Sermon Note Archives
A letter from the Risen Christ
To the Church at Ephesus
That same Christ visits Southport every Sunday
Always watching, aware and appraising
II. HIS OBSERVATION VV.2-3
He “knows” all about this church ...
Had several reason to commend them
But they had ONE fatal flaw - a big one
II. HIS CONDEMNATION V.4
The Church belongs to Jesus
They had “left” their first love
= abandoned, sent away, departed
The most important thing > love for Lord!
Here is how you can tell if you have
left your first love:
III. HIS RECOMMENDATION V.5
1. Recognize his sovereignty & omniscience
2. Remember ….
3. Repent or
He would remove the lamp stand
= to turn out the lights!
What about YOU and your first love?
What would your response be to a terminal
illness diagnosis?
How would you deal with that?
Would you want to call in the M.A.I.D.?
M =
A =
I =
D =
P.A.S.?
MAID is legal in Canada and 10 US states
P.A.D. is the now preferred term!
MAID is present in a Canadian church
Must consider the following:
I. VIEW OF LIFE FROM A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE
Acts 17:24-26
Creator, Sustainer, Ruler, Lord
II. VIOLATION OF HUMAN DIGNITY 17:27-28
Eccl. 3:1-2
III. VALUE OF SUFFERING 17:29-31
Philippians 1:29; Matt. 16:21; Luke 24:46
II Cor. 1.:3-4; I Peter 4:12-16; 5:9
Becoming a Christian doesn’t mean
you will never be depressed
Some things change; some never do
Living in difficult and changing times
Many are depressed and frustrated
God has a cure for our depression
4 principles, 4 truths, 4 choices
I. PRAISE THE LORD V.1A
Causes us to look upward
II. FEAR THE LORD V.1B, 7
Fear of Lord eliminates all other fears
III. OBEY THE LORD V.1C
Literally, no substitute for obedience
IV. TRUST THE LORD V.7B
Belief in the reliability and truth of God!
Those 4 truths will help you always overcome depression!
As Christians, we have access to God’s power
Must grasp our true identity in Christ
Context of Ephesians 1
Ephesians were rich but living as beggars
Paul prays for the church
Christianity is more than a good idea
A personal individual relationship with God
Salvation is seen in the transforming power of grace
4 words for power:
“dunamis” = dynamite
“working” = energy
“mighty” = endowed power and ability
“power” = dominion, authority
Only God has such power!
I. Power to Endure Trials = II Cor. 4:7-19
II. Power to Overcome Temptation I Col. 10:13
III. Power to Share Testimony Rom. 1:16
Must look to Christ and not ourselves!
Do you love America?
Care about its future?
Burden by its actions?
Our nation is in trouble …
Just the last 12 months alone
Must ALWAYS look to the Word for wisdom!
I. PRAYER FOR INDIVIDUAL PEACE
Philippians 4:6-7. 19
Isaiah 26:3; 41:10
Hebrews 13:20-21
II. SUBMISSION TO THE GOVERNMENT
Romans 13:1-7
I Peter 2:11-19
III. CONVERSION OF OUR LEADERS
I Timothy 2:1-4
Ephesians 6:10-12
IV. MORALITY OF OUR LEADERS
I Timothy 2:2
Proverbs 29:1-2; Ecclesiastes 8:1-9
V. A GREATER TRUST IN SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD
Isaiah 40:6-17
Acts 17:24-31
If you say you believe the Bible
You must believe these truths!
Grace is found everywhere in Ephesians
Grace is great because it is a gift from God!
Do you grasp the wonder and awe of His grace?
You will never have an adequate conception of the
greatness of grace unless and until you understand
what you were before you met God’s grace!
What we were before God acted and intervened
Bible is a book of facts and truth
God is more than a friend or good buddy
Incarnation can only be understood this way
Same with the life and death of Jesus
Must ALWAYS start with doctrine of sin
Sin is why the world is as it is ….
Ephesians 2:1 = spiritually dead
Death is the opposite of life
Unbeliever is a walking, breathing zombie
God ALONE is the Giver of life!
That is grace!
Many have been deceived about their salvation
Bible specifically warns of this danger
Today’s evangelism is radically defective
But doesn’t the Bible say …. in Acts 16:31?
Look at the Acts 16 passage
Context is ALWAYS king
Before his conversion, look at what had happened:
1. Witnessed to with songs v.25
2. Experienced tremendous earthquake v.26-27
3. Felt need for illumination vv.28-29
4. Self complacency shattered v.29B
5. Cried our for help > repentance v.29
6. Respected God’s servants v.30A
7. Concern for his soul v.30B
8. Listened to the Word v.32
9. Concerned for his family; baptized v.33
10. Led to fellowship & rejoicing v.34
That was his conversion story!
What is yours?
Context of I Peter
Written to encourage dispersed believers
Strong minds, focused on Christ
v.19 says the blood is precious
Bible says a lot of other things are precious as well:
Psalm 22:20; Psalm 36:7; Psalm 116:15; Psalm 139:17
Proverbs 3:13-15; I Peter 1:7 and II Peter 1:4
Nothing more precious than the blood
Connection between blood of Christ and
every divine grace that comes to us!
Blessings of the blood:
1. Peace with God Colossians 1:19-20
2. Forgiveness of sin I John 1:6-9
3. Redemption Ephesians 1:7
4. Justification Romans 5:9
5. Propitiation I John 4:10 and Romans 3:21-26
6. Freedom Revelation 1:4-6
7. Strength to witness Revelation 12:11
Application:
What in life is “precious" to you?
Is the blood of Jesus precious?
Have you experienced any of these blessings?
All are yours — but only by grace!
Blessings of the Blood!
God has established three major institutions:
The Family
The Government
The Church
All three are in desperate trouble today
Only One who can fix it is the One who created it
All 3 institutions stand in need of spiritual revival!
Context ….
I. THE PERPLEXITY OF THE SITUATION VV.14-18
Only Jesus could heal the boy
WHY? V.29
II. THE PROBLEM
“This kind” = deep problems that we cannot fix
Necessity of making the correct diagnosis
Illustration …
We have abandoned God and His truth!
III. THE PRIORITY vv. 20-27, 28-29
Prayer = key
Individual prayer life, not organized, scripted meetings
Focus and priority an absolute necessity
Response > Luke 9:43 > astonishment
All humans cry… at one time or another
Babies and teenagers and seniors
It is an outward expression of inward trauma
Bible has a lot to say about tears and sorrow
There will even be weeping in Hell
Jesus wept at the Grave, in the Garden and at Golgotha
Bible filled with tears on every page
Context of Revelation 17
v.17 — every single tear! Wiped by God Himself!
1. Tears of Grief
2. Tears of Pain
3. Tears of Anxiety
4. Tears of Despondency
5. Tears of Fearfulness
6. Tears of Remorse
What a day that will be!
Tears when we behold the Lamb that was slain
Tears when we look at Christ
Tears of joy and jubilation
Tears of grace and gratitude
What about you in that day?
All because of God’s amazing grace!
The reality of a personal Devil
He is a master of deception
All his operations are predicated upon a lie
Romans 1:22-25; II Thess. 2:9-11; Acts 5:3-4
I. The Deception of Satan
Satan is a profound liar
Biggest lie is related to the teaching about salvation
Devil says getting saved is easy; Bible says it is hard
Quote of Spurgeon:
II. The Difficulty of Salvation
1. Mark 10:17-25
2. Matthew 7:13-14
3. Luke 14:16-17
4. John 6:27
III. The Demands of Salvation
Need to get people lost before they can be saved
Isaiah 55:7; Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46
Christ came to save form Hell AND sin!
Is your salvation based on a lie or Biblical truth?
The difference is eternity in Heaven or Hell!
II Corinthians 13:5 asks a very important question
Demands an honest response
Paul in Gal 5:24 says you presently have crucified
Past tense; something already done with continuing consequences
Not ought to, not one day you will but already done
Devil is cunning and deceptive
Who saves you? Just the blood?
All three persons of the Trinity involved
Father thought it
Son bought it
Holy Spirit wrought it
Assurances of the heart:
I. Pure Heart Acts 15:8-9
II. Humble Heart Luke 18:9-14
III. Tender Heart Ezekiel 36:26
IV. Obedient Heart John 14:15, 23-24
V. Victorious heart I John 5:4
How you ever taken this test?
How did you do?
You can find assurances through the Word and prayer
Bible filled with invitations for people to come to Christ
Over and over again, repeatedly the call goes forth
But also repeatedly, those pleas are ignored & rejected
Why? Why don’t people come to Christ?
Context of John 6
Every person is morally responsible
Every person in Hell chooses to go there
I. MAN IS UNABLE TO COME ON HIS OWN VV.44, 65
II. HIS UNDERSTANDING IS DARKENED BY SIN
Romans 3:10-11; Ephesians 5:8; John 3:19
II. COMPLETE CORRUPTION OF HIS AFFECTIONS V.44, 65
Luke 8:11-14
IV. CORRUPT NATURE OF OUR WILLS JOHN 5:40
The question is never “can” but “will”
V. INVITATION TO COME LUKE 9:23
Denial of self
Abandon all idols
Surrender to His Lordship
Importance of sharing the Gospel
Most people have something that winds them up …
It is different things for different people
What is the one, single greatest passion in your life?
“Pebbles you drop from your life become
waves that ripple for all eternity”
Story of two women missionaries
Story of a retired man and wife
All are called to give the Lord Jesus priority
Paul gloried in the cross - his life, his passion!
Context of Galatians 6 …
I. A SHOCKING AFFIRMATION 6:14
Cross was a horrible way to die
Why the cross? Many reasons
II. A SINGULAR AFFIRMATION 6:14
Paul could have boasted of many things
Only thing that truly mattered was the Cross
III. A SAVING AFFIRMATION 6:14
Saved from the penalty of sin
Saved from the power of sin
Paul learned it from Jesus Christ Himself!
Application:
What drives your life?
What role does Christ play?
End in tragedy or glory?
Glory in the cross!
Origin of the saying: “Remember the Alamo”
Lots to remember about the Lord Jesus Christ
Supernatural birth, sinless life, vicarious death
But especially His Resurrection!
Context of I Corinthians 15
Greatest chapter in Bible on Resurrection
Chapter 15 devoted entirely to those who did not
believe in a bodily resurrection!
Resurrection is at the core of the Gospel
I. GOD’S SAVING MESSAGE VV.1-2
Saved through through the preaching of Gospel
Saved through receiving and believing
I believed — I believe — I will continue
II. GOD’S SUPREME MESSAGE VV.3-8
“First of all” = of supreme importance
Paul didn’t create the Gospel
Christ died, buried and rose again
Seen by many others
III. GOD’S SOVEREIGN MESSAGE VV.9-11
“Grace” used 3 times in verse 10
Grace summarized Paul’s life and work
Grace exalts the transforming power of God
Grace energizes our service
A Christian is a follower of Christ
Acts 11:26
Professing Christ is one thing
Following Christ is another
Many misunderstand what it means to be a Christian
Context of Colossians 2: assurance & encouragement
Verse 6 = “walk" = live = conduct your lives
Simply means you will love what Jesus loves!
I. JESUS LOVED THE SABBATH Luke 4:16-21
“As His custom was” = consistently
Sabbath changed to Sunday after the resurrection
II. JESUS LOVED THE SCRIPTURES John 4:34
John 6:63; 7:16; 8:17-18, 26, 42-46; 12:48-50
III. JESUS LOVED THE SAINTS Matthew 1:21
John 17:20-26
IV. JESUS LOVED LOST SINNERS Matthew 9:35-38
Do you love what Jesus loves? Luke 19:10
If not, can you really claim to even be a Christian?
Colossians 2:7-10
Grounded, completeness, fullness!
Sword of Damocles
4th century B.C. Greek literature
Sword of Damocles = ever present danger in life
Always threatening and impending
Hangs over every individual
I. OUR STRUGGLE IN LIFE
Hebrews 9:27; Ecclesiastes 3:2
Born, live, play, work and die! Then what?
From dust to dust OR
From dust to glory?
II. THE SYMBOLISM IN BOOK OF REVELATION 21:1-4
When God wipes all our tears, it is done!
Will never have to do it again!
Verses 5-11
Verses 11-18: symbolic or literal? Streets of gold?
Symbol always points beyond itself to a greater reality
No Temple?
No sun? No moon? Why?
