Historical Posts
1 Peter 05:06-11 – Be Established – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: 1 Peter 5:6-11
Whenever a person is new to something, they need to “get established.” Maybe one moves to a new town, and needs to find a home, job, and/or source of transportation. One can feel all alone, or very weak. One may even ask the right decision was made.
The best decision we can make is to become a Christian! We shouldn’t fear anything, or that we are alone; rather, there is someone there with us to establish (confirm, strengthen, help) us.
I. God will establish us.
A. Peter said that God would “perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle” us (1 Peter 5:10).
B. Paul said that He is able to establish us according to the gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ (Romans 16:25-27).
C. He will establish and guard us from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3).
II. We need to be established:
A. Establish ourselves in the faith (1 Thessalonians 3:1-5).
B. Establish our hearts before God (1 Thessalonians 3:13; James 5:8).
C. Establish ourselves in every good word and work (2 Thessalonians 2:17).
Have we been established? Are we rooted, grounded, and getting stronger in the faith? Are our hearts right before God? Are we good examples in word and deed? Have we heard and been obedient to God’s Word?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Hebrews 04:12 – Cut to the Heart – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Hebrews 4:12
There are some things that can really get to us if we let them. However, the word of God should get to us the deepest. Someone once said, “I apologize if I was stepping on some toes… I was aiming for the heart.” Well, the word of God does just that, it will cut to the heart.
I. The Word of God will cut to the heart.
A. “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12).”
B. God’s word has been delivered many times in many ways (Hebrews 1:1-2; John 1:1,14; 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
C. Many have heard His word and responded differently. See their responses and think how you are going to respond.
II. Some responded unfavorably when cut to the heart.
A. Peter and the other apostles preached the word even in prison, and those who heard them wanted to kill them (Acts 5:29-32).
B. Stephen boldly proclaimed the word of God, yet those who heard him stoned him to death (Acts 7:51-60).
III. Others responded favorably when cut to the heart.
A. Peter proclaimed the gospel of Christ on Pentecost (Acts 2:14-36).
B. When the crowd heard this they were cut to the heart, and asked what to do to be saved (Acts 2:37-41).
When the word of God is proclaimed, it should not be given an unfavorable response. Rather, it must be heard, believed, and obeyed! This shows the true power of the word of God and it’s ability to save our souls!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Genesis 04:01-07 – Who Has Control? – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Genesis 4:1-7
Two brothers each had control over their sacrifice. Abel offered unto God a sacrifice that was well-pleasing unto Him. Cain, on the other hand, offered a sacrifice that was not respected by God. As Cain became angry, the LORD said to him, “If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it (Genesis 4:7).” Cain was made aware of what happens to all of us: sin’s desire is for all of us. However, we should rule over it! If we allow God to be in control, to rule over us, we will rule over sin.
I. Sin’s desire is for control of you.
A. Through one man, sin entered the world (Romans 5:12).
B. Sin has spread to all men (Romans 5:12; 3:23).
C. Jesus said that whoever commits sin is a slave sin (John 8:34).
D. Paul struggled with sin, as we all do (Romans 7:13-25).
II. You should take control, with God’s help, and rule over sin.
A. Sin should not have dominion over us (Romans 6:14).
B. We should not continue in sin because we have been dead to sin through baptism (Romans 6:1-2; 11-12).
C. David prayed that sin would not have dominion over him (Psalm 19:13), as another Psalmist did (Psalm 119:133).
D. Paul told Titus to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and instead to live “soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age (Titus 2:12)…”
E. Peter encourages Christians to “abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11).”
F. To overcome sin, one must exercise self-control (Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Peter 1:5-6).
III. If God rules over you, you will rule over sin.
A. We are to be dead to sin but alive to God (Romans 6:11).
B. We should put on Christ, making no provision to fulfill the lusts of the flesh (Romans 13:14).
C. If we do sin, Christ is our Advocate and propitiation for our sins (1 John 2:1-2).
Does sin rule over us? We should not allow sin to rule over us, but we should rule over sin! This is only possible when we put God in control and allow God to rule over us.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Unclean Lips
Isaiah said, “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips (Isaiah 6:5)…” Isaiah recognized the fact that he is only human, dwelling among many others. As human beings our lips can sometimes get us into trouble. We say things we ought not, we do not say things we should say, we say things in the wrong way, or do not have the talent to speak before people.
