Historical Posts
Do You have the Holy Spirit – audio
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There is a lot of uncertainty today about having the Holy Spirit. Some people claim they have it, yet others do not feel they do. How can you tell if you do or do not have the Holy Spirit?
Read Jude 1:17-21. Jude describes characteristics of those that do not have the Spirit, and then refers to his fellow Christians as those that have the Holy Spirit.
Those that do not have the Holy Spirit are “sensual (Jude 1:19),” or those that think of only earthly things. They often cause division because they seek their own well-being, and not of others or of Christ. Paul says they are ignorant (not learning Christ), having a blindness of heart (Ephesians 4:17-20).
Jude says faithful Christians have the Spirit (Jude 1:20-21). First, Christians receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Romans 8:9,11; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 John 4:13) through baptism. As they continue to grow in the faith, the Spirit helps them grow in the knowledge of God’s Word (see Colossians 2:6-7).
Why should one want to allow the Holy Spirit to dwell within? As Jude says, we must continue to pray in the Holy Spirit (Jude 1:20). Sometimes we know we need something, but do not know what. We may think we know what we need, but do not know how to ask. The Holy Spirit helps in this way by making “intercession for us with groaning that cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26).” If we have the Spirit, God will answer our unspoken prayers!
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 02:13-17 – Zeal for God – audio
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Text: John 2:13-17 (Reading by Don Treadway) and Mark 11:15-17
Introduction
As the Passover Feast drew near, Jesus went to the temple in Jerusalem. What He found caused Him to be angry! Instead of people reading the Law and praying, they were selling oxen, sheep, and doves! Thus, they made His Father’s house a “den of thieves.”
He quickly turned the tables on them, and drove them out. His disciples then remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.” Jesus was obviously passionate about His Father’s house. They were not using it for its intended purpose!
All of His life, Jesus helped ensure God’s business was done properly in His own house. As He was growing up, He reminded His earthly parents that He must be about His Father’s business (Luke 2:49). Where was He? He was in the same place, same time of year, but just a little earlier in life. He was then listening and asking questions regarding the Law. He knew what its purpose was! It was also His custom to read in the synagogue on the Sabbath (Luke 4:16).
Body
I. David’s zeal.
A. The disciples remember what David wrote in Psalm 69:9:
“Because zeal for Your house has eaten Me up, and the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me.”
1) Just as Jesus was passionate about working in His Father’s house, David was passionate about sin and its effect on his relationship with God.
2) Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:1-2), and David longed to be back in His presence.
3) Later God would send Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, which Jesus would point out to the Jews that questioned Him regarding His actions in the temple (John 2:18-22).
4) Jesus had a zeal for the physical and spiritual well-being of God’s people; do we?
B. In Psalm 122:1, David said:
“I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go into the house of the LORD.’”
1) Later in Psalm 122:9 he added, “Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek Your good.”
2) He had a zeal to be where God is; therefore, he wanted to do all he could for Him.
3) Are we the same way? Do we long to assemble with the saints on the first day of the week to worship God? Do we look forward to our midweek Bible study? Do we share that zeal with others and invite them? Do we proclaim the gospel of Christ?
II. The Psalmist’s zeal. Psalm 119:139-141:
“My zeal has consumed me, because my enemies have forgotten Your words. Your word is very pure; therefore Your servant loves it. I am small and despised, yet I do not forget Your precepts.”
A. Do we have the same zeal for the Word of God?
1) Do we read and study it as we should?
2) Do we teach it to others?
3) Do we live it every day?
III. Zeal for God’s temple.
A. King David wanted to build a house for God, but could not for he was a man of war and had shed blood (I Chronicles 22:8; 28:3).
B. Therefore, he assembled the people together and gave them instructions.
1) Solomon helped build it.
2) Everyone worked diligently. T
3) They all gave what they had zealously for God (1 Chronicles 29:1-6).
C. Do we do that today?
1) Are the elders zealously overseeing the Lord’s church (1 Peter 5:2)?
2) Are we as Christians giving zealously to God (2 Corinthians 9:7-13; 8:2-7)?
IV. Zeal for God’s tabernacle.
A. God’s message through Moses stirred the hearts of the Israelites. Many were willing to bring what they had (materials, skills, etc.) to aid in the construction of the tabernacle.
B. Do we have a zealous heart for God?
1) We should give our entire selves to the Lord (Romans 12:1) every day!
2) If we have a great zeal, it must also have knowledge (Romans 10:2).
3) If we do not have knowledge yet, God can supply it as He did to Paul (Acts 23:1).
Conclusion
A. Do we have a zeal for God?
B. Are we willing to carry on His will in our lives?
C. Others did, and so can we!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Living Epistles – audio
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Be a Living Epistle – 2 Corinthians 3:1-3
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1 John 01:05-02:02 – Fellowship with God – audio
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Text: 1 John 1:5-2:2 (Reading by Clark Perkins)
Introduction
1. We saw in 1 John 1:1-4 that John’s aim in this epistle is:
a. To declare the “Word of life”, the “eternal life” that was with the Father and has been manifested in Jesus Christ – 1 John 1:1-2
b. That we might have fellowship with the Father and Son, just as the apostles do – 1 John 1:3
c. That we might have fullness of joy – 1 John 1:4
2. So to have fullness of joy… We must experience the kind of life that comes from having fellowship with God!
3. What is the basis for fellowship with God, so that we may have the life that produces fullness of joy?
a. In our text (1 John 1:5-2:2), John discusses the basis for fellowship with God
b. He also describes the place of sin, and how it can affect that fellowship
Body
I. THE PREMISE FOR HAVING FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD (1 John 1:5)
A. “GOD IS LIGHT”
1. The figure of light is often used in the Scriptures to describe that which to good, righteous, and true – Ephesians 5:8-10
2. Therefore, God must always be thought of in this way: He is good, He is righteous, He is true!
B. “IN HIM IS NO DARKNESS AT ALL”
1. The figure of darkness would represent the opposite of light: evil, unrighteousness, falsehood
2. Therefore we can never think of God as countenancing sin, excusing it in any way
II. FALSE CLAIMS CONCERNING FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD (1 John 1:6-10)
A. “WE HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH HIM”, YET WALK IN DARKNESS (1 John 1:6-7)
1. Why is this claim false?
a. Because fellowship means to have something in common
b. And we have seen that God is “light” (goodness, righteousness, truth)
c. “Walking in darkness”, therefore, would be going against everything God stands for – Ephesians 4:17-24
2. What is the result of such a claim?
a. We are false in our WORDS (“we lie”)
b. We are false in our DEEDS (“do not practice the truth”)
3. Instead, we should “walk in the light as He is in the light”
a. I.e., instead of living a life characterized by “evil, unrighteousness, and error” (all the while claiming to have fellowship with God)
b. …we should live a life in harmony with God’s “goodness, righteousness, and truth”!