Glory of God gives it light
III. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF GLORY
Created for glory
Glory of His grace in Heaven
Glory of His justice in Hell!
You will bring glory to God!
America has lost its sense of shame over sin
Every time you sin, it becomes easier next time
Only cure is the Gospel
Romans 1:16; Philippians 1:20
If you are ashamed of Christ, you ARE NOT a Christian
So says this text!So says Jesus!
Key word: operative word is “must”
Jesus is rebuked by Peter
Jesus then amplifies the Gospel
I. A DENIAL V.34
Love Jesus more than the world!
II. A DETERMINATION V.34B
Follow Christ in obedience!
III. A DARING
There is no God apart from this Gospel
There is no grace!
Application:
1. Let others know what Jesus means to you
2. What do you see when you look at Jesus?
3. Tell others you love Christ more than this world
4. Compare world’s possessions with joy in heaven
5. It isn’t easy — difficult to be a Christian!
We are living in strange times …
Voices scream at us from all corners of universe
"Take vaccine; don’t take it"
"Jesus is coming; world coming to an end!"
Faced by EVERY generation
Conspiracy theories abound
Must remember II Cor. 10:3-5 and Ephesians 6:12
Greatest privilege in all the world is knowing God!
I. SPIRITUAL CONDITION
Must always keep the main thing the main thing
Don’t live life on the margins
Unmoved by the greatness of God Himself
II. SPIRITUAL CENTER Romans 12:1-2
Must be a right ordering of all our thinking
God must be at the Center!
III. SPIRITUAL COMMITMENT
All truth leads to obedience
IV. SPIRITUAL CONTENTMENT
Isaiah 26:3
Philippians 4:11-13
John 16:33
A rabbit’s foot is considered good luck
Do you know why?
England - China - Asia legends ...
Proverbs 22:6 on wall in Welcome Center
Is Proverbs 22:6 a religious rabbit foot for
disappointed parents and grandparents?
Many struggle with the truth of that verse
Parenting is toughest job in the world
Children are a gift from God
Children must be loved
Children must be disciplined
Children must be trained
Bible is basic textbook in the home
Train = to teach, to dedicate, to educate, to prepare,
to drill, to claim, to own, to set aside
Used 5 times in Old Testament: Deut.20:5; I Kings 8:63
II Chron. 7:5 and Proverbs 22:6
Proverbs 22:6 really means = they won’t stray away at all!
An ironclad guarantee or a general principle?
Greatest legacy we can leave our kids!
I love music! Do you?
All kinds of music ...
Almost everybody today has a Playlist
Music is a gift of God; blessing or curse.
Music can soothe the soul ...
Psalm 150: Ephesians 5:18-21; Col. 3:16-17
Good music is capable of a lot of things!
Caution: easy to be deceived by “feelings" produced by music
Easy to confuse “feelings" with content and truth
Music can relegate Jesus to #2 or #3 or #4
Can love the singer more than the song!
Jesus is better than music! Why?
I. THE GIVER IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN THE GIFT
II. THE TRUTH IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN THE TUNE
III. ETERNAL COMFORT IS BETTER THAN TEMPORARY
IV. ACTUAL UNITY BETTER THAN FEELINGS OF UNITY
V. ONLY JESUS CAN SATISFY YOUR SOUL
Only Jesus and the Gospel can save! Romans 1:16 and 10:17
Being forgetful is a natural part of aging
Nation of Israel had “spiritual Alzheimer’s” disease
Time and time again they forgot God
But God NEVER forgot them
God never forgets His children!
No matter who you are
No matter where you are
God HAS NOT forgotten you!
He is working all things for your good and His glory!
I. GOD WILL BE WITH YOU 139:6-7
God is always present
In heaven, on earth and in Hell
His presence is tremendously important
“A day with God …. in a dark place ... is better
than 1,000 pain free days without God.”
II. GOD HAS A PURPOSE FOR YOUR SUFFERING 139:1-6
God is aware of you and all your needs
God allows suffering to enter our lives
III. YOUR SUFFERING HAS AN END DATE
It will not last forever
Jer. 32:17
Lord Jesus in Mark 8
That same God is our God
He will be with you through it all!
God has not forgotten you!
Every thing has a life cycle!
Humans - animals - businesses
And nations - 7 stages of the life cycle for America:
America has been an exceptional nation
But today — we are in trouble!
Experiencing the wrath of God in our nation
God will let a nation destroy itself Acts 14:15-17
I. SEXUAL REVOLUTION Romans 1:24-25
II. HOMOSEXUAL REVOLUTION Romans 1:26-27
III. INTELLECTUAL REVOLUTION Romans 1:28
Great need for a spiritual revolution
How do we find our way back from such decadence?
You don’t!
All revolutions ultimately lead to destruction.
IV. SPIRITUAL DESTRUCTION Romans 1:28-32
Israel didn’t escape; Rome did not escape; and USA will not
Only safety found in the Lord Jesus Christ
Flee the wrath that is to come come
Flee to Christ! Hebrews 4:14-16
We are in a post-Christian era and time
Is the Church on the right track?
Are we missing something?
Andy Stanley, son of Charles, says YES!
Stanley says “today's church relies too much
on the Old Testament and we need to abandon it.”
And … there are others
They say “all that really matters is the resurrection of Jesus”
Just “un-hitch from the Old Testament”
I disagree and we cannot do that because:
I. OT Gives Us a Revelation of God
II. Bible is a Tapestry about Lord Jesus Christ
III. OT was the Only Bible Jesus Ever Had
IV. Only Bible Paul the Apostle Had
V. Spiritually Impoverished Without the OT
Undeniable continuity between OT and NT
Jesus said Bible is true! If not, He was wrong
If He was wrong, He is not our Savior!
Christianity has not lost its mojo!
God of the OT is the God of the NT!
“Salvation" is a good Bible word
It is also a word not used very much anymore
Jesus used it in Luke 19:10 and John 12:27
Paul used it a lot in his writings
Salvation = deliverance, rescue, made complete
Always associated with the cross
The cross is an absolute necessity
Cross is significant, central and necessary
But no longer the prevailing doctrine in USA
Why does Paul say what does in I Cor. 2:2
Every person needs to be saved from what?
I. FROM SIN I Timothy 1:15; Romans 6:23
II. FROM JUDGMENT Hebrews 9:27
III. FROM WRATH Romans 5:9-10
IV. FROM DEATH Ezekiel 18:20-24
That is why Paul always preached the cross
That is why we need salvation!
Salvation found only at the cross!
The Church today is under assault
The Church needs men to be spiritual leaders!
Quote: “The only thing necessary for the triumph
of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
I would add: “the only thing necessary for the Church
to be defeated is for Christian men to do nothing.”
Tract on entrance to Hell …
You end up in Hell because you are a sinner
Context of Numbers 32
Tribes of Reuben and Gad:
I. Abandoned their true mission
II. Abdicated their responsibility to fellow soldiers
III. Abhorred the commandments of the Lord
When you do that, you are already on the highway to Hell!
Just do nothing:
1. Wedding Feast Matthew 22:1-15
2. Foolish Virgins Matthew 25:1-13
3. Investing Talents Matthew 25:14-30
4. Helping Needy Matthew 25:44-45
5. Rich Man in Hell Luke 16:19-31
6. Pilate Luke 23:20-25
All had one thing in common > they did NOTHING!
What are you doing?
All people exercise faith… daily
But not all people have saving faith!
Saving faith is a gift of God Ephesians 2:8-9
The great faith chapter is Hebrews 11
Matthew 6:30; 8:26; 14:31; 16:8
“You of little faith” mentioned 4 times!
People with little faith will always demonstrate:
Consistent anxiety
Unnecessary fear
Number of doubts
Want to have big faith, walk with God, lots of faith?
There are some things you must do:
i. BUILD UP YOUR FAITH Hebrews 11:1,6; Romans 10:17
Work it and grow it > II Peter 3:17-18
II. LOOK AND CONSIDER MATTHEW 6:26, 28, 30
Think, evaluate everything
III. REMEMBER MATTHEW 8:26
Great faith always sees the Savior
IV. STAY FOCUSED ON CHRIST MATTHEW 6:33; 8:26-27
Never doubt Christ!
Ever feel like quitting?
But something inside you said, "You can’t”?
Quote of Winston Churchill
If God has truly started something in you,
you can never quit! Phil. 1:6
God will complete the job by bringing into our lives:
I. TESTING James 1:2-4
God will send the trials
To create perseverance
II. SUFFERING I Peter 2:19-23
To create perseverance
III. DISCIPLINE Hebrews 12:5-10
To create perseverance
IV. PEACE & GRACE Romans 5:1-5
To create perseverance
V. LAYING ASIDE Hebrews 12:1-2
To create perseverance
VI. FIGHTING SPIRIT II Timothy 4:6-8
Creates perseverance
VII. DAILY RENEWAL II Corinthians 4:16-18
Jesus experienced all these and never gave up!
And neither can you!
Popularity of cremation
Bible doesn’t expressly forbid it
But doesn’t encourage it, either
Death is a major dividing line
It divides the past from future
Somber, jarring, startling reality
What if no one had visited the tomb of Jesus?
Ever thought of that?
Such a thing as unhealthy visits to cemetery:
Anger, communicate with dead, re-live guilt & failure
Such a thing as healthy visits to cemetery
Value of a cemetery visit?
1. Go to grieve Psalm 30:5
2. Sobered by your own mortality Psalm 90:12
3. To mediate and reflect
4. Express respect and honor
5. To give thanks I Thess 5:23
6. To be inspired
7. To rekindle the fires of resurrection I Col. 15:42-43
8. To be reminded of our inheritance I Peter 1:3-9
John 11:25
John 14:1-3
Psalm 23:4-6
A fascinating story by itself
One moment “full of leprosy”
Next moment he was cleansed!
Completely! Instantaneously!
I. CONDITION v.12
Luke was a physician… so he knew
Man was "full of leprosy" = advanced stage
Infectious skin disease and spread quickly
Highly contagious; banished from society
II. COMPARISON
In Bible leprosy is a symbol for sin
Sin does to the soul what leprosy does to body
All of us have the leprosy of sin
Defiles, destroys and kills! James 1:14-15
III. CONSEQUENCES v.13
Only place to go for healing is Jesus
In Him alone, there is hope Hebrews 4:15
IV. CHALLENGE V.14
Leper had to report to the priest
Supposed to bring an offering
A leper who gave thanks > Luke 17:11-19
Ever told anyone to “stop judging me?”
And then quoted the words of Jesus in Matthew 7?
Even unbelievers know that verse!
Easily misunderstood and applied!
Can quote v. 1 … but ignore vv. 2-5
I. THE CONTEXT
Part of Sermon on Mount in chapters 5-7
Not a warning against making sound judgments
A warning not to become smug and self righteous
II. THE CONFUSION
Failure to properly interpret “judge”
Doesn’t mean to accuse, try, sentence & execute
Must make sound, righteous judgments
II Corinthians 6:14-18
Certainty is scorned in today’s society
Mystery is celebrated; prefer blurry lines
Romans 1:24-32; I Cor. 6:9-11
III. THE CONCLUSION
A stern warning in 7:21-27
Judgments must be made
Your eternal destiny is in the balance!
We live in a culture that is biased toward God
Necessity of Bible for revelation of truth
Man has three major problems:
Sin, sorrow and death
All others are just a sub set under those three
Bible is an eternal monument to truth
I. SIN
What is sin?
How is it manifested?
II Timothy 3:1-5; Romans 3:10-19
II. SORROW
World is drowning in sorrow
All kinds of sorrow
Where can you find comfort and relief?
Psalm 6:2-9: 25:15-17
III. DEATH
We all are going to die!
Then what?
Life after death? yes or no?
Only two eternal destinations: heaven or hell!
Where do you go to find answers to your problems?
Biblical conversion is supernatural
It is something done by God
It continues for all eternity
Must be genuine repentance and belief
I. A COMPARISON
God’s righteousness vs. man’s goodness
There is really no comparison
That all changed when Paul met Jesus
II. A COST
Paul counted all things as loss
All that really mattered was Jesus
Is there anything that comes between you and Jesus?
III. A CONFIRMATION
1. To know Him v.8, 10
2. Resurrection power v.10
3. Fellowship of His sufferings
4. Resurrection of the dead
The Church today is under attack
Nominal Christianity is the trend
I. DANGER OF A FALSE GOSPEL
Bible warns us of this: Acts 20:26-30
How and why did we get here?
