the demand to believe and trust only in Him.
4 Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
5 Commit[a] your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
If we realize that apart from Jesus we can do nothing, then delighting in the Lord and committing our way unto Him is very similar to realizing that apart from Him nothing is possible. I am continually reminded of the verse which is in Jeremiah 29:13, which might be a great definition for abiding in Christ. - 13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. When I search for Jesus with all my heart then I will be abiding in Christ.
Point #3.not only do I need to abide but there is a critical dependency in my life on the activity of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is to lead me into the truth, guide my heart and mind, convict me of personal sin and call me to repentance; open my heart and understanding to apply the Word of God; direct my steps in the ways of righteousness; help me to pray and provide comfort and peace as we obey and follow Jesus. He has a big job, but so do we. We are to continually turn to Him and realize this is the One Jesus sent to the disciples and we are the continuing embodiment of the living book of Acts. For while the book chronicles the steps of the Apostles we are the following chapters as disciples of Christ in each following generation to the Acts of the Holy Spirit in us.
Points #4 and #5 - Four, the Word of God resides in you and you have a burning desire for more. And now Five, Asking or praying to the Lord will be direct, empowered and blessed of God.
So we have already given away the source of the power to enable these two when walking in the Spirit. We described the attributes of what the Holy Spirit desires to accomplish in your life and these are accomplished when you yield to the Holy Spirits leading.
One final item is that coming against you is the spirit of deceit and deception from the prince and power of the air. While defeated He still is attempting to take as many souls to hell as he can. Read 2 Thessalonians Chapter 2. Verse 3 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of [b]sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits [c]as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.
9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
Delusion and deception are coming soon to a place near you from the prince of all lies and deception. So you will be tempted to be deceived and deluded but who is able to keep you from falling the Lord Jesus Christ.
Walk according to the word and in the Spirit and you will not be deluded or deceived because Christ promises to keep us apart.
God is called today for a few good men and women to sign up in the Army of God, which includes all services and members who will trust in the Lord with all their heart and lean not on their own understanding. Amen
Verse 1:
What this dying world could use is a willing Man of God
Who dares to go against the grain and works without applause;
A man who'll raise the shield of Faith, protecting what is pure;
Whose love is tough and gentle; a man whose word is sure.
Verse 2:
God doesn't need an Orator who knows just what to say;
He doesn't need authorities to reason Him away;
He doesn't need an army to guarantee a win;
He just needs a Few Good Men.
Chorus:
Men full of Compassion, who Laugh and Love and Cry-
Men who'll face Eternity and aren't afraid to die-
Men who'll fight for Freedom and Honor once again-
He just needs a Few Good Men.
Verse 3:
He calls the broken derelict whose life has been renewed;
He calls the one who has the strength to stand up for the Truth.
Enlistment lines are open and He wants you to come in-
He just needs a Few Good Men.
-Chorus 3 times
Love this song but Jesus doesn’t need a few good men who strive to be their best for Him. What He actually needs are men and women who are sold out to Jesus and walking in the Spirit as Paul tells us in Philippians and Colossians. These men and women are HOLY Spirit filled and sold out for Jesus. Here is how the walk and breath in Jesus- John 15:1-5: 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you[b] will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
NOTICE the conditions for fellowship with the savior. First, our position in Christ in the Kingdom - we are branches off the vine. Second, we must live or abide in Christ Jesus. There is whole lot packed in this bullet. Third, we realize and understand our absolute dependence upon Jesus and the Holy Spirits leading
Failure to meet these means we are cast out and withered- no more spiritual fruit and they are burned end of story.
Fourth, the Word of God will reside in you and you will have a burning desire for more.
Fifth, Asking or praying to the Lord will be direct, empowered and blessed of God. In fulfilling each of these activities you will glorify God and because of your obedience you will bear fruit – a great harvest because of God’s blessings.
So who is ready to sign up? Oops wait a minute what was that in the tag line in the chorus of the song-
. Men full of Compassion, who Laugh and Love and Cry-
Men who'll face Eternity and aren't afraid to die-
Men who'll fight for Freedom and Honor once again-
He just needs a Few Good Men. Yep there it is aren’t afraid to die.
This is a tough one - Men who'll face Eternity and aren't afraid to die-.
Two types of death will occur to these good men and women who God calls to stand up for Jesus. The First death will be death to self. When the Lord reveals Himself to someone, and they call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. He or she will have to die to self. Jesus say, If any man would come after Me let him deny himself and take up His cross and follow Me. Luke 9:23 Becoming God centered and no longer being self-centered is one of the first results of true conversion.
The Second death is to learn to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Cor 5:7), trusting in the Saviors leading. If God in Christ, via the Holy Spirit is living in you, as God chose to do with Jesus, He may ask you to give your life for Him, Are you prepared to actually pay the price and give all your physical life to Christ, by dying? As you consider this question you should ponder and remember that Jesus is your Life, for in Him, He is your life for eternity. If you have but one death to give, giving it for Jesus should be considered an honor.
If we go back to our text and look at the verses we just read, these verses gave us five conditions for fellowship. Let’s read and review our text John 15:5ff, 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you[b] will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
Then we stated the conditions for fellowship: First, our position in Christ is we are branches off the vine. Second, we must abide completely in Christ Jesus. Third, we realize and understand our absolute dependence upon Jesus and the Holy Spirits leading
Not meeting these causes us to be cast out and withered- no more spiritual fruit and we are burned up
Fourth, the Word of God resides in you and you have a burning desire for more.
Fifth, Asking or praying to the Lord will be direct, empowered and blessed of God.
If we fulfill these activities we will glorify God and because of our obedience we will bear fruit. But step back and consider this if we fulfill these steps what will be the attitude of our heart? Will we not be willing to give all for Christ.
Walk with me now as we dig deeper starting with point #1. Jesus says He is the vine we are the branches. Jesus then is the source of our living and our life. He gives life to all who are His and to all things in our lives. You and I, if we are His children are branches in His life. But according to Jesus when He spoke to Nicodemus we have to have be born and have life in two dimensions. Jesus said, Ye must be born of water and the Spirit, Ye must be born again. {John 3}There is life in the human body which comes from natural child birth. This would be birth by water and the second life, would be spiritual birth and life in the Spirit. If we are alive in Christ we have had both water birth and birth in the Holy Spirit and become a child of the King. Can I have an Amen?
Point #2- He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. As we said before we must abide completely in Christ Jesus. If we were to parse Proverbs 3:5 and 6 or Psalm 37: 4 and 5, we might be surprised at the demand to believe and trust only in Him.
4 Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
5 Commit[a] your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
If we realize that apart from Jesus we can do nothing, then delighting in the Lord and committing our way unto Him is very similar to realizing that apart from Him nothing is possible. I am continually reminded of the verse which is in Jeremiah 29:13, which might be a great definition for abiding in Christ. - 13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. When I search for Jesus with all my heart then I will be abiding in Christ.
Point #3.not only do I need to abide but there is a critical dependency in my life on the activity of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is to lead me into the truth, guide my heart and mind, convict me of personal sin and call me to repentance; open my heart and understanding to apply the Word of God; direct my steps in the ways of righteousness; help me to pray and provide comfort and peace as we obey and follow Jesus. He has a big job, but so do we. We are to continually turn to Him and realize this is the One Jesus sent to the disciples and we are the continuing embodiment of the living book of Acts. For while the book chronicles the steps of the Apostles we are the following chapters as disciples of Christ in each following generation to the Acts of the Holy Spirit in us.
Points #4 and #5 - Four, the Word of God resides in you and you have a burning desire for more. And now Five, Asking or praying to the Lord will be direct, empowered and blessed of God.
So we have already given away the source of the power to enable these two when walking in the Spirit. We described the attributes of what the Holy Spirit desires to accomplish in your life and these are accomplished when you yield to the Holy Spirits leading.
One final item is that coming against you is the spirit of deceit and deception from the prince and power of the air. While defeated He still is attempting to take as many souls to hell as he can. Read 2 Thessalonians Chapter 2. Verse 3 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of [b]sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits [c]as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.
9 The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
Delusion and deception are coming soon to a place near you from the prince of all lies and deception. So you will be tempted to be deceived and deluded but who is able to keep you from falling the Lord Jesus Christ.
Walk according to the word and in the Spirit and you will not be deluded or deceived because Christ promises to keep us apart.
God is called today for a few good men and women to sign up in the Army of God, which includes all services and members who will trust in the Lord with all their heart and lean not on their own understanding. Amen
July 18
In the name of Jesus.
Acts 4:12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven
given among men by which we must be saved.”
Luke 24: 44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.
46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, [l]and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things.49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city[m]of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”
John 1:12 - But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: {belief}
John 20 :31 - but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. (eternal life}
Acts 10:42- 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission[a] of sins.” {forgiveness}
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. {Peter and the Gentiles}{Presence of God}
Revelation, Chapter 19: 12-14 12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He [a]had a name written that no one knew except Himself. 13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies in heaven, clothed in [b]fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses.
Philippians 2:9-11
9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go [c]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [d]Amen.
I have provided a copy to every one of the scriptures which I will be using today as we have a lesson about the name of Jesus. but before we get into all of that I want to talk about something which most of us are familiar. It is called a power of attorney. When someone might grant you a power of attorney it is a document which grants you permission to operate in the name of the person, granting you a power to operate in their name. When I was flying over many contested areas not under U.S. control as a member of the United States Navy, I drew up an unlimited power of attorney for Cindy. Note I said an unlimited power of attorney. You see there are two types – a limited power of attorney, say to buy or sell a house or to do some specific granted thing and no other. Or an unlimited power of attorney to function in one’s name to operate in every way for the one designated in the power of attorney. Cindy was granted authority to do anything for our family as needed while I was away and in harm’s way. So Cindy could have done anything, sold the cars, sold the house, take out loans or whatever she wanted to do.
A power of attorney then designates an individual by name to function or operate for the grantor to do something either specifically as in a limited power of attorney or to have complete authority to function and operate as needed in that person’s name.