Moses called himself a man of “uncircumcised lips (Exodus 6:12, 30).” When God appeared to him, he claimed not to be eloquent, but slow of speech and slow of tongue (Exodus 4:10). He was afraid that as Israel would not listen to him, neither would Pharaoh.
Jeremiah said, “Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth (Jeremiah 1:6).” Sometimes we feel young or inexperienced, and are afraid to speak up. It can be intimidating to speak before a panel of officials regarding important concerns.
Whatever the excuse, there is a remedy! One of the seraphim touched Isaiah’s mouth with a live coal, taking away his iniquity and purging his sin. Immediately he was ready to go as sent (Isaiah 6:6-8). The LORD reminded Moses that He made his mouth, and would go with him and teach him what to say. If it wasn’t enough, he would send Aaron with him (Exodus 4:11-12; 6:7:1). The LORD was with Jeremiah, and touched his mouth, putting His words in them (Jeremiah 1:7-10).
We must remember God is with us! He sent Jesus to cleanse us from our sins. He gave us His Word so we will know what to say. We must not be afraid to proclaim the Word of God – no excuses!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
The Light of the World – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12).
John explained that the world was in darkness until Jesus, the true Light, came into the world to give it light (John 1:4-9). As long as He was in the world, He was the light of the world (John 9:5). Jesus was not in the world for a very long period of time. In fact, when the time would come to leave the world, He would be sure the light would still shine.
Jesus also said to His disciples, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).
Just as Jesus let His light shine in the world, so must His disciples. We are His disciples today! We must follow Him (1 Peter 2:21), letting our lights shine and being the light of the world today! John said, “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7).”
Are you walking in the light and letting your light shine as Jesus did?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Luke 20:20-26 – Give to Each His Due – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Luke 20:20-26 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Different people deserve different things:
- Parents take good care of their children, and thus deserve much support and appreciation.
- Teachers have command of the classroom, and must have the attention of their students and assignments turned in on time.
- Bosses oversee employees to help make the company successful, and thus deserves projects turned in on time and respect.
- Coaches help athletes become better athletes and better individuals, and deserve a great effort from them.
The same is true with our government and with God. Give to each his due.
I. Government: Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s.
A. Every soul must be subject to governing authorities (Romans 13:1-2).
B. Peter indicated that even Jesus paid the temple tax (Matthew 17:24-27).
C. Christians likewise are subject to every ordinance of man (1 Peter 2:13-17; Romans 13:6-7).
II. God: Give to God the things that are God’s.
A. We must give ourselves as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5).
B. We must give financially as we have been prospered (1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7; Romans 12:8; Mark 12:41-44).
C. We must fear God, keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13; Proverbs 24:21; Deuteronomy 6:1-2).
D. God requires us to do justly, love mercy, and to walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8).
E. God deserves our time (Ephesians 5:15-17).
F. We love God because He first loved us (1 John 4:19; John 14:15).
Give to each his due!
Give to those that are deserving of such. We have legal obligations to our government and must give our due there, but we have a greater responsibility to God. He created us; we must give to Him all glory and honor due Him! Are you giving God the glory? Start by recognizing, accepting and obeying His son.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Locusts
Would locusts cause you to repent?
Locusts were the eighth plague that the LORD sent over the land of Egypt (Genesis 10:3-19). Pharaoh’s servants pleaded with him to allow Moses and Aaron to depart from them, but to no avail. It was described, “They were very severe; previously there had been no such locusts as they, nor shall there be such after them. For they covered the face of the whole earth, so that the land was darkened; and they ate every herb of the land and all the fruit of the trees which the hail had left. So there remained nothing green on the trees or on the plants of the field throughout all the land of Egypt (Genesis 10:14b-15).”
The prophet Amos wrote of a vision of the Lord God forming locusts at the beginning of the late crop, and they ate the grass of the land. Following this vision, Amos prayed that the Lord God would forgive those that sinned, and He relented (Amos 7:1-3).
Joel tells of the various locusts and the great destruction they may cause in the first two chapters of his book. As the second chapter concludes and the third chapter unfolds, Joel charges the people to repent for the Day of the Lord is coming (Joel 2:12-13; 3:14).
