Historical Posts
Solitary Prayer
Jesus spent time in solitary prayer to refresh and strengthen himself. Follow His example. Be like Him.
Jesus often sought solitude after doing many good works. For example, on one occasion He cast an unclean spirit out of a man, healed Peter’s mother-in-law, and then healed all those who were soon brought to Him. What did He do after all this? “Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed (Mark 1:35).” He spent time in solitary prayer!
On another occasion, Jesus healed a leper. Upon doing so, “…the report went around concerning Him all the more; and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by Him of their infirmities. So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed (Luke 5:15-16).” No doubt Jesus was weary after great multitudes came near Him, seeking Him. Upon finding refuge, He again spent time in solitary prayer.
One Sabbath Day Jesus healed a man who had a withered hand. In those days, Luke records, “He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God (Luke 6:12).” He spent all night in solitary prayer, preparing to select the twelve apostles (Luke 6:13ff.).
There was a time when Jesus took His “inner circle” to pray. Peter, John, and James accompanied Him as He was soon transfigured before them (Luke 9:28ff.).
There were times when Jesus prayed alone; there were times that He prayed with His close circle of friends. There may be times when we pray in solitary, and there may be times when we pray with our close circle of Christian friends. In either case our purpose must be to communicate to God, not to appear “religious” before others. Jesus said, “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly (Matthew 6:6).”
God hears the earnest prayers of those who are His. Have you included yourself in that number?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Water and Blood
Water and Blood: Water Baptism Contacts Christ’s Blood.
1 John 5:6: “This is He who came by water and blood – Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood…” Jesus Christ naturally came by water and blood when He was born of this world of a virgin. However, both of these elements are also present in later events in his life, at His death. These events are very significant for our lives as well.
Water and blood were both present at Jesus’ death. John records, “But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, ‘Not one of His bones shall be broken.’ And again another Scripture says, ‘They shall look on Him whom they pierced (John 19:34-37).’”
This event is significant because “…without shedding of blood there is no remission (Hebrews 9:22).” When Christ died, His blood was shed for the remission of our sins. We come in contact with His saving blood and our sins are washed away when we are baptized… in water.
Jesus told Nicodemus one must be born of water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:5). The Ethiopian eunuch understood, for when he saw water he wanted to be baptized (Acts 8:36). Jesus was baptized in the Jordan by John (Mark 1:9-11), and washes us from our sins in His own blood (Revelation 1:5). We come in contact with His blood, washing away our sins when we are baptized (Acts 2:38; 22:16).
Both water and blood have a role in God’s plan for man’s salvation from sin. Baptism puts us into Christ (Galatians 3:27), where His blood cleanses us from all sin. His blood continues to cleanse us when we continue to walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7).
Salvation in Christ requires both water and blood. Have you been immersed in water to come into contact with His saving blood?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
God’s Desire for Man – Audio
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God’s Desire for Man is TwoFold
Even though man may have many desires, God has two connected desires for man. God’s desire for man is that man may be saved and that man may come to the knowledge of the truth. We can see God’s desire expressed for us in 1 Timothy 2:3-4: “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Let’s look closer at God’s desire and how he enables it to come about.
First, God’s desire is that all men may be saved.
- God desires that man will cease unrighteousness and begin righteousness (Ezekiel 18:20-28).
- God’s desire is that man will accept and follow His Son (John 3:17; 1 Timothy 4:10).
- God desires that man would accept His saving grace (Titus 2:11; Ephesians 2:5,8).
- God’s desire is that man will repent of sin (2 Peter 3:9; Luke 13:3,5).
Second, God’s desire is that all men will come to the knowledge of the truth.
- Jesus, God’s Son, said we can know what truth is (John 8:32).
- Jesus bears witness to the truth (John 18:37).
- There are three sources of truth:
1) Jesus is true (John 14:6),
2) God is true (John 17:3)
3) God’s Word is true (John 17:17).
God’s desire for you is clear – Learn and Obey His Truth to be Saved!
He desires for you to be saved and has provided the truth for you to know and follow unto salvation. This truth is shown to us in three ways: God has revealed Himself, sent His Son, and left His Word. These three aspects of truth lead us to salvation. Will we follow Him and accept it?
Is Our Desire Aligned with God’s Desire?