Point #1 - God’s power of Attorney has been granted to believers is an unlimited power of attorney and it is granted in the name of Jesus– Jesus name is the name above all names and in the name of Jesus all things are possible to him or her who believes.
Do you believe this? Are you living in this promise of God? If so all things are available to you in the name of Jesus our Lord. Now don’t panic there are several scriptures and depending on the Holy Spirit’s leading and teaching we will go as He leads.
Acts 4:12 gives us some specifics about this power vested in us- Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (except the name of Jesus}. The world hates this exclusivity of no other way to heaven except the name of Jesus. Salvation only comes by Him.
Jesus related some specifics about operating in His name as He spoke to His disciples in Luke Chapter 24. it is the next text on your page. : 44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.
46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, [l]and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things.49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city[m]of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”
Verse 49 speaks of the Promise of My Father. That Promise is what Jesus spoke about in John 16. That He, God in Jesus Christ, would send another just like Himself. The Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, the Teacher who would lead us into all truth. So the Holy Spirit is the One who God gives and He the Holy Spirit grants us a new heart and anew spirit within us, to operate as His disciples and servants in executing God’s Power of Attorney in Jesus name. Without the Holy Spirit of promise there would be sinful men and women executing God’s power without restraint. Sinful men and women cannot even see the kingdom of heaven let alone complete His instructions. We proved this in the garden of Eden for we are all sinners saved by grace in Christ Jesus.
So Point #2 is very specific as stated in verse 47 - and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Now in whose name? In the name of Jesus. And what should be done and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached to all nations beginning in Jerusalem.
This is what believers are commissioned to do and to do so how? It says in His name, Who’s name? The name of Jesus and in His name only, according to our first scripture.
Repentance and remission or forgiveness of sins only comes from the Lord Jesus Christ for He is God and He is the expressed representation of the Father. He who has seen Jesus has seen the Father, for He and the Father are one. Do you remember hearing this text before?
I hope you are gleaning that the name of Jesus is essential for your living as a faithful believer. He alone is your salvation. He has given all the task of preaching repentance and remission of sins In His name.
Point #3 Belief in Jesus grants us to become the children of God and He is the one who grants us eternal life. Check out John, Chapter 1:12 - But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: {belief in Jesus makes us a part of the family of God, no longer outcasts from the family}
Belief in Jesus grants us eternal life in Christ - John 20 :31 - but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.(eternal life}
Let it be known that Jesu is the one, the one and only, from who you derive your authority and commission as a believer. He is the source of your power and He gives you new life as well as eternal life.
Point #4. We are to testify to people of His authority to Judge and only from Him can believers receive forgiveness of sins. Acts 10:42- 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission[a] of sins.” {forgiveness}
Going to the next verse in this same passage tells us something else 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. {Peter and the Gentiles}{Presence of God}.
When God empowers our witness and our preaching or proclaiming of the Word of God the Holy Spirit comes to convey us all into the presence of God. Inspired, Spirit led preaching and teaching leads us into the presence of God. This is what this nation needs today is the inspired, infallible, inerrant and precious word of God to stimulate the hearts of believers to stand fast and having done all to keep standing in the day of adversity. Not quitting but standing on the promises of God not by how we see, perceive or fell- meaning we walk by faith.
Point # 5 to the believer Jesus is the source of all power. While this is not the absolute last point, it remains very important. Jesus spoke to His disciples in the upper room stating “apart from Him you and I can do nothing.” (Jn. 15:5) but in Matthew’s gospel we find the definitive word which describes the source of our power. Turn to Matt. 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go [c]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [d]Amen.
Verse 18 is one we often skip right over but it is more essential than we realize. Not only is the Jesus’ last word to His friends the disciples but it is the charge for our service to Him. Read closely in verse 18 “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. And the next word in verse 19 is Go.
Jesus has just made an incredible statement – His Father has granted Jesus supreme authority over all things in heaven and earth. All things include everything .pertaining to life, death and eternity are under His sway. He was making this statement as an introduction to what He was commanding them to do next. Go. Go how? Not as many go today in weakness and fear but in the power and admonition of Jesus Christ by the authority and power in His Name.
Many of us as believers do not understand or function in this authority. Oh we believe in Jesus but He might not answer my prayer. Why might He not answer my prayer because I have not asked in faith believing? Or was I asking in selfish sin or upon my lusts. How can we believe that whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved and not believe God will answer Jeremiah 33:3 – Call upon Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and [b]mighty things, which you do not know.’
We often place conditions on the word of God to give us wiggle room in case they don’t work. They don’t work means the problem is not with God but most likely with us and our lack of faith or understanding or application of His truth.
But Jesus tells us to Go and do what 19 and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you
There is no hesitancy or dilemma here, it is simple and straight forward commanding. You need to learn, as do I, to operate in the authority and power of God. Perhaps now you are just realizing this charge in Matt 28 is actually God’s granting us an unlimited Power of Attorney in the name of Jesus. Jesus has given you all power and authority function as a child of the King in fulfilling the great commission.
Question is are you operating in the power and authority of Your Lord? Do you realize your commissioning is from God and applies to us all? You are simply to share the love Jesus has for you with others so they can live with Christ in eternity. That is why we call this the Good News – that is what the gospel is – it is good news for sinners to be saved by His grace. You have an unlimited power of attorney to operate in God’s kingdom to achieve this goal. Use it for His benefit and His purposes.
Are you in the family of God, a sinner who has been saved by grace or are you unsure if you were to die tomorrow where you might live for eternity – heaven or hell? Turn to Jesus and ask for forgiveness. He will answer you if you ask sincerely in your heart. May Jesus turn us over and make us whole to do His will now and forever more. Amen
In the name of Jesus.
Acts 4:12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven
given among men by which we must be saved.”
Luke 24: 44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.
46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, [l]and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things.49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city[m]of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”
John 1:12 - But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: {belief}
John 20 :31 - but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. (eternal life}
Acts 10:42- 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission[a] of sins.” {forgiveness}
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. {Peter and the Gentiles}{Presence of God}
Revelation, Chapter 19: 12-14 12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He [a]had a name written that no one knew except Himself. 13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies in heaven, clothed in [b]fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses.
Philippians 2:9-11
9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go [c]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [d]Amen.
I have provided a copy to every one of the scriptures which I will be using today as we have a lesson about the name of Jesus. but before we get into all of that I want to talk about something which most of us are familiar. It is called a power of attorney. When someone might grant you a power of attorney it is a document which grants you permission to operate in the name of the person, granting you a power to operate in their name. When I was flying over many contested areas not under U.S. control as a member of the United States Navy, I drew up an unlimited power of attorney for Cindy. Note I said an unlimited power of attorney. You see there are two types – a limited power of attorney, say to buy or sell a house or to do some specific granted thing and no other. Or an unlimited power of attorney to function in one’s name to operate in every way for the one designated in the power of attorney. Cindy was granted authority to do anything for our family as needed while I was away and in harm’s way. So Cindy could have done anything, sold the cars, sold the house, take out loans or whatever she wanted to do.
A power of attorney then designates an individual by name to function or operate for the grantor to do something either specifically as in a limited power of attorney or to have complete authority to function and operate as needed in that person’s name.
Point #1 - God’s power of Attorney has been granted to believers is an unlimited power of attorney and it is granted in the name of Jesus– Jesus name is the name above all names and in the name of Jesus all things are possible to him or her who believes.
Do you believe this? Are you living in this promise of God? If so all things are available to you in the name of Jesus our Lord. Now don’t panic there are several scriptures and depending on the Holy Spirit’s leading and teaching we will go as He leads.
Acts 4:12 gives us some specifics about this power vested in us- Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (except the name of Jesus}. The world hates this exclusivity of no other way to heaven except the name of Jesus. Salvation only comes by Him.
Jesus related some specifics about operating in His name as He spoke to His disciples in Luke Chapter 24. it is the next text on your page. : 44 Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” 45 And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.
46 Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, [l]and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 And you are witnesses of these things.49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city[m]of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”
Verse 49 speaks of the Promise of My Father. That Promise is what Jesus spoke about in John 16. That He, God in Jesus Christ, would send another just like Himself. The Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, the Teacher who would lead us into all truth. So the Holy Spirit is the One who God gives and He the Holy Spirit grants us a new heart and anew spirit within us, to operate as His disciples and servants in executing God’s Power of Attorney in Jesus name. Without the Holy Spirit of promise there would be sinful men and women executing God’s power without restraint. Sinful men and women cannot even see the kingdom of heaven let alone complete His instructions. We proved this in the garden of Eden for we are all sinners saved by grace in Christ Jesus.
So Point #2 is very specific as stated in verse 47 - and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Now in whose name? In the name of Jesus. And what should be done and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached to all nations beginning in Jerusalem.
This is what believers are commissioned to do and to do so how? It says in His name, Who’s name? The name of Jesus and in His name only, according to our first scripture.
Repentance and remission or forgiveness of sins only comes from the Lord Jesus Christ for He is God and He is the expressed representation of the Father. He who has seen Jesus has seen the Father, for He and the Father are one. Do you remember hearing this text before?
I hope you are gleaning that the name of Jesus is essential for your living as a faithful believer. He alone is your salvation. He has given all the task of preaching repentance and remission of sins In His name.
Point #3 Belief in Jesus grants us to become the children of God and He is the one who grants us eternal life. Check out John, Chapter 1:12 - But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: {belief in Jesus makes us a part of the family of God, no longer outcasts from the family}
Belief in Jesus grants us eternal life in Christ - John 20 :31 - but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.(eternal life}
Let it be known that Jesu is the one, the one and only, from who you derive your authority and commission as a believer. He is the source of your power and He gives you new life as well as eternal life.
Point #4. We are to testify to people of His authority to Judge and only from Him can believers receive forgiveness of sins. Acts 10:42- 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission[a] of sins.” {forgiveness}
Going to the next verse in this same passage tells us something else 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. {Peter and the Gentiles}{Presence of God}.