Pharaoh did not truly repent, even after the LORD brought the locusts. Amos knew that God would destroy those that would not repent, but was willing to forgive them. Joel knew that the Day of the Lord is coming, so he charged the people to repent!
Locusts were a good way to show God’s power, and give people a chance to repent. What would it take for us to consider the power of God, and to repent?
How Long Has it Been? – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
How long has it been since you…
- had something to eat?
- have been to work?
- got a decent amount of rest?
These things may seem natural, and thus it likely has not been long at all since you may have done any or all of these.
How long has it been since you spent quality time in prayer?
Sure, we have just prayed a few moments ago as a congregation; however, how long has it been since you prayed individually? Does it seem as frequently as the aforementioned daily tasks?
Paul mentioned that prayer should be a frequent part of our lives. He wrote, “pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17).” He also penned, “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18)…”
Does it seem tedious? It shouldn’t be; it is very rewarding! James wrote, “…the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James 5:16).”
We need to go to God in prayer. We need to pray for ourselves, for each other, and even for our enemies. How long has it been since you truly prayed?
Are you righteous in the eyes of God, having been washed clean of sin by the blood of Christ? Are you praying?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
“There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
This is a phrase that describes a very unpleasant place. People who are unhappy and uncomfortable are there. Who will be there specifically and why? On five different occasions, Jesus describes different groups of people who will be in such a place as this:
- Sons of the kingdom without faith
- Not properly attired
- Evil servants
- Fearful and unprofitable
- Workers of iniquity, unknown by Jesus
Let’s look at each of these in more detail so that we may not be numbered among them.
1. Sons of the kingdom without faith – Matthew 8:5-13
a. Jesus commended a centurion for his faith (Matthew 8:10).
b. Jesus said many would come in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 8:11).
c. The sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness, where there would be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 8:12). Esau was a son, but sold his birthright (Genesis 25:29-34).
2. Not properly attired – Matthew 22:1-14
a. Jesus told a parable of a king who arranged a marriage feast for his son, and sent out servants to call those invited to the wedding (Matthew 22:1-4).
b. Some were disrespectful and unwilling to come, others went about their business, and still others killed the servants (Matthew 22:3-6).
c. The king destroyed the people and the city, and sent the servants to invite others (Matthew 22:7-10).
d. A man attended without a wedding garment, showing disrespect, and was cast into outer darkness, where there were weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 22:11-13; see Revelation 19:7-9; 3:4-5; 16:15).
3. Evil Servants – Matthew 24:45-51
a. Jesus praised the servant who is faithful (Matthew 24:45-47).
b. The evil servant, who says in his heart his master is coming, will be cut in two and abide with the hypocrites; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 24:48-51).
4. Fearful and Unprofitable- Matthew 25:14-30
a. Jesus likened the kingdom of heaven to a man who distributed talents among three servants (Matthew 25:14-15).
b. The servant who received five talents made another five talents; the one who received two talents received two more. The one who received one talent went and hid it (Matthew 25:16-18).
c. The man praised the servants who doubled their talents, but cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness, where there would be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:19-30).
5. Workers of iniquity who Jesus does not know – Luke 13:22-30
a. As Jesus journeyed toward Jerusalem, one asked Him if few are saved (Luke 13:22-23).
b. Jesus explained that many will seek to enter the narrow gate, but will not be able to enter (Luke 13:24).
c. Those Jesus did not know, workers of iniquity, would depart from Him, where there would be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Luke 13:25-28).
Who will be weeping and have gnashing of teeth? Jesus explained those that are:
- Sons of the kingdom (born into the kingdom but not abiding by the king’s laws)
- Individuals not properly attired (as the church is the bride of Christ)
- Evil servants who delay for the master’s coming
- Unprofitable servants, fearfully hiding their talent(s)
- Workers of iniquity crying “Lord, Lord”
These groups will all be weeping and gnashing their teeth. However, we do not have to be among them and weep or gnash our teeth; we can rejoice forever more by doing the Lord’s will and making sure we are not in those groups! As a result we will hear, “well done good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord (Matthew 25:21, 23).” Have you taken the steps to abide in God’s word and use your talents for Him?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Matthew 15:10-20 – Man Defiled – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Matthew 15:10-20 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
What makes a man defiled?