4. Only then will we experience:
a. “Fellowship with one another”
1) That is, we will have fellowship with God
2) Whereby we can share in that life which is eternal, and provides fullness of joy!
b. “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son [which] cleanses us from all sin”
1) This suggests that “walking in the light” does not imply sinlessness!
2) Any more than “walking in darkness” implies total absence of good
3) Rather, “walking in the light” suggests
a) A life making progress under the positive influence of God’s “light”
b) A life enjoying the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood as one meets the conditions of forgiveness
B. “WE HAVE NO SIN” (1 John 1:8-9)
1. John is reference to statements made by professing Christians who thought they had become sinless
2. The consequences of such a claim
a. Self-deceit (“we deceive ourselves”)
b. Living in error (“the truth is not in us”)
c. In other words, walking in darkness, not walking in light!
3. Instead, we should freely confess our sins – 1 John 1:9a; Proverbs 28:13
4. Then God, who is “faithful” (trustworthy) and “just” (one who does what is right) will:
a. “forgive us our sins”
b. “cleanse us from all unrighteousness”
c. through His mercy He makes it possible for to continue in fellowship with Him!
C. “WE HAVE NOT SINNED” (1 John 1:10)
1. This claim is made by some denying they had ever sinned
2. The consequences of this claim are grievous
a. We make God a liar! – Romans 3:23
b. His Word is not in us!
3. How can anyone who makes such claims as these hope to have true fellowship with God, and thereby enjoy the life such fellowship gives?
4. Fellowship with God does not occur by making claims that turn God into a liar!
5. Though affirming that we do sin, John is not seeking to encourage sin. Indeed, he is writing to discourage sin – 1 John 2:1
III. FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD REQUIRES AN ADVOCATE (1 John 2:1-2)
A. “WE HAVE AN ADVOCATE WITH THE FATHER, JESUS CHRIST THE RIGHTEOUS”
1. The word “advocate”
a. Literally means “to call to one’s side, to one’s aid”
b. It suggests the capability for giving aid
c. Used in a court of justice to denote a legal assistant, a counsel for the defense
d. Generally, it is one who pleads another’s case, an intercessor
2. Jesus is the perfect “advocate”, for He is RIGHTEOUS
a. As sinners, we are alienated from God – Isaiah 59:1-2
b. But since Jesus is without sin, He is a fit representative to come before God on our behalf!
c. The author of Hebrews also makes the point that though righteous, He understands our situation perfectly – Hebrews 2:17-18; 4:14-16
B. “HE HIMSELF IS THE PROPITIATION FOR OUR SINS” (1 John 2:2)
1. The word “propitiation” means “an appeasing”
a. E.g., the pagans would offer sacrifices to appease their gods
b. In the New Testament, it is God, not man, who offers the appeasing sacrifice – 1 John 4:10
c. Through His death on the cross, Jesus is the means by which God can show mercy to the sinner
d. This explains how God can be “just” (cf. 1 John 1:9) and still forgive sin
e. This wonderful “propitiation” was given to the whole world, but is accessed only by those who believe in Jesus – 1 John 2:2; Romans 3:21-26
Conclusion
1. In this first chapter, and even into the second, John makes it clear upon what basis we can have fellowship with God, and enjoy the life that provides fullness of joy
2. To have fellowship with God, we who are Christians must
a. Not walk in darkness, but walk in the light of God’s goodness, righteous, and truth
b. Admit that we have sinned, and do sin
c. Utilize our “advocate” (Jesus Christ), whom God provides as the “propitiation” for our sins
3. In 1 John 1:9, John explained how those who are already children of God can appropriate the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus (through confession and prayer).
4. But how about the alien sinner? – Acts 2:38; 22:16 (faith, repentance, and baptism)
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 John 01:01-04 – Introduction to First John – audio
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Text: 1 John 1:1-4
Introduction
1. When Jesus to earth, He came not only to LIVE a life, but to GIVE life: I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. – John 10:10
2. The GOSPEL of John was designed to produce faith so that we might have life – John 20:30-31
3. However, it is the FIRST EPISTLE of John which discusses the nature of that life in greater detail – 1 John 3:14
4. That we might be sure to live the sort of life God offers through His Son Jesus Christ, a careful study of First John is in order
Body
I. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
A. THE AUTHOR
1. John is the author, the beloved disciple of Jesus
2. Similarities between this epistle and the Gospel of John certainly give us INTERNAL evidence for this conclusion
3. There is also EXTERNAL evidence that this John is the author:
a. Polycarp, a close associate of John, makes reference to this epistle at the beginning of the second century, in a letter to the Philippians
b. Irenaeus, a student of Polycarp, quoted from it and attributed it to John
B. THE RECIPIENTS
1. No one is specifically mentioned
2. John was in Ephesus at the time, and this was a general epistle to the Christians throughout Asia Minor
3. However, John’s comments in 1 John 2:20 and 1 John 2:27 suggest that John may have been addressing a particular group of Christians possessing certain spiritual gifts