When God empowers our witness and our preaching or proclaiming of the Word of God the Holy Spirit comes to convey us all into the presence of God. Inspired, Spirit led preaching and teaching leads us into the presence of God. This is what this nation needs today is the inspired, infallible, inerrant and precious word of God to stimulate the hearts of believers to stand fast and having done all to keep standing in the day of adversity. Not quitting but standing on the promises of God not by how we see, perceive or fell- meaning we walk by faith.
Point # 5 to the believer Jesus is the source of all power. While this is not the absolute last point, it remains very important. Jesus spoke to His disciples in the upper room stating “apart from Him you and I can do nothing.” (Jn. 15:5) but in Matthew’s gospel we find the definitive word which describes the source of our power. Turn to Matt. 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go [c]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [d]Amen.
Verse 18 is one we often skip right over but it is more essential than we realize. Not only is the Jesus’ last word to His friends the disciples but it is the charge for our service to Him. Read closely in verse 18 “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. And the next word in verse 19 is Go.
Jesus has just made an incredible statement – His Father has granted Jesus supreme authority over all things in heaven and earth. All things include everything .pertaining to life, death and eternity are under His sway. He was making this statement as an introduction to what He was commanding them to do next. Go. Go how? Not as many go today in weakness and fear but in the power and admonition of Jesus Christ by the authority and power in His Name.
Many of us as believers do not understand or function in this authority. Oh we believe in Jesus but He might not answer my prayer. Why might He not answer my prayer because I have not asked in faith believing? Or was I asking in selfish sin or upon my lusts. How can we believe that whosoever will call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved and not believe God will answer Jeremiah 33:3 – Call upon Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and [b]mighty things, which you do not know.’
We often place conditions on the word of God to give us wiggle room in case they don’t work. They don’t work means the problem is not with God but most likely with us and our lack of faith or understanding or application of His truth.
But Jesus tells us to Go and do what 19 and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you
There is no hesitancy or dilemma here, it is simple and straight forward commanding. You need to learn, as do I, to operate in the authority and power of God. Perhaps now you are just realizing this charge in Matt 28 is actually God’s granting us an unlimited Power of Attorney in the name of Jesus. Jesus has given you all power and authority function as a child of the King in fulfilling the great commission.
Question is are you operating in the power and authority of Your Lord? Do you realize your commissioning is from God and applies to us all? You are simply to share the love Jesus has for you with others so they can live with Christ in eternity. That is why we call this the Good News – that is what the gospel is – it is good news for sinners to be saved by His grace. You have an unlimited power of attorney to operate in God’s kingdom to achieve this goal. Use it for His benefit and His purposes.
Are you in the family of God, a sinner who has been saved by grace or are you unsure if you were to die tomorrow where you might live for eternity – heaven or hell? Turn to Jesus and ask for forgiveness. He will answer you if you ask sincerely in your heart. May Jesus turn us over and make us whole to do His will now and forever more. Amen
Sermon July 11
Believers need to continually refresh and review the wonderful benefits God gives to His children. We need to dwell on the richness of His giving and benefitting us as we walk the narrow road- working out our own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12).
The last days are in progress. How close we are to the Lord coming to take us away in the air, only our Heavenly Father knows. Jesus told us that fact. For us, we walk in the world, but not of the world and it is good to have some signposts along the way which reflect on the goodness of God to encourage our hearts about how our Father loves us and is working all things out according to the council of His will. (Eph.1:11).
Now a word from the word and may God give us ears to hear, minds to understand and the will to obey. In Jesus name Amen
Turn to 2 Timothy 4: 1-5 1I charge you [a]therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead [b]at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
Verses 1 and 2 tell you. You have a job! And we are seeing in our own denomination, the people of God, the happenings in verse 3 for some are departing from the faith and want fables. That is what delusion is folks.
The mainstream media and those who rob us of the truth – call them Truth Robber Barons, just like the robber barons of ages past, railroads, unions, shipping and oil companies were all robber barons. Big money breeds in every generation the desire for control and dominance and many are swayed by it. (Lose your own soul) Remember “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. (Matt 7:13)
This is also known as the way of the world but that is not our path today for we seek to look at some things that only God can do. Then specifically later our focus will be on only what God does for His children. We call this group believers, but truly we should call ourselves the Redeemed for
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy,
(Ps. 107:2)
So beginning in the book of Genesis here are thing only God can do.
1. God is the only one who can create out of nothing, something. We call this ex nihilo. Gen 1, verse 1 in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
2. God is the only one who can create and sustain life. In Genesis 2. God creates and He gives life. Everything that moves and has being and function trees, plants, insects, fishes, birds, all animals and man were given life by one being and only one being that is God
3. God provides the standard for truth and justice as demonstrated in the Garden of Eden. God told Adam that they may freely eat of all things in the garden except the tree of good and evil. Sinning against God has been man’s tendency since the beginning. That is why God judged man and tried to give us the 10 commandments and gave us a conscience, But we continue to fail due to our sinful nature. But the standard for measuring good and evil comes from God and it will stand until He returns.
3. Is there anything too hard for God. The short answer is no there is nothing too hard for God. Go to Genesis 18:14, Jeremiah 32:27(promise of Redemption of Israel/Nebuchadnezzar}. There are multiple instances in scripture Old and New Testament where God changes everything by His activity and His Word.
4. God alone can provide deliverance from sins. In the Old Testament under the covenant of Blood He providing forgiveness for the nation and individual forgiveness under the use of personal sacrifices of animals. The is salvation in no other than in the name of Jesus for scripture says there is no other name under heaven whereby a man can be saved except the name of Jesus.
5. God’s love is greater than our strongest idea or concept of love. Who among us has the willingness to save a Hitler, or a Stalin or a mass murderer, a homosexual, Al caida or a terrorist, or a sexual predator or an abusive alcoholic parent, a drug dealer or a prostitute or you name the horror or sinful characteristic. In the middle of your sin, before you even knew you needed the love of God, He was reaching out to you. That is God’s love for us greater than all your sin is the love of our God for you.
Now specific to believer
6 Only God alone can save people, make them His own special people and preserve them for eternity. How often do we quickly recite John 3:16 and miss the wonder of this verse – 6 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
These verses tells us that God’s grace and lover and our faith not of ourselves provided the pathway for deliverance for all who would believe in the name of Jesus. May we continue to walk in Your ways.
7. Only God can turn your heart back to Himself. When your heart turns away and your no longer hear and you go serve and worship other Gods. In OT and NT the Israelite or the believer’s hearts turned from God to go and worship the world. Today we call this backsliding or sin if we were honest and forthright. God has a word of us it is called repentance, see Luke 15: 10, Jesus is speaking and says, “Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Jesus came also preaching repentance for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
8. Only God can give you a new heart and put a new Spirit within you. Oh you can put new spirits – alcohol or drugs or whatever you want within your body, but only God can make you a new creation.
9. Only God can call you to service for Himself- Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men.
10. Only God can bring you to Himself after the death of your body- to absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (Paul)
11. Only the Lord can put Himself within you and give you a brand-new body to live with Him for eternity.
12. Only God could prepare a place for you in eternity which will be your heavenly home
Now I could go on infinitely talking about the many benefits of becoming and being a child of God.
I didn’t want to create an exhaustive list, because I have not added to my list of promises in years and I have pages of promises from the Scriptures and I am nowhere close to writing them all down.
What I wanted was to give you hope by looking at God’s truth. He is infinite meaning without end. The goodness of God, The love of God, the promises of God, each of these and the many other attributes of God are infinite and we are just scratching the surface. But be encouraged for His love never ends. We sing Deep and Wide
Deep and wide
Deep and wide
There's a fountain flowing deep and wide
Deep and wide
Deep and wide
There's a fountain flowing deep and wide
The fountain is Immanuel’s blood which is flowing for you and I and in it the sinner is made clean and renewed in the image of God. So be encouraged. Be strengthened in God’s love and walk in the newness and freshness that only comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
He is calling you today will you answer HIs call by faith for repentance, renewal and faith. Amen
Believers need to continually refresh and review the wonderful benefits God gives to His children. We need to dwell on the richness of His giving and benefitting us as we walk the narrow road- working out our own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12).
The last days are in progress. How close we are to the Lord coming to take us away in the air, only our Heavenly Father knows. Jesus told us that fact. For us, we walk in the world, but not of the world and it is good to have some signposts along the way which reflect on the goodness of God to encourage our hearts about how our Father loves us and is working all things out according to the council of His will. (Eph.1:11).
Now a word from the word and may God give us ears to hear, minds to understand and the will to obey. In Jesus name Amen
Turn to 2 Timothy 4: 1-5 1I charge you [a]therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead [b]at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
Verses 1 and 2 tell you. You have a job! And we are seeing in our own denomination, the people of God, the happenings in verse 3 for some are departing from the faith and want fables. That is what delusion is folks.
The mainstream media and those who rob us of the truth – call them Truth Robber Barons, just like the robber barons of ages past, railroads, unions, shipping and oil companies were all robber barons. Big money breeds in every generation the desire for control and dominance and many are swayed by it. (Lose your own soul) Remember “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. (Matt 7:13)
This is also known as the way of the world but that is not our path today for we seek to look at some things that only God can do. Then specifically later our focus will be on only what God does for His children. We call this group believers, but truly we should call ourselves the Redeemed for
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy,
(Ps. 107:2)
So beginning in the book of Genesis here are thing only God can do.
1. God is the only one who can create out of nothing, something. We call this ex nihilo. Gen 1, verse 1 in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
2. God is the only one who can create and sustain life. In Genesis 2. God creates and He gives life. Everything that moves and has being and function trees, plants, insects, fishes, birds, all animals and man were given life by one being and only one being that is God
3. God provides the standard for truth and justice as demonstrated in the Garden of Eden. God told Adam that they may freely eat of all things in the garden except the tree of good and evil. Sinning against God has been man’s tendency since the beginning. That is why God judged man and tried to give us the 10 commandments and gave us a conscience, But we continue to fail due to our sinful nature. But the standard for measuring good and evil comes from God and it will stand until He returns.
3. Is there anything too hard for God. The short answer is no there is nothing too hard for God. Go to Genesis 18:14, Jeremiah 32:27(promise of Redemption of Israel/Nebuchadnezzar}. There are multiple instances in scripture Old and New Testament where God changes everything by His activity and His Word.