The Scribes and Pharisees accused Jesus’ disciples of defiling themselves as they ate bread with unwashed hands (Matthew 15:1-2). Jesus responded to the scribes and Pharisees by showing that they did not keep God’s commandments themselves because of their tradition (Matthew 15:3-9).
It is not what goes into the mouth that makes a man defiled, but what comes out of the mouth, for the mouth shows the heart. Are you showing the heart of a man defiled by sin?
I. A man is not defiled by what goes into his mouth.
A. Jesus explained to His disciples that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach, and is eliminated (Matthew 15:17; Mark 7:18-19).
B. Paul explained that food is for the stomach and stomach for food, but God will destroy both (1 Corinthians 6:13).
C. Peter learned that God has the authority to call unclean food clean (Acts 10:14-15; Leviticus 11).
D. Paul was convinced that nothing is unclean of itself (Romans 14:14-17).
E. Food is not to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving (1 Timothy 4:3-4).
II. What comes out of the mouth comes from the heart.
A. We should not let our mouth cause us to sin (Ecclesiastes 5:6).
B. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34-37).
C. The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity (James 3:6, 8-10).
III. What is in the heart defiles a man.
A. The LORD searches the heart (Jeremiah 17:9-10; 11:20; Revelation 2:23).
B. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7; 27:19).
C. Jesus explained what was in man’s heart (Matthew 15:19-20; Mark 7:21-23).
D. The word of God is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12).
What comes out of the mouth comes from the heart, and it shows a man defiled! Instead of putting evil into our hearts, we need to put in the good and remove what defiles us.
- Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God (Matthew 5:8).
- Ezekiel pleaded, “Cast away all the transgressions which you have committed, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit (Ezekiel 18:31).”
- David pleaded, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me (Psalm 51:10).”
Does your mouth show the heart of a man defiled? Won’t you get a pure heart right now by washing it clean from sin with the blood of Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Psalm 67 – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Psalm 67 is praise to God for:
- Who He is
- What He has done
- What He will do for all nations.
Writers of the New Testament also remind us of who He is, what He has done, and what He will do. They help us get a clearer picture of what the Psalmist wrote about.
1. God is merciful to us and will bless us (Psalm 67:1, 6-7).
a. Jesus told how the tax collector prayed, “God, be merciful to me a sinner (Luke 18:13)!” This was a prayer that could be offered by all of us, who need the mercies of God.
b. He has richly blessed us through Christ (Ephesians 1:3).
2. His way is known on earth; His salvation is available to everyone everywhere (Psalm 67:2).
a. Jesus is the Way (John 14:6).
b. Apollos was instructed in the way of the Lord, but only knew of the baptism of John at the time (Acts 18:24-25).
c. We come to God by a “new and living way (Hebrews 10:19-20).”
d. Salvation is only found in Christ (Acts 4:12).
e. The gospel is God’s power to save (Romans 1:16-17).
3. Everyone will praise God (Psalm 67:3, 5).
a. We have obtained mercy, and proclaim His praises (1 Peter 2:9).
b. We sing praises to God (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
c. Everyone will submit to Christ to the glory of God (Philippians 2:9-11).
4. God will judge people righteously (Psalm 67:4).
a. The Lord is the righteous Judge (2 Timothy 4:8).
b. The Father has committed all judgment to His Son (John 5:22).
Psalm 67 is a very comforting Psalm.
God has blessed us and saved us through Christ, and that is why we sing His praises! Have you accepted the salvation He has provided in Jesus?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Judas and the Oil – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: John 12:1-8 and Matthew 26:6-13
Judas Iscariot had a plan for the oil that Mary poured on Jesus’ feet. What Jesus observed would cause all to consider what was taking place, and what would take place.
I. The plan Judas had for the oil was heard by:
A. Martha, who went about serving (John 12:2; see Luke 10:40-41).
B. Mary, Lazarus’ sister, who poured costly oil on Jesus’ feet; she earlier sat at His feet to listen to His teaching (John 12:3; John 11:1-2; Luke 10:39, 42).
C. Lazarus, who Jesus raised from the dead, sat at the table with Him (John 12:2; John 11:43-44).
D. Jesus’ disciples were witnesses (see Matthew 26:8).
E. Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver (John 12:4-6; Matthew 26:14-16; John 13:21, 25-30).