C. DATE
1. Estimations range from 60 A.D. to 100 A.D.
2. Most modern scholarship places it around 95 A.D
D. PURPOSE
1. As declared by John throughout his epistle, he wrote it:
a. that your joy may be full – 1 John 1:4
b. that you may not sin – 1 John 2:1
c. that you may know that you have eternal life – 1 John 5:13a
2. While these reasons may state the positive side of John’s purpose, it appears he was also responding to errors that were prevalent at the time – 1 John 2:26
a. If not fully developed in John’s day, there was at least a precursor to Gnosticism
b. Those who came to be called Gnostics
1) Claimed to have a superior knowledge (Greek word for knowledge is gnosis)
2) Believed all matter was evil
a) Therefore God did not create or have anything to do with the material universe
b) Therefore Christ could not have come in the flesh – 1 John 4:1-3
c. Their application to everyday living took two different directions; since all matter was thought to be evil:
1) Some thought one should abstain altogether from anything that would satisfy the flesh
2) Others claimed it did not matter what one did in the flesh (it was evil anyway), and to have full knowledge it was proper to explore everything
II. JOHN’S PROLOG (1 John 1:1-4)
A. CONCERNS THE WORD OF LIFE
1. Which was from the beginning has reference to the creation of the world – John 1:1
2. This Word of life was:
a. heard
b. seen with our eyes
c. looked upon
d. handled
e. all emphasizing that this Word was in the flesh; an reference to Jesus – John 1:1, 14
B. TO DECLARE THE ETERNAL LIFE
1. Which was:
a. With the Father
b. And then manifested to the apostles, who had seen and were bearing witness
2. Again, this is an obvious reference to Jesus Christ
3. But notice the use of the NEUTER gender throughout this passage
a. The emphasis appears to be on the life which Jesus had, especially that which is eternal
b. It is this same life which we can possess if we truly believe in the name of the Son of God – 1 John 5:11-13
4. Thus John is focusing on the eternal life which Jesus offers and made possible by His coming in the flesh
C. THAT YOU MAY HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH US
1. Here is the reason for declaring the Word of life, the eternal life
2. By declaring this life (revealed by Jesus and through Jesus), fellowship is possible
a. Fellowship involves the idea of sharing, communion
b. The sharing, communion that the apostles have is with the Father and His Son
3. John wanted his readers to participate in this same sharing
a. that you also may have fellowship with us
b. In other words, that you can experience what we are experiencing!
4. Why does John desire this? Read on
D. THAT YOUR JOY MAY BE FULL
1. It is fellowship with the Father and Son that makes the life of a Christian so full of joy!
2. And just as Jesus came to give us abundant life (John 10:10), so John now writes
a. That we may be sure to have fellowship with the Father and His Son
b. So that our joy may be full!
Conclusion
1. From 1 John 1:1-4, then, we learn that fullness of joy comes only when we are in fellowship with the Father and the Son
2. Only then do we have that eternal life, which was first manifested in the flesh by Jesus Himself, and now given only through Jesus – 1 John 5:11-13
3. In our next lesson, we shall see what John says is essential if we are to truly have fellowship with God – 1John 1:5-2:2
4. But if you are not a Christian, let me explain how such fellowship with God can begin Galatians 3:26-27
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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It’s Not Just Love – audio
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Colossians 2:1-3
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I Have A Part – audio
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God has done his part. Now we have to do ours – James 1:21-25
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Condemnation – audio
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The word condemnation means to pronounce to be guilty; to determine or judge to be wrong, or guilty; it also refers the punishment of the guilty.
Ironically, you and I are guilty of sin – Romans 3:23. And all of us had a guilty verdict, and a death sentence, “For the wages of sin is death;…” Romans 6:23.
But thank God, for sending His Son, Jesus Christ to pay the penalty of our sins for us on that old rugged cross – John 3:16-18.
In the last part of the chorus, of the song “He Bore It All” it says, “I stood condemned to die, but Jesus took my place”
It is important to note that there is no condemnation in Jesus Christ.
Jesus teaches that if you hear and believe Him, you will have everlasting life – John 5:24.
In Romans 8:1, the apostle Paul by inspiration says, “THERE is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
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Sin – audio
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Perhaps this is not great devotional material, but I can’t help but say a few words about the tragic situation in Pennsylvania with Dr. Gosnell, the abortion doctor who was convicted this week of first-degree murder in the deaths of three babies.
Perhaps God brought this grisly story to light so that he could change the way that abortion is talked about in our country. Maybe he intends to wake some of us up so that we can see that lives—not cells, not fetuses, not mere choices—are at stake in this conversation. I’ve already read stories of people who have changed their minds about abortion, so we can praise God for that.
Maybe God wanted us to remember again that we live in a broken world, on a cursed earth, amidst fallen people, so that he might stir up in us again a longing to be where he created us to be. Maybe some of us who live tidy lives need to see the face of evil and look wistfully toward a world without violence and death.
Maybe he wanted us to think about abortion in a way that we haven’t before, or at least in a way that many of us haven’t. Instead of just wringing our hands and preaching against it, maybe we should remember again that everyone needs Jesus. That includes abortionists, the people who work in their clinics, and, of course, the expectant mothers who—maybe because they’re confused or they made a mistake or they just don’t understand what they’re doing—choose to have an abortion. Maybe God wanted us to ask, “What are we doing to help confused and broken people? What are we doing to change the cultural climate to help the people around us see that all life is precious?”
I’ve got a lot of questions. I’d like to know how somebody could do what Dr. Gosnell and some of his assistants did. I’d like to know how a country in which the majority of people call themselves Christians could think it’s acceptable to abort hundreds of thousands of its babies every year.
I suppose we don’t have those answers, and maybe we never will, but whenever we see sin in some kind of graphic form like this, it ought to remind us that sin isn’t just the big, headline-making, jaw-dropping things. It’s pervasive, and it hurts us all. Those of us gawking at Dr. Gosnell from a distance also struggle with sin, though maybe it’s of a more private, not-as-serious (so we say) variety.
Here are a few relevant verses to meditate on and pray over today:
- “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5).
- “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
- “Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away …And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, there shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:1,4).
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Save A Soul – audio
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It’s an ugly picture.
In one of his letters Peter uses the graphic image of a dog’s returning to his vomit or a recently washed sow’s returning to her mud.
What he was writing about, of course, was a believer who wanders away from God. If we’re honest, we must admit that it isn’t a particularly difficult thing to do, because this world is often so alluring. Sometimes we’re mesmerized by its glitz and glamor, finally waking up only to realize we’re miles away from God.
Have you ever wandered?
In adolescence, perhaps? Or maybe in college or at another particularly difficult point in your life?
I hope you’re back. If you are, I’m glad you came home.
But not everyone has come home. Not yet.
So James closes his letter with a short encouragement for us to do whatever we can for these folks.
Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins. James 5:19–20
You’re probably not a preacher, and you may not serve God in any “official” sense, but I’d like for you to do three simple things today.
- One, make a list of ten believers you know who have wandered away from God. Perhaps it’s a family member, former co-worker, a neighbor, somebody who used to attend your church. You could probably come up with a hundred, but just do ten.
- Two, pray for every name on that list. Pray that God’s Spirit would work in their hearts and move them to repentance. Ask him to orchestrate the events of their lives so they see that the path they’re on will end in destruction. Ask him to open a door for you to be able to speak an encouraging word.
- Three, take one step—just one—to let God use you to work in their lives. It might be something as simple as a “How’s it going?” text or email. It could be a phone call or an encouraging note or a Facebook post. But do something.
We undersell ourselves, I think.
We assume all the serious spiritual work will be done by the guys who stand in our pulpits or serve as our shepherds.
If I understand James correctly, though, he’s saying that just an “average” every-day believer can have an enormous effect on someone’s soul. It’s incredible to think that you and I can “save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins,” isn’t it?
So today –
Make a list
Say a prayer
Initiate contact
– and see what God does.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Teaching the Kingdom of God
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Let this encourage you to Speak of Things Pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Acts 01:01-11 Jesus Ascension – audio
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Text: Acts 1:1-11
Introduction
1. Jesus lived
2. Jesus died
3. Jesus rose
4. Jesus left for Heaven
5. Many sermons will be preached today on the first three, but not on the last one
6. Jesus knew it was time for Him to go to the Father – John 13:1
Body
I. We can go home
A. Jesus went to prepare a place for us – John 14:1-4
B. For us to die is gain – Philippians 1:21-23
II. Jesus mediates for us to God
A. What a blessing it is to have a mediator who knows us – I Tim 2:3-6
B. A mediator of a better covenant established on better promises – Hebrews 8:6
III. My King is where He belongs
A. Jesus is at the right hand of the Father – Hebrews 1:1-4
B. Because He was obedient God exalted Him to the glory of the Father – Phil 2:8-11
Conclusion
1. Jesus lived, died, arose and now reigns forever!
a. If we want to go home to be with Him
b. If we want Him to mediate for us to God
c. If we recognize Him as king
2. If we love Him we must obey Him – John 14:15
3. His commandments are not burdensome – I John 5:3
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 06:17-18 The Unchangeableness of God – audio
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Text: Hebrews 6:17-18
Introduction
A. Hebrews 6 could be called “Encouragement to Go On.”
B. Let us look at these.
1. ENCOURAGEMENT TO GO ON TO PERFECTION – Hebrews 6:1-3
A. Must leave the principles of the doctrine of Christ (Hebrews 6:1)
B. Not laying again (Hebrews 6:2)
1. Foundation of repentance.
2. Faith.
3. Doctrine of baptisms.
4. Laying on of hands.
5. Resurrection of the dead.
6. Eternal judgment.
C. This we will do (Hebrews 6:3)
2. ENCOURAGEMENT BASED ON THE PROMISES OF GOD – Hebrews 6:13-20
A. God’s promises confirmed by an oath – Hebrews 6:13-18
B. Hope is anchor of the soul – Hebrews 6:19-20
3. THE IMMUTABILITY OF GOD.
A. Unchanging – Malachi 3:6; Numbers 23:19; 1 Samuel 15:29; Ezekiel 24:14; James 1:17
B. God Is Immutable – Hebrews 6:17
1. HARMONIZE? God Intent Has Changed – Genesis 6:6; 18:16-33; Exodus 32:7-14
2. Unchangeableness – is not – “frozen immobility.”
3. God’s feelings/intent changes as man changes.
4. Nature, plan or purpose – never changed!
Body
I. HOW GOD IS IMMUTABLE
A. His Essence. I AM – Exodus 3:14. When became flesh – no change – John 8:24
B. His Attributes.
1. Good – Psalm 34:8
2. Holy – Psalm 99:9
3. Love – 1 John 4:8
4. Just – Job 4:17
5. Merciful – Psalm 3:5
6. Severe – Romans 11:22
7. God Is: Eternal – Psalm 90:2
8. Omniscient – Hebrews 4:13
9. Omnipresent – Psalm 139:7-10
10. Omnipotent – Matthew 19:26
C. His Plans – Eternal Purpose – Ephesians 1:4; 3:9-11
D. His Promises – Hebrews 6:13
E. His Warnings – Acts 13:40
F. Objects of His Love – John 3:16
II. EVIDENCE OF IMMUTABILITY.
A. His Existence – Any argument for existence is for immutability – Romans 1:20
B. His Perfection.
C. His Infinity
III. WHAT IMMUTABILITY MEANS TO US.
A. Keeps His Promises – 2 Peter 3:13
B. Assurance / Hope – Hebrews 6:13-18
C. No Disappointment – Romans 9:33
Conclusion
A. The Immutability of God
I. How God Is immutable.
II. Evidence Of Immutability.
III. What Immutability Means To us.
B. Obey today!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 06:17-20 Hope: The Anchor of the Soul – audio
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Text: Hebrews 6:17-20
Introduction
A. Hope is a much misunderstood topic today
B. Heavenly hope is lost in today’s mindset of materialism and sensualism – 1 Timothy 6:9-11
C. Even religious people have given it up for a hope of living on this earth with only 144,000 living in heaven – Revelation 7:4