Galatians 1:6-9 tells us why
They turned away from the true Gospel
Many have coddled and embraced a false gospel
Saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone
But … the faith that saves is never alone!
II. DISTINCTIONS MUST BE MADE
Faith and repentance are non-negotiable!
Add anything to the Gospel and you pollute it
III. DEVOTED TO DESTRUCTION 1:8B-9
Accursed = devoted to destruction
Achan and those who do not love the Lord
False teachers = anathema = devoted to destruction
Don’t ever compromise the true Gospel!
Can you go on… after a break-up?
Can a daughter make it apart from her mother?
A wife apart from her husband? Momma? Daddy?
YES — you can!
But you cannot make it… apart from Christ!
Abide = receiving and trusting Christ
continuing on in Christ
making our home in Christ
finding our rest and refuge
Apart from Christ you:
I. CANNOT BE SAVED
II. CANNOT BE STRONG
III. CANNOT OVERCOME SORROW
IV. CANNOT UNDERSTAND SCRIPTURE
Requires diligence, watchfulness on our part
Verse 2 = more fruit
Verse 8 = much fruit
Verse 16 = eternal fruit
Without Christ you can do NOTHING!
With Christ, you can ALL THINGS! Phil. 4:13
Every family suffers the loss of a loved one
Every church suffers the loss of its members
How should we deal with it?
How do we cope? Go on?
Stages of grief:
Denial
Shock
Anger
Depression
Acceptance
I. PRAISE THE LORD Psalm 34:1-3
Job 1:21 and 13:15
II. PROCLAIM HIS SOVEREIGNTY
Hebrews 9:27; Acts 17:26-27 and Job 14:5
III. PARTICIPATE IN THE BODY
I Corinthians 12:12-20; Ezekiel 22:30
IV. PRAY
For wisdom, grace and strength
Matthew 9:36-38
It is the sensible and Biblical thing to do!
Ephesians 3:14-21
Jesus came to call “sinners”
Two types of sinners: saved and lost
I John 1:6-10
Any secret sins? pet sins?
Verse 5 says to “Mortify it”
= put it to death; starve it; kill it
“Be killing sin or sin will be killing you"
Must constantly be fighting sin
How do we break old habits of sin?
I. SET YOUR MIND ON CHRIST 3:1-2
II. PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN 3:9-10
III. ACT LIKE THE CHRISTIAN YOU ARE 3:12-14
IV. BE RULED BY THE PEACE OF CHRIST 3:15
V. INDWELT BY THE WORD OF CHRIST 3:16
VI. LET EVERYTHING YOU DO … 3:17
Want to overcome old sins?
Live and dwell in Colossians 3.
Being blessed originated with God
Bible talks a great deal about being blessed
Starts in Genesis 1 and ends in Revelation 22
To be blessed you should be concerned about:
I. OBEDIENCE PSALM 1:1-3
Special blessings of God never fall on the disobedient
II. FORGIVENESS PSALM 32:1-2
Forgiveness is a very special gift
Why so?
III. REFUGE PSALM 34:8-10
Where do you go for refuge from a godless world?
IV. HOUSE-DWELLERS PSALM 84:8-10
For worshippers
For praisers
V. PERSEVERANCE JAMES 1:12
VI. ALL THINGS I CORINTHIANS 3:21-23
Lists 5 things in those verses
Poorest Christian is richer than wealthiest man!
A Christian doesn’t get all the blessings now
Some are reserved in heaven … for later, for eternity
Application!
Context of Luke 4
Heart = center, core of our being
Mentioned almost 1,000 times in Bible
It drives the will of a person into action
I. IDENTITY OF THE HEART
God knows all about our hearts ...
In its natural condition, it is evil Jer. 17:9
Tainted by sin and must be changed
II. REALITY OF THE BROKEN-HEARTED
Jesus came for many reasons ...
One major reason was to heal the broken-hearted
World disposes of the broken; God repairs them
III. UTILITY OF BROKEN HEARTS
God uses broken things
Gideon, Samson, and others
Broken body of His Son Isaiah 53:1-10
The broken heart of Jesus Christ
In the Garden and on the Cross
“God permits what He hates
to accomplish what He loves”
We all are broken to a certain degree
Brokeness leads to blessing!
Did you know that 52% of all adults 18-29 in America
live with one or both parents?
Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
Reasons are …. many!
Can create conflict and frustration
Important to know what the Bible says … v.22
Are you an encourager or an enabler?
Four examples:
A friend’s request
A spouse
A son
A daughter
We must know three very important things:
I. CONDITION OF THE HEART
Everybody is responsible for their own sin
II. CHOICES WE MAKE
Have consequences … that God uses
Must never be an enabler!
Freedom to choose — leads to certain consequences
Don’t try to be God to them
III. COMMITMENT WE MUST MAKE
Who cares about God’s honor and integrity?
You and all your resources belong to the Lord!
Never make it easy for someone you love — to sin!
We often ask it about Heaven but seldom about Hell
Bible teaches the reality of the existence of Hell
Bible is founded on Truth —
Hell is taught everywhere in the Bible
Jesus had more to say about Hell than Heaven …
Matthew 5:22, 29; 10:28; 18:9; 23:25, 33
Apostle Paul, James and Peter
To deny Hell is to deny the Bible
Context of Revelation 14 …
Can you even imagine? Seems a bit harsh?
I. UNIVERSAL NEED FOR JUSTICE
Commit a crime, you do the time
Just 1 sin = worthy of eternal judgment
II. BIBLICAL GOD OF LOVE AND WRATH
The wrathful God is a God of love!
God loves you because He knows what sin does
III. LOGICAL COSMIC COMPENSATION
Hell is necessary because of our sin
A just God demands just punishment
God Himself provided the deliverance at the cross
V.12 > a call for endurance
v.13 > a promise of blessing!
What you believe about God is important
What you believe about the world is important
God is a God of perfect love
There are some things He hates
Psalm 5:5; 97:10; 119:28
Proverbs 6:16-19
Context of I John
I. A PROHIBITION 2:15
Love = agape
World = cosmos
Anti God and anti-Christ
II. A PROCLAMATION 2:16
Lust of the flesh =
Lust of the eyes =
Pride of life =
III. A PASSING AWAY 2:17A
In the process of … perishing
Temporary, transient
IV. A PRIORITY 2:17B
Simple and profound > obedience!
Application:
1. You cannot love God and world simultaneously
2. World’s system is contrary to God
3. World’s values are passing away
Legalism = a dramatic departure from the Word
Two major strands of legalism:
Attacks justification ...
Attacks sanctification ...
Second strand - sanctification — addressed in Galatians 4
Produces immature Christians
Breeds a form of self righteousness
I. THEIR PAST BONDAGE TO SIN V.8
“enslaved to gods of their imagination”
II. THEIR POWERFUL CONVERSION TO CHRIST V.9
“But now” signifies something different
Had come to be known by God
III. THEIR PRESENT BENT TOWARD LEGALISM VV.10-11
Were turning back - ongoing process
We no longer observe sacrifices and feast days of the OT
We are to resist every form of legalism
Our peace and rest is found in Christ alone!
Many important dates in history
July 4 1776 =
January 1 1863 =
December 7 1941 =
September 11 2001 =
Another one is October 31 1517
Wasn’t the beginning of Halloween
But the beginning of the Protestant Reformation
Martin Luther protested against
the Roman Catholic Church
Disagreed over the sale of indulgences
Salvation - justification by faith
5 Solas of the Reformation
Scripture Alone =
Sacrament of Communion
Trans-substantion =
Role of Mary:
Immaculate Conception?
Assumption of Mary?
Prayers to Mary?
Had it not been for October 31 1517,
you would be ….
Always thank God for October 31 1517
How would you define the Gospel?
How many words would it take you to define the Gospel?
I can do it in — just three words!
GOD SAVES SINNERS!
That is THE Gospel.
I. GOD V. 1
His Gospel, His idea, His plan, His concept
Promised in the OT
II Timothy 1:8-10; John 8:55-58
II. SAVES VV.1-2
Saves = sodzo = to deliver, to rescue, to save
Used over 100 times in the NT
Associated with His name, life, ministry, resurrection
Saved from what? To what?
III. SINNERS
What is a sinner? One who sins
A law breaker, a covenant breaker, a transgressor
Bible teaches we are ALL sinners
Willingly, voluntarily, deliberately sinful
John 3:16-19; Romans 5:8; I Timothy 1:15
All centered in the Person of Lord Jesus Christ
Ever been in a “dark” place?
Felt like no one really cares?
We all have been there and for different reasons
Bible has a song to sing in the darkness
Very familiar but very powerful and personal
Impoverished if we do not use it
Why? About the Lord Jesus Christ (John 10)
I. HE IS ALWAYS PRESENT V.1
II. HE IS ALWAYS PROVIDING V. 1B. 2-3
III. HE IS ALWAYS PROTECTING VV.4-5
IV. HE IS ALWAYS PROMISING V.6
A song always worth singing in the darkness
Next time you find yourself there
Quote, read, pray, access Psalm 23 often
No greater song in the Bible!
That Shepherd says in Matthew 11:28-30 ...
Only true Christians can celebrate Thanksgiving
Only believers can give thanks! Why?
Because only believers know God through Christ!
Thanksgiving is a time for giving thanks …
Especially, thanks for our redemption!
4 vivid images and pictures in Psalm 107
I. THE WANDERING VV.4-9
Lost & homeless
II. THE BOUND VV.10-12
Imprisoned & awaiting execution
III. THE AFFLICTED VV.17-19
People who have made themselves sick …
IV. THE UTTERLY HOPELESS VV.23-27
Lost at sea and unable to navigate the storms of life
What can they do?
They ALL cried out to the Lord! VV. 6.13,19, 28
And He delivered them! v.28
Our only hope is to cry out to the Lord!
Luke 4:16-21
Matthew 11:28-30
John 6:37
I Timothy 1:15
Most intense suffering you have ever “seen"?
Worst suffering you have ever “experienced"?
We often recoil from such images and thoughts
When you think of Lord Jesus you cannot avoid it
Don’t look at someone else! Or yourself!
Look at the Lord Jesus Christ!
Bible says it pleased the Father … Isaiah 53:4-11
God knows all about suffering.
Why does He allow it? Why?
I. TO DEMONSTRATE HIS SOVEREIGNTY
He is Boss, Lord and King
II. TO DRAW PEOPLE CLOSER TO HIM
Suffering will draw you closer or push you away
Phil. 1:29
III. TO DISCOVER YOUR NEED FOR A SAVIOR
Romans 8:21-22; I Peter 3:18; Psalm 107
IV. TO DIRECT OUR MINDS TO HEAVENLY THINGS
Colossians 3:1-2
Focus on WHY Jesus suffered
And WHY he died!
Saved by His death!!!
*************************
Remember —NO WEDNESDAY NIGHT THIS WEEK!
Do you know the world’s total population?
How many of those are Christian? Muslim? Unaffiliated?
By 2050 —what will those numbers reveal?
Christianity, Islam, Hinduism — none are the fastest growing
Do you know which one is?
Fastest growing religion in the world is a cult!
Composed of many different kinds of “religious” people
Really — the oldest religion as well — Gen 3:1-8
Its Teachings are these:
1. You alone are sovereign and boss
2. Your mind is the source and standard of truth
3. Your emotions are authoritative and are to be valued
4. You are the “summum bonum”
Latin phrase for “the standard of goodness”
Self-worship!
Context of our story in Luke 12 ….
He was called a fool by the Lord Himself
Required to give an account
Creature met the Creator
What are YOU?
Are you a member of this cult?
Better be very, very careful!
Do you own anything that is not for sale?
At any price?
Not an animal. Not a family member.
But a treasured, highly valued something?
What is it? How long have you had it?
Why is that something so special?
If I was forced to choose, I would say ….
Whatever it is, it can be stolen or destroyed or de-valued!
The LORD has given us some treasures that
can never be stolen:
I. ACCESS TO THE THRONE OF GOD
Hebrews 4:16
Psalm 34:17-18
II. SCRIPTURE STORED IN YOUR HEART
II Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17
III. HOPE OF THE GOSPEL
Colossians 1;27
Romans 15:4
I Peter 1:3-9
In what have you place your hope?
IV. GIFT OF SALVATION
Ephesians 2:8-9
No better gift in all the world!
Nobody!
Nothing can ever take these treasures away!
