Historical Posts
Righteousness Delivers
Righteousness delivers time and again. Our nation needs to return to righteousness.
There was once a time when a country was not true to God, even though a few citizens may have been. He told Ezekiel, “’Son of man, when a land sins against Me by persistent unfaithfulness, I will stretch out My hand against it; I will cut off its supply of bread, send famine on it, and cut off man and beast from it. Even if these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they would deliver only themselves by their righteousness,’ says the Lord God (Ezekiel 14:13-14).”
Noah (Genesis 6-9) was faithful to God. When man’s every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually, Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD (Genesis 6:5,8). Even though God destroyed the earth by so great a flood, we see that righteousness delivers Noah and seven others. They were saved in the ark.
Daniel prayed to God often, and his friends would not bow down and worship the king. Even though they were thrown into a den of lions or into the fiery furnace (respectively), they were delivered by God; those that threw them in perished. Righteousness delivers again.
Job never blamed God for his adversity. Even though many things were taken away from him, yet he remained faithful to God and did not sin with his lips (Job 2:10). After a while, Job was blessed with more than what he had at the beginning. Yet again, righteousness delivers.
There is a great concern today about our nation. By persistent unfaithfulness, the LORD may turn against it. However, the righteous will be delivered! The wise man said, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people (Proverbs 14:34).” Let us be among the righteous few that the LORD may deliver.
I Thirst – audio
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It is very natural for one to get thirsty. When one does get thirsty, a cool glass of water can quench it. As Jesus hung on the cross, He cried: “I thirst (John 19:28)!” A vessel of sour wine was offered Him on hyssop; upon receiving it, He cried: “It is finished (John 19:29-30)!” He then died.
Long before He died, Jesus encountered a woman of Samara at Jacob’s well. She came to draw water, and yet Jesus offered her living water. Upon hearing about it, she said, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, not come here to draw (John 4:15).” When she learned something of value, she thirsted for it!
There are some things of great value we must thirst for:
- “My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God (Psalm 42:2).”
- “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled (Matthew 5:6).”
- “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me [Jesus] and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water (John 7:37-38).”
Are you thirsting? Come to Christ, and he will quench your thirst!
Mark 10:35-45 – A Selfish Request – audio
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Text: Mark 10:35-45
Introduction
A. Sometimes people ask for something and do not realize the nature of the request.
B. Sometimes a simple request can be of great importance.
C. It may turn out for greater good than realized
D. Or it can turn out to cause more problems than anticipated.
E. A case in point involves James and John, two of Jesus’ apostles.
Body
I. They wanted Jesus to do something for them.
A) Sometimes we want something for selfish reasons, and God does not give us what we want.
B) Instead, He gives us what we need (James 4:1-3; Matthew 6:33).
II. They wanted what they considered the best places of authority.
A. This was a common request of the scribes (Mark 12:38-40)
B. And of the Pharisees (Luke 11:43)
C. Both of which Jesus warned against.
III. They claimed they were able to drink the cup that Jesus drank (John 18:11; Matthew 26:39) and be baptized with the same baptism that Jesus was baptized with (John 12:50).
A. Jesus said it was not for Him to grant this request
B. Instead, they would receive what was prepared and deserved (Hebrews 11:13-16; Revelation 21:1-2; Matthew 25:31-34, 41, 46).
IV. This request caused many others to be displeased with them.
V. Jesus stressed that even though some appear to be great on the outside, they are not great on the inside.
A. Greatness is not all about exercising authority or power.
B. Greatness is about being a servant.
1) Jesus Christ came to be a servant (Luke 22:27; John 13:14-17; Philippians 2:7-8).
2) Jesus Christ gave His life as a ransom for many (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Titus 2:14).
Conclusion
A. What would you request of Jesus?
1) Would it be beneficial?
2) Would it cause conflict?
B. How would it affect your eternal salvation?
2 Timothy 01:08-12 – Sharing in Suffering – audio
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Text: 2 Timothy 1:8-12 (Reading by Richard Dillon)
Introduction
A. Many people are currently dealing with some form of suffering.
B. It is a great comfort to know that someone else is suffering just like you.
C. When you find what you have in common, it makes it easier for everyone to deal with that form of suffering.
Body
I. Jesus endured suffering.
A. He was accused of blasphemy (Matthew 9:3).
B. He suffered up until and during His crucifixion (Luke 24:46-48; 1 Peter 5:1).
C. He made salvation perfect through suffering (Hebrews 2:10).
II. Christians will suffer.
A. By preaching the gospel of Christ, suffering may be necessary (2 Timothy 1:8-12; Acts 9:16; Philippians 1:29; 1 Thessalonians 3:4; 2 Timothy 3:12).