D. The one hope is lost in unjustifiable confusion – Ephesians 4:4
E. Both the Old and the New Testaments give us the message of a heavenly hope for all who will obey
1. David had hope Psalm 119:81, 114, 116; 146:5
2. We are to rejoice in hope – Romans 5:2
Body
I. LET US NOTICE HOW HOPE IS USED IN THE BIBLE
A. People use it improperly:
1. People talk about hope as if it is something that is past: “I hope I got all the answers right on the test”
2. Or as if it is current: “I hope I am making the right decision”
B. How does the Bible use the word?
1. The Bible uses the word hope looking forward to the future, expectation – Romans 8:24
2. The Bible uses the word hope in the sense of trust – Philippians 2:23
C. We need to use Hope as it is used in the Bible
II. LET US NOTICE WHERE HOPE IS NOT FOUND
A Our hope is not found in Islam
1. The Quran does not have Jesus as God’s Son “The Jews say, ‘Ezar is the son of Allah, and the Christians say.” The Messiah is the Son of Allah. That is their saying from their mouth; they but imitate the saying of those who disbelieve (Before them): May Allah destroy them: how they are deluded?” Sura ix,30)
2. The Ethiopian Eunuch could not be baptized until he believed that Jesus Christ was the Son of God – Acts 8:37
B. Our hope is not found in Premillenialism
1. In Premillenialism the only hope that any of us have (Other than the 144,000) is to live on a rejuvenated earth – 2 Peter 3:10-11
2. Both Peter and Paul wrote of an incorruptible crown of righteousness in the life after this one – 2 Timothy 4:8
C. Any doctrine that goes in opposition to the Bible does not give hope and we cannot trust it – 2 John 1:9-11
III. LET US NOTICE WHERE HOPE IS CENTERED
A. Christ is both Priest and King – Zechariah 6:12-13
1. God speaks to us by his Son, so he is also a prophet – Hebrews 1:1-2
2. He is a Priest after the order of Melchisedec – Hebrews 5:10
3. He is a King – Revelation 19:16
B. Hope is emphasized in Hebrews for the following reasons:
1. For the same reason that Christ was emphasized, to stop their rapid exit from Christianity back into Judaism – Galatians 5:4
2. To let the Jews know that Christ was the center of hope, not Mosaic law – Hebrews 10:1-4
Conclusion
A. How the Bible Uses Hope
B. Where Hope Is Not Found
C. Where Hope Is Centered
D. May we always have true hope in Christ Jesus our Lord!!!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 03:08-12 Our Duties to Christians – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 03:08-12
Introduction
1. So far in his epistle, Peter has defined the Christian’s duties in various relationships:
a. Our duty in relation to those of the world – 1 Peter 2:11-12
b. Our duty in relation to governmental authorities – 1 Peter 2:13-17
c. Our duty in a servant-master relationship – 1 Peter 2:18-25
d. Our duty in wife-husband relationships – 1 Peter 3:1-7
2. Beginning now in verse 8 of the third chapter, Peter defines our duty to each other as brethren in Christ
Body
I. OUR DUTIES TO EACH OTHER (1 Peter 3:8-9)
A. TO “BE OF ONE MIND” (NASV, “harmonious”)
1. That is, to be united in the same purpose, the same goal
2. Jesus prayed for this kind of unity in John 17:20-21
3. A church that demonstrated this “oneness of mind” is that of <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Jerusalem”>Jerusalem</a> – Acts 4:32
4. How can we have this “oneness of mind”?
a. It is attainable only to the extent that we all submit to the will of God
b. Therefore, we all need to make God’s Will our will, His Purpose our purpose
c. Even as Christ did while on earth – John 5:30
B. TO HAVE “COMPASSION FOR ONE ANOTHER” (NASV, “sympathetic”)
1. This means to have pity, a feeling of distress toward the ills of others
2. It is that disposition which is moved by the problems of others
3. This is the attitude manifested by Jesus
a. During His earthly ministry – Matthew 9:35-36
b. During His heavenly ministry – Hebrews 4:15
4. Such compassion can only come from a tender, loving heart, which may be why Peter goes on to say that we need
C. TO “LOVE AS BROTHERS”
1. Literally, this means to be “brother lovers”
2. This attribute is essential, if we are to
a. Grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 1:7-8
b. Convince the world that we are truly disciples of Jesus – John 13:35
3. Are you a “brother lover”? If not
a. You are not a lover of God, either! – 1 John 4:20
b. You do not even know God! – 1 John 4:7-8
4. Here is one way to know if you are a “brother lover”
a. Ask yourself this question: “Do I even know my brother?”
b. If you don’t, how can you honestly say that you are a “brother lover”?
D. TO “BE TENDERHEARTED” (NASV, “kindhearted”)
1. It is this kind of heart that is compassionate, capable of loving our brethren
2. The opposite would be “cold-hearted”, where we are insensitive to the needs and feelings of others
3. Even if we start out as “cold-hearted”, in Christ Jesus we can and must undergo a transformation, in which we develop a “tender heart” – Ephesians 4:22-24, 31-32
4. Have you considered what kind of heart you have?
E. TO “BE COURTEOUS” (NASV, “humble in spirit”)
1. Literally, to be “friendly of mind, kind”
a. Such courtesy would imply humility of spirit
b. For an arrogant or proud spirit does not bother to be courteous
2. Christians are to imitate their Lord and Savior, and not think so highly of themselves that they cannot be kind and courteous to others – Philippians 2:3-5
F. TO “RETURN BLESSING FOR EVIL”
1. When someone (E.g., a brother) does us evil, we are to respond with a blessing!
2. While this may go against “human nature”, Peter gives two reasons why we are to react in this way:
a. We are called to follow the example of Christ – 1 Peter 3:9 with 1 Peter 2:21-23
b. That we might receive a blessing from God – Luke 6:35
II. MOTIVATION TO FULFILL THESE DUTIES (1 Peter 3:10-12)
A. THAT WE MIGHT “LOVE LIFE AND SEE GOOD DAYS”
1. Everyone wishes to enjoy life as they experience it from day to day
a. But too often, many make their own lives miserable by their own self-seeking, self-destructive attitudes
b. Constantly complaining, contentious, retaliating to evil with evil, they only aggravate the situation
2. But David in the 34th psalm gives the secret to loving life and seeing good days:
a. Refrain the tongue from evil, and lips from speaking guile – 1 Peter 3:10
1) Don’t engage in slander, backbiting, complaining, lying, murmuring, and grumbling
2) It doesn’t solve difficulties, but only makes them worse
b. Do good, seek peace and pursue it – 1 Peter 3:11
1) Do the very kind of things mentioned by Peter in 1 Peter 3:8-9
2) Only then will your life be pleasant, for the qualities described by Peter
a) Make the best out of difficult situations
b) Make good situations even better!