For us to grasp the salvation offered by God, our desire must align with God’s. Our desire must be to come to the knowledge of the truth and obey it, for the truth will set us free! When we learn the truth and obey it, our unrighteousness may cease, and our righteousness will begin.
Do you have a desire to be saved?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Know God, Even the Unknown God – Audio
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Text: Acts 17:22-31
Know God?
The Greeks did not know God. They sought after wisdom. Christ, the Son of God, was foolishness to them (1 Corinthians 1:22-24). Even so, Paul wanted them to know God!
I. Know God who made the world and everything in it.
A. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1).
B. God made us; we did not make ourselves (Psalm 100:3).
C. Without Christ, “nothing was made that was made (John 1:3).”
D. By Christ, all things were created in heaven and on earth (Colossians 1:16-17).
E. He is Lord of heaven and earth (Acts 17:24-25; Matthew 11:25).
II. Know God who has set our boundaries
A. He set the boundaries for the children of Israel (Deuteronomy 32:8).
B. He “makes nations great, and destroys them; he enlarges nations, and guides them (Job 12:23).”
C. God does with us according to His will (Daniel 4:35).
D. God would not allow man to build a tower to the heavens (Genesis 11:1-9).
III. Know that God who desires us to seek Him.
A. God has given us ample evidence to know he exists (Romans 1:20-23).
B. God is very near to us (Deuteronomy 4:7; Jeremiah 23:23-24).
C. God may be found (Isaiah 55:6; Matthew 7:7).
IV. Know God who commands everyone everywhere to repent.
A. If we don’t repent, we will perish (Luke 13:3,5).
B. God does not want anyone to perish, but to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
C. We must deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and live soberly, righteously, and godly (Titus 2:11-12).
V. Know God will judge the world in righteousness by Christ.
A. God ordained Christ to be Judge of the living and dead (Acts 10:42).
B. The word that Jesus has spoken will judge us in the last day (John 12:48).
C. The Lord is the righteous Judge (2 Timothy 4:8).
Do You Know God?
If you don’t know God yet, you can start now by reading His Word and learning His will. Then, you will have to decide how to respond.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Faith and Works – Audio
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Text: James 2:14-26
I. Faith and works were present in Abraham.
A. Abraham first showed his faith by leaving his land and family, as God commanded him (Genesis 12:1-5; Hebrews 11:8-10).
B. He also showed his faith by offering Isaac on the altar (James 2:21-24; Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-18).
II. Faith and works were present in Rahab.
A. Rahab hid the spies, and spared their lives (Joshua 2:1-13).
B. By letting a scarlet cord out of the window, her life was spared when the city of Jericho was overtaken (Joshua 6:22-25; Hebrews 11:31).
III. Faith and works must be present in us.
A. Faith
1. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
2. Faith is necessary to come to God (Hebrews 11:6).
3. Faith comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
4. Faith without works is dead (James 2:17,20,26).
B. Works
1. Works admit us into the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 7:21-23).
2. Works show the love of God in us (1 John 3:17-18).
3. Works will be remembered by God (Hebrews 6:10).
4. Works must be done in the meekness of wisdom (James 3:13).
5. Works make faith perfect (James 2:22) and justifies it (James 2:24).
C. Faith and works were not both present in demons (James 2:19; Matthew 8:28-29; Mark 1:23-24).
D. Faith and works are both present in us when we:
1. Hear God’s Word (Romans 10:17).
2. Believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God (John 8:24).
3. Repent of our sins (Luke 13:3,5).
4. Confess Christ (Matthew 10:32; Romans 10:9-10).
5. Are baptized for the remission of our sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38).
6. Live faithful Christian lives unto our deaths (Revelation 2:10).
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
In the Name of The Lord
“Do All in the Name of the Lord”
“What-e’er you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord; do naught in name of man or creed, do all in the name of the Lord. Do all in His name, do all in the name of the Lord; in word or deed, as God decreed, do all in the name of the Lord.” These words were penned by Austin Taylor in 1916, and are still sung today. They are taken from Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
First, we do in word in the name of the Lord Jesus by:
- Letting them be acceptable in His sight (Psalm 19:14).
- Letting our lips show forth His praise (Psalm 51:15).
- Being justified, and not condemned, by our words (Matthew 12:37).
- Letting our speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6).