B. We have fellowship in the sufferings of Christ (Philippians 3:10; 1 Peter 4:13).
C. We can rejoice in time of suffering (Colossians 1:24; Acts 5:41; Philippians 1:12-18).
III. We all share in suffering now, and will share in consolation and glory.
A. The true prophets set the example of suffering (James 5:10).
B. God is pleased when one suffers for His sake (1 Peter 2:19-20).
C. If one member of the body of Christ suffers, all suffer; if one is honored, all rejoice (1 Corinthians 12:26).
D. As sufferings abound in Christians, so do the consolation (2 Corinthians 1:5-7; 1 Peter 3:14,17; 4:16,19).
E. Glory follows suffering, and it will be much better (1 Peter 1:11; Romans 8:17-18; 2 Thessalonians 1:5; Hebrews 11:24-26).
Conclusion
A. Are you suffering for the cause of Christ? You are not alone!
B. Remember, what you are suffering from now is nothing compared to the glory of God that follows.
Words of a Dying Man
The words of a dying man are very moving.
His words could be of great wisdom and value to those who are willing to listen. Perhaps a hidden secret is revealed; a timeless truth is given; advice is hoped to be taken and used. In some cases, a request is made.
As Jesus was crucified, He said: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do (Luke 23:34).” Imagine that the very ones that put Him on the cross are the very ones He was willing to forgive. They did not know what they were really doing, but Jesus did! He died for them so that their sins might be taken away.
After Jesus was risen, He commanded His apostles to preach the gospel throughout the world (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16). Sometimes that gospel was given, but it was not well received. Stephen quickly learned this as those from the Synagogue of the Freedmen disputed with him, leading to his stoning. As he knew he was a dying man, he cried: “Lord, do not charge them with this sin (Acts 7:60).” Imagine that! Just like Jesus, Stephen was willing to forgive them for what they were doing!
Yes, other last words may be those of forgiveness. After all, Jesus wants to love and forgive others. He said, “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you (Matthew 5:44).”
Sometimes we need to seek forgiveness for ourselves or forgive others. Sometimes we need to give others a blessing. Sometimes we need to do good for people. Sometimes we need to pray. Take action now. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Don’t wait until you are a dying man to save yourself and forgive others.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Jesus and the Jews
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Text: John 8:21-30
Jesus knew who He was and what He was about to do. The time was nearing in which He would be crucified, and on the third day rise again. Shortly thereafter He would ascend into Heaven. Because of sin, many could not go to where Jesus was going. Jesus taught the Jews that He was from above; they were from beneath. By not believing in Him, they would die in their sins.
The Jews asked who Jesus was. Jesus all along revealed Himself to them in words, actions, miracles, etc. Sadly they still did not believe Him. Jesus then began to hint at His relationship with His Father, saying that “He who sent Me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I heard from Him (John 8:26).”
No, the Jews did not understand about the Father. After all, if one saw Jesus he would see the Father (John 14:9). Since they truly did not “see” Jesus, they did not “see” God.
Jesus went on to tell them that there would come a time in which they would know who He was: when they would “lift up the Son of Man (John 8:28).” Yes, when He died on the cross, was buried, and rose again the third day, many began to say: “Truly this Man was the Son of God (Mark 15:39 e.g.)!”
Even though at this time some only saw Jesus, He was not alone. The Father was with Him (John 8:29). Jesus always sought to please His Heavenly Father, and His Father was right there at His side.
Do we see Jesus the same way as the Jews? Do we believe that He is the Christ, the Son of God? Are we willing to repent of our sins so we can be where He is?
If we truly “see” Him, we “see” the Father. By confessing Him, obeying the gospel, and living the faithful Christian life, we can always be with Him. Thus, like Christ, we must always seek to please our Heavenly Father.
Christians, Rejoice! – audio
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Introduction
A. It is wonderful to be a Christian!
B. We have so many things to enjoy, both in this life and in the one to come.
C. For example, today we can share mutual joy as we sing praises to our God, have fellowship with each other, and partake of delectable food.