4. God alone can provide deliverance from sins. In the Old Testament under the covenant of Blood He providing forgiveness for the nation and individual forgiveness under the use of personal sacrifices of animals. The is salvation in no other than in the name of Jesus for scripture says there is no other name under heaven whereby a man can be saved except the name of Jesus.
5. God’s love is greater than our strongest idea or concept of love. Who among us has the willingness to save a Hitler, or a Stalin or a mass murderer, a homosexual, Al caida or a terrorist, or a sexual predator or an abusive alcoholic parent, a drug dealer or a prostitute or you name the horror or sinful characteristic. In the middle of your sin, before you even knew you needed the love of God, He was reaching out to you. That is God’s love for us greater than all your sin is the love of our God for you.
Now specific to believer
6 Only God alone can save people, make them His own special people and preserve them for eternity. How often do we quickly recite John 3:16 and miss the wonder of this verse – 6 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
These verses tells us that God’s grace and lover and our faith not of ourselves provided the pathway for deliverance for all who would believe in the name of Jesus. May we continue to walk in Your ways.
7. Only God can turn your heart back to Himself. When your heart turns away and your no longer hear and you go serve and worship other Gods. In OT and NT the Israelite or the believer’s hearts turned from God to go and worship the world. Today we call this backsliding or sin if we were honest and forthright. God has a word of us it is called repentance, see Luke 15: 10, Jesus is speaking and says, “Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Jesus came also preaching repentance for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
8. Only God can give you a new heart and put a new Spirit within you. Oh you can put new spirits – alcohol or drugs or whatever you want within your body, but only God can make you a new creation.
9. Only God can call you to service for Himself- Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men.
10. Only God can bring you to Himself after the death of your body- to absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (Paul)
11. Only the Lord can put Himself within you and give you a brand-new body to live with Him for eternity.
12. Only God could prepare a place for you in eternity which will be your heavenly home
Now I could go on infinitely talking about the many benefits of becoming and being a child of God.
I didn’t want to create an exhaustive list, because I have not added to my list of promises in years and I have pages of promises from the Scriptures and I am nowhere close to writing them all down.
What I wanted was to give you hope by looking at God’s truth. He is infinite meaning without end. The goodness of God, The love of God, the promises of God, each of these and the many other attributes of God are infinite and we are just scratching the surface. But be encouraged for His love never ends. We sing Deep and Wide
Deep and wide
Deep and wide
There's a fountain flowing deep and wide
Deep and wide
Deep and wide
There's a fountain flowing deep and wide
The fountain is Immanuel’s blood which is flowing for you and I and in it the sinner is made clean and renewed in the image of God. So be encouraged. Be strengthened in God’s love and walk in the newness and freshness that only comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
He is calling you today will you answer HIs call by faith for repentance, renewal and faith. Amen
Sermon July 4
Did you know you were created in the image of God? This feature is called the IMAGO DEI. Read with me in Genesis Chapter 1 verses 26 - 28. Please read 26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over [g]all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that [h]moves on the earth.
So here is the dilemma we face. Every person on the earth has been created in the image of God both male and female. That means that every person whether good or evil has been created by God and stamped with their image. Remember the three in one that is why it is they created us. So whether it is a physical or spiritual likeness we cannot say exactly but we have all been marked by God. Now this means every person ever created has intrinsic worth. In themselves they have worth or value because of the stamp of God.
Each person also has value whether male or female that is how we are created and when we go to the basic building blocks of Gender the DNA and Chromosomes prove it. No matter how you might rearrange the externals of a person you always remain true to your biological self. Adding confusion to gender identity is just a way of trying to divide us from ourselves and create hate.
Next the IMAGO DEI in us gives us dominion over all living things and this planet. Do you see why there is a big push for the green new deal – it will destroy our civilization and allow us to be conquered by others who have the will to take. Trust me that day of destruction and turmoil is coming.
Now given these ideas which are contained in the first Chapter of Genesis, how are we to treat one another? How are we to behave towards God’s creation? How is life to be lived?
Before we answer these questions perhaps we should review some history. Who was the first murderer? Cain. Who was the first martyr and victim? Abel. So even in the beginning and finally culminating in Noah, it says in Genesis 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart.
So sin wreaks havoc in lives of men and from then to today nothing has changed. Even those you might detest and disrespect to the maximum are to be treated as if they belong to God for they were expressly created by Him, in their image and according to His plan and purpose. We have a dilemma as believers which we must face, how are we to live and function with those who choose to ignore and show disrespect and detest the God of heaven? According to Jesus, But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ...(Matt 5:43--48
Here it is a real moral dilemma. It is so easy to hate and to show disrespect but Jesus says no you are to bless, do good and pray for them. That’s right love them to heaven if you are able. How is this even possible for believers? In yourself nothing is possible but according to Jesus all things are possible with God. So God has made it possible for you to by giving you a new heart and a new spirit within you. A heart of flesh instead of a heart of stone, and a new spirit the Holy Spirit, who the world cant receive but you can as a born again believer. So He gives you who have the IMAGO DEI salvation, which is to change your status with God and to give you a future and a hope through Jesus Christ. In the book of Hebrews it says,
so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.
What is the purpose of your salvation? Jesus tells us in the Gospel of John, Chapter 17:3, what exactly is the goal of salvation And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. So the goal of salvation is to know God. The chief end of Man is to glorify God and live in His presence forever (Shorter Catechism.)
As we study our Bibles we know there are at least two major goals in salvation or as some call it redemption. At first glance they may seem unrelated.
One is found in the Book of Romans:
For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. (Romans 8:28,29)
God’s goal for us is that we might be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ so that Christ is the firstborn among many brothers. He in us and we in Him united in mind purpose and function.
A second major goal of salvation is found in the third chapter of the Book of Philippians:
“To attain to the resurrection from the dead.” Or as we might think about it eternal life. However, as I consider the first goal, that of being conformed to the likeness of Christ, I wonder if both of goals might be the same.
To be conformed to the likeness of God’s Son is to attain to the resurrection. By this I mean, we continue pressing forward in Christ until every element of our personality is a part of our New Life in Christ. Every part of us is made new in Christ.
Notice how both of these goals are contained in the Galatians 2:20:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Gal. 2:20)
The second goal is that Christ lives in me and now I live by faith in Him.
Salvation changes us into the image of Christ, and attaining to the living in Him, at least it should. We often use this verse saying, “I have been crucified with Christ and it is I no longer I who live.”
Here, Paul has been crucified and He no longer lives.
What does it mean to live? To live is to think, to speak, and to act. When Paul no longer is living it means Paul no longer thinks; Paul no longer speaks; and Paul no longer acts for Himself but is now spiritually minded. He says, “Christ lives in me.” What does that mean? Christ live is now present within me and His thinking is in me. Christ is speaking in and to me. Christ is acting in me.
Wouldn’t this mean that Paul was being conformed to the likeness of Christ? Wouldn’t it mean also that Paul was living his life filled with the resurrection power?
Notice that living in the image of Christ and experiencing the new life is not focused on going to Heaven to live. Rather going to heaven is an outcome of living the life of Christ which is being directed by the Holy Spirit operating in your heart.
Living in the resurrection Life of the Lord Jesus Christ has to do with our relationship to God and Christ, and has little to do with our current physical location.
Our new life is radically important both to us and to those around us, listen to this-
“The life I live in the body I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me.” This is a radical transformation- My thinking, my speaking, and my acting are now led by faith in the Son of God. This means that as I go about my daily business, my internal and external actions are performed as I look to Jesus. I do everything in His Presence, having faith that He has taken charge of me and is directing me to eternal righteousness, love, joy, and peace.
If Christ offered Himself on the cross for us, He certainly can be trusted to guide our thinking, speaking, and acting so that we continually are reaping the rewards of the fruit of the Spirt such as righteousness, love, joy, and peace.
Then being conformed to the likeness of Christ and being filled with the Spirit are God’s goals for us; but our personal desires for righteousness, love, joy, and peace are our individual goals which are produced as the Holy Spirit manifests Himself within us. So desiring to be conformed to the image of His Son and yielding to the working of the Holy Spirit within us are how God continues His work within us.
Now let us now consider the messaging of today’s Gospel. Many teach in today’s Gospel, that Jesus has done it all and all we are to do is to identify ourselves with Him, is good news for the natural man. This is not good news from God’s perspective, in that God wants sons in the image of His Son that God’s will may be accomplished throughout all creation. It also conflicts with the idea that God saves, and whom God saves, and whom God saves, God justifies, and who God justifies, He also sanctifies. And who God sanctifies He also glorifies. In other words God is at work both to will and to work for His good pleasure. And make no mistake it is God who comes and does the work.
We can see at once that the idea we are to do nothing but become pew sitters because Jesus has done it all for us is a lie, we are going to be dismayed when we die. Instead of being welcomed by Jesus we will be rebuked sternly because we did not use the talents He gave us to build His kingdom
.
Let’s think about what we need to do.
Learning to live as believers who have been changed by the power of God, who are being conformed to the image of God daily, means we are learning to practice the Presence of Christ daily. We continually, throughout the day and night, are looking to the Lord for His advice. We walk in an attitude of prayer, speaking to Him all the time, giving thanks, asking for wisdom, strength, healing whatever we need. We pray as it says without ceasing.
In addition we must spend some time in prayer each day if at all possible. We must set aside time so we can hear what God saying to us. Also, there must be a time each day to read the words of life, if a Bible is available.
If we are too busy then there is no time for prayer of Bible reading, then we need to ask Jesus to assist us in having the time. To try to go through life without daily prayer and Bible reading will hinder our growth and our delay our progress in being conformed to the image of Christ.
Some today say, if Christ is in us we do not need to pray and read our Bible each day, especially if we do not feel like it. This personal lack of discipline is common among Americans, including Christians, and is preventing us from coming to the full measure of the stature of Christ.
God does not coddle or enjoy lazy people.
Jesus said, “Why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?”
Who was it who said if we do what He has commanded, we are building our house on the solid rock and the storms of life or temptation will not be able to wash it away?