- Being nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed (1 Timothy 4:6).
Next, we do in deed in the name of the Lord Jesus by:
- Looking into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, being not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work (James 1:25).
- Loving in deed and in truth (1 John 3:18).
- Fully preaching the gospel of Christ (Romans 15:18-20).
Christ did all in word and deed! He did not sin, nor was guile found in His mouth (1 Peter 2:21-23). He went about doing good (Acts 10:38). By following His example, whatever we do, we “do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Scripture Importance – Audio
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The Importance of Scripture
In 1 Peter 3:15 the Scripture tells us, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” As Christians, we must always be prepared to defend the faith. Why do we believe what we believe? Why do we live like we live? In order to answer these and other questions, we must know the scripture, the Word of God.
Knowledge of Scripture is important because:
- In it we think we have eternal life, and it testifies of Jesus (John 5:39).
- All Scripture is given by inspiration of God (2 Timothy 3:16).
- Holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21).
- Whatever we do, we must “do all in the name of the Lord Jesus (Colossians 3:17)…”
- Studying Scripture approves us to God (2 Timothy 2:15).
It is also important to know where Scripture teaches on certain topics.
- Jesus was able to overcome temptation by knowing what was written in Scripture (Luke 4:4, 8, 12).
- The Ethiopian eunuch was reading from Isaiah, and Philip began at the same Scripture and preached Jesus unto him (Acts 8:28-35).
- Paul reasoned from the Scriptures, preaching Christ (Acts 17:2-3).
We must not only know where a Scripture can be found, we must also know what it really teaches.
- The Bereans were noble in that they searched the Scriptures daily to see whether such things were so (Acts 17:11).
- Untaught and unstable people twist the Scriptures to their own destruction (2 Peter 3:16).
- No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation (2 Peter 1:20).
- Paul often asked, “What does the Scripture say?” He also said, “The Scripture says (Romans 4:3; 9:17; 10:11; 11:2; Galatians 4:30; 1 Timothy 5:18)…”
Would you be rebuked or commended?
Jesus rebuked the Sadducees for not knowing the Scriptures (Matthew 22:29); Paul commended Timothy for knowing the Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:15). Are we to be rebuked, or commended in our knowledge of the Scriptures?
Romans 8:35-39 – Enduring Love of God – Audio
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Text: Romans 8:35-39
The Enduring Love of God
“How can God love me?” This is a question that is often asked by a person who is feeling very insecure. After all, if they do not love themselves, how can they expect God to love them? Would you be surprised that God’s love is an enduring love and He will ALWAYS love you?
I. Nothing can separate us from the enduring love of God.
A. Paul lists several things beyond our control that do not separate us from the enduring love of God (Romans 8:35-39).
B. Paul also listed things within our control that do not separate us from the enduring love of God (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). Though they may separate us from God himself, His love is still there waiting for us to accept it.
II. Even though we are separated from God by sin, God still loves us.
A. Only our sins can separate us from God (Isaiah 59:2), if we let them. Even then, His love is still there waiting for us to accept it.
B. While we were sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).
C. Jesus proved His enduring love for us by laying down His life for us (John 15:13-14; 3:16-17; Romans 6:23; 1 John 4:9-10).
D. As God loved Jesus, Jesus loves us (John 15:9; 5:20; 17:26).
III. Even when we are chastened, God still has enduring loves for us.
A. As many as He loves, He rebukes and chastens, desiring to bring about repentance (Revelation 3:19).
B. Eliphaz told Job, “Happy is the man whom God corrects; therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty (Job 5:17).”
C. The writer of Hebrews reminds Christians that the LORD chastens those whom He loves, as sons (Hebrews 12:3-6). One corrects a son because of love.
Conclusion
God, by His very nature, is love (1 John 4:7-8).
We are to love Him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
We are “more than conquerors” in all things through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37; 1 Corinthians 15:57).
Won’t you love Him too by keeping His commandments (John 14:15)?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Romans 12:1-2 – Living Sacrifice – Audio
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Text: Romans 12:1-2 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
You Are a Living Sacrifice
A sacrifice may be defined as something you give up in order to receive something better in return. When playing a board game, you might give up a piece in order to get a better piece or position in return. You may have to choose between two activities at the same time; something must be given up. When making a sacrifice to God, something must be given up of ourselves, a living sacrifice, in order to receive something greater from Him.