D. We also look forward to the home that is laid up for us in Heaven.
Body
I. Christians rejoice in the Lord (Philippians 4:4).
A. All spiritual blessings are in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).
B. In order to be in Christ, one must be baptized into Christ (Galatians 3:27).
II. Christians rejoice in Hope (Romans 12:12).
A. There is one hope of our calling (Ephesians 4:4).
B. If Christ had not been risen from the dead, we would not have any hope (1 Corinthians 15:14-20).
III. Christians rejoice in their names being written in heaven (Luke 10:20).
IV. Christians rejoice in your genuine faith.
A. My faith praise, honor, and glorify Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:3-9).
Conclusion
A. Are you a Christian?
1) If so, you have every reason to rejoice!
2) If not, you can become a Christian right now and many will rejoice with you.
2 Thessalonians 03:01-05 – Paul’s Confidence and the Thessalonians’ Prayer – audio
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Text: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 (Reading by Steven Winland)
Introduction
A. Paul made a request of the Thessalonians that they would pray for him.
B. He prayed that He and others would carry the Word of God as commanded.
C. Knowing that God is faithful, he assured them that God would help them and achieve His purpose.
D. Paul then encourages them to do their part, just as he would do his.
Body
I. Paul requested prayer of the Thessalonians.
A. Paul often requested prayer for his boldness to proclaim the Word of God (Ephesians 6:18-20).
B. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man does avail much (James 5:13-18).
C. Paul prayed here for:
1) The Word of God would run swiftly and be glorified (Acts 6:7; 12:24; 19:20; 2 Timothy 2:9; Philippians 1:14; 1 Thessalonians 1:8). Others gained boldness and proclaimed it!
2) He and others would be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men (Romans 15:30-32; 2 Timothy 3:11; 4:17-18).
3) God assures us of our deliverance (Psalm 91:15-16; Matthew 6:13; 2 Peter 2:9-10).
4) Those that do not have faith (Acts 28:24; Romans 10:14-18).
II. The Lord is faithful to Paul, the Thessalonians, and to all Christians!
A. Many proclaimed the Lord’s faithfulness (Isaiah 49:7; Deuteronomy 7:9; Hosea 11:12; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Corinthians 1:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:24; Hebrews 10:23; 1 John 1:9).
B. Christians are established through Christ (James 5:8; 1 Peter 5:10).
C. Christians will be kept from the evil one (John 17:15).
III. Paul had confidence in:
A. The Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 3:4).
B. The Corinthians (2 Corinthians 7:14-16).
C. The Lord (2 Thessalonians 3:5).
1) He would direct the hearts of men into the love of God (1 Chronicles 29:17-18; Luke 8:15; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 1 Timothy 6:11).
2) He would direct men into the patience of Christ (1 Timothy 6:11; James 1:2-4; Revelation 1:9).
Conclusion
A. As Paul prayed, we should pray for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
B. God’s word must continue to spread!
C. He is faithful toward us, and we must be to Him.
D. We can have confidence in Him, ourselves, and others!
Removing the Glass of the Mirror
For now we see in a mirror dimly…
For a lot of people, it is customary to get up in the morning, look in the glass of the mirror, and take care of personal grooming and looks. You want to see for yourself what others see, and then take care of any flaws that you might have. Once you walk away from the mirror and head out the door, you are exposing yourself to the world.
The same thing happens with us spiritually. Paul wrote, “For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known (1 Corinthians 13:12).” James also describes one that hears the words of God but does not do them like “a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does (James 1:23-25).” Every day we need to examine ourselves spiritually, for we are always exposed to God.
We want to be with God, and see Him face to face. Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God (Matthew 5:8).” The Hebrew writer says, “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).”
If we want to see God and let Him see us, we need to look in the spiritual mirror (God’s Word) and fix our flaws. By looking in the Word of God, we can see the kind of people God wants us to be and find and take care of our spiritual flaws. He wants us to be pure, holy, and peaceable. We need to allow His Word to change ourselves so we can see Him. Remember, “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12).”
Don’t Resist the Truth
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Text: 2 Timothy 3:8-17
Jannes and Jambres are examples of those who resisted Moses. Even though their names do not appear in the Old Testament, rabbinic tradition says they are among the magicians who sought to duplicate the signs God showed Pharaoh through Moses (Exodus 7:11-12, 22; 8:7; 9:11). They succeeded in copying the first two plagues, but by the third admitted “this is the finger of God (Exodus 8:19).