Here we find no scenery, no manger, no baby Jesus
No Bethlehem, no wise men, no angels, no shepherds
But … we find the true meaning of Christmas!
Answers the question: what is Christmas all about?
Why do we celebrate Christmas?
Packed into seven verses. we have
5 truths about Jesus that stand out:
I. HE ABANDONED A SOVEREIGN POSITION VV.6-7
II. HE ACCEPTED A SERVANT’S PLACE V.7
III. HE APPROACHED A SINFUL PEOPLE VV.7-8
IV. HE ADOPTED A SELFLESS POSTURE V.8
V. HE ASCENDED A SUPREME PRINCE VV9-11
Here we see a life of humility, service, sacrifice and obedience
He embodied all that He taught
He left behind a tremendous challenge for us all
He purchased a salvation for all who believe and repent!
I. SIMEON’S EXAMPLE vs 25-26
His character is summed up in two words -“just and devout.”
Vs. 25 “Just”—that is his character before men.
Vs. 25 “Devout”—that is his character before God.
Vs. 26 He was “Waiting for the Consolation of Israel”. - waiting for the Messiah
Vs.29 “Servant”
II. JESUS AT THE TEMPLE, vs 27-35
Vs. 27-28 “do for Him according to the custom of the law”.
A. Simeon’s Song vs.29-33
- Simeon’s prayer of humble submission vs.29
It was a prayer of complete and joyful resignation. “Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace.”
The Formula for Peace SEEING JESUS!
He brings salvation for all peoples vs. 30-31.
“My eyes have seen Your Salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples.”
Salvation is a Person, not something you do.
B. Simeon’s prophecy vs.34–35
- He is The Stone that Divides: vs 34
- He is The Sign that was Opposed: vs. 34
- He was The Sword of Suffering for His Mother vs.35
Lessons
#1. We Must Seek to Share Christ (vs.30-32)
#2. We Must Seek to Live out our Christian Lives Daily (vs.35)
#3. WE Must be Willing to Pay the Price that is asked of us.
Value of the Old Testament
Same God in Old and in New
Popularity of “decisionism”
Weakness of it is this =
Salvation is a work of grace!
Context of I Kings 18
Prophets of Baal versus Elijah …
Key text > verse 37
That they may know God AND
That it was God who turned their hearts!
God & Father of the Lord Jesus
God revealed fully in Christ
I. Importance of Knowing Him
John 17:3 and Jeremiah 9:23-24
II. Importance of Knowing God Turns Hearts v.37
Look good in verse 39 …
It is ALWAYS the Lord who turns man’s heart
John 6:44, 65
Acts 3:24-26
Lydia in Acts 16:14
James 1:17-18
That is grace!
Everybody has problems ...
Easy to get overwhelmed
God’s promises can seem meaningless
Our problems can seem bigger than God
Many are self inflicted and very real
Isaiah 40 — Israel had made bad choices
Failed to consult with God
Facing destruction and death
They needed God more than ever
I. POWER OF GOD VV.9-10
Power to perceive and persevere
II. WISDOM OF GOD VV.12-15
A hard road when you go alone
III. GRACE OF GOD V.11
Read it slowly and carefully
Feel the compassion and tenderness of God
Big problem and little god OR
Big God and little problem?
God is bigger than your problem!
All of us have lost loved ones in death
Never easy to say goodbye
Every person who has ever lived, has died!
Only two exceptions: Enoch and Elijah
Questions about Heaven abound
Bible teaches reality of Heaven
Satan is active in repudiating this truth
1ST LIE - BIBLE SAYS LITTLE ABOUT HEAVEN
Wrong! actually it says a lot.
2ND LIE - YOU LEARN ABOUT HEAVEN FROM PEOPLE
WHO HAVE GONE THERE
Wrong again! Only believe the Word!
3RD LIE - JUST SPEND ETERNITY IN THE CLOUDS
Wrong a third time! Who said that?
4TH LIE - HEAVEN WILL BE BORING
Anything and everything but boring!
According to Jesus in John 14, Heaven is
A Place
A Prepared Place
A Privileged Place
A place of worship, work, service, reunion and wonder!
Only way to Heaven is through Jesus Christ!
Saving faith is a … saving grace
Our obedience does not merit salvation
But conversion leads to obedience
Obedience is never a condition for our salvation
But is always a consequence of our salvation
I. OBEDIENCE AND LOVE GAL. 5:6
Q: Do you obey Christ our of love or duty?
Your love for Him doesn’t lessen your duty to Him
We obey out of love AND duty!
II. OBEDIENCE AND LAW GAL. 3:23 & 5:18
Are we no longer under the law?
Q: What is the relationship between law and grace?
Not under law in a ceremonial sense
Not under the law as a means of justification
III. OBEDIENCE AND GRACE
Unsaved man has two major problems:
1. He is a sinner
2. As he is, he is unfit for heaven
No justification by works: Gal. 2:16; 3:10-11
Our justification is found only in the person
and work of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Familiar and tender words of Jesus
Verse 1 is an imperative, a command
Words of comfort and consolation
They were upset and troubled deeply
What is gonna happen now?
On the eve of the cross …
We all have troubled hearts at times, don’t we?
We worry about:
I. THOUGHT OF DEATH
HEB 2:15
II. FAMILY Psalm 127:1
Well being, health, next Dr appt
III. SOCIETY Phil. 4:6-7
Economy, jobs, healthcare, weather, etc
COVID, shortages, etc
IV. CHURCH Matthew 16:16-18
Future of the church?
How long will it endure?
APPLICATION:
1. Believe in God — of the OT and NT
2. Believe in Christ __ His word, His truth, His life
3. His presence v.1
4. His preparation v.2
5. His parousia v.3
Proverbs filled with principles about
navigating life
Text deals with laziness and lions
Many make excuses for their behavior
One is that he is afraid of lions on the street
Lions are big, strong animals
Can weigh up to 500 pounds
Can run up to 50 mph
Can eat a human in one sitting
Don’t use lions as an excuse for laziness
Difference between an excuse and a reason
Excuses are everywhere
Away with all the excuse-making
Laziness is sinful and dishonoring to Christ
Turn to Luke 14:16-24
Adam and Eve in Genesis 3
Saul in I Samuel 15
What Jesus said in Matthew 25:24-30
The only Lion you need to fear is in Rev. 5:5
Jesus is the Lion from the tribe of Judah!
Forgiveness is very important to the Christian
Have a responsibility to forgive others
Bible has a lot to say about the person and character of God
I. GOD IS FAITHFUL
Trustworthy; Accountable; Dependable
I Cor. 1:9 and 10:13
II Tim. 2;13
II. GOD IS FORGIVING
I John 1:7-9
Psalm 130:3-4
III. GOD IS FORGETFUL
Not a flaw or fault
But an act and choice
Intentional and purposeful
Every single solitary sin — gone!
Reflects His strength and grace
Psalm 103:12
Isaiah 38:17; 43;25
Micah 7:19
Hebrews 8:12
All because of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Application:
We will be judged as a steward of His blessings
We must forgive others
We must be filled with gratitude and praise
We must honor and serve Him!
COVID 19 and Omicron has impacted everything
known to man
Especially our educational system
I. Learning Modalities: 4 major types
1. Visual
2. Auditory
3. Tactile
4. Kinesthetic
Each has its own strengths and weaknesses
II. Worship Modalities
Online learning? worship? Good, better than nothing
But always best to be present — why?
When all our senses are gathered in same place,
at same time, with one another, better learning takes place!
III. Spiritual Modalities > Matthew 11:28-30
“weary” = worn out, given out, total exhaustion
“rest” = cessation from action, freedom from labor
“yoke” = a metaphor for submission
“learn” = to find knowledge
to receive instruction
to be informed in order to do something
Spiritually > must have knowledge AND experience
Must know and do in order to serve
Failing to do so creates a real danger! II Tim 3:1-7
Greatest study you can ever do is to study
the person and character of God
Mind boggling and life changing
God is … many, many things
God is infinite = without limitations
No boundaries, over and beyond us
Infinity = a hard term to define
The LORD transcends time and space
Inexhaustible and abundant
God NEVER runs out of anything! And that is why:
I. SEEK HIM FOR HELP Psalm 34:4
II. STRENGTH FOR THE WEARY Isaiah 40:28-31
III. SUSTAINER FOR THE HUMBLE II Chronicles 16:9
IV. SAVIOR OF THE LOST Luke 19:10; Psalm 107:4-7
Do you have any needs in your life?
Is this God able to meet your needs?
Will you ask Him?
Familiar with the word?
= state of deep unconsciousness
a lethargic inertness
lifeless
alive, but barely
unresponsive to environment
Comatose is not somewhere you want to be!
Many Christians are in a spiritually comatose state
Physically alive and barely spiritually alive.
Church at Thessalonica was comatose
to the truths of God
Context of I Thessalonians 5
Especially the Second Coming
How do you self diagnose? Take test?
Q1: HOW OFTEN DO YOU HEAR THE WORD OF GOD?
Psalm 19
Q2: HOW OFTEN DO YOU SPEAK TO GOD?
Hebrews 4:12
Q3: DO YOU COMMONLY SEARCH FOR ANSWERS TO PRAYER?
John 14:13-14
Q4: DO YOU EVER PAUSE FOR WORSHIP?
Hebrews 10:25
YOUR answers will definitely determine if
you are comatose or not!
Do you know what “wonky" means?
= Shakey, tottering, feeble
The Worship Center?
We come to give worship, to offer Him something
Quote from Charles Spurgeon
I. DEFINITION OF WORSHIP
Honor to a superior being
To show reverence and respect
The Biblical God in a Biblical way
II. DANGER OF NON-BIBLICAL WORSHIP
Flip Wilson and the Church of What’s Happening Now
1. Cain and personalized religion Jude 11A
2. Balaam and profitable revelation Jude 11 B
3. Korah and popular revolution Jude 11C
III. THE DEMAND FOR BIBLICAL WORSHIP
JOHN 4:23-24
In spirit and in truth!
What does "the face of God” mean?
1. Important term to know!
It means =
2. “Coram Deo” = Latin phrase used by Luther
= Before the face of god
We are to live life in presence of God
Sometimes …God “hides His face…?” vv. 8-9
Why?
I. TO DISCIPLINE THOSE HE LOVES
Hebrews 12:5-6
II. TO TEACH US THE VALUE OF HIS PRESENCE
II Cor. 4:3-6
III. TO SHOW US OUR WEAKNESS
Jude 24-25
IV. TO REMIND US OF OUR GREAT SALVATION
Isaiah 50:10
Do you live a life of Coram Deo?
That is what being a Christian means!
Life is filled and flooded with questions
All kinds of questions we must face
Questions, questions, questions everywhere:
Must be answered …sooner or later!
Answered by you and you alone
1st Question: Who is the LORD?
The Biblical answer is:
I. Sovereign Creator Psalm 33:6-9
II. Faithful Sustainer Colossians 1:15-20
III. Gracious Redeemer Luke 19:10
IV. Righteous Judge Acts 17:30-31
2nd Question: What is your response?
Pharaoh spurned it, hardened his heart Ex. 8:32
The LORD confirmed it Exodus 9:12
Romans 11:7 = hardened, insensible
= Dumb as a rock!
How you respond to those questions
will determine your eternity!
Older folks no longer recognize the world
in which they live
Very different from long ago
Racing toward destruction
Proverbs 17:15; Isaiah 5:20
Illustrate: many, many examples of this craziness
All human history is divided between
God’s mercy versus God’s judgment
II Peter 2:4-9 shows us this
Brought out very clearly in Ephesians 4 as well
4:17-19 = humanity without Christ
4:22-24 = what salvation does to people
4:20-21 = dividing line is knowing Christ
A world gone crazy!
I. SELFISH V.17B
II. SENSELESS V.18
III. SHAMELESS V.19
IV. SENSUAL V.19
V.10 — But You have learned Christ!
You can never over-emphasize the importance
of the cross
One major truth is Jesus disarmed the Devil
To better understand that truth we must first
consider the truths of vv.13-14
1. Legally Condemned
2. Debt of Sin Nailed
3. Sin Debt was Cancelled
4. Record Set Aside
5. Sins forgiven
6. Made alive
Then … something else happened!
Jesus disarmed the powers of Satan
No more condemnation
No more accusing of the brethren
No more fear of death
V.15 — a public spectacle
A real triumph, a victory procession
I John 3:8 and I John 5:4
That is the triumph of the Cross!