B. SO THE LORD’S EYES AND EARS WILL BE OPEN TO US – 1 Peter 3:12
1. Only by doing the will of God (As found in 1 Peter 3:8-9) can we ensure that
a. His gracious eyes will watch over us
b. His ears will be open to our prayers
2. On the other hand, the Lord’s face is against those who do evil, and will not hear their prayers
3. Indeed, consider the list of abominations found in Proverbs 6:16-19 and notice how many are the direct opposite of how we are to be
a. We are to be courteous (Humble) – but the Lord hates a proud look!
b. We are to be compassionate – but abusing the innocent is an abomination to the Lord!
c. We are to be tender-hearted – but the Lord hates a cold heart that thinks evil of others!
d. We are to return good for evil – but those who respond quickly with evil, the Lord abhors!
e. We are to be of one mind – but if we sow discord by murmuring and complaining, we are abominable in God’s sight!
Conclusion
1. So if we want the Lord to watch over us, if we want Him to heed our prayers, let us be sure to fulfill our duties to each other as brethren as outlined by Peter in 1 Peter 3:8-9
2. In so doing, we will enjoy life to its fullest, and see many good days during our pilgrimage here on earth!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 03:01-07 The Functional Family – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 3:1-7
Introduction
1. In this study of 1st Peter, we are seeing that God teaches the Christian how to conduct himself in all relations of life
a. BEFORE GOD, he is to be holy, even as God is holy – 1 Peter 1:14-16
b. BEFORE THE WORLD, he is to live an honorable life – 1 Peter 2:11-12
c. AS A CITIZEN, he is to submit to civil authorities – 1 Peter 2:13-17
d. AS A SERVANT, he is to do good, even it means to suffer patiently the mistreatment of others – 1 Peter 2:18-25
2. We find there are also certain responsibilities as husbands and wives – 1 Peter 3:1-7
3. In a society where “dysfunctional families” seem to be the norm, it is even more imperative that the people of God demonstrate through their families that which is the will of God
Body
I. INSTRUCTIONS TO THE WIVES
A. BE SUBMISSIVE TO YOUR HUSBANDS (1 Peter 3:1-2)
1. The word “likewise” refers back to the discussion in the previous chapter
a. In which the principle of submission has already been applied to:
1) Our responsibility to governmental authorities
2) The servant’s relationship to his master
b. This would suggest that the same principles hold true for wives
1) To submit not only to the good, but also to the harsh – 1 Peter 2:18
2) That if a wife suffers wrong from her husband when she was doing good, it is commendable before God if she bear that mistreatment patiently – 1 Peter 2:19
2. This is best illustrated in the case where a Christian wife is married to an unbeliever
a. He might be converted by her “conduct”
1) Even though he might not have previously obeyed “the” word
2) Without “a” word, he may be reached by her conduct!
b. The type of “conduct” likely to have that effect is described as:
1) “chaste” – that is, purity in all manner of life
2) “accompanied by fear” – that is, reverence; which in this case
a) Is manifested toward the husband
b) And is an attitude consistent with the principle of “submission”
3. So the first duty of wives as outlined by Peter is that of “submission”, especially if the husband is an unbeliever
B. ADORN YOURSELVES PROPERLY (1 Peter 3:3-4)
1. Peter’s comments are in the form of a “Hebraism”
a. A Hebrew idiom (Form of speech) commonly found in the Scriptures
b. In this case, there is a contrast (“not this…but this”) for the sake of emphasis
c. A good example of this is found in John 6:27
1) Jesus is not saying that it is wrong to work so we can eat
2) But that our priority in life should be to have everlasting life
2. A similar emphasis by way of contrast is being made by Peter
a. Don’t let your emphasis on “beauty” pertain to outward adornment
b. Not that is always wrong to arrange the hair, wear gold, or put on apparel
c. But place your emphasis elsewhere!
3. Let your beauty be “the hidden person of the heart”
a. Conduct yourself so that beauty of the “inner person” shines forth
b. Where people notice more “who” you are rather than “what” you wear!
4. It is a “gentle and quiet spirit” that constitutes true inner beauty
a. Unlike hair, gold, and apparel, it is incorruptible! – 2 Corinthians 4:16
b. It is also very precious in the sight of God
5. So Christian women, let your inner beauty be your most noticeable feature!
a. Without inner beauty, any outward beauty is like a ring of gold in the nose of a pig – Proverbs 11:22
b. Parents, are we teaching this truth (By word and example) to our daughters?
C. BE “DAUGHTERS OF SARAH” (1 Peter 3:5-6)
1. Remember, the holy women in the Old Testament who trusted in God
a. Adorned themselves with a gentle and quiet spirit
b. Were submissive to their husbands
2. A case in point is that of Sarah:
a. Who was so beautiful outwardly
1) That Pharaoh wanted her when she was over 65 years old
2) That the king of the Philistines wanted her when she was over 90 years old
b. Yet her true beauty was demonstrated by her submissive spirit
3. Christian women can become the “daughters of Sarah,” provided they:
a. “do good” (Be submissive to their husbands)
b. “are not afraid of any terror” (Composed with a gentle and quiet spirit)
c. To be considered a “daughter of Sarah” by God would be a very special honor! It can be had by any woman who heeds the words of the apostle Peter.
d. But a failure to heed these words will result in being more like a “daughter of Jezebel.”
1. Remember, she delighted in her physical beauty and in manipulating her husband.
2. May such never be true of women professing godliness and wearing the name of Christ!
II. INSTRUCTIONS TO THE HUSBANDS
A. DWELL WITH YOUR WIVES “WITH UNDERSTANDING”
1. The KJV says “with knowledge”
2. Husbands are expected to know, and understand
a. Their responsibilities in marriage – Ephesians 5:25
b. The nature of women, as “weaker vessels”
1) Refers to physical strength
2) Not to intellectual abilities, moral courage, or spiritual strength
3. Such understanding is to govern how the husband lives with his wife — with love and thoughtfulness
B. “GIVE HONOR” TO THE WIFE
1. The word “give” means “to assign”
2. “honor” involves the idea of that which is “precious, of high value”
3. So the husband is to assign to his wife the honor of being precious and of high value in his sight
4. A good reason to consider our wives in such light: they are truly “heirs together of the grace of life”
C. “THAT YOUR PRAYERS MAY NOT BE HINDERED”
1. Here is good reason to heed Peter’s instruction!
2. The word “hindered” literally means “cut off”
3. Thus the way we treat our wives may result in our access to God being cut off!
4. This is what happened to the O.T. priests who divorced their wives – Malachi 2:13-16
Conclusion
1. We learn from Peter, then, that how we conduct ourselves as husbands and wives can have a bearing on our personal relationship with God
a. If wives are to be considered “very precious in the sight of God…”
b. If husbands are to keep open the avenue of their prayers to God
c. Then we must apply the principles in this passage (1Pe 3:1-7) to our lives!