Nor, must we allow ourselves to be swayed by the world. We must rely on Jesus and the activity of the Holy Spirit to remove from us dependence and over-involvement in worldly pursuits. This is difficult in America because we are so materialistic and the Spirit of Antichrist is ever present. Satan is always enticing us with the interesting and lustful aspects of our culture.
The development and fixation of us on electronic devices is increasing at a breathtaking rate. The result of such devices is to bring people together. The end result will be a world which is self-focused, hedonistic and will enable the creation of a one-world government ruled by people who deny willfully and do not want to know the Lord Jesus Christ.
Self-centered people full of sin who have no knowledge of sin have a desire to come together and to throw off any attempt to govern or lead them. The coming one-world government will be listening to the demands of people and Satan. The leaders will understand and will reject any attempts to instill Christian or even wholesome values in people will be rejected. Future governments of this world will not rule in the fear and admonition of the Lord, but according to the will of man. {Deception and confusion will be everywhere}
Believers are going to have to recognize that whoever is a friend of the world makes himself or herself an enemy of God. Begin conformed to the image of His Son will allows us to discern and function as believers while rejecting the world and its systems.
Secondly, we are to follow the Spirit of God closely at all times. One of the Holy Spirit’s main responsibilities is to convict us of sin and allow us to have a heart for God. Sin identified and pointed out, must be confessed specifically Only absolute and cleansing repentance will enable us to walk in integrity each day. Christ will help us with these resolutions, forgiving us and strengthening us until we are totally free from these dark areas of sin.
As we confess and renounce our sins, turning away from them with determination, we are fed spiritually As His will increases in us we are able to live more completely in the Life of Christ.
The third step we must take if we are to be conformed to the image of Christ and attain to this new Life is to serve patiently where we have been placed.
God has commissioned us to serve where we have been planted by His will. Christ send sends the Holy Spirit to enable us to serve and learn where He has caused us to grow.
Christ commands we walk by faith and not by sight and to remember we build our treasure in heaven where moss and rust do not corrupt and where thieves cannot break in and steal. This we must do by faith. God promises that we will be enjoy wonders in heaven. I believe they will be greater than anything you may have sacrificed here on this earth. We need our eyes on Jesus.
We should remember our self-will is a horrible monster that dwells in the deepest caves of our heart. It is not that God wants to remove our will, He wants to conform it to His will. God says that if we will choose to delight ourselves in Him, He will give us the desires of our heart.
Seek Him with all your heart and He will give you the desires of your heart. Amen
Did you know you were created in the image of God? This feature is called the IMAGO DEI. Read with me in Genesis Chapter 1 verses 26 - 28. Please read 26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over [g]all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that [h]moves on the earth.
So here is the dilemma we face. Every person on the earth has been created in the image of God both male and female. That means that every person whether good or evil has been created by God and stamped with their image. Remember the three in one that is why it is they created us. So whether it is a physical or spiritual likeness we cannot say exactly but we have all been marked by God. Now this means every person ever created has intrinsic worth. In themselves they have worth or value because of the stamp of God.
Each person also has value whether male or female that is how we are created and when we go to the basic building blocks of Gender the DNA and Chromosomes prove it. No matter how you might rearrange the externals of a person you always remain true to your biological self. Adding confusion to gender identity is just a way of trying to divide us from ourselves and create hate.
Next the IMAGO DEI in us gives us dominion over all living things and this planet. Do you see why there is a big push for the green new deal – it will destroy our civilization and allow us to be conquered by others who have the will to take. Trust me that day of destruction and turmoil is coming.
Now given these ideas which are contained in the first Chapter of Genesis, how are we to treat one another? How are we to behave towards God’s creation? How is life to be lived?
Before we answer these questions perhaps we should review some history. Who was the first murderer? Cain. Who was the first martyr and victim? Abel. So even in the beginning and finally culminating in Noah, it says in Genesis 6 And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart.
So sin wreaks havoc in lives of men and from then to today nothing has changed. Even those you might detest and disrespect to the maximum are to be treated as if they belong to God for they were expressly created by Him, in their image and according to His plan and purpose. We have a dilemma as believers which we must face, how are we to live and function with those who choose to ignore and show disrespect and detest the God of heaven? According to Jesus, But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ...(Matt 5:43--48
Here it is a real moral dilemma. It is so easy to hate and to show disrespect but Jesus says no you are to bless, do good and pray for them. That’s right love them to heaven if you are able. How is this even possible for believers? In yourself nothing is possible but according to Jesus all things are possible with God. So God has made it possible for you to by giving you a new heart and a new spirit within you. A heart of flesh instead of a heart of stone, and a new spirit the Holy Spirit, who the world cant receive but you can as a born again believer. So He gives you who have the IMAGO DEI salvation, which is to change your status with God and to give you a future and a hope through Jesus Christ. In the book of Hebrews it says,
so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.
What is the purpose of your salvation? Jesus tells us in the Gospel of John, Chapter 17:3, what exactly is the goal of salvation And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. So the goal of salvation is to know God. The chief end of Man is to glorify God and live in His presence forever (Shorter Catechism.)
As we study our Bibles we know there are at least two major goals in salvation or as some call it redemption. At first glance they may seem unrelated.
One is found in the Book of Romans:
For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. (Romans 8:28,29)
God’s goal for us is that we might be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ so that Christ is the firstborn among many brothers. He in us and we in Him united in mind purpose and function.
A second major goal of salvation is found in the third chapter of the Book of Philippians:
“To attain to the resurrection from the dead.” Or as we might think about it eternal life. However, as I consider the first goal, that of being conformed to the likeness of Christ, I wonder if both of goals might be the same.
To be conformed to the likeness of God’s Son is to attain to the resurrection. By this I mean, we continue pressing forward in Christ until every element of our personality is a part of our New Life in Christ. Every part of us is made new in Christ.
Notice how both of these goals are contained in the Galatians 2:20:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Gal. 2:20)
The second goal is that Christ lives in me and now I live by faith in Him.
Salvation changes us into the image of Christ, and attaining to the living in Him, at least it should. We often use this verse saying, “I have been crucified with Christ and it is I no longer I who live.”
Here, Paul has been crucified and He no longer lives.
What does it mean to live? To live is to think, to speak, and to act. When Paul no longer is living it means Paul no longer thinks; Paul no longer speaks; and Paul no longer acts for Himself but is now spiritually minded. He says, “Christ lives in me.” What does that mean? Christ live is now present within me and His thinking is in me. Christ is speaking in and to me. Christ is acting in me.
Wouldn’t this mean that Paul was being conformed to the likeness of Christ? Wouldn’t it mean also that Paul was living his life filled with the resurrection power?
Notice that living in the image of Christ and experiencing the new life is not focused on going to Heaven to live. Rather going to heaven is an outcome of living the life of Christ which is being directed by the Holy Spirit operating in your heart.
Living in the resurrection Life of the Lord Jesus Christ has to do with our relationship to God and Christ, and has little to do with our current physical location.
Our new life is radically important both to us and to those around us, listen to this-
“The life I live in the body I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me.” This is a radical transformation- My thinking, my speaking, and my acting are now led by faith in the Son of God. This means that as I go about my daily business, my internal and external actions are performed as I look to Jesus. I do everything in His Presence, having faith that He has taken charge of me and is directing me to eternal righteousness, love, joy, and peace.
If Christ offered Himself on the cross for us, He certainly can be trusted to guide our thinking, speaking, and acting so that we continually are reaping the rewards of the fruit of the Spirt such as righteousness, love, joy, and peace.
Then being conformed to the likeness of Christ and being filled with the Spirit are God’s goals for us; but our personal desires for righteousness, love, joy, and peace are our individual goals which are produced as the Holy Spirit manifests Himself within us. So desiring to be conformed to the image of His Son and yielding to the working of the Holy Spirit within us are how God continues His work within us.
Now let us now consider the messaging of today’s Gospel. Many teach in today’s Gospel, that Jesus has done it all and all we are to do is to identify ourselves with Him, is good news for the natural man. This is not good news from God’s perspective, in that God wants sons in the image of His Son that God’s will may be accomplished throughout all creation. It also conflicts with the idea that God saves, and whom God saves, and whom God saves, God justifies, and who God justifies, He also sanctifies. And who God sanctifies He also glorifies. In other words God is at work both to will and to work for His good pleasure. And make no mistake it is God who comes and does the work.
We can see at once that the idea we are to do nothing but become pew sitters because Jesus has done it all for us is a lie, we are going to be dismayed when we die. Instead of being welcomed by Jesus we will be rebuked sternly because we did not use the talents He gave us to build His kingdom
.
Let’s think about what we need to do.
Learning to live as believers who have been changed by the power of God, who are being conformed to the image of God daily, means we are learning to practice the Presence of Christ daily. We continually, throughout the day and night, are looking to the Lord for His advice. We walk in an attitude of prayer, speaking to Him all the time, giving thanks, asking for wisdom, strength, healing whatever we need. We pray as it says without ceasing.
In addition we must spend some time in prayer each day if at all possible. We must set aside time so we can hear what God saying to us. Also, there must be a time each day to read the words of life, if a Bible is available.
If we are too busy then there is no time for prayer of Bible reading, then we need to ask Jesus to assist us in having the time. To try to go through life without daily prayer and Bible reading will hinder our growth and our delay our progress in being conformed to the image of Christ.
Some today say, if Christ is in us we do not need to pray and read our Bible each day, especially if we do not feel like it. This personal lack of discipline is common among Americans, including Christians, and is preventing us from coming to the full measure of the stature of Christ.
God does not coddle or enjoy lazy people.
Jesus said, “Why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?”
Who was it who said if we do what He has commanded, we are building our house on the solid rock and the storms of life or temptation will not be able to wash it away?
Nor, must we allow ourselves to be swayed by the world. We must rely on Jesus and the activity of the Holy Spirit to remove from us dependence and over-involvement in worldly pursuits. This is difficult in America because we are so materialistic and the Spirit of Antichrist is ever present. Satan is always enticing us with the interesting and lustful aspects of our culture.