Resurrection is at the very foundation of
the Christian faith
Without it, there is no Gospel?
Ever had any doubts? Serious questions?
Honest inquiries?
If so, I want to help you better understand!
The Christian faith is:
I. A HISTORICAL FAITH VV.3-4
Grounded in historical fact
More than an idea, religious fabrication
Hundreds gave witness to the Resurrection!
II. A REASONABLE FAITH V.4-7
Easter is a time stamp
Careful and reasonable thought
The tomb was empty — where was the body?
III. A GRACE FAITH VV.9-10
We appropriate these truths by grace through faith
We must see our need for grace
Ephesians 2:8-9 and Romans 10:17
God confronts us by grace through the Resurrection!
Did the Resurrection really happen?
It will challenge your head and your heart
Romans 10:8-13
Story of Queen Bloody Mary and Sir Thomas Cranmer
Given a second chance
Burned alive at the stake for his beliefs
Our God is a God of second chances
Never underestimate His grace!
Seen in many Bible characters
Focus today is on Simon Peter
Three questions to consider:
1. Have you ever been ashamed of Jesus?
2. When are you most tempted to be ashamed?
3. What can you do about it when you are ashamed?
Peter wept bitterly; he regretted his sin
A look at his later life: Acts and I Peter 3:14-16
When Lord gives you a second chance —- seize it!
The Gospel is a Gospel of grace
It can be cheapened through compromise
Every Christian is a disciple
Only question is: am I a real one or not?
Luke 9:57-62 and 14:25-33
Does that mirror your commitment?
Churches used to be different
True disciples put Jesus Christ first in their lives
Context of Matthew 16 - verse 24 is a crucial verse
I. PRINCIPLE OF SELF-DENIAL V.24
Involves repentance and obedience
Abandonment of anything that hinders our
walk with Christ
II. PRIORITY OF CHRIST FIRST V.26
But …. we are busy and involved in many things
Must put Christ first
III. PERSPECTIVE OF A COMING JUDGMENT V.27
You will be held accountable as an individual
For what "you have done”
Our problem isn’t belief — but pure selfishness
Answer is repentance and faithfulness!
Motherhood is not what it used to be …
Biblical motherhood is being desecrated
But God’s truth hasn’t changed
“No nation is greater than its mothers
for they are the makers of men”
Titus 2:1-5
Many great mothers in the Bible =
Context of I Samuel similar to America today
Tremendous need for male leadership
Hannah provided Israel with one!
Hannah possessed three graceful traits:
I. RIGHT RELATIONSHIP WITH HER HUSBAND 3:1-2
Important relationship!
Children learn from parent’s relationship
They shared worship v. 3
They shared love vv. 4-5
They shared feelings vv. 7-8
II. RIGHT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD VV. 9-10
III. RIGHT RELATIONSHIP IN HOME VV.19-21
Read v.22 — why?
Dedicated her child to the Lord!
Need more mothers like Hannah!
One of the greatest truths in the Bible
Some may disagree and complain
I contend that the truth is real
God always answers prayers!
Many Bible references:
II Chronicles 7:14; Jeremiah 33:3: Phil. 4:6-7
Context of Matthew 7 - Sermon on the Mount
To ask =
To seek =
To knock =
Sometimes, God’s answers are:
I. DIRECT
Hezekiah in II Kings 20:1-6
II. DENIED
Sometimes, God says no
Ps.66:18 and Isaiah 1:14-18
III. DELAYED
John 11:28-35; Prov. 3:5-6; Isaiah 40:28-31
IV. DIFFERENT
Isaiah 55:8-9
GOD ALWAYS ANSWERS PRAYERS!
Importance of loving your country
Importance of loving Christ
Many struggle with their commitment to Christ
They are hesitant, indecisive and wafflers
Context of I Kings 18
Conflict between prophet Elijah & King Ahab
Really between Lord God and false idols
Contest & conditions
Very relevant for today v. 21
Elijah’s God is:
I. ALMIGHTY GOD V. 21
II. JEALOUS GOD Exodus 20:5 & 34:10-15
III. DEMANDING GOD V. 21
IV. CONSUMING FIRE VV. 38-40
V. GRACE V.17
Every day > a choice is made!
To whom or what is your allegiance?
Are you a waffler or a worshiper?
There is no in-between!
Bible not held in same esteem as it once was
Today, it is despised and hated by many
Yet — outside Christ Himself, God’s greatest gift
Why do people hate the Bible?
Context of Hebrews 4:12
I. ITS CLAIM OF INSPIRATION II Tim. 3:16-17
II. ITS DOCTRINE OF CREATION Gen. 1:27
III. ITS DOCTRINE OF SIN Romans 3:23
IV. REALITY OF HEAVEN & HELL John 14:1-3
V. EXCLUSIVITY OF JESUS CHRIST John 14:6; Acts 4:12
VI. THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD Psalm 115:3
God owes no man anything!
What are your thoughts about the Bible?
Do you agree with these teachings?
Do you love the Bible?
Have they impacted you life?
Your life answers that question clearly!
Quote of J I Packer in Knowing God
God is the Creator of all
But not the Father of all
John 1:11-13 tells us why this is true
We need to be defined by the Word of God
Six truths to tell yourself every day
Write them on a note card
Put them on your refrigerator door
When God is your Father, you can say:
1. I AM A CHILD OF GOD II Cor 6:17-18
2. GOD IS MY FATHER Eph 3:14-16
3. HEAVEN IS MY HOME John 14:1-3
4. EVERY DAY IS ONE DAY NEARER Eccl 3:1-4
5. MY SAVIOUR IS MY BROTHER Mark 3:31-36
6. EVERY CHRISTIAN IS YOUR BROTHER Rom 8:16-17
High School graduation
Cam Rahn Bay in Vietnam
Hospital procedure
Nothing compared to the loneliness of Paul
Last recorded words of Paul
Often we focus on vv.6-8
Almost as compelling are the words in vv. 16-18
What was his attitude?
I. HIS FORGIVENESS V.16
Forsaken by everyone but the Lord
II. HIS FOCUS V.17
But the Lord was there
The One he persecuted and blasphemed
The One who died on Calvary for him
No Christian ever dies alone!
III. HIS FUTURE V.17B-18
Deliverance & preservation
To God alone be the glory!
Do you think everything is fine in America?
What do you think is our real problem?
You would get a multitude of answers!
Let’s ask Jesus in Mark 7
I. HEARTS WITHOUT GOD V.21
II. LIVES WITHOUT PURPOSE
III. HOMES WITHOUT DISCIPLINE
IV, FAMILIES WITHOUT FATHERS
V. CHURCHES WITHOUT TRUTH
Man’s real problem is a heart problem
America is burning and on fire
Rotten to the Washington core — a heart problem
America will never be righteous until we fix that
And …only Jesus Christ can do that!
Perseverance and fruitfulness are important
But for some, it becomes a struggle
And ultimately, they turn away from the truth
Bible abounds in warnings:
John 6:63-66; 15:2; I Cor. 9:24-27
II Thess. 2:3; Hebrews 10:29; I John 2:19
Context of II Timothy 4
Why do some turn away and forsake the truth?
I. LIFE’S CARES, RICHES AND PLEASURES
Luke 8:14
II. LOVE FOR THIS PRESENT AGE
II Timothy 4:10
III. LEAVING A GOOD CONSCIENCE
I Tim. 1:18-20
IV. LURED AWAY BY WORLDLY DEFILEMENTS
II Peter 2:19-22
What’s the antidote? solution?
It is always Jesus!
Doxology not sung as much anymore
Bible filled with doxologies
OT > I Chronicles 16:28-31
Psalms …each major section ending
NT > Matthew 28:19-20 > Baptism
One God — revealed in three persons
Father, Son and Holy Spirit
I. GOD THE FATHER v.4A
Speaks of the eternality of God
The inescapable God!
II. GOD THE SPIRIT v.4B
#7 = completeness, wholeness
Isaiah 11:2
Applies salvation
III. GOD THE SON v.5
1. The faithful witness
2. The first born of the dead
3. The ruler of kings
4. The Savior
Every true Christian is blessed by the Trinity!
Names are important
Do you know why?
They have value, worth, and significance
God gave His Son a name > Jesus
That name is of tremendous eternal value!
I. SALVATION Matthew 1:21-23
Deliverance and rescue
II. JUSTIFIED & SANCTIFIED
I Corinthians 6:9-11
III. HEALING
Acts 3:1-10
IV. PRAYER
Matthew 18:19-20 & John 14:13-14
V. SECURITY
John 17:11-12 and 10:27-30
VI. TOTALITY OF LIFE
Colossians 3:17
Grand conclusion > Philippians 2:9-11
Humility and Exaltation!
The blessed, wonderful name of Jesus!
The Christian life can get burdensome
Many Christians are bearing heavy burdens
Bible has a lot to say about burdens
Psalm 55:22 contains a great promise
Note three primary truths:
I. OUR RESPONSIBILITY V. 22A
“cast” = to throw, to fling
Give our burdens to the LORD
Burden : two words used in the NT: Gal. 6:1-5
One word means “weighted down, anxieties”
Another word means “personal, individual"
II. HIS RESPONSE V. 22B
He will sustain you
Sustain = to hold, to provide, to nourish
III. THE RESULT V.22C
“will never permit the righteous to be moved”
Will not allow you to falter or fail
Turn to Matthew 11:28-30
Ever been in a place where you just didn’t care?
When you have lost … almost all interest?
Ever felt like quitting church altogether?
Ever doubted your very own salvation?
Context of Romans 12:3-11
Verse 11 is the key verse
“not lagging in diligence” = don’t be neglectful
“fervent in spirit” = boiling hot, deeply committed
"serving the Lord” = doing something
Must ask the really hard questions:
I. AM I LIVING WITH UNCONFESSED SIN IN MY LIFE?
Ps. 66:16 and Isaiah 59:1-2
II. AM I NEGLECTING GOD’S MEANS OF GRACE?
The church and its ordinances? Bible?
III. WHAT FILLS MY MIND DAILY?
Matthew 6:25-33; II Timothy 1:7; I John 2:15-17
Do you have the spiritual blahs?
Do you want to get rid of them?
Practice v. 11
Big meal > big nap > good thing!
Big meal > drive car > get sleepy >
Not a good thing
Also, it is very easy to drift spiritually
Can result in devastating effects
One reason churches are limping along
V. 1 - must be very careful about drifting
I. THE OBVIOUS 2:1
To drift = to float, to glide
To be careless leads to drifting
II. THE OFFER 2:3
Cannot neglect the offer of salvation
It is a great salvation
Deliverance, rescue, preservation
Neglect leads to bad consequences
III. THE OPPOSITE
The way to not be a drifter?
Hebrews 2:1; 3:1-4; 3:6-8
3”12-13; 4:11, 16; 10:23-25; 12:1-2, 25
Don’t be a drifter! Be a disciple!
Doctors, auto mechanics and plumbers …
All share one thing in common
Do you know what it is? One critical similarity!
Man - universally has a problem - sin!
Question 1:
Question 2:
Context of II Timothy 2:1-2
Only the Bible and its Gospel has the right answer!
I. MAN = Romans 3:10-19
II. GRACE = Ephesians 2:5-9
III. GOD = Romans 9:15
IV. LORD JESUS CHRIST = Acts 4:12
V. FAITH = James 2:19
Does this make sense to you?
Gospel is the greatest story ever told!
The ONLY answer to man’s sin problem!
Everywhere we look, people are noisy
We live in a wild, wide world of constant noise!
Led and fed by technology
What is missing in our noisy world is quietness
Quietness is an art, a grace
And everybody needs some — critical to survival!
Context of Isaiah 30:15-17
They were unwilling to have quietness!
I. AN AWARENESS OF GOD V.15B
There is a God and He cares
He is able to help
II. AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF OUR NEED OF GRACE V.15
Can be humbling but very beneficial
Israel was unwilling to be quiet and trust the Lord
III. AN ACCEPTANCE OF HIS STRENGTH VV.15-16
We are not smart enough …
We need His strength!
Phil. 4:13 and Luke 22:31-34
It is a Biblical command!
= To praise, to exalt, to worship
Seen in many passages > Deut.8:7-10
I Chronicles 29:10-13; Psalm 100:4
A pslam of David … written in old age as
he reflects back upon his life
Why should we bless the Lord?