Paul uses them as an example of how men today still resist the truth: by having corrupt minds. They are disapproved concerning the faith. In his first letter to Timothy, Paul said this person does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of Jesus Christ. Therefore we should withdraw ourselves from them (1 Timothy 6:3-5).
As Jannes and Jambres could do no more plagues, those that resist the truth can progress no further. Instead, Paul says, we need to follow the proper doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, and afflictions as he did. We may be in the minority for doing what is right, but as Moses did, so do we have God on our side! We need to be encouraged to stand up for the truth! By hearing the word of God, we receive faith (Romans 10:17). Paul goes on to tell Timothy that the Scriptures make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
As human beings, we are physically limited in what we can do. However, as Christians, with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). Instead of trying to resist the truth (which will not get us anywhere), we should learn and obey the truth. Jesus said, “you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).”
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Jeremiah 32:16-23 – Jeremiah’s Prayer – audio
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Text: Jeremiah 32:16-23
Introduction
Jeremiah was distressed. He was commanded by God to preach to the people, but they were not listening.
His prayer is a reminder for us that God is in control, and we must allow ourselves to put our complete trust in Him. As was recently discussed, “we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).”
Jeremiah was called by God, and He had a purpose.
Body
Jeremiah 32:16-17.
God made the heavens and the earth (2 Kings 19:15; Genesis 1:1; Acts 17:24).
There is nothing too difficult for God (Genesis 18:14; Luke 18:27; Job 42:2; Matthew 19:26; Luke 1:37).
Jeremiah 32:18.
God shows His lovingkindness to thousands. It is described in the Psalms as better than life (Psalm 63:3), good (Psalm 69:16), always abounding (Psalm 92:1-2), etc.
God will also repay iniquity to those that continue to sin, yet show mercy to those that keep His commandments (Exodus 20:5-6; 34:6-7; Numbers 14:18-24).
Those that name Christ may depart from iniquity (2 Timothy 2:19); they are redeemed by Christ (Titus 2:14).
God and Christ are referred to as “Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Redeemer, LORD of Hosts, and the Holy one of Israel (Isaiah 9:6; 47:4; Jeremiah 10:16; 50:34).
Jeremiah 32:19.
God is great in counsel. He shows this through Joseph, Daniel, Solomon, and others.
He is mighty in works (providing manna, helping the Israelites to cross the Red Sea, et al.).
His eyes are open to all the ways of men, and nothing is hidden from Him (Hebrews 4:13; 2 Chronicles 16:9; Job 31:4; 34:21; Proverbs 15:3; Jeremiah 16:17).
He gives to man according to his ways and doings (Jeremiah 17:10).
Jeremiah 32:20.
God made a name for Himself by showing His power.
His name is everlasting (Isaiah 63:12), and He gave His Son a great name (Philippians 2:9-11).
Jeremiah 32:21.
God led the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 6:6).
Jeremiah 32:22.
This land flowing with milk and honey was promised, and it was given (Exodus 3:8,17).
Jeremiah 32:23.
People were still disobedient to God (Nehemiah 9:26ff.).
Conclusion
God heard the prayer of Jeremiah, and answered him. His response is in Jeremiah 32:31ff.
Jeremiah 32:31 – God would remove the city from them.
Jeremiah 32:36 – God would deliver the city into the hand of the king of Babylon.
Jeremiah 32:37-38 – God would gather His people from where they were driven, yet they would dwell safely; He would be their God, and they would be His people.
Jeremiah 32:39-40 – God would make a covenant with them, and cause them to fear [respect] Him.
Jeremiah 32:41ff – God would still do good to them.
Mark 08:34-37 – Your Soul is Priceless – audio
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Text: Mark 8:34-37 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction
A. Prices are put on a lot of things in this world, but they are only temporary.
B. A price cannot be put on an eternal soul!
Body
I. God gave us a soul.
A. God breathed into man’s nostrils, and he became a living soul (Genesis 2:7).
B. God said all souls belong to Him (Ezekiel 18:4).
C. The LORD cares for the soul (Psalm 23:3).
II. God put us in charge of our souls.
A. The soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4); therefore a sinner must turn from the error of his way (James 5:20).
B. Lot tormented his righteous soul by seeing and hearing lawless deeds (2 Peter 2:8).
C. The Word of God is able to save our souls (James 1:21).
1) It pierces to the division of soul and spirit (Hebrews 4:12).