The development and fixation of us on electronic devices is increasing at a breathtaking rate. The result of such devices is to bring people together. The end result will be a world which is self-focused, hedonistic and will enable the creation of a one-world government ruled by people who deny willfully and do not want to know the Lord Jesus Christ.
Self-centered people full of sin who have no knowledge of sin have a desire to come together and to throw off any attempt to govern or lead them. The coming one-world government will be listening to the demands of people and Satan. The leaders will understand and will reject any attempts to instill Christian or even wholesome values in people will be rejected. Future governments of this world will not rule in the fear and admonition of the Lord, but according to the will of man. {Deception and confusion will be everywhere}
Believers are going to have to recognize that whoever is a friend of the world makes himself or herself an enemy of God. Begin conformed to the image of His Son will allows us to discern and function as believers while rejecting the world and its systems.
Secondly, we are to follow the Spirit of God closely at all times. One of the Holy Spirit’s main responsibilities is to convict us of sin and allow us to have a heart for God. Sin identified and pointed out, must be confessed specifically Only absolute and cleansing repentance will enable us to walk in integrity each day. Christ will help us with these resolutions, forgiving us and strengthening us until we are totally free from these dark areas of sin.
As we confess and renounce our sins, turning away from them with determination, we are fed spiritually As His will increases in us we are able to live more completely in the Life of Christ.
The third step we must take if we are to be conformed to the image of Christ and attain to this new Life is to serve patiently where we have been placed.
God has commissioned us to serve where we have been planted by His will. Christ send sends the Holy Spirit to enable us to serve and learn where He has caused us to grow.
Christ commands we walk by faith and not by sight and to remember we build our treasure in heaven where moss and rust do not corrupt and where thieves cannot break in and steal. This we must do by faith. God promises that we will be enjoy wonders in heaven. I believe they will be greater than anything you may have sacrificed here on this earth. We need our eyes on Jesus.
We should remember our self-will is a horrible monster that dwells in the deepest caves of our heart. It is not that God wants to remove our will, He wants to conform it to His will. God says that if we will choose to delight ourselves in Him, He will give us the desires of our heart.
Seek Him with all your heart and He will give you the desires of your heart. Amen
Sermon June 27
In the quest for personal sanctity and to live more righteously we need help. How does this happen. Well our journey as Christians or believers begins by coming to a knowledge of personal sin and because of the activity of the Holy Spirit we come to understand how grievous this is to God. Because of the convicting presence of God and just an iota of faith, we cry out and God hears our desire for repentance. By grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God, not of works lest anyone should boast. Ephesians 3:8-9, but don’t stop there for verse 10 adds, for we are His workmanship created unto good works which God has ordained before that we should accomplish them. So after God saves us the journey begins to become God’s workmanship unto the works which He has planned for your life. Pretty amazing stuff and this agrees with Jeremiah 29:11 about God having a plan for your life.
So to get from your sinful self to where God wants you to be can’t happen without the intervention of God. This same thing was true for the disciples. Without the coming of Pentecost and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit the disciples would never have achieved all that God was calling them to do. So in our age of hate and political correctness, lies and the deconstruction of America by the regressives and the reintroduction of race theory to prove how corrupt we are, we need help to navigate the hurdles. He is here and He is God and He is the Holy Spirit. Let’s begin. Our beginning and base verse for this lesson is John 14:16-18, but it will lead us to other scriptures which we will be using. Just a heads up this is an outline approach and is not an exhaustive study. We can do that later if so desired. We begin on the night when Jesus was going to betrayed. In John Chapter 14 Jesus is pouring out His heart to His disciples trying to prepare them for things to come. But Jesus knew they could not live this life on their own they would need help and reassurance along the way. Let’s turn to the text in John, chapter 14:16 and read:
16 And I will pray the Father, and He will {a promise}give you another [e]Helper, that He may abide with you forever—{a promise}
(This is different than the Old Testament- the Holy Spirit came upon/overshadowed in the New Testament a distinction -abides in you forever.) 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
Stop at Spirit of Truth who is God- who John 16:7- 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. The Holy Spirit is your helper More in verse 13 of Chapter 16:13 -13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
Help pt.#1 The Holy Spirit will guide you into all Truth-God’s Word, the person of Christ. He who knows the truth is set free and whom Jesus frees is free indeed
Help pt. #2 The truth revealed by the Holy Spirit leads us into the righteousness of Christ – by taking heed according to His word.
Back to John 14:17-18 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. Notice the emphasis of Jesus -He, the Holy Spirit lives, abides, takes up permanent residence within you and will remain in you. Paul reinforces this point in Romans 8:16 -16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,
We need to understand that the permanent residence of the Spirit of God within us is the testimony to the continued fulfillment of the promises of God made in Jeremiah and Ezekiel 36. We in fact become the children of God. This is confirmed in the Romans 8:15 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba,[e] Father.” God makes Himself known to those who are His and He confirms it with His Spirit inside you.
Help pt.#3 – He adopted you as a child of God, a child of the King.
Help pt.#4 – grants you access to the Kingdom of Heaven . As a child of the King you have been granted access to the Kingdom of Heaven (Christ) and to the very throne room of Heaven – the abode of the Father (Heb 4:16). Think about this for a moment
Help pt.#5 – granted helps in our weaknesses. Go to Romans 8:26- 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession [g]for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
When we are weak He is strong, He helps us to pray. Helps when we are not able - 1Cor. 10:13 when we are tempted He provides a means of escape: illuminates our hearts and convicts us of our sins. Holy Spirit creates a desire in us to live righteously.
Help pt.#6 – the Holy Spirit creates hope and joy in your hearts. Romans 15:13 - 13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing. Paul prayed for the believers in Rome and elsewhere that the Holy Spirits presence in you and with you would fill you and give you hope instead of despair, joy and peace instead of fear. To be filled with the Spirit means to be indwelt with hope, joy and peace and the veritable presence of God.
We are not done yet, but we are inbound to final destination – continue with me for
Help pt.#7 the presence of the Holy Spirit would cause you to abound in Hope. Now back to the second part of Romans 15:13 that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. So God gives Himself to aid you in overcoming disappointments by hope, because the love of God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
God in Christ, has basically give us a new nature, but are we really enjoying this fellowship today, as believers? Do you show joy and optimism in each day God has given you? To make this point we are all to live day by day “in Christ.” Are we? John the disciple who Jesus loved and by another name John the Revelator wrote a letter to the churches it’s called 1st John. If you would turn to that book Chapter 4, verse 13 there John reminds us something important. Read with me- verse 13 - 13 By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.
The veritable presence of the Holy Spirit in us is confirmation by God that we belong to the kingdom of Heaven. Is not in what we say that is important about going to heaven. It is the verified presence of the Holy Spirit personally in us that confirms we belong to God’s family
So God provides all sorts of Helps to the Children of the living God to help us walk in these days. Now one more Help for you to consider back to our core verse where we began in John 14. Check out verse 18 - 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
This is the Son of God making a big promise to you and I. He said He would not leave you as orphans but He would come to you. This corresponds to multiple verses in the Old Testament but check Joshua 1:9 – where God tells Joshua “I will never leave you or forsake you.
The personal care and provision of God is made available to every believer. This is a promise of God. He goes with you wherever you go.
Now may the God of peace Himself, sanctify you and give you peace, now and forever more Amen.
God we pray your blessings upon us Lord cause us to attend to Your Word and Your Truth for they are one. Cause us to desire what You desire for our lives and to live it truly. Amen
Invitation to all who need to come to come to the altar and pray.
In the quest for personal sanctity and to live more righteously we need help. How does this happen. Well our journey as Christians or believers begins by coming to a knowledge of personal sin and because of the activity of the Holy Spirit we come to understand how grievous this is to God. Because of the convicting presence of God and just an iota of faith, we cry out and God hears our desire for repentance. By grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God, not of works lest anyone should boast. Ephesians 3:8-9, but don’t stop there for verse 10 adds, for we are His workmanship created unto good works which God has ordained before that we should accomplish them. So after God saves us the journey begins to become God’s workmanship unto the works which He has planned for your life. Pretty amazing stuff and this agrees with Jeremiah 29:11 about God having a plan for your life.
So to get from your sinful self to where God wants you to be can’t happen without the intervention of God. This same thing was true for the disciples. Without the coming of Pentecost and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit the disciples would never have achieved all that God was calling them to do. So in our age of hate and political correctness, lies and the deconstruction of America by the regressives and the reintroduction of race theory to prove how corrupt we are, we need help to navigate the hurdles. He is here and He is God and He is the Holy Spirit. Let’s begin. Our beginning and base verse for this lesson is John 14:16-18, but it will lead us to other scriptures which we will be using. Just a heads up this is an outline approach and is not an exhaustive study. We can do that later if so desired. We begin on the night when Jesus was going to betrayed. In John Chapter 14 Jesus is pouring out His heart to His disciples trying to prepare them for things to come. But Jesus knew they could not live this life on their own they would need help and reassurance along the way. Let’s turn to the text in John, chapter 14:16 and read:
16 And I will pray the Father, and He will {a promise}give you another [e]Helper, that He may abide with you forever—{a promise}
(This is different than the Old Testament- the Holy Spirit came upon/overshadowed in the New Testament a distinction -abides in you forever.) 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
Stop at Spirit of Truth who is God- who John 16:7- 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. The Holy Spirit is your helper More in verse 13 of Chapter 16:13 -13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
Help pt.#1 The Holy Spirit will guide you into all Truth-God’s Word, the person of Christ. He who knows the truth is set free and whom Jesus frees is free indeed
Help pt. #2 The truth revealed by the Holy Spirit leads us into the righteousness of Christ – by taking heed according to His word.
Back to John 14:17-18 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. Notice the emphasis of Jesus -He, the Holy Spirit lives, abides, takes up permanent residence within you and will remain in you. Paul reinforces this point in Romans 8:16 -16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,
We need to understand that the permanent residence of the Spirit of God within us is the testimony to the continued fulfillment of the promises of God made in Jeremiah and Ezekiel 36. We in fact become the children of God. This is confirmed in the Romans 8:15 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba,[e] Father.” God makes Himself known to those who are His and He confirms it with His Spirit inside you.