5 reasons why we should bless Him!
I. FOR ALL HIS BENEFITS V.2B
II. FOR ALL OUR FORGIVEN INIQUITIES V.3A
III. FOR HEALING ALL OUR DISEASES V.3B
IV. REDEEMS LIFE FROM DESTRUCTION V.4A
V. CROWNS US WITH LOVINGKINDNESS V.4B
How often do you bless HIM?
Last time you blessed the Lord?
Experienced all these blessings in your life?
Then, why not bless Him? RIGHT NOW!
Doctors, plumbers and auto mechanics have ONE important thing in common
Do you know what that is?
Man has a problem: heart problem
Issue is urgent and needs immediate attention
1st Question: certainty of salvation?
2nd Question: why should God let you into heaven?
Most people would say …..
Context of II Timothy 2 =
I. GOD =
II. MAN =
III. GRACE =
IV. LORD JESUS CHRIST =
V. FAITH =
That is the greatest story ever told!
And that is THE question God is asking you today!
Do you personally know this story?
Has it changed your life?
Context of II Corinthians
Familiar with the term “cat-fishing”?
More than a fish with long whiskers
I. THE NATURE OF CATFISHING
A definition = Creates a false identity
Pretend to be something they are not
Christianity is not exempt ...
Jesus addressed it in Matthew 15:7-12 & 23:13-27
II. THE NEED OF THE WORLD V.14
World needs real and authentic people
We make our fragrance known by our lives
Needed everywhere
V.17 = peddlers, hucksters
Men & women who peddle the Word of God
We all like being around real people
Unattractive to those “who are perishing” v.15B
“aroma of death?” =
III. THE NAME OF CHRIST V.16B
Nobody is sufficient! We all need Christ!
What type of needs do you have in your life?
Physical? Financial? Spiritual?
We are a people with multiple needs
Did you know that God has no needs?
Context of Acts 17 … Apostle Paul
Identifies with their religious interest
Meets them where they are and
Proceeds to tell them about our great God!
I. THE ASEITY OF GOD VV.22-23
= total independence
II. THE SIMPLICITY OF GOD V.25
Simple = opposite of compound
He simply IS …
III. THE TRINITY OF GOD V.27
Determines boundaries
Doesn’t need anything
This God issues a command > v.30
There is a judgment to face v.31
The response? Mock, delay or believe!
Bible has much to say about rejoicing
Phil. 4:4 and I Thess. 5:16
The OT talks about the need for rejoicing
Law > Deut. 27:7
Prophets > Isaiah 61:10
Psalms > 9:1-2; 97:12; 107:42
Tucked away in Matthew 5 is a tremendous truth
I. THE REALITY OF PERSECUTION VV.10-12
We all suffer in different ways and times ...
II. THE REASONS TO REJOICE WHEN PERSECUTED
1. It proves our citizenship Phil. 3:17-20
2. It puts your faith on display James 1:12
3. It produces character Romans 5:3-4
4. It prepares you for service II Cor. 1:3-9
5. It praises the Lord I Peter 1:3-9
6. It promotes longing for heaven Heb. 12:27-28
III. THE REWARD OF PERSECUTION V.12
Blessed = makarios = happy, content, well off
Forces us to rely on the LORD!
Reward > compensation > the Lord Himself
The Fall Season s a great time of year
Change of seasons is always good
Some love the Fall B/C of Halloween
Bible says absolutely nothing about Halloween!
But Church History says a lot about October 31
Sola Scripture = By Scripture alone
Sola Gratia = By Grace alone
Sola Fide = By Faith alone
Solus Christus = By Christ alone
Soli Deo Gloria = To glory of God alone
The “alone” is important — very much so
Context of Ephesians 1
I. THE PARTICULARITY OF JESUS VV. 3-7
Every spiritual blessing found in Jesus alone
Look at those specific blessings in vv. 4-7
II. THE PLAN OF JESUS VV. 8-10
Will of God always related to plan of God!
III. THE PRAISE OF HIS GLORY VV.12-14
Note verses 6, 12, and 14
We have an inheritance
Sealed with Holy Spirit of promise
This Christ is the Jesus of the Bible!
Love is a really strong emotion ...
Do you love the Lord Jesus Christ?
Many only have a faint idea of who He is
Lord = Master, Ruler, King
Jesus = Jehovah is my salvation
Christ = Messiah, Chosen, Anointed
“Anathema” = accursed; devoted to destruction
Seven ways you can really tell:
I. YOU LIKE TO THINK ABOUT HIM
II. YOU LIKE TO HEAR ABOUT HIM
III. YOU LIKE TO READ ABOUT HIM
IV. YOU LIKE TO PLEASE HIM
V. YOU WILL BE LIKE A FRIEND
VI. YOU ARE JEALOUS FOR HIS NAME
VII. YOU ALWAYS LIKE TO BE WITH HIM
Your answer to that simple question will
determine your eternal destiny!
The simple answer in ABSOLUTELY YES!
But …many disagree in various ways
Was Jesus wrong in making this statement?
Everything of eternal value focuses on the Church
It is the Church of the Triune God
Church is called by many names in the New Testament
I choose just three:
I. THE PEOPLE OF GOD I Peter 2:9-12
Not building or a structure but a people
Called by the Lord Himself
II. THE BODY OF CHRIST Ephesians 1:22-23
I Cor. 12:27
How important is YOUR body to your existence?
Case closed!
III. THE TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT II Cor.6:16
I Cor. 3:16-17; 6:19
Where we meet God
Where we come to worship
Where we come to pray
Where we come to hear the Word
If the Church is unnecessary - then so is GOD!
Should be grateful for the unique American holiday
Good to re-visit days gone by
Psalm 100 provides us with 5 things we must do!
Imperatives, words of action, participation
I. MAKE V.1
To give a loud blast
To give a shout out …to the LORD
Always produces results
II. SERVE V.2
= To labor; to toil; to render service
Marked by faithfulness & loyalty
III. COME V.2B
= to approach, to come before
Forever and always the invitation of the Lord
IV. KNOW V.3
To know someone intimately
Jeremiah 9:23-24
V. ENTER VV.4-5
= to come in and go out
always with “thanksgiving"
Do you ever think about Hell?
When and if you do … what do you think?
is Hell a literal place or symbolic?
What about a lake of fire?
Hell = a place where not one ounce of God’s
grace and goodness is present!
I. WORDS USED FOR “HELL" IN NEW TESTAMENT
1. Hades = 10 X > place of the departed dead
Luke 16:22, 25; Acts 2:27-31
2. Tartaros = 1 X > abode of disobedient angels
II Peter 2:4
3. Gehenna = used 12 X in NT; 11 by Jesus
> Trash pile, garbage dump, dead animals
The Hell of all Hells
Valley of Hinnom; Mark 9:43-48
II. WARNINGS ABOUT HELL
Awfully hard to conceive of such a reality
God says people will be there
III. WAY OF ESCAPE
Found only in Christ — Rev. 1:17-18
A thank you letter from Paul
Tucked away among many great truths
Absolute imperative of knowing Christ
Paul was a “religious” man before he got saved
At salvation, everything changed
I. THE IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING CHRIST VV. 7-8
All = everything
Loss = any detriment
V.8 > rubbish = trash, garbage, dung
Matthew 16:26; Mark 8:34-35; Luke 14:33
II. THE INDICATIONS THAT YOU DO KNOW CHRIST VV. 9-10
Our righteousness comes from Christ alone
It is not our human works and effort
Christ is our righteousness
The “power" of His resurrection
The “fellowship" of His sufferings
III. THE IMPLICATIONS OF KNOWING CHRIST V. 11
Paul knew he needed Christ now
He also knew he needed Him in the future
Anticipated a bodily resurrection
Most people have experienced some type of crisis
They come in all shapes and sizes
But you definitely know one when you have one
How well do you handle a crisis? Response?
David gives us a little advice in Psalm 46
How did he handle this crisis?
I. THE PLACE TO TURN 46:1-2A
Stable ground while the earth quivers
II. THE PLACE OF PROTECTION 46:1A
“Refuge” = shelter, safety, place of protection
III. THE PLACE OF POWER 46:1A
A place of “strength"
Trouble = distress, anguish, affliction
IV. THE PLACE OF PROVISION 46:1B AND V.4
Even in the very midst of a crisis, God provides
V. THE PLACE OF PEACE 46:10A
God Himself is our peace
VI. THE PLACE OF PRAISE 46:10B
Look in vv.8-9 & Deut. 31:6
Christmas is F-U-N!
But it can get complicated in a hurry
Easy to lose sight of the real meaning
I know something that everyone needs for Christmas
Isaiah speaks about it in 9:6-7
A Messianic prophecy: 750 years before Christ
We all need:
I. A WONDERFUL COUNSELOR V.9
No comma is there
Counselor = to advise, determine purpose
God’s wisdom for our decision making
II. A MIGHTY GOD V.6
Someone who is strong and powerful
To help in the battle
III. AN EVERLASTING FATHER V.9
Eternal, continual, perpetual
A Father who knows, loves and cares for his children
One of America’s greatest needs
IV. A PRINCE OF PEACE V.9
= Captain, Chief, Ruler
Is this not what we all need and want?
Wednesday Night Bible Study Note Archives
Doctrine of eternal security is a Biblical doctrine
Who actually does the saving?
God or man?
Does God save us on purpose?
Will His purpose fail? Ever?
Why? To conform us to image of Christ
Consider the following teachings:
I. FOREKNOWLEDGE
He ordains faith …. in advance
II. PREDESTINED
= to mark out, to appoint, to determine beforehand
Used primarily in reference to believers
III. CALLING
IV. JUSTIFICATION
More than forgiveness and acceptance
A declaration by the Lord Himself
V. GLORIFICATION
New, eternal resurrected bodies
Asking questions is a good way to
encourage people to think
Jesus asked a lot of questions
Matthew 16:15, 26: Mark 8:16-17
So did the Apostle Paul
Romans 2:3-4, 3:1,3, 4:1, 3, 9
Look in Romans 8 alone:
Verses 24, 31, 32, 33, 34, & 35
Q1 > What do we say to “these things?”
Q2 > If God is for us, who can be against us?
Q3 > Will He not also freely give us all things?
Q4 > Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect?
Q5 > Who is he that condemns?
The answers to all those questions are found in Christ!
It provides us further assurance of our salvation!
Hymn #392 “How Firm A Foundation”
Jesus loves me, this I know
No greater truth in the Bible
Last in a series of great questions
v. 35 = Christ’s love for us
v. 37 = through Him who loved us
v. 39 = love of God in Christ
Can anything separate us from that love?
Biblical answer is no — nothing!
v. 38 = Paul is persuaded, convinced
An utter impossibility!
We can never be separated from Christ’s love
Separate = to pull apart; to divide; to depart
This love exists only in Christ
It is only manifested in Christ
It is only operative in Christ!
Unbelief is a serous sin!!
Taught throughout the Bible
Jesus was rejected by His own people
Most refused to believe He was the Messiah
Several truths to consider:
I. PAULS’ ANGUISH AT THEIR UNBELIEF VV.1-3
Simply telling the truth
Appeals to Christ, conscience & Holy Spirit
Had great sorrow in his soul
Willing to be accursed himself, if possible
II. ISRAEL’S ADVANTAGES VV.4-5
Adoption, Divine glory, Covenants
Law, services, promises
III. GOD’S AFFIRMATION
Only Jesus saves
Not religion, ancestry, family
How much do you really know about the
person and character of God?
Does it show in your personal life?
Is there room for any growth? Adjustments?
Chs. 9-11 of Romans deal with just that subject
Ch. 9 considers several questions about God
Yet, look how it ends!
9:6-13 > are promises of God true?
has the Word of God failed?
The question today is this: is God unfair?
In light of His sovereignty and election?
Verse 14 posits the question?
Answer is absolutely not!
God chooses to show mercy to whom He wills
God chooses to harden whom He wills … AND
God is NEVER unfair!
God is NEVER unjust!
The sheer wonder of it all is that anybody is saved!
Knowledge of God requires two things:
1. Study and meditation
2. Holy Spirit revelation
If salvation is of God’s sovereign grace then
Why does He still blame us?
I. THE RIGHT OF THE POTTER OVER THE CLAY VV.20-21
Reminds us of our relationship to God
Is it fitting to question God this way?