2) We must believe God’s Word (Hebrews 10:39).
3) We must obey God’s Word (1 Peter 1:22).
D. God sent Jesus Christ, who can save our souls.
1) As the blood makes atonement for the soul (Leviticus 17:11), so the blood of Christ cleanses our soul (Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:22).
2) He is the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25). Thus, we must be submissive to those who follow Christ, watching out for our souls (Hebrews 13:17).
3) We must commit our souls to Him, and do His will (1 Peter 4:19).
E. We must abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11).
F. We must give up our lives, and this world we live in (Luke 9:23-25; Mark 8:34-37).
III. The soul of man will be eternally saved or lost.
A. We must not fear those that can only destroy the body, but rather fear Him who has the power to destroy both body and soul in hell (Matthew 10:28).
B. We must not only fear Him, but also keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
C. Those that do not listen to Christ will be destroyed (Acts 3:20-23).
D. The soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4,20).
E. The rich man’s soul was required of him, as he made the wrong investment of the world instead of his soul (Luke 12:16-21).
Conclusion
A. Are you taking care of your soul?
B. If your soul was required today, where would you spend eternity?
What Precedes Your Judgment?
Judgment is coming. Prepare now and be ready.
The Bible clearly gives us all a warning: “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many (Hebrews 9:27-28).” Unless the Lord should come back first, we are all going to die. After death, we will all be judged based on the things done in the body, whether good or evil (Ecclesiastes 12:14; 2 Corinthians 5:10).
Paul tells Timothy, “some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later. Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden (1 Timothy 5:24-25).” He says there are two main categories, sin and good works.
Sin is something that we have all done, we have all committed (Romans 3:23). Some sins are evident to men, and others are not. Paul described the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21, noting that those who practice them will not inherit the kingdom of God. However, even what man does not see God sees. The hidden sins will follow us to the Day of Judgment.
On the other hand, God prepares us for every good work through the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17). There are many good works that men may see, and they all should glorify our Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:16). However, there are also things that may be done in secret; God will reward us for them openly (Matthew 6:6).
Whether in secret, or out in the open, God sees. Are you walking in sin, or are you doing good works? Either will precede your judgment. Let us choose to “do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased (Hebrews 13:16).” Have you accepted Christ as Saviour?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
John 03:01-07 – You Must be Born Again – audio
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Text: John 3:1-7 (reading by Don Treadway)
Introduction
A. Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night, and confesses that He is a teacher come from God.
B. Jesus used this opportunity to teach him a lesson:
1) One must be born again to see the kingdom of God.
2) Nicodemus does not understand;
a) he thinks physically
b) Jesus is teaching spiritually.
Body
I. One must be born of water and the Spirit.
A. Philip baptized the Ethiopian eunuch in water (Acts 8:36-39).
B. Peter commanded those on Pentecost to be baptized for remission of sins, and they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).
C. Ananias told Saul of Tarsus to “arise and be baptized, washing away his sins (Acts 22:16).”
D. God saves us through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5).
II. One must be born of incorruptible seed.
A. We purify our souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit (1 Peter 1:22).
B. We are not born again of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever (1 Peter 1:23).
1) We were born of corruptible seed (Ecclesiastes 3:2; Job 14:5; Hebrews 9:27).
2) We can be born of incorruptible seed (John 3:15-18; 5:39; 10:28; 11:25-26; 1 John 5:11-13; Galatians 3:26-27).
III. Those born again must possess certain characteristics:
A. They have the right to become children of God (John 1:12-13); what a blessing (1 John 3:1-3)!
B. They love God and others; they know God (1 John 4:7).
C. They believe Jesus is the Christ (1 John 5:1).
D. They overcome the world through faith (1 John 5:4).
E. They do not continue to live in sin (1 John 5:18). Instead, they keep themselves pure, unspotted from the world (James 1:27).
F. They are new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17), walking in newness of life (Romans 6:3-6).
G. The Spirit of God dwells in them, and they in the Spirit (Romans 8:9).
Conclusion
A. One must be born again in order to enter the kingdom of God!
B. Are you truly born again?
C. Are you living the new life in Christ?
Agur’s Last Request
What would you want as a last request?
People often make a last request. Often, it is recorded in their last will and testament. They want certain things to happen after they die. Also, they may have goals to reach before they die. If someone finds out they do not have much time left on this earth, he may make one last request. What would you want as a last request?