I. We must offer ourselves as a living sacrifice.
A. We are “living stones,” offering up “spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter 2:4-5).”
B. To be a living sacrifice, one must be dead to sin but alive to God (Romans 6:11-13; Galatians 6:14).
C. Our body and spirit belong to God (1 Corinthians 6:20).
D. Christ lives in us (Galatians 2:20).
E. The church at Sardis was not alive; it was dead (Revelation 3:1-3).
II. We must offer holy sacrifices.
A. The book of Leviticus describes just how holy each sacrifice to God should be, and how holy the priests are to offer them.
B. Today, Christians are a “holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:5).”
C. We are to be holy…
1) …for God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16).
2) …and without blemish (Ephesians 5:26-27).
3) …and without blame before Him in love (Ephesians 1:4-8).
D. We are to serve God “in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life (Luke 1:75).”
E. John tells us, “he who is holy, let him be holy still (Revelation 22:11)” as we prepare for the Lord’s coming.
III. Our sacrifices must be acceptable to God.
A. Abel offered a sacrifice acceptable to God, but Cain did not (Genesis 4:1-7).
B. Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD when they did not offer an acceptable sacrifice (Leviticus 10:1-3).
C. Abraham was willing to offer his son as an acceptable sacrifice to God (Genesis 22).
D. Today we are told what is acceptable to God through His Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Conclusion
Jesus Christ offered Himself as the perfect living sacrifice! He lived, died, and lives again! He is holy, and always does what is acceptable to His Father. Following His example, we must transform ourselves into a living sacrifice. We must live for Him, be holy, and do what is acceptable unto Him. His will for us is good, acceptable, and perfect. We can prove it if we offer ourselves as the right kind of sacrifice.
Two Workers in Three Cities – Audio
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Text: Acts 14:21-23
Jesus expects His disciples to be workers.
“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15),” Jesus commanded His disciples. They listened and became workers! They went everywhere, and many souls heard, believed, and were baptized. One good pair of workers was Paul and Barnabas. They performed good works in the cities of Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch:
- Strengthened the souls of the disciples (Acts 14:22).
– Jesus prayed for His disciples, that they would strengthen their brethren (Luke 22:32).
– Paul said it is Christ that strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). - Exhorted them to continue in the faith (Acts 14:22).
– Jude wrote a letter, encouraging Christians to “contend earnestly for the faith (Jude 3).”
– Paul encouraged the Philippians to “strive together for the faith of the gospel (Philippians 1:27).” - Reminded them that they must endure tribulations to enter the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22).
– Paul reminded Timothy of a faithful saying, “If we endure, we shall also reign with Him (2 Timothy 2:12).”
– Paul also reminded Timothy that those desiring to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). - Appointed elders in every church (Acts 14:23).
– Paul left Titus in Crete to set in order the things that were lacking, and to “appoint elders in every city (Titus 1:5)…”
– Elders were to meet certain qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1-7). - Prayed with fasting (Acts 14:23).
– Jesus’ disciples learned that the epileptic son could not be healed “except by prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:14-21).” There must have been some special connection between prayer and fasting.
– Paul told the Corinthian spouses to consent to deprive one another so that they may give themselves to “fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt” them for lack of self-control (1 Corinthians 7:5). - Commended them to the Lord (Acts 14:23).
– It is commendable before God to do good and suffer (1 Peter 2:20).
Paul and Barnabas did much in three cities while they were there. Wherever we are, we can be a worker for the Lord and do the good work He has given us!
Joshua 24:15-16 – Serve The Lord – Audio
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Text: Joshua 24:15-16
We Will Serve The Lord
Joshua met with all the elders, heads, judges, and officers of the tribes of Israel. He reminded them of all God had done for them, and how loyal they must be to Him. He then commanded them to choose whom to serve: to either serve the false gods their fathers served, or serve the Lord, the one true God, who had done so much for them.
Body
I. We must serve only the LORD!
A. Jesus told Satan that he must serve the LORD only (Matthew 4:10).
B. If one serves the Lord, he cannot serve anyone or anything else. He may not have two masters (Matthew 6:24; Galatians 1:10).