God never discourages sincere questions
II. THE REVELATION OF GOD AS HE REALLY IS VV.22-23
We must accept that God IS God
Vessels of wrath and vessels of grace
Mercy best seen against the backdrop of wrath
III.THE RESPONSE OF THE CREATURE VV.24-29
Hosea and his family
A remnant will be saved!
What a God! What a Savior!
Romans 9 is a very intriquing chapter
Raises lots of difficult questions
Provides lots of answers to those hard questions
Some are hard to understand and accept
Nevertheless, they are true!
Chapter concludes with another question:
What shall we conclude?
All men are unrighteous and desperately need righteousness
I. A DESCRIPTION V. 30-31
Gentiles obtained it by faith
Israel sought it by works of law
II. AN EXPLANATION V. 32
Uses imagery of a “stumbling-stone”
Cross undermines our self righteousness
Cross is positive proof we cannot save ourselves
III. A CONFIRMATION V. 33
That stone is Lord Jesus Christ!
The foolishness of Israel is a mysterious subject
Mere intellectual belief in God is not enough
Ch. 10 displays the importance of the Gospel
And … how critical faith in Christ is
I. PAUL’S PRAYER FOR ISRAEL V.1
Deep desire of his heart
A true heartfelt compassion for their salvation
II. THE ZEAL OF ISRAEL V.2
“zeal” = passion, fury, activity
Wasn’t according to knowledge of Gospel
III. THEIR IGNORANCE OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS V.3
Lack of faith due to lack of knowledge
Israel rejected God long before God rejected them
Were ignorant of God’s true righteousness
Look in II Chron. 20:20-21 and Romans 1:18-21
Before we see ourselves as we really are
We must first see God as He really is!
Chi. 9-11 stress the issue of Jewish unbelief
Apostle Paul loved the lost and so should we …
Paul prayed earnestly for their salvation
I. ISRAEL’S PROBLEM VV.1-3A
Struggled with unbelief
Religious, zealous, knowledgeable but lost
Did not understand or embrace the righteousness of God
II. ISRAEL’S PERVERSION OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS VV.3B-5
Chose to establish their own
Christ is the “end of the Law …”
It was His obedience and sinlessness
III. BIBLICAL PURPOSE OF TRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS VV.6-13
1. Justification by faith (JBF) is not difficult
2. JBF is very simple
Source of faith
Nature of faith
Expression of faith
Object of faith
3. JBF is same way for everyone
Preaching today is not very popular
Especially Biblical preaching
There are reasons why:
According to purpose of God preaching is primary!
Preaching is critical to salvation
I. PRIMARY MEANS TO SAVE SINNERS VV.14-17
Note the crucial questions in 14-15
Sinners must believe/call to be saved
Cannot believe unless they hear
Cannot hear unless someone preaches
Cannot preach unless they are sent
II. SOME WILL HEAR AND REJECT VV.16, 21
Israel heard > v.16
Israel understood > vv.19-20
Israel rejected the Gospel of Christ > disobedient
And rejection means = eternity without God
Chs. 9-11 address the problem of Jewish unbelief
All people are responsible if they reject Christ
Has God rejected His people? No!
Deep. Complicated. But profitable
4 reasons why God has not rejected Israel:
1. Example of Paul v.1
2. The Election factor v.2B
3. The Elijah factor vv.2-6
4. The Grace factor v.5
But not all Israelites are elect
God has hardened some: a judicial hardening
God’s will in three ways: I Tim. 2:3-4 & II Peter 3:9
1. Decretive will > that which God ordains or decrees
2. Preceptive will > the precepts and commands of God
3. Dispositional will > that which pleases or delights God
Illustration of a Judge sentencing someone
A question to consider is just this:
Does God have a specific plan for the Church
And a specific plan for Israel?
Are there two plans or just one?
If God is omniscient why would He have/need two plans?
I. ONLY ONE PLAN OF SALVATION FOR EVERYBODY
Israel’s hardness led to salvation of Gentiles
Did God know this before Paul was born?
II. GOD OFTEN USES WHAT LOOKS LIKE “FAILURE"
TO ACHIEVE HIS PURPOSES
True Israelites are those who believe in Jesus
Gentiles were "grafted in”
III. THE CHURCH IS THE TRUE ISRAEL
Note that there are not two trees
There is only one people of God
Galatians 6:16;Ephesians 2:11-22; I Peter 2:9-10
Revelation 5:9-13 and 7:9-12
This section is a challenge indeed
Especially from the point of interpretation
v.25 > “mystery” - once hidden, now revealed
Revealed so Gentiles don’t become proud
v. 26 > does the word “all” always mean all?
Each and every one exclusively and without distinction?
“saved” = delivered, rescued, liberated
Not national, not political — but spiritual salvation
No mention of Rapture, Tribulation, plan A and B
Always rooted in God’s promises > vv.28-29
Rooted in God’s mercy & compassion
No one is beyond the reach of God’s great mercy
Rooted in the wisdom of God vv.33-36
Contrasts the depth of God’s wisdom with
The shallowness of man’s wisdom
Verse 36 is an appropriate ending!
Gospel truth is life changing truth
Gospel in Romans should be changing you
Should be manifested in your life
Our responsibility to God’s Gospel:
“beseech” =
“therefore” = 4 in book of Romans
“mercies of God” = many mercies
Leads to:
1. A SACRIFICIAL PRESENTATION OF OUR BODIES 12:1
Present = handing over of a gift voluntarily
Living - holy - acceptable
A setting apart of our lives for God
2. A SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION OF YOUR MIND 12:2
Morally 12A > heart
Mentally 12B > mind
Motivationally 12C > will
Really important to understand
Verse 3 > a call to humility
Verse 4 > one body, different jobs
Holy Spirit gives grace gifts to accomplish His work
Romans 12:6-8 discusses Motivational gifts
I Corinthians 12:8-10 refers to Manifestation gifts
I Corinthians 12:28-31 talks about Ministry gifts
Romans 12:6-8
Prophecy =
Ministry =
Teaching =
Exhortation =
Giving =
Leading =
Mercy =
7 gifts are mention here in this passage
4 have instructional value
3 have to do with service to the church
Ephesians 4:11-12 and I Peter 4:10-11
are parallel passages to Romans 12:6-8
You have a responsibility to know and use
your spiritual gift!
Romans 12 looks backward and forward
Backward > to all the mercies of God
Forward > how to best live for Christ
Quote of Theodore Roosevelt
Living for Christ requires a deep, abiding commitment
12:9-21 contains 25 distinct exhortations
I. RESPONSIBILITY TO SELF V.9
A) "To love" unselfishly, sacrificially
B) "To hate evil" = to abhor evil
Evil = the very enemy of God Himself
We are to love what God loves
We are to hate what God hates
C) “cling to what is good”
Good = that which is inherently right
Love the person and hate the sin?
Psalm 5:5
Living for Jesus is hard!
“Submission” is a Bible word
Why does Paul raise this issue for those in Rome?
Because it is a very practical issue in every age
Christian tend toward two extremes
1) Reject the legitimacy of government & rebel
2) Consider government as the solution to all things
Submission to the government means this:
Respect it and obey it — why?
All authorities come from God
To disobey government is to disobey God
Government in a society is necessary
Purpose is to punish evil
Provides for civility and order in society
Rejection of government can have negative
consequences
God takes seriously His divinely appointed
authorities
Christians often find themselves is disagreement
Some Christians are strong
Some Christians are weak
Matters of dispute > food, days, drink
All truths are important but are they equally important?
Modern examples of “disputable” matters;
How should we respond?
I. PRINCIPLE OF ACCEPTANCE V.1
II. PRINCIPLE OF AWARENESS VV.3-4, 10
III. PRINCIPLE OF AFFIRMATION VV.5-6
IV. PRINCIPLE OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF LORDSHIP
VERSES 7-12
“In essentials > unity
In non-essentials > liberty
In all things > love"
Topic of judgment raises a lot of questions:
1. Whose judgment seat? God's or Christ's?
2. How many judgments are there?
3. How does judgment relate to the forgiveness
of all my sins?
4. Relationship between salvation and judgment?
Judgment Seat = an elevated platform
A place where the judges usually sat
Universal, individual, personal
I. RECOGNITION OF THE JUDGE V.10
Jesus Christ is God
Only person you will ever see is Christ
II. A PLACE OF REWARDS
Wages due for services rendered
III. A PLACE OF REVIEW
Detailed oriented
IV. A PLACE OF REGRET
Absolutely!
Sometimes, we fail to recognize the importance
of our personal example and witness
How you live your life matters!
Somebody is always watching
Romans 14:13-23 addresses that specific issue
I. A PERIL TO AVOID V.13-17
We are to “welcome” our brothers in Christ
Don’t try to impose your will on them
You don’t want to “destroy” him
II. A PRINCIPLE TO ACCEPT V.18-21
Well pleasing = acceptable and approved to God
Desires of your stomach vs. health of church
III. A PRIVACY TO AFFIRM V. 22-23
Distinction between belief and behavior
Privately > keep some things to yourself
Publicly > be sensitive to others
Remember the context:
1. Christ has received us
2. God will reward everyone accordingly
3. Kingdom of God is not food & drink
We are called to follow Christ — John 21:15-25
The road to following Jesus will be marked by 4 truths:
I. HELPFULNESS VV.1-3
Must constantly strive to avoid selfishness
II. HARMONY VV.4-6
In harmony with Scripture v.4
In harmony with compassion of Gpd v.5
To and for the glory of God v.6
III. HOSPITALITY V.7
Must be accepting of all
IV. HOPEFULNESS VV.8-13
Ministry of Jesus to the Gentiles
Key verse is v.13 > God of hope!
Verse 8 > servant > diakonos
A great missionary passage
Part of the epilogue to book of Romans
4 major sections:
I. PAUL’S PERSUASION VV.14-17
Of their goodness
Of God’s graciousness
II. PAUL’S PREACHING VV.18-22
His authentication
Its completeness
III. PAUL’S PLANS VV.23-29
Big plans; universal plans
IV. PAUL’S PLACE VV.30-33
For deliverance vv.30-31
For direction vv.32-33
Wanted them to know the Gospel
Inductive Method of Bible study
1. Observation > what does it say?
2. Interpretation > what does it mean?
3. Application > how does it relate to me?
4. Communication > how do I give it to others?
Short review of the epistle ...
I. A COMMENDATION OF THE SAINTS VV.1-16
Lots of unrecognizable names
But were really important to Paul & God
God knew all these people by their names
1. God knows you by name Isaiah 43:1-3
2. God knows the day of your death Job 14:5
3. God knows your thoughts Psalm 139:1-19, 13-18
4. Even the hairs on your head are numbered Matthew 10:30
God knows you better than you know yourself!
Individually and intimately!
There are no perfect churches, even in Rome
Composed of forgiven sinners
Need to be aware of unrepentant “believers”
I. CONDEMNATION OF THE TROUBLE MAKERS VV.17-20
V.17 > watch out for them
v.18 > selfish and sinful
v.19 > focus of the glory of God, not the sin
II. CONFIRMATION OF PAUL’S COMPANIONS VV.21-24
Timothy, Tertius and Gaius
Each made valuable contributions
III. CLOSING COMMENTS V.24-27
Centers on God and the Gospel
V. 25 > A God who strengthens
V. 26 > A God who is eternal
V.27 > A God who alone is wise
Why? Simple. For obedience to the faith!
Many dysfunctional families in our country
Must learn how to forgive another
A matter of life and death
1. Forgiveness is not acting like a great wrong
was not done
2. Forgiveness is not re-establishing a wonderful relationship
3. Doesn’t mean that trust is immediately restored
4. You can be real even if the other person doesn’t it
Forgiveness is crucial — WHY?
1. We were greater enemies of God
2. Jesus forgave His enemies
3. Forgiven people … forgive!
4. Forgiveness brings great reward
5. Assurance that justice will be done
When you refuse to forgive someone else their sin,
while claiming to love God > is pure hypocrisy!
Learn to forgive!