Consider two things requested of God by Agur: “Two things I request of You (deprive me not before I die): remove falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches – feed me with the food allotted to me; lest I be full and deny You, and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ or lest I be poor and steal, and profane the name of my God (Proverbs 30:7-9).”
His first request is to remove falsehood and lies far from him. Lying is something that God is not pleased with. In fact, “…all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death (Revelation 21:8).” We all need to be forgiven of the sin of lying, and that is the truth.
His second request is to receive neither poverty nor riches. If he has too little, he may be tempted to steal and profane the name of God. This would, of course, break one of God’s original commandments (Exodus 20:15). If he has too much, he may deny the LORD. Jesus said that if we deny Him, He will deny us (Matthew 10:33). Consider the apostle Paul: he knew what it was like to be without, and he knew what it was like to have too much. In all things, he was content (Philippians 4:11-12).
What would your last request of God be? Would your last request, your desire, be for salvation and acceptance by God?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Matthew 09:35-38 – Here Am I, Send Me – audio
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Text: Matthew 9:35-38
Introduction
A. There is a great need for gospel preachers in our world today.
B. There is also a great need for teachers, song leaders, encouragers, and the like.
C. Are you willing to do what the Lord calls you to do?
Body
I. Jesus needs us!
A. Christ is the head of the church, which is His body; we are members of that body (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18).
1) Every single part of the body is needed (1 Corinthians 12:12ff.).
2) Thus, in Christ dwells the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and we are complete in Him (Colossians 2:9-10).
B. As Jesus was sent into the world, so He sends us out!
1) God sent Christ into the world to save it (John 3:16-17; Luke 9:56).
2) Jesus sent out the apostles (John 20:21; 17:18-19; Matthew 28:18-20).
3) They were sent out to preach (Mark 3:14-19).
4) They were not of the world, but were chosen out of the world (John 15:19).
5) After the apostles did their duty, the rest is up to us!
II. We need to go to work for the Lord!
A. Paul went where he was sent (Acts 9:15-16).
B. Jonah did not go where God sent him at first, but later did (Jonah 1:1-3).
C. The Lord asked, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Isaiah replied, “Here am I! Send me (Isaiah 6:8).”
Conclusion
A. The Lord is sending us!
B. Are we ready to go?
C. Here we are, send us!
Acts 16:16-24 – Paul and Silas in Philippi – audio
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Text: Acts 16:16-24
Introduction
A. Paul and Silas are doing mission work in Philippi.
B. Lydia and her household were baptized, and Paul and Silas were encouraged to continue the work there.
C. While going to prayer, a slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met them. She made a couple of observations that need to be considered.
D. After the spirit was cast out of her, her masters made another important observation.
E. Thus, Paul and Silas were thrown into prison, which led to the salvation of the jailer!
F. Let us consider three observations.
Body
I. Paul and Silas are servants of the Most High God.
A. A servant is not above, but like his master (Matthew 10:24-25; John 13:16). Jesus demonstrated this as He washed His disciples’ feet.
B. A servant will follow his master wherever he goes (John 12:26).
C. A servant of Christ does not seek to please men (Galatians 1:10).
D. A servant of the Lord must: “Not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will (2 Timothy 2:24-26).”
E. A servant of God puts to silence the ignorance of foolish men by doing good (1 Peter 2:15-16).
F. A good and faithful servant will enter into the joy of the Lord (Matthew 25:21, 23); an unprofitable servant will be cast into outer darkness (Matthew 25:30).
II. They proclaim the way of salvation.
A. There is only one way of salvation (John 14:6).
B. Christ is the only name in which we can be saved (Acts 4:12).
C. God appointed us to salvation through Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:9).
D. God chose us for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:13).
E. The Holy Scriptures make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).
F. The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16).
G. Christ is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him (Hebrews 5:9).
H. Christians are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:5).
III. They teach customs that are “not lawful for…Romans…to receive or observe.”
A. Paul was considered an expert on customs and questions concerning the Jews (Acts 26:3).
B. Jesus warned Paul that some would not receive his testimony concerning Him (Acts 22:18).
C. Stephen was accused of blasphemy, and was misunderstood regarding Jesus changing customs which Moses delivered (Acts 6:14).
D. One such custom in question was that of circumcision. Some thought only the circumcised could be saved, but this was not so (Acts 15; 21:21).