II. Judas’ Oil Plan Revealed:
A. Mary poured a pound of very costly, fragrant oil on Jesus’ feet (see Song of Solomon 1:12; Song of Solomon 4:12-15).
B. Judas complained that the oil was not sold, and no money was given to the poor (John 12:5-6).
1) Judas was not primarily concerned for the poor.
2) Judas was a thief.
3) The love of money is the root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10).
C. Jesus praised Mary for her good deed (John 12:7).
1) She prepared Jesus for His burial (Matthew 26:12; John 19:38-42).
2) This would be a memorial to her (Matthew 26:13).
D. Jesus knew the poor would always be with His disciples (John 12:8; Deuteronomy 15:11).
E. Jesus knew He would not always be with His disciples (John 12:8; John 7:33-34; 8:21; 13:33).
Simon did not have a plan for the oil, but Jesus did. A sinful woman washed Jesus’ feet with her tears, wiped them with her hair, kissed His feet, and anointed them with fragrant oil.
Simon complained of the woman’s character, but Jesus showed him that, unlike Simon, she did a lot for Him.
He commended her for her faith, and forgave her sins (Luke 7:36-50). Will you allow Jesus to work His plan for you and accept forgiveness of sin from Him?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
1 Timothy 1:12-17 – The Salvation Pattern of Paul – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-17 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Paul tells Timothy all that Christ had done for him, of his salvation pattern. Saul, as Paul was originally known, caused great havoc in the church (Acts 8:3). He was a great opponent of the cause of Christ! However, because of the exceedingly abundant grace and rich mercy of the Lord, he was able to become a great worker in the kingdom of Christ as his salvation pattern comes to a conclusion in Acts 9.
I. Paul received grace as the first part of his salvation pattern.
A. Saul became Paul by the grace of God (1 Corinthians 15:9-10).
B. Paul received grace in order to preach the gospel (Ephesians 3:7-8; Galatians 1:15-16).
C. Grace reigns through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:20-21).
D. Paul said we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7).
E. God’s purpose and grace in Christ saves us (2 Timothy 1:8-11).
II. Mercy was included in his salvation pattern.
A. Paul obtained mercy because he persecuted Christ and the church ignorantly in unbelief (1 Timothy 1:13; Acts 17:30).
B. We are saved through mercy, poured out abundantly on us through Jesus Christ (Titus 3:5-7).
III. Paul was saved in baptism to complete his salvation pattern; We can be saved in like manner!
A. The grace of God brings salvation and has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11; 2 Corinthians 4:15).
B. We are all sinners, justified by the grace of God (Romans 3:23-26).
C. Grace accompanies faith and love in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 1:14; 2 Timothy 1:13; 2:22; Acts 22:16).
D. Paul received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith through Christ (Romans 1:5).
E. Though Christ we have access by faith into grace (Romans 5:2).
F. God, who is rich in mercy, saves us by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:4-8).
G. Christians have obtained mercy and proclaim the praises of God (1 Peter 2:9-10; 1 Timothy 1:12, 17).
Paul received grace and mercy. He was then saved when he responded by submitting to baptism in water to be added to the church. All Christians have followed that same salvation pattern. We have received grace and mercy; we are saved when we respond and complete the exact same salvation pattern we see demonstrated by Paul!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Things Written Before
The things written before are there for our learning.
Romans 15:4: “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Paul understood that there were many things written by the Law and the Prophets, and he referenced several in his letter to the Romans as well as other epistles, giving us insight into these things written before.
Jesus Christ knew what was written before. He quoted Scripture to overcome the temptations of Satan (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10). He taught His disciples, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled (Matthew 5:17-18).”
The Law and the Prophets were written before to point the way to Jesus Christ. Many writers in the Old Testament wrote about things concerning the coming of Jesus and His kingdom. When Jesus came and established His church, those sayings were fulfilled!
Having a good understanding of Old Testament things written before is a good foundation to help us understand the New Testament. However, once the law was fulfilled through Christ, we are no longer under the Old Testament. What is the purpose then of the things written before? “But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor (Galatians 3:22-25).”