Help pt.#3 – He adopted you as a child of God, a child of the King.
Help pt.#4 – grants you access to the Kingdom of Heaven . As a child of the King you have been granted access to the Kingdom of Heaven (Christ) and to the very throne room of Heaven – the abode of the Father (Heb 4:16). Think about this for a moment
Help pt.#5 – granted helps in our weaknesses. Go to Romans 8:26- 26 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession [g]for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
When we are weak He is strong, He helps us to pray. Helps when we are not able - 1Cor. 10:13 when we are tempted He provides a means of escape: illuminates our hearts and convicts us of our sins. Holy Spirit creates a desire in us to live righteously.
Help pt.#6 – the Holy Spirit creates hope and joy in your hearts. Romans 15:13 - 13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing. Paul prayed for the believers in Rome and elsewhere that the Holy Spirits presence in you and with you would fill you and give you hope instead of despair, joy and peace instead of fear. To be filled with the Spirit means to be indwelt with hope, joy and peace and the veritable presence of God.
We are not done yet, but we are inbound to final destination – continue with me for
Help pt.#7 the presence of the Holy Spirit would cause you to abound in Hope. Now back to the second part of Romans 15:13 that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. So God gives Himself to aid you in overcoming disappointments by hope, because the love of God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
God in Christ, has basically give us a new nature, but are we really enjoying this fellowship today, as believers? Do you show joy and optimism in each day God has given you? To make this point we are all to live day by day “in Christ.” Are we? John the disciple who Jesus loved and by another name John the Revelator wrote a letter to the churches it’s called 1st John. If you would turn to that book Chapter 4, verse 13 there John reminds us something important. Read with me- verse 13 - 13 By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.
The veritable presence of the Holy Spirit in us is confirmation by God that we belong to the kingdom of Heaven. Is not in what we say that is important about going to heaven. It is the verified presence of the Holy Spirit personally in us that confirms we belong to God’s family
So God provides all sorts of Helps to the Children of the living God to help us walk in these days. Now one more Help for you to consider back to our core verse where we began in John 14. Check out verse 18 - 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.
This is the Son of God making a big promise to you and I. He said He would not leave you as orphans but He would come to you. This corresponds to multiple verses in the Old Testament but check Joshua 1:9 – where God tells Joshua “I will never leave you or forsake you.
The personal care and provision of God is made available to every believer. This is a promise of God. He goes with you wherever you go.
Now may the God of peace Himself, sanctify you and give you peace, now and forever more Amen.
God we pray your blessings upon us Lord cause us to attend to Your Word and Your Truth for they are one. Cause us to desire what You desire for our lives and to live it truly. Amen
Invitation to all who need to come to come to the altar and pray.
Sermon June 20
What does it mean to be New in Christ?
I am sure if you asked the average Christian this might result is a puzzled answer or response. I don’t think we have instructed our “spiritual children” well enough for them to be able to determine what does it mean to be new in Christ. Just for grins and to refresh my memory, I took a look at my bible’s index and looked up the word “new” and here are the headings I found: new message, new person, new covenant, new Jerusalem, new life, new nature and new testament to name a few of headers and sub-headers listed.
I am not sure why the Lord is leading in this direction but He is and I believe it is because we are ignorant of what God has done for us and He wants us to realize the heritage He has provided for us so that we can do all things in Christ. Until we the church being to practice by living the truth of God’s Word and His provision, when that happens you will see the church of Jesus Christ assume its rightful place in this culture and God will fill His people with His presence and His Spirit so the world will know that God is alive and present in this sinful world. Further they will recognize the Love of God in obedience and prayer. Gifts will be exhibited and healings and salivation will flow from the throne of God to others via His people.
While our scripture comes from Chapter 6 of Romans we actually need to begin in Chapter 5 where Paul contrasts the death that was wrought by Adam and the life that is granted in Jesus Christ.
Allow me to give you as summary of the two because this is what is new to believers in Jesus Christ which isn’t available anywhere else- Jesus tells Nicodemus, a Pharisee who came by night. ”you must be born again of water and the Spirit, you must be born again.” This was not just true of believers in the - first century but all through time. Whosoever wills may come to Christ only by the new birth and the new baptism in Christ. So you and I must be born again. This means we have been made new in Christ. To be born again means to have this new life, a new heart, a new spirt within you. God’s Holy Spirit is now in you and you have moved from death to life. This transformation occurs because you have reached out to God and believe that He is the only one who can save you from eternal death and the Father gave us Jesus to pay the penalty for our sin.
So in Romans Chapter 5 from verse 9 to 20 that as Adam’s children we have the following: Ruin verse 9, Sin verses 1, 15, and 21. Death is shown in verses 12, 16 and 21; separation from God in verses 5 and 18; disobedience in verses 12 and 19; judgement in verse 18 and the law in verse 20. All in all, what we have as heirs in our body and the spirit from our great ancestor Adam is nothing good, basically sin and death.
But Paul in Roman’s 5 also contrasted our inheritance from Jesus Christ to what we have from Adam. This is the result of having a “new birth relationship as God’s children” with Jesus Christ. We have Rescue from death verse 8, Righteousness in Christ verse 18, Eternal life in heaven verses 17 and 21; a restored relationship with God in verses 11 and 19; a desire for obedience in verse 19; Reconciliation from sin and death in verses 10 and 11; and God’s grace instead of Justice in verse 20. All the things that God has given to us in our new life relationship with Jesus Christ.
Chapter 6 them delves deeply into deliverance from sin’s grasp. Perhaps this is you or I today. Maybe, God wants us to life a more fruitful and rich life in His presence beginning today.
Father I pray you will open the windows of heaven today and touch my heart and the hearts of those around me to meet their person mental and physical needs right now. We need your fresh touch to purge and bring us to repentance and renewal right now. Wash us by the washing by the water of the word. Your word is truth. Amen And your word is life help us to walk in the light. Amen
So what is new in Christ Roman’s Chapter 6:1-14? I will prove to you in these verses you have been given:
6 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be [a]done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. 7 For he who has died has been [b]freed from sin. 8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9 knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. 10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11 Likewise you also, [c]reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. 13 And do not present your members as [d]instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, {free}for you are not under law but under grace.
Verse
16 Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?
First you have new life in Christ
II. Not only do I have new life within me and options available to choose life as a believer I also have been given a New nature. Begin examining this New nature truth by looking at verses 5 and 11.
New life and new nature should mean I have New Freedoms in Christ.
It is so important to understand all the choices are yours including obedience. You are free to choose but remember God has made ever provision in the heavenlies for your salvation and deliverance, but understood I hope you now have clarity. You have God’s help in every spiritual endeavor to follow Him. Christ’s blood has broken the power of sin to be blinded and not understand.
God loves and cares for you and wants you to be free and yet without sin. Will you respond to him right now? Only Trust Him now, He will save you, He will save you, He will save you now! Come every soul by sin oppressed there is mercy with the Lord. He will save you He will save you save you now.
What does it mean to be New in Christ?
I am sure if you asked the average Christian this might result is a puzzled answer or response. I don’t think we have instructed our “spiritual children” well enough for them to be able to determine what does it mean to be new in Christ. Just for grins and to refresh my memory, I took a look at my bible’s index and looked up the word “new” and here are the headings I found: new message, new person, new covenant, new Jerusalem, new life, new nature and new testament to name a few of headers and sub-headers listed.
I am not sure why the Lord is leading in this direction but He is and I believe it is because we are ignorant of what God has done for us and He wants us to realize the heritage He has provided for us so that we can do all things in Christ. Until we the church being to practice by living the truth of God’s Word and His provision, when that happens you will see the church of Jesus Christ assume its rightful place in this culture and God will fill His people with His presence and His Spirit so the world will know that God is alive and present in this sinful world. Further they will recognize the Love of God in obedience and prayer. Gifts will be exhibited and healings and salivation will flow from the throne of God to others via His people.
While our scripture comes from Chapter 6 of Romans we actually need to begin in Chapter 5 where Paul contrasts the death that was wrought by Adam and the life that is granted in Jesus Christ.
Allow me to give you as summary of the two because this is what is new to believers in Jesus Christ which isn’t available anywhere else- Jesus tells Nicodemus, a Pharisee who came by night. ”you must be born again of water and the Spirit, you must be born again.” This was not just true of believers in the - first century but all through time. Whosoever wills may come to Christ only by the new birth and the new baptism in Christ. So you and I must be born again. This means we have been made new in Christ. To be born again means to have this new life, a new heart, a new spirt within you. God’s Holy Spirit is now in you and you have moved from death to life. This transformation occurs because you have reached out to God and believe that He is the only one who can save you from eternal death and the Father gave us Jesus to pay the penalty for our sin.
So in Romans Chapter 5 from verse 9 to 20 that as Adam’s children we have the following: Ruin verse 9, Sin verses 1, 15, and 21. Death is shown in verses 12, 16 and 21; separation from God in verses 5 and 18; disobedience in verses 12 and 19; judgement in verse 18 and the law in verse 20. All in all, what we have as heirs in our body and the spirit from our great ancestor Adam is nothing good, basically sin and death.
But Paul in Roman’s 5 also contrasted our inheritance from Jesus Christ to what we have from Adam. This is the result of having a “new birth relationship as God’s children” with Jesus Christ. We have Rescue from death verse 8, Righteousness in Christ verse 18, Eternal life in heaven verses 17 and 21; a restored relationship with God in verses 11 and 19; a desire for obedience in verse 19; Reconciliation from sin and death in verses 10 and 11; and God’s grace instead of Justice in verse 20. All the things that God has given to us in our new life relationship with Jesus Christ.
Chapter 6 them delves deeply into deliverance from sin’s grasp. Perhaps this is you or I today. Maybe, God wants us to life a more fruitful and rich life in His presence beginning today.