E. A Christian must change his habits or lifestyle! He must receive and observe the things of God (Romans 6:4, 6). Paul even said that “in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation (Galatians 6:15).”
F. Some have a custom of forsaking the assembling; this must be changed (Hebrews 10:25).
Conclusion
A. Paul and Silas were effective, setting the example that Christ expected of them.
B. They were truly His servants, proclaiming the way of salvation.
1) Even when the words of Christ differed from the customs of the Romans, they continued to teach the truth.
2) It was up to them to follow Christ and not after themselves.
C. Are we true servants of God?
1) Do we proclaim the way of salvation?
2) Do we receive and observe the customs of Christ, and not hold to traditions of men (Matthew 15:3,6; Colossians 2:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15)?
You Reap What You Sow
What seeds do you sow? What should you expect to reap?
If a farmer were to sow watermelon seeds, he expects to grow watermelons. If he were to sow apple seeds, he expects to grow apple trees. Whatever seeds he sows are what he expects to grow. Therefore, one must sow the proper seed to grow the desired fruit. The saying is true: “you reap what you sow.” In fact, it comes straight out of the word of God (Galatians 6:7)!
Spiritually, we reap what we sow! Paul said, “For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart (Galatians 6:8-9).” If we only satisfy our physical desires, it will lead to our eternal death; if we satisfy the needs of our soul, we will reap everlasting life.
Paul also wrote, “But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver… Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God (2 Corinthians 9:6-7,10-11).”
God gives us the seed. We must sow that seed to produce fruit. God will bless our efforts, and we must be cheerful and thankful. “Are you sowing the seed…”? Remember, you reap what you sow!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
One out of a Hundred – audio
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Do you like collecting things?
Perhaps you collect coins, stamps, baseball cards, or some other common item. I have the first set of Hardy Boys books in hardback, including the Handbook. I am also attempting to visit all 30 NHL arenas, collecting tickets and pucks from each one. If just one is missing, my collection would not be complete! I enjoy each and every book, ticket, and puck; other collectors enjoy each and every coin, stamp, or card.
A shepherd does more than just collect sheep.
He feeds them, protects them, and guides them. He also is concerned if even one sheep goes missing! Jesus is our Good Shepherd (John 10:11-16). He is willing to lay down His life for His sheep. If one sheep goes astray, He will go looking for it!
Yes, every single sheep is important!
If He has 100 sheep and one goes missing, will He not leave the 99 and look for the one that is lost? Let Jesus answer for Himself: Matthew 18:11-14. When one’s collection is complete, there is much rejoicing! Likewise, there is much rejoicing when a wayward Christian comes home. Jesus came to “seek and save that which was lost (Luke 19:10).” Is He looking for you?
Are you the lost sheep, or do you know a lost sheep?
Do you need to come home? Do you know where the lost sheep are? Can you help them find their way again? As Jesus said, “it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish (Matthew 18:14).”
Peter said that God is “longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).”
Paul told Timothy that God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4).”
Psalm 61 – Does God Listen? audio
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Text: Psalm 61
Introduction
Do you ever wonder if God listens to you?
When you pray, do you feel that He hears your every word and that He really cares?
Perhaps David expresses these thoughts exactly in Psalm 61. He pleads for God to hear his prayer, and concludes by willing to keep his vows to Him.
Body
I. God can hear! Idols cannot hear (Revelation 9:20).
A. God can hear! Elijah proved this on Mt. Carmel when 450 prophets called out to Baal, and they could not be heard (1 Kings 18:26ff.).
II. God may choose not to hear.
A. The LORD will not listen to those who will not listen to Him (Zechariah 7:8-14).
B. God does not hear sinners (John 9:31).
III. God chooses who to hear:
A. He hears those who worship Him and do His will (John 9:31).
B. He hears those willing to learn His will (Acts 10).
C. He hears those who ask according to His will (1 John 5:14-15).
D. He hears those who keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight (1 John 3:22).
IV. God has heard:
A. Jesus, who always does His will (John 11:41-42).
B. Zacharias, who was willing to do God’s will (Luke 1:5-13).
C. The children of Israel, who were willing to turn from their own will and accept the will of God (Exodus 2:23-25; Acts 7:34).
D. Judah, who was willing to be restored to God (Zechariah 10:6; 13:9).
Conclusion
God is willing to hear you if you are willing to listen to Him and submit to His will.