2. If we do, then we all can be “heirs together of the grace of life!”
3. Speaking of being heirs of the grace of life, do you know one can become such an heir? – Titus 3:3-7
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 02:18-25 Commendable Lives – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 2:18-25
Introduction
1. Our last study introduced the importance of submission to human institutions that rule over us – 1 Peter 2:13-17
2. Now in verses 18-25, Peter addresses those who were servants, emphasizing again the principle of submission
3. In the course of his instructions, Peter mentions conduct that is considered “commendable” before God
a. In the NKJV, the word “commendable” is used twice – 1 Peter 2:19-20
b. The NASV translates it as “finds favor”
4. In this study, we shall consider:
a. What is commendable conduct before God?
b. Why it is considered commendable?
c. How we can be sure to have this commendable conduct before God?
Body
I. WHAT IS COMMENDABLE CONDUCT BEFORE GOD?
A. TO SUFFER PATIENTLY WHEN MISTREATED FOR DOING GOOD
1. Consider the example given by Peter
a. A servant is trying to serve his master well
b. For some reason, however, his master mistreats him
c. The servant “finds favor” in God’s sight if he patiently and submissively endures the mistreatment!
2. To put it in other words:
a. When you are doing that which is good
b. And despite it you are being mistreated
c. But you endure the unjust treatment patiently
d. Your patient forbearance is commendable in the sight of God!
3. Note carefully:
a. It is not simply suffering patiently that is commendable
b. But suffering patiently when you did good, and yet are abused for it – 1 Peter 2:20
B. IS THIS APPLICABLE ONLY IN A MASTER-SLAVE RELATIONSHIP?
1. No! Consider 1 Peter 3:13-14, 17, where Peter speaks to brethren in general
2. In writing to servants, then, Peter is applying a general truth to a specific application
3. It is therefore applicable to any situation where we are told to submit – Matthew 5:10
a. In other words, in our relationship to government – 1 Peter 2:13
b. In other words, in a wife’s relationship to her husband – 1 Peter 3:1
c. In other words, in our relationship to one another – Ephesians 5:21
II. WHY IS THIS CONDUCT COMMENDABLE BEFORE GOD?
A. WE WERE CALLED FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE!
1. Consider 1 Peter 2:21-23
a. Christians are called to follow the example of Jesus
b. Just as He suffered patiently when mistreated without cause, so should we!
2. We have therefore been called to respond to ill treatment with good treatment – 1 Peter 3:9; Luke 6:27-36
B. IN VIEW OF THE POTENTIAL GOOD THAT CAN RESULT!
1. See what Jesus accomplished by His patient forbearance to mistreatment done to Him – 1 Peter 2:24-25
a. The forgiveness of our sins!
b. The restoration of straying sheep back to their Shepherd!
2. By following the example of Jesus, we can have an effect for good also
a. Returning good for evil, we are more likely to overcome evil – Romans 12:19-21
b. In this way we are more likely to change those who persecute us
c. For they are often ashamed when they see how we patiently endure their mistreatment by doing good
d. Just as we were moved by the sacrificial death of Jesus for our sins, so we might best move others to change their evil ways by patiently doing good even when they mistreat us.
III. HOW WE CAN BE SURE TO HAVE THIS COMMENDABLE CONDUCT?
A. “REJOICE” THAT YOU ARE COUNTED WORTHY TO SUFFER
1. So Peter commanded later in this epistle – 1 Peter 4:12-14; Acts 5:41
2. Just as Christ did in His sermon on the mount – Matthew 5:10-12
3. Knowing that we are blessed in the sight of God, and have joined a great group of prophets, apostles, and disciples in suffering for Christ, can help us to have the proper attitude
4. Even if those mistreating us do not know that we are Christians, if our response is governed by Christ’s teachings, we can still have satisfaction in knowing that God is pleased!
B. “RESIST” THE TEMPTATION TO RETALIATE
1. When we suffer mistreatment by others, Satan is behind it all – 1 Peter 5:8-9
2. He would love to hinder the cause of Christ by having us retaliate just as people in the world would, proving that Christians are no different than sinners of the world
3. Don’t let him win!
C. “RESPOND” TO MISTREATMENT BY DOING MORE GOOD
1. When mistreated for doing good, just do more good! – 1 Peter 3:9; Romans 12:20-21
2. For “endure” (1 Peter 2:19) means “to bear from underneath, to undergo hardship”, thus to bear up under pressure
3. There is nothing noble (Commendable) about stopping when “the going gets tough”; but when “the tough get going”, and going about doing good, now THAT is commendable!
D. “RELY” ON GOD
1. Suffering patiently when mistreated for doing good does not always bring immediate satisfaction
2. We must therefore trust in God, believing that His will is best
3. So just as Jesus “committed Himself to Him judges righteously”(1 Peter 2:23), so should we – 1 Peter 4:19
4. And if our Christ-like behavior does not change the behavior of those who mistreat us, God will one day do what is right – Romans 12:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:6
Conclusion
1. Hopefully by following the “four R’s” (Rejoice, Resist, Respond, Rely) we can follow in the steps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. If so, then we can be sure to have “commendable conduct before God”!
3. We have made reference to what Jesus accomplished by suffering for us, how He bore our sins on the tree (1 Peter 2:24). Peter also says Jesus did this “that we, having died to sins might live for righteousness”.