Father I pray you will open the windows of heaven today and touch my heart and the hearts of those around me to meet their person mental and physical needs right now. We need your fresh touch to purge and bring us to repentance and renewal right now. Wash us by the washing by the water of the word. Your word is truth. Amen And your word is life help us to walk in the light. Amen
So what is new in Christ Roman’s Chapter 6:1-14? I will prove to you in these verses you have been given:
- New life verses 2-6;
- a New nature in verses 5 and 11,
- and New freedoms in verses 12 -16.
6 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be [a]done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. 7 For he who has died has been [b]freed from sin. 8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9 knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. 10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11 Likewise you also, [c]reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. 13 And do not present your members as [d]instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, {free}for you are not under law but under grace.
Verse
16 Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?
First you have new life in Christ
- Verses 2 and 3 sins power is broken -let’s read - ? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?
- Your sin loving nature is buried in Christ see verse 4 - 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. We should walk as Christ walked among others.
- With new life in Christ you are no longer under sin’s control - 6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be [a]done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. We have a choice of remaining or departing from our sin. This new life give us freedom to live in the shadow of the Almighty God.
- From God’s activity not ours we should understand the power of cancelled sin there is no power if we are surrendered to Jesus.
II. Not only do I have new life within me and options available to choose life as a believer I also have been given a New nature. Begin examining this New nature truth by looking at verses 5 and 11.
- Go to verse 5 first_ 5 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection. This verse describes the practical nature of the new birth, for we share in the new life with Jesus Christ. This is a shared brotherhood in the Lord Jesus . The result of our new life and new nature should cause us to be unresponsive to the old powers of temptation that so easily surrounds us.
- Verse 11 now- . 11 Likewise you also, [c]reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Given this truth we should consider ourselves dead to sin’s persuasive sway and replace it with being alive to God
New life and new nature should mean I have New Freedoms in Christ.
- Verse 12 says, Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body that you should obey the lusts thereof. (my memory verses from years gone by.) You do not have to let sin control your actions or choices. Therefore, means because of your new nature and your new life, you do not have to be captured by the sin of your old life. According to scripture you have been set free from the law of sin and death (6:18, 22).
- Verse 13 following 12 reinforces this idea for it says, 13 And do not present your members as [d]instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. Give yourself completely over to God, don’t let your body be used for evil for God hates evil, when you are His child.
- Now comes the kicker but you have to walk into its truth by faith verse 14 - 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, {free}for you are not under law but under grace. God has already mandated that sin should have no dominion or rule over you – you have been set free, you are free indeed. John 8:36 says,
- The last freedom is in another verse, verse 16 which we have not read, but will read it now – verse 16 Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?
It is so important to understand all the choices are yours including obedience. You are free to choose but remember God has made ever provision in the heavenlies for your salvation and deliverance, but understood I hope you now have clarity. You have God’s help in every spiritual endeavor to follow Him. Christ’s blood has broken the power of sin to be blinded and not understand.
God loves and cares for you and wants you to be free and yet without sin. Will you respond to him right now? Only Trust Him now, He will save you, He will save you, He will save you now! Come every soul by sin oppressed there is mercy with the Lord. He will save you He will save you save you now.
Sermon June 6
A new charter is given by Jesus to the disciples 2000+ years ago. But it should not be a new charter to our eyes and ears for it has been repeated generation by generation to bring salvation to the earth. It began there in Jerusalem before Pentecost and was actually a fulfillment of prophecy seen in Acts Chapter 3, when God has given His men and women a new heart and a new spirit as promised in Jeremiah and Ezekiel’s books.
But for some reason we have seemed to have forgotten the truths that Jesus was imparting as His first set of disciples which we call the Apostles. These men were commissioned and setting out to allow God to use them to move in the hearts of the people He was calling to Himself. We need some refreshing as we reorient ourselves to God and His divine plan and power to move in us to accomplish His will for redemption, renewal and revival across America and in the pulpits of God’s power. When the church gets the message and starts responding in faith to the message of His truth then God will flex His might power by using us.
Allow us to be reset O God as you renew our hearts and minds in Jesus Christ our Lord. And Father visit us today we pray and lead us in the way everlasting to your glory and power Amen
Go to Matthew chapter 10:16-31to begin our reorientation:
16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless[f] as doves. 17 But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. 18 You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.
21 “Now brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. 22 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in this city, flee to another. For assuredly, I say to you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. 25 It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house [g]Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of his household! 26 Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known.
{Now Jesus teaches us about the Fear of God}:
27 “Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. 28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in [h]hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a [i]copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Amen – may God add His blessing to the reading of His Word.
There is a key verse in this text and I would like to begin there – verse 28 _28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in [h]hell.
If there is anything which should cause a believer to tremble, it is the wrath of God, against the children of disobedience. The world should not cause us to fear, for Jesus has overcome the world. We should not fear men, or their words, or twitter feeds, or Facebook censoring, or loss of job or loss of prestige or whatever in our lives gives us meaning apart from God. We should fear God.
Then I get this rebuttal from others, well you don’t know my problems; 3 kids all in diapers, a sick mom, or wife or kid or a disease or a or a or a….. No I have none of these. But here is where we have to ask ourselves where is our faith in God? What are we relying upon? Ourselves, our parents, our 401K/investment is that what we are trusting in these last days?
As I tell others today all our money is so much paper whether it is stuffed in your mattress or it is in the bank. It is nothing but paper and the only reason it is currently valuable is that everyone mutually agrees to accept it in exchange for goods and services. When and once that changes your current green and white papers will be worthless. This day will approach us in the near future, when exactly I have no clue. What will you do then, Trust God or trust yourself? Jesus in these words gave us our priority, to fear and trust God, beginning and unto the end.
I. Where Jesus is sending His people – verses 16 – 19, 16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless[f] as doves. 17 But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. 18 You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.
God is sending us out into the world. No hiding in our churches. Opting out is not going to be an option for the believer in Christ. You will be harassed and challenged as it says in this text to stand firm and be obedient unto the end. The end is not what you think but whatever God chooses for you. Remember He is sovereign and a sovereign Lord has life and death privileges over those who have sworn fealty to the master.
Rev 21:8 reminds us that the cowardly – those who choose not to respond to Christ’s call of obedience because of fear may share in the second death in the eternal lake of fire. That is not something I wish to experience, so I think you should be prepared to make up your mind right now that you really should fear God who has the ability to cast your soul into hell.
II. All worldly elements are coming after believers – government is mobilizing – all directorates and all other IC agencies are gearing up. Radicalization of the military is in progress and in a few years those wonderful heroes of yore will be tearing up the First and Second Amendments to the Bill of Right to get you and I. After all you are the genesis of all problems in America today. Your white privilege, whiteness and racist philosophy enabled the creation of this slave focused, preju
A new charter is given by Jesus to the disciples 2000+ years ago. But it should not be a new charter to our eyes and ears for it has been repeated generation by generation to bring salvation to the earth. It began there in Jerusalem before Pentecost and was actually a fulfillment of prophecy seen in Acts Chapter 3, when God has given His men and women a new heart and a new spirit as promised in Jeremiah and Ezekiel’s books.
But for some reason we have seemed to have forgotten the truths that Jesus was imparting as His first set of disciples which we call the Apostles. These men were commissioned and setting out to allow God to use them to move in the hearts of the people He was calling to Himself. We need some refreshing as we reorient ourselves to God and His divine plan and power to move in us to accomplish His will for redemption, renewal and revival across America and in the pulpits of God’s power. When the church gets the message and starts responding in faith to the message of His truth then God will flex His might power by using us.
Allow us to be reset O God as you renew our hearts and minds in Jesus Christ our Lord. And Father visit us today we pray and lead us in the way everlasting to your glory and power Amen
Go to Matthew chapter 10:16-31to begin our reorientation:
16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless[f] as doves. 17 But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. 18 You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.
21 “Now brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. 22 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in this city, flee to another. For assuredly, I say to you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. 25 It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house [g]Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of his household! 26 Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known.
{Now Jesus teaches us about the Fear of God}:
27 “Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops. 28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in [h]hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a [i]copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. 30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Amen – may God add His blessing to the reading of His Word.
There is a key verse in this text and I would like to begin there – verse 28 _28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in [h]hell.
If there is anything which should cause a believer to tremble, it is the wrath of God, against the children of disobedience. The world should not cause us to fear, for Jesus has overcome the world. We should not fear men, or their words, or twitter feeds, or Facebook censoring, or loss of job or loss of prestige or whatever in our lives gives us meaning apart from God. We should fear God.
Then I get this rebuttal from others, well you don’t know my problems; 3 kids all in diapers, a sick mom, or wife or kid or a disease or a or a or a….. No I have none of these. But here is where we have to ask ourselves where is our faith in God? What are we relying upon? Ourselves, our parents, our 401K/investment is that what we are trusting in these last days?
As I tell others today all our money is so much paper whether it is stuffed in your mattress or it is in the bank. It is nothing but paper and the only reason it is currently valuable is that everyone mutually agrees to accept it in exchange for goods and services. When and once that changes your current green and white papers will be worthless. This day will approach us in the near future, when exactly I have no clue. What will you do then, Trust God or trust yourself? Jesus in these words gave us our priority, to fear and trust God, beginning and unto the end.
I. Where Jesus is sending His people – verses 16 – 19, 16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless[f] as doves. 17 But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. 18 You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.
God is sending us out into the world. No hiding in our churches. Opting out is not going to be an option for the believer in Christ. You will be harassed and challenged as it says in this text to stand firm and be obedient unto the end. The end is not what you think but whatever God chooses for you. Remember He is sovereign and a sovereign Lord has life and death privileges over those who have sworn fealty to the master.
Rev 21:8 reminds us that the cowardly – those who choose not to respond to Christ’s call of obedience because of fear may share in the second death in the eternal lake of fire. That is not something I wish to experience, so I think you should be prepared to make up your mind right now that you really should fear God who has the ability to cast your soul into hell.
II. All worldly elements are coming after believers – government is mobilizing – all directorates and all other IC agencies are gearing up. Radicalization of the military is in progress and in a few years those wonderful heroes of yore will be tearing up the First and Second Amendments to the Bill of Right to get you and I. After all you are the genesis of all problems in America today. Your white privilege, whiteness and racist philosophy enabled the creation of this slave focused, preju