C. Zacharias prophesied that we may serve the LORD “without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life” (Luke 1:74-75).
1) If we are afraid to serve Him, we will have our part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone (Revelation 21:8).
2) There is nothing to fear in serving God; by seeking first His kingdom and righteousness, all things will be added to us (Matthew 6:33).
D. To serve the Lord, we must do three things (Matthew 16:24-26):
1) Deny ourselves
2) Take up our cross
3) Follow Him.
II. Jesus taught us how to serve the Lord in two ways.
A. He taught us how to serve the Lord by His words (Matthew 20:26-28).
B. He taught us how to serve the Lord by example (John 13:1-17; Philippians 2:7).
III. Serving the LORD has its rewards.
A. Those who serve the Lord will receive the reward of the inheritance (Colossians 3:23-24).
B. By serving Him, the LORD gives us the kingdom and eternal life (Matthew 25:31-46).
Conclusion
We too must make a choice: should we serve people or things; should we serve the LORD? If we choose the latter, we will be eternally rewarded!
1 Timothy 06:06-10 – Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain – Audio
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Text: 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (Reading by Don Treadway)Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain
Godliness is always right, but it is not always easy to do the right thing. Sometimes peer pressure can be difficult to overcome. Other times, it may seem easier to do what’s right if one has certain things, or if one does not have other things. However, by doing what is right with what one has, one may be blessed and gain contentment.
Body
I. We must profess godliness.
A. Godliness means living a life that is respectful to God, and to oneself.
B. Earlier, Paul told Timothy that godliness is profitable for all things (1 Timothy 4:7-8).
C. God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).
D. Godliness is in accordance with truth (Titus 1:1).
E. Christians must live in “holy conduct and godliness” (2 Peter 3:11; 1 Peter 1:15-16).
F. We must add godliness to our faith (2 Peter 1:5-7).
G. We can expect persecution when living godly lives (2 Timothy 3:12).
H. We must withdraw from those that suppose godliness is a means of gain, yet pursue true godliness (1 Timothy 6:5,11).
II. We must be content.
A. Paul has learned to be content in every condition (Philippians 4:11-12; 1 Corinthians 4:11).
B. We must be content with such things as we have (Hebrews 13:5).
C. We need God’s words more than necessary food (Job 23:12; Matthew 6:11).
D. God gives us all we need (Philippians 4:19; Psalm 23:1; Proverbs 30:7-9).
III. We have much to gain.
A. Godliness is profitable for this life, and the life that is to come (1 Timothy 4:8).
B. If a man gains the world and loses his soul, he loses everything; if he loses the world and gains his soul, he has gained everything (Matthew 16:26; Luke 12:20-21).
Conclusion
As Christians, we are to live Christ Jesus with Godliness. In so doing, we must be content with who we are and what we have. Being content and living godly lives in Christ, we have much to gain!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Confidence in The Lord
Put Your Confidence in The Lord
Is there someone who you cannot put confidence in?
When that person lets you down, how do you feel? The wise man wrote, “Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint (Proverbs 25:19).”
- If you’ve ever had a root canal, you know how painful it is;
- If your foot has come out of its joint, you know how it hurts.
An unfaithful person in times of trouble likewise hurts, and needs to develop confidence in The Lord.
You can always have confidence in The Lord!
On the other hand (or foot in this case), you watch where you’re going so you won’t get your foot caught. “For the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught (Proverbs 3:26).” The Lord is someone who you can always put your confidence in. He always does what He says He will do.
Paul was “confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).” God is at work in us, and will help us do good works for Him.
Having confidence in The Lord is better than trusting princes.
In whom would you rather have confidence, or put your trust? For one, the clear choice is confidence in The Lord:
“I called on the LORD in distress; the LORD answered me and set me in a broad place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? The LORD is for me among those who help me; therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes (Psalm 118:5-9).”
Thoughts and Words
Your Thoughts and Words are Important
It is advisable to “think before you speak.” Many times things have been said without forethought, causing ill will between parties. However, if we just stop for a moment before speaking, we would bring our thoughts and words under control and “let no corrupt word proceed out of our mouths, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4:29).” Thoughts and words will show. If we think good thoughts, good words should follow.