Forsake Not The Lord – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Forsake means to abandon, desert, leave, leave behind, or to neglect. When someone deserts us, or forsakes us, we may be expected to feel heartbroken, helpless, and all alone. We see this in Jesus. When He hung on the cross for our sins, He cried, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? (Matthew 27:45-46; Mark 15:34; Psalm 22:1)”
Jesus did not sin (1 Peter 2:22), yet had to be the sacrifice for all sin (Isaiah 53:8-12). Even as our sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2), Jesus felt some sense of being alone when he took on the sin of the world; yet, God raised Him from the dead, as He will us (Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:25-36; 13:30-37; 2 Corinthians 4:14; Romans 8:11).
I. The Lord has not forsaken us.
A. The Lord has often said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5; Deuteronomy 31:6, 8; Joshua 1:5)”
B. Paul reminds Christians that even though they may expect to be persecuted, they are not forsaken (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).
C. Even though some at first forsook Paul in his ministry, the Lord stood with him and strengthened him (2 Timothy 4:16-17; Philippians 4:13).
II. We must not forsake the Lord.
A. All of the disciples said they would not deny Jesus, but they did forsake Him and fled as He was betrayed (Matthew 26:35, 56).
B. When Jesus first called them, they left all to follow Him (Luke 5:1-11, 27-28).
C. Demas forsook Paul, having loved this present world (2 Timothy 4:10).
D. We are not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some (Hebrews 10:24-25).
The Lord has not forsaken us; we must not forsake Him. We must never abandon, desert, leave, or neglect Him. Have you come to Him yet?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Matthew 28:18-20 – Authority is all in Jesus – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Matthew 28:18-20 (Reading by Don Treadway)
“By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority (Matthew 21:23)?” The chief priests and elders questioned the authority of Jesus. He did not answer them because they could not handle the answer. His disciples, on the other hand, could understand because they had come to know Him.
I. Jesus has been given all authority.
A. Jesus was given all authority (Matthew 28:18; Daniel 7:13-14).
B. This authority could only come from God (Ephesians 4:6; John 12:48-50).
C. He spoke with authority (Matthew 7:29).
D. He has full authority over…
1) …nature (Mark 4:39).
2) …unclean spirits (Mark 1:21-27).
3) …death (John 2:19; 10:17-18).
4) …judgment (Jonn 5:22-23,26-27; Acts 10:42).
5) …angels, authorities, and powers (1 Peter 3:22).
6) …the church (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18).
II. Jesus gave His disciples authority to make disciples.
A. Jesus commanded them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).
B. They were to preach the gospel, and signs would accompany them (Mark 16:15-18).
C. They preached repentance and remission of sins, beginning at Jerusalem (Luke 24:46-49; Acts 2).
III. We must abide by His authority.
A. Jesus said we are to observe all things He has commanded us (Matthew 28:20).
B. The early church continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine (Acts 2:42).
C. Whatever we do, we are to do “in the name of the Lord Jesus (Colossians 3:17).”
Are we abiding by the authority of Christ? Have we been obedient to the gospel? Are we faithfully keeping all His commandments?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Dust You Are
“…For dust you are, and to dust you shall return (Genesis 3:19).”
These words were said to Adam after he sinned before God. Earlier, God had “formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man had become a living being (Genesis 2:7).” Truly, dust you are because dust came to life by the breath of God.
“As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust (Psalm 103:13-14).” David wrote these words, reminding us of his repentance and God’s forgiveness. David sinned with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11); Adam sinned in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). God is the one who said, “…dust you are…”, and He knows where we all come from, and where all we will eventually go.
The wise man reminds us, “All go to one place; all are from the dust, and all return to dust (Ecclesiastes 3:20).” “Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:7).” Job also concurred that man would return to dust (Job 34:15). Yes, we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). However, through Christ, our sins can be taken away and we can be reconciled to God!
Before we return to dust, we must become less like Adam and more like Christ! Paul wrote, “The first man was of the earth, made of dust; the second Man is the Lord from heaven. As was the man of dust, so also are those who are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man (1 Corinthians 15:47-49).”
Our bodies may return to dust, but our souls can live forever in heaven with God if we obey Christ!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
King Jesus – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Do you call him King Jesus?
Is Jesus a king? This is a question that many people have different views on. For example, a multitude accused Jesus of calling Himself a King. Pilate then asked Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Jesus replied, “It is as you say (Luke 23:1-4).” He then explained that His kingdom is not of this world. Pilate asked Him, “Are You a king then?” Jesus replied, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice (John 18:36-37).” Of course, Pilate could find no fault in Him, even in King Jesus.
“JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.” These words were written by Pilate upon the cross of Jesus recognized Him as King Jesus, much to the dismay of the Jews. The chief priests said to him, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but, ‘He said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’’” Pilate responded, “What I have written, I have written (John 19:19-22).” The Jews were not happy with this gesture. After all, they adamantly said they had no king but Caesar (John 19:12-15) and had no desire to recognize King Jesus.
Jesus was not accepted by the Jews to be their King. However, He must be accepted as our King to be our Saviour! He is the “King of Kings (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; 19:16).” He is the King Eternal (1 Timothy 1:17; Psalm 10:16; 29:10).
He wants to be King of your life! Will you let Him? Put Him on in baptism, and begin to live the life He has called you to live.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Proverbs 12:5-6 – Thoughts of Righteous and Wicked – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Proverbs 12:5-6: “The thoughts of the righteous are right, but the counsels of the wicked are deceitful. The words of the wicked are, “Lie in wait for blood,” but the mouth of the upright will deliver them.”
Thoughts are revealed, not hidden. Are they righteous or wicked?
Sometimes we think before we speak (or so we should); other times words just roll off of our tongues. Based upon what we say, others can tell if we are righteous or wicked. See where your words fall and what they reveal of the thoughts that in your mind.
I. What are the thoughts of the righteous (Philippians 4:8)?
A. Whatever things are true
B. Whatever things are noble
C. Whatever things are just
D. Whatever things are pure
E. Whatever things are lovely
F. Whatever things are of good report
II. What are the counsels of the wicked?
A. Every thought of man’s heart was only evil continually (Genesis 6:5).
B. The imagination of his heart was evil from his youth (Genesis 8:21).
C. They lie in wait to shed blood, lurking secretly for the innocent without a cause (Proverbs 1:10-11).
III. What are the words of the wicked?
A. “Lie in wait for blood (Proverbs 12:6).”
B. The LORD hates hands that have shed innocent blood (Proverbs 6:16-19).
IV. What does the mouth of the upright do?
A. It delivers them (Proverbs 12:6).
B. Jesus prayed, “And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one (Matthew 6:13).”
Wicked individuals think wicked thoughts and say wicked things, leading to wicked actions. Righteous individuals think good thoughts, say good things, and do good deeds. The wicked will enter eternal destruction (Revelation 21:8), while the righteous will enter into eternal life (Matthew 25:46).
What are we thinking, saying, and doing? Where will we spend eternity? Is change needed? Start by aligning your thoughts with God’s Word, then accept His salvation.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Galatians 01:06-12 – One Gospel, Many Preachers – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Galatians 1:6-12
One Gospel, Many Preachers
Over the course of time, there have been many preachers. At the beginning of the church, there was only one gospel! As time went on, some people began to turn to a different gospel; however, there is not really another gospel, but some wanted to pervert the one gospel and preach a false gospel! That still happens today, yet it should not be so!
I. There is one gospel.
A. Paul received the gospel through revelation of Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:11-12).
B. The gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
C. The gospel is God’s power to save (Romans 1:16)!
D. There is not another gospel, but some pervert it (Galatians 1:6-7).
II. There are many preachers.
A. Peter preached the first gospel sermon on Pentecost (Acts 2:29-36).
B. Philip preached Jesus to the Ethiopian (Acts 8:30-37).
C. Paul simply preached Christ and Him crucified (Romans 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 2:2; Galatians 6:14; 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Thessalonians 2:9).
III. Many preachers must preach the same gospel!
A. Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned (Mark 16:15-16).”
B. Preachers must preach so people can hear, believe, and call upon the LORD (Romans 10:13-16; Isaiah 52:7).
C. Preachers should say the same thing, and let there be no division among them (1 Corinthians 1:10).
D. If a preacher preaches a different gospel, he is to be accursed (Galatians 1:8-9).
It was thrilling to hear many gospel preachers last week at Polishing The Pulpit. They all spoke the same thing! The one gospel that was preached in the first century can still be preached today. The one gospel that saved men’s souls then is the one gospel that saves men’s souls today. Though there may be many preachers must preach the one gospel of Christ from the Word of God!
Have you heard the one gospel and responded to accept salvation in Christ?