4. Have you “died to sins”?
5. Do you even know how that it is accomplished?
6. The answer is found in Romans 6:1-8
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 02:13-17 Governments of Men – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 2:13-17
Introduction
1. Our study in 1st Peter, shown us that those who are Christians have many blessings and responsibilities
2. In last week’s study we saw that we are to have our conduct honorable before others
3. What about our responsibilities to those governments of men under which we live?
4. When our true citizenship is in heaven, do we have any responsibilities on earth?
Body
I. OUR RESPONSIBILITY IN ONE WORD: SUBMIT! (1 Peter 2:13-14)
A. WE ARE TO SUBMIT TO EVERY ORDINANCE OF MAN
1. The word submit
a. It means be subject to, signifying to place one’s self under subjection
b. We are also told in this epistle that Christians will be submissive – 1 Peter 2:18; 3:1; 5:5
2. In this case, we are told to submit to every ordinance of man
a. The word ordinance literally means a creation
1) The Greeks and Romans were accustomed to describe the appointment of officers as the creation of them
2) Therefore, the expression ordinance actually refers:
a) Not to a particular law passed by government
b) But to the civil government or institution itself
3) NASV, to every human institution
b. Note also, we are to submit to EVERY human institution
1) Whether it be a monarchy, democracy, or totalitarian state
2) The responsibility of Christians is still the same: submit!
B. THE APOSTLE PAUL TAUGHT THE SAME PRINCIPLE
1. We are to be subject to the governing authorities – Romans 13:1
2. We MUST be subject, and show such submission by paying taxes and customs, and showing respect and honor to our officials – Romans 13:5-7
II. REASONS WHY WE MUST SUBMIT (1 Peter 2:15-17)
A. PETER GIVES US TWO GOOD REASONS
1. First and foremost, this is the will of God – 1 Peter 2:15a
a. Also, for the Lord’s sake – 1 Peter 2:13
b. That ought to suffice for all true servants of God
c. But Peter does explain why this is the Lord’s will
2. That we may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men – 1 Peter 2:15b
a. Having a heavenly King, Christians are often falsely accused of treason – Acts 17:5-8
b. By doing good, we can silence (Lit., muzzle) such ignorant charges
B. PAUL GIVES US ANOTHER GOOD REASON
1. Governing authorities that exist have been appointed by God! – Romans 13:1
a. This truth is emphasized in the book of Daniel – Daniel 2:20-21; 4:17, 25, 32
b. Even those that are evil, which God uses for His divine purposes and then replaces – Exodus 9:16 (Egypt); Isaiah 10:5-12 (Assyria)
2. This being the case, to resist the government means to resist God Himself! – Romans 13:2-4
3. Lest we find ourselves resisting against God Himself, Christians freely submit
4. But is the principle of submission to government without exception?
III. THE EXCEPTION TO THE RULE
A. IT IS NOT WHENEVER GOVERNMENT IS OPPRESSIVE
1. Consider the government and conditions under which Peter and Paul wrote:
a. The government was totalitarian, with Nero as ruler, an evil, vicious emperor
b. Under his reign, Christians suffered greatly – 1 Peter 4:12-13
c. Eventually, even Peter himself was crucified, and Paul was beheaded
2. Under such oppressive governments, our responsibilities remain clear:
a. We are to submit
b. We are to pray for our rulers, that peace may prevail – 1 Timothy 2:1-2
B. THE EXCEPTION: WE MUST OBEY GOD RATHER THAN MAN!
1. As illustrated by Peter and the rest of the apostles – Acts 4:18-20; 5:27-29
2. Only when we are forced to disobey God, must we then disobey the government
3. Even then, it is only the particular laws designed to force us to disobey God that we have a right to break; we have no authority to break other laws in protest
4. We are charged to pray for those in authority, and submit to them in all other areas
Conclusion
1. Such is our responsibility as Christians under whatever government we may find ourselves
a. Even though we have liberty and freedom in Christ, we should use that freedom in serving the Lord – 1 Peter 2:16
b. As we do so, we will show honor and respect to those in authority – 1 Peter 2:17
2. Of course, we who live in countries that allow freedom of religion should be especially quick to show our respect and submission, and to thank God daily for this wonderful privilege!
3. Speaking of freedom of religion, are we taking advantage of such freedom by rendering obedience to God? Perhaps there are those who have not yet done so – Hebrews 5:9
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 06:33 Priorities – audio
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Text: Matthew 6:33
Introduction
A. Jesus lists many things that we need for our physical well-being.
1. He ends by saying “do not worry about tomorrow”
2. But what we should do is simply put first things first.
3. God always puts spiritual things first.
B. These verses below all deal with our reaction to others.
1. I believe this shows how important God deems our relationships.
2. These relationships affect our worship/service to God.
Body
I. First – Seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness
A. Matthew 6:33
B. Without this there will be no need to hope for a relationship with God
1. Worry is one of the greatest destroyer of a relationship
2. Trust in God enables us to be trust worthy
II. First — remove the plank from your own eye
A. Matthew 7:3-5
B. Jesus’ words condemn one who would constantly look for sin in others while he would ignore his own sin.
1. We tend to magnify the smallest transgression in others
2. While we down- play great transgressions in which we are involved.
III. First — be reconciled
A. Matthew 5:23-24
B. Thoughts and actions arising from bitter human relations hinder acceptable worship to God. As Christians, we must have the right attitude and action toward others to have a right relationship with God – Romans 12:18
IV. First — forgive others before you ask God to forgive you
A. Matthew 6:14-15
B. If we refuse to forgive others before God, we forfeit our own forgiveness by God.
1. We must seek to have a forgiving spirit
2. When those who wrong us ask for our forgiveness we will forgive “as Christ forgave us” – Colossians 3:13
Conclusion
A. What will help us in fulfilling the above points?
B. 2 Corinthians 8:3-5
C. No matter what we give or do, if we have not first given ourselves to God it means nothing
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Blame – audio
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Many of my sins are not really my fault, it seems to me.
Most of them happen because of the people around me, or the situations I face. If any normal person lived my life, he’d probably fare worse than I do.
If Satan gets us thinking like that, he’s already won half the battle.
It helps to see how it happens, I think, and James helps us with this.
Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death (James 1:13-15).
We might point the finger of accusation at God, thinking that he’s putting temptations in front of us.
While he might bring us difficulties to strengthen our faith (see Abraham and Isaac—Genesis 22), he’ll never tempt us to sin.
Gop hates sin, and he wants more than anything for us not to give in.
Sometimes it’s easier to blame the people around us.
Have you ever blamed your spouse for some shortcoming in your life?
If you’re married, you probably have, and it all started with Adam (“It was this woman you gave me . . .”).
This concept has not slowed down yet.
Ever lost your temper and blamed it on your kids?
Or maybe we blame our siblings, boss, or coworkers.
“I would do better, Lord, if it