Evil Thoughts and Words Destroyed Them
The wise man wrote, “The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD, but the words of the pure are pleasant (Proverbs 15:26).” A good example of thoughts and words comes from the world in the days of Noah. Every intent of man’s heart was only evil continually (Genesis 6:5), and God destroyed them from the earth. Yes, a heart that devises wicked plans is hated by the LORD (Proverbs 6:16-18).
The Bible is God’s Thoughts and Words
On the other hand, good thoughts produce good words! David wrote, “The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice (Psalm 37:30).” Those who seek to follow God and study His word know what to say. God knows all, and tells us all we need to know through His word. By studying it, we learn that justice will be served at the end of time; those who are faithful to Him enter into life, while those who are not enter into damnation.
Happy Thoughts and Good Words
Let us dwell on happy thoughts, and speak words of comfort to a lost world. Through Jesus Christ, there is hope of eternal salvation!
Incomprehensible!
It Is Incomprehensible That We Should Fully Grasp The Mind Of God
The human brain can contain only so much information before it is overloaded and information becomes incomprehensible. When the brain does get overloaded, it may feel as if smoke is rising off of it. Some things can easily be understood, while others may be too complicated. Some things the human mind just cannot fully grasp. One concept incomprehensible to the human mind, that we fail to fully grasp, is God.
Paul said He is able to “do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).” God can do so much more than what we can even think of. After all, He created us! He gave us our minds! Our knowledge is nothing compared to that of God. Paul also said, “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! ‘For who has known the mind of the LORD (Romans 11:33-34)?’”
It is indeed impossible to know the mind of God. He is incomprehensible. However, even though we cannot think like Him, He can think like us. Jesus, God in the flesh (John 1), came to be just like all of us. Jesus walked like us and talked like us, yet He did not sin. Through Him, we can know more about God. “’For who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct him?’ But we have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).”
By having the mind of Christ, we can begin to think like Him. When we put on Christ in baptism, we are to be transformed by renewing our minds (Ephesians 4:23; Romans 12:2). We become more like Him because we think more like Him. We are to “let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5).” Let us think less like ourselves, and think more like Christ!
Be Thou an Example
Our Best Example Is Jesus
We may learn many things by watching others and learning from their example.
- Kids watch their parents or older kids, and copy their behavior.
- Students may follow examples in textbooks to learn how to solve problems.
- Employees watch their boss to learn how to do certain jobs.
- Athletes learn how to play a sport by copying the coach.
- The list goes on and on.
“…Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps (1 Peter 2:21).” Jesus Christ demonstrated the perfect model of living in both word and in conduct (1 Peter 2:22-24). By following His model life, we may lead other souls to Him. As He set the example for us, He commanded us to set the example for others.
After washing the disciples’ feet, He commanded them, “For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you (John 13:15).” He truly showed them what it meant to be a servant. After all, the “Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28)…” That is exactly what they did; they served Him by preaching the gospel!
Saul of Tarsus began in a bad way by persecuting Christians; however, that changed when he became a Christian. Later known as the apostle Paul, he began to set a good example by preaching the gospel. He wanted to be sure that as he would set an example, those following it would set a good example as well. He told Timothy, “…Be thou an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity (1 Timothy 4:12).”
Christ demonstrated the perfect model for living and passed it on. Won’t you accept Him and then follow His example, and pass it on to others?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
On the Contrary
Are Christians Contrary?
Living a different, or contrary, lifestyle than another can cause curiosity. Sometimes that curiosity might lead to trouble; other times that curiosity can open doors to open and honest communication. For example, Haman noted to King Ahasuerus that the Jews’ “laws are different from all other people’s, and they do not keep the king’s laws (Esther 3:8).” He did not want them to remain, yet Ester was chosen to be queen to Ahasuerus and helped to save the Jewish people.
Paul called a spirit of divination out of a girl in Philippi, contrary to her masters desires. Since their profit was gone, they brought them to the magistrates and accused them of “exceedingly troubling our city; and…teaching customs which are not lawful (Acts 16:16-21)…” As a result, Paul and Silas were thrown into prison. However, this resulted in the other prisoners and Philippian jailer having a chance to hear the gospel. The latter heard it and obeyed it!
Paul also commended the Thessalonians for following the Christian examples of others. However, by doing so, they had to suffer persecution from their own countrymen, even as they did from the Judeans. The Judeans were guilty of killing the Lord and their own prophets, and thus did not seek to please God. Thus, they were “contrary to all men (1 Thessalonians 2:13-16).”