Life for the Christian in first century Rome was tough
Author > John Mark
Companion of Paul & Barnabas
Note its brevity - compared to other gospels
Note the use of the word “immediately” > 42X in Mark
It opens quickly - no birth, no genealogy
I. THE DECLARATION OF HIS PERSON V.1
Gospel =
Jesus =
Christ =
II. A DEMONSTRATION OF SCRIPTURAL FULFILLMENT VV. 2-3
III. A RAMIFICATION OF JOHN’S PREACHING VV.4-7
Focused on repentance
IV. A CHARACTERIZATION OF HIS PREACHING VV. 7-8
John the Baptist exalted Christ
He also spoke of the Holy Spirit
The 4 gospels portray who Jesus is and what He did
Mark > written primarily to Romans
No birth and no manger scene — opens with Gospel
I. THE BAPTISM OF JESUS VV.9-11
Method was immersion
Note the Trinitarian involvement
II. THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS VV.12-13
Short, not many details
Difference between 1st Adam and 2nd Adam
III. THE PREACHING OF JESUS VV.14-15
Gospel of God
Repentance is emphasized
IV. THE CALLING OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES VV.16-20
Simon and Andrew
James and John
Left all and followed Jesus!
Began His ministry in Capernaum near Sea of Galilee
A town known for its fishing enterprise
Jesus was teaching in their synagogue
Several truths stand out:
I. THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS VV.21-22
Mark doesn’t say what He was teaching
But they were amazed by it
Taught with great authority ….
II. THE CONFRONTATION WITH A DEMON POSSESSED MAN
VV.23-24
Not all who were present … were believers
Demons panic at the authority of Christ
Demon recognized Jesus
III. THE REBUKING OF THE DEMON VV.25-28
Jesus issued a command and the demon was cast out
When Jesus spoke the demon was gone
Other details are scarce; focus is on Jesus
Name “Jesus" = Jehovah is my salvation
Jehovah Jireh = the Lord who provides Gen. 22:14
Jehovah Nissi = the Lord who is our banner of victory Ex. 17:15
Jehovah Makkadesh = the Lord who sanctifies Lev.20:8
Jehovah Shalom = the Lord our peace Judges 6:24
Jehovah Tsidkenu = the Lord our righteousness Jer.23:6
Jehovah Rohi = the Lord is the Shepherd Psalm 23:1
Jehovah Shammmah = the Lord who is always present Eek. 48:35
and finally
Jehovah Rophe = the Lord who heals Exodus 15:26
I. THE REMEDY FOR ALL SICKNESS V.30
They told Jesus
II. THE RESTORATION V.31
Total and simple and complete.
III. THE RESOURCES VV.35-37
Prayer and time with His Father
Only two accounts of leprosy are found in the NT
Luke 17:11-19 and here in Mark 1:40-45
Were probably many others
Leprosy was an awful and dreaded disease
Nobody in his right mind wanted leprosy
I. THE LEPER’S PROBLEM V.40
Mark mentions no name
Luke 5:12 says he was covered
Symptoms were horrific
II. THE LORD’S PROVISION VV.41-44
Jesus was moved with compassion
Jesus even “touched” him and healed him
Jesus did what no doctor or medicine could do
III. THE LORD’S PROCLAMATION VV.43-44
“Messianic secret?"
Leper became a “disobedient” evangelist v.45
Great story, isn’t it?
Man has leprosy of the soul and only Jesus can cure it!
The Gospel has many wonderful benefits
It has one surpassing benefit than transcends all others
The benefit and blessing of forgiveness
Every person’s greatest need is > forgiveness!
It is at the heart of the Gospel message
I. THE DEPRAVITY OF CAPERNAUM VV.1-2
Knew Jesus but not converted
Amazed but didn’t believe
II. THE BLESSING OF AFFLICTION VV.3-5
Many have received Christ through affliction
Verse 5 > have you ever heard that?
III. THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS VV.5-8
None can forgive sin but God
It is the sole prerogative of God
IV. THE RESULT OF THE MIRACLE VV.9-12
Verification came immediately
Complete and immediate healing
Bible teaches that salvation is a gift
By grace alone through faith alone
In Christ alone for the glory of God alone!
Many people still do not believe that!
Throughout church history, people have added to it
Scribes & Pharisees hated it
I. THE CALL OF A SOCIAL OUTCAST VV.13-14
A tax collector no less: literally despised
II. THE COMMUNITY OF SINNERS V.15
Went home with Matthew
Talking about the things of God
III. THE CONTEMPT OF SELF RIGHTEOUSNESS V.16
Their judgmental attitude was easily exposed
IV. THE CONDEMNATION OF THE SAVIOR V.17
Jesus issues a stinging rebuke
Church of Jesus Christ is not composed of perfect people
But imperfect people who are forgiven!
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is unique
So much so that it can never be compromised
Quote of Spurgeon
Our culture celebrates ambiquity
Bible celebrates certainty and absoluteness
I. A CRITICAL ACCUSATION V.18
Why didn’t the disciples fast?
Not for information but accusation
II. A CORRECTIVE ANSWER VV.19-20
There is a time and place to fast
This wasn’t the time
III. SOME CLARIFYING ANALOGIES VV.21-22
1. Cloth
2. Wineskins
Both these things emphasize the uniqueness of Gospel!
Are you a Sabbatarian?
A Sabbatarian believes =
Is Saturday or Sunday the Sabbath?
Can easily get complicated
1. Nowhere in NT is a Christian Sabbath
2. No believer under obligation
3. Foreshadowed God’s day of rest
4. Sabbath is a creation ordinance
I. A SABBATH INCIDENT V.23-24
Many prohibitions for Sabbath rules
II. A SCORNFUL INDICTMENT V.24
Pharisees were outraged …again
III. THE SCRIPTURAL ILLUSTRATION VV.25-26
Compare with I Samuel 21:4-6
IV. THE SOVEREIGN INTERPRETER VV.27-28
V. 28 was a bombshell
Jesus is Sovereign Lord of all!
Israel waited for years for coming of Messiah
But when He came, they rejected Him
Even cried out for His public execution
Jesus continued to teach and heal
They were false shepherds leading people astray
I. THE WATCHING VV.1-2
They watched Him like a hawk, his every move
Did not like it when Jesus healed on Sabbath
World is always watching us as well
II. THE HEALING VV.3-5
The man DID NOT initiate the encounter
Could help animals on Sabbath - why not people?
III. THE CONSPIRING V.6
Could not rejoice with the Lord or the man
Began to conspire, plot, scheme
Jesus filled with righteous anger at the coldness
Storm clouds are beginning to rise > Cross!
All kinds of demands were placed on Jesus
He proved that He was who He claimed to be
Faced crowds of people repeatedly
I. HIS POPULAR APPEAL VV.7-9
Needed to withdraw from time to time
People more interested in miracles than message
More concerned with your body or soul?
II. HIS POWERFUL AUTHORITY VV.1-12
Jesus healed all kinds of affliction
Authority even over demons
Demonstrated that Jesus was the Son of God
III. HIS PERSONAL APPOINTMENT OF THE 12 VV.13-18
Can you name the 12?
They were men He chose
Called to preach
Had power over sickness & demons
Their commitment turned the world upside down!
Quote of C. S. Lewis in book Mere Christianity
Jesus Christ was much more than just a good
Teacher, Rabbi or good man
He claimed to be God! Straight up!
Many then, as well as today, do not believe:
I. ASSUMPTION OF FAMILY & FRIENDS V.21
Some thought he was a bit delusional
Maybe just a religious fanatic
II. ACCUSATION OF HIS FOES VV.23-27
Possessed and controlled by demons?
In league with the Devil?
III. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF HIS FOLLOWERS VV.31-35
Clearly loved His mother and family
Teaching a tremendous truth > union with Christ
Hallmark characteristic of every believe > OBEDIENCE!
Many are concerned about committing this sin
Have YOU ever wondered about it?
Is it the sin of murder?
Is it the sin of adultery?
Easy to overlook >
I. THE BLESSING OF THE FORGIVENESS OF ALL SINS
V.28
Jesus gives Himself an “Amen"
Psalm 103:12; Isaiah 38:17; Jeremiah 31:34; Micah 7:19
II. BLASPHEMY AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT V.29
Blaspheme = a verbal sin that dishonors the Holy Spirit
Context > doing the work of God by power of Devil
To blasphemy the HS is to look down into the abyss of Hell
NO Christian can ever commit this sin!
Cannot and will not! WHY?
To worry about it is evidence that you haven’t!
Do you believe in counterfeit conversion?
You must also believe in false assurance!
Confronted by a critically important parable:
3 types of bad soil; 1 type of good soil
False assurance is a definite reality
I. WAYSIDE FALSE ASSURANCE VV. 4, 15
Hear sermons but pay no real attention
No real interest in the Word of God
II. STONY GROUND FALSE ASSURANCE VV. 5-6, 17-18
Only temporary interest; no real, lasting effect
Looks good but shall and temporary
III. THORNY GROUND FALSE ASSURANCE VV. 7, 18-19
Easily sidetracked by worldly interests
Deceived by the cares of this world
IV. REAL, BIBLICAL ASSURANCE V. 8, 20
Transformed by it; fruitful
Examine your own life > II Cor. 13:5
You have two ears for a very good reason
Refusal to use them appropriately leads
to judgment
Jeremiah 26:3-6 and Matthew 7:24-29
The tremendous importance of listening!
I. THE IDENTITY OF THE LAMP VV. 21-22
Try “the” lamp instead of “a” lamp
John 1:4-9; 8:12
II. THE REALITY OF SOWING SEED VV. 26-29
We plant the seed and God causes it to grow
I Cor. 3:7 and Isaiah 55:10-11
III. THE ABILITY OF THE MUSTARD SEED VV. 30-31
The greatness is not in the mustard seed
Found only in the greatness of God!
Big results from small beginnings!
New Testament talks about the deity of Christ
He was God: He was man
He was the God-Man I Tim. 2:5-6
He shows His humanity and deity
Can see both in this passage
I. THE DISTURBANCE OF THE STORM V.37
Was a powerful storm and unexpected
Same things happen to us
II. THE DOZING OF JESUS V.38
Really was sound asleep
See His humanity > sleeping
III. THE DESPERATION OF THE DISCIPLES V. 38B
Fearful and frustrated
IV. THE DEMAND OF THE SAVIOR VV.39-41
He rebuked the storm > ”peace”
He rebuked the disciples
LESSON: trust Him even in the most helpless situations!
Value of studying the Gospels is that it
Reveals who Jesus Christ really is
Sometimes called the “Saint Jude” chapter
A powerful confrontations with demons
I. THE CHARACTER OF THE DEMON POSSESSED MAN VV.1-5
Lived in the graveyard
Had an “unclean” spirit
Strong powerful muscled man
Could not be tamed by anyone
II. HIS CONFRONTATION WITH JESUS VV.6-10
Demons live in mortal fear of the 2nd Coming
Demons spoke to Jesus v.7
Legion = 5600 men
III. THE CHOICE OF THE DEMONS VV.10-14
Wanted to enter the pigs
All the pigs drowned in the sea
Man was miraculously transformed
Why did the pigs have to die?
4 reasons
Man became a witness for Christ!
This encounter reveals the power of Jesus
His strength and power is > without limits
Key text in Mark is 10:45
Jesus possessed a desire to help people
And He still does today
I. THE WOMAN’S DISEASE V.25
An issue of blood
Made her ceremonially unclean
A social outcast
II. THE WOMAN’S DESPERATION V.26
Many doctors and remedies
Years of no results — it got worse
Determined to find Jesus
III. THE WOMAN’S DELIVERANCE VV.27-29
Merely touched the hem of His garment
Her faith was rewarded
She was made whole
Jairus was a synagogue official
Not a Rabbi but an administrative type
Aware of the life and ministry of Jesus
Was not ashamed to approach Him
I. THE SICKNESS OF HIS DAUGHTER V.23
“at the point of death”
“eschatos” = last things
Jesus went with him
II. THE SINCERITY OF JAIRUS VV.35-36
He really loved his daughter
No guile, no pretense
Told to “only believe”
III. THE SOVEREIGNTY OF CHRIST VV.37-39
Took Peter, James & John with them
Faced ridicule and laughter
“Talitha cumi” v.41
Healed immediately
Born in Bethlehem but Jesus grew up in Nazareth
Here we see the reality of unbelief
Jesus was amazed at their unbelief
Unbelief does 4 things:
I. ELIMINATES THE OBVIOUS V. 2
II. ELEVATES THE IRRELEVANT V. 3A
III. REPUDIATES THE MESSENGER V. 3B-4
IV. DECIMATES THE SUPERNATURAL VV.5-6
Why did they not believe?
Why do people today refuse to believe in Jesus?
Many today have no need of Jesus at all.
But without Him, there is no hope.
They need Him now and for eternity!
Do you believe?