Historical Posts
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Hebrews 05:12-14 – Right and Wrong – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Hebrews 5:12-14
What is Right and What is Wrong?
Introduction to What is Right and Wrong
A. What is “spiritual maturity?” It is being able to have our “senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
B. We are to be able to prove or to determine the good, perfect and acceptable will of God – Romans 12:2
C. How do we decide what is right and wrong?
Body for What is Right and Wrong
I. Questions and Biblical Answers to What is Right and Wrong.
A. Is it condemned in the Bible? – Galatians 5:19-21
B. Will it harm me spiritually? – Romans 8:5-8; Galatians 5:16-26
C. Will it harm me physically? – 1 Corinthians 6:15-20; Romans 12:1
D. Will it hurt others, causing them to go astray? – Romans 14:1-15:3;
E. Will it take too much of my time and money? – Luke 12:16 -21; Ephesians 5:15-16
F. Will it hurt my influence for Christ and the church? – Matthew 5:14-16; 1 Timothy 4:12
G. Will it hurt my conscience? – Romans 14:21-23
H. If Christ was here, would He disapprove? – 1 Peter 2:21; 1 Corinthians 11:1
II. Two Thoughts About Sin!
A. Sin is not hereditary.
1. Sin is of such a nature in its very meaning that it cannot be inherited.
2. Sin is something committed – 1 John 3:4; John 8:34
3. We neither inherit the act or the guilt of our parent’s sins.
4. We suffer the consequences of their sins – Exodus 20:4-5
5. We do not suffer the guilt of their sins – Ezekiel 18:20; Matthew 18:1-4
B. Sin is no laughing matter.
1. Sin is rebellion, lawlessness, perversity, and failure.
2. It is a disease that needs curing.
3. It is a taskmaster that needs forsaking.
4. It is an insanity that needs healing.
5. It is a filth that needs cleansing.
6. It is a debt that needs paying.
7. It is a stain that needs removing.
8. It is a darkness that needs light.
Conclusion to What is Right and Wrong
A. An understanding of “what is sin” constitutes a strong argument against sinning.
B. Obey the Gospel of Christ – quit the sinning business – John 8:32
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
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?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Galatians 06:14 – How do you View the Cross of Christ? – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Galatians 6:14 (Reading by )
Introduction to How do you View the Cross of Christ?
1. Some see the Cross of Christ as a piece of jewelry
2. Some see the Cross as a decoration in their home.
3. Some see the Cross as a design in their clothing
4. The bible points out seven different perspectives of the Cross of Christ
Body
A. The Cross of Christ was about silver to Judas
1. He was a thief and traitor – John 12:4-6
2. He sold Jesus – Matthew 26:15
B. The Cross of Christ was about silence to the Pharisees
1. They tried to trick Him – Matthew 22:15-22
2. They decided to kill Him – Matthew 26:3-5
a. He arose – Acts 2:32-33
b. His disciples turned the world upside down – Acts 17:6
C. The Cross of Christ was about self-preservation to Pilate
1. He knew Jesus was innocent – Matthew 27:23-24
2. He sacrificed Jesus to save himself – John 19:12-16
D. The Cross of Christ was about sport to the Roman soldiers
1. The soldiers made fun of Him – John 19:2-3
2. They gambled for His clothes – Matthew 27:35
E. The Cross of Christ was about substitution to the Father
1. This was God’s demonstration of His love
2. He died for us – 1 Peter 2:21
F. The Cross of Christ was about submission to the Son
1. He submitted willing – Matthew 26:39, 53
2. He humbled Himself – Philippians 2:8-9
Conclusion to How do you View the Cross of Christ?
1. The Cross of Christ is about salvation to the saints
2. So Jesus said – Matthew 26:28
3. So they preached – 1 Peter 1:18-20
4. He is coming again – Revelation 1:7-9
5. The Cross can change your life, change you. How will you respond to the Cross of Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
Ephesians 05:23-33 – Why I Love The Church – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text: Ephesians 5:23-33 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction to Why I Love The Church
1. There are many people who are cynical when they speak of the church
2. They see the church as a cold, sterile, formal institution
3. However, some people see the church as I do: Something to love
4. I grant the human side of the church remains in a constant state of renovation and repair, but that’s really no reason not to love it
5. Allow me to share with you four reasons why I love the church
Why I Love The Church
I. I Love the Church Because Jesus Loves It
A. My greatest aim in life is to be a Christian
1. I’ll never be perfect
2. But I hope and pray I look more like him today at 73 than when I was 23 years old
B. Jesus loved the church – Ephesians 5:25
II. I Love the Church Because the Church Is Family
A. Members of the church are called sons of God – Galatians 3:26
1. Fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters – 1 Timothy 5:1-2
B. Because we’re family, we have support
C. We don’t have to go through life alone
1. Matthew 12:46-50
2. Mark 10:28-30
III. I Love the Church Because Of Its Impact on the World
A. Don’t we all lament the state of the world?
B. Just think what this world would be like without the influence of the church!
C. Matthew 5:13-16
D. The church is a moral voice and a conscience in our society
IV. I Love the Church Because It Is the Saved
A. Jesus Saves, not the church; but it is the church that Jesus saves!
B. Ephesians 5:25-30; Acts 2:47, 20:28
C. If I’m not a part of the church, then no matter what else I may accomplish in life, it’s all been for nothing – Matt 16:24-26
Conclusion to Why I Love The Church
1. The greatest gift you could ever give the Lord is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
2. The greatest gift you could ever give to your spouse is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
3. The greatest gift you could ever give to your children is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
4. The greatest gift you could ever give your neighbors and friends is to love the church of Jesus Christ supremely
Content by Donald W. Treadway
Return to the Home Page
God’s Desire for Man – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Know God, Even the Unknown God – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Faith and Works – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page
Scripture Importance – Audio
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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?
Content by Richard Dillon
Return to the Home Page