We must live our lives according to God, even if it is contrary to the world and what is accepted by the world, for the world has no authority to change God’s Word. In a dark world, Jesus said to “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).” Hopefully our contrary lifestyle will open the door for communication and salvation!
Yield Not to Temptation
We do not have to yield to temptation. Through faith in Christ we can overcome the world.
As Jesus prepared and went out to the Mount of Olives, He said to His disciples, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation (Luke 22:39-40).” He then went a little farther away from them and prayed earnestly that the cup would pass from Him (Luke 22:42). When the angel from heaven strengthened Him, He rose up and found His disciples sleeping from sorrow (Luke 22:45). He then said to them, “Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation (Luke 22:46).”
Jesus was familiar with temptation. He was tempted in all points and ways as we are, but he faced temptation without sin (Hebrews 4:15; 1 John 2:15-17; Luke 4:1-13). Jesus knows it is difficult to face and resist temptation; He’s been there! Matthew records more words by Jesus to His disciples: “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41).” Jesus was weak when He was tempted. He had been fasting for 40 days (Luke 4:1-2). He knew, too, that the disciples would be susceptible to temptation in the trials to come.
Jesus overcame temptation! He has made provision for us to overcome as well. He said, “…In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world (John 16:33).” John also, wrote, “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith (1 John 5:4).” Through our faith in Christ, we can overcome the world; we do not have to yield to temptation.
Jesus Loves the Little Children
Introduction
A. At one time in our life we were children. Paul wrote, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things (1 Corinthians 13:11).”
B. Growing up is part of life physically, and should be a part of life spiritually.
Body
I. Children are precious in the sight of God.
A. “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward (Psalm 127:3).”
B. Jesus said of such is the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:13-14).
II. One must be like a child to enter the kingdom of heaven.
A. One must be converted and become as a little child to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:1-5).
B. We must be born again in order to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3-7).
C. We become sons of God by faith in Christ (Galatians 3:26-27).
D. It is truly a blessing to be called children of God (1 John 3:1-3).
III. Children of God must grow.
A. We must desire the sincere milk of the word as newborn babes (1 Peter 2:2).
B. After Judas Iscariot went out to betray Jesus, He commanded His “little children” to love another as He was only going to be with them a little while longer (John 13:31-35).
C. Paul wrote to the Galatians, his “little children, for whom he labored in birth again until Christ was formed in them (Galatians 4:19).”
D. John wrote to his “little children,” encouraging them not to sin and reminding them that their sins are forgiven (1 John 2:1,12-13).
Conclusion
A. Have we become children of God?
B. Are we growing as Christians, serving God and loving one another?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
I Must be About My Father’s Business
Introduction
A. Today is Father’s Day, and perhaps many individuals are treating Dad out to dinner or simply spending some quality time with him.
B. Perhaps one thing that makes a lot of dads happy is knowing that their son will one day follow in their footsteps.
C. What about Jesus? Did He follow in His Father’s footsteps?
Body
I. Jesus had an earthly father.
A. Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14).
B. Mary, a virgin, was betrothed to Joseph (Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:27-35; 4:22).
C. Joseph was a carpenter (Mark 6:3).
II. Jesus had a Heavenly Father.
A. The only begotten Son has declared the Father (John 1:18).
B. The Son, who is from God, has seen the Father (John 6:46).
C. The Son and the Father are one (John 10:30).
D. The Son would go to His Father (John 14:28-31; 16:28).
III. Jesus did His Heavenly Father’s will.
A. Jesus did the works of His Heavenly Father (John 9:4).
B. Jesus was baptized by John (Luke 3).
C. Jesus was tempted by Satan, and overcame temptation (Luke 4).
D. Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
E. Jesus commanded the apostles to preach the gospel to every creature (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16).
F. Jesus ascended into Heaven, vowing to return (Acts 1:9-11).
Conclusion
A. As Jesus was born of a virgin, Joseph brought Him up.
B. At the age of 12, Jesus knew He was here to be about His Father’s business (Luke 2:41-50).
C. He did the will of His Heavenly Father (John 3:16)!
D. Now, the rest is up to us to do His Father’s will (John 6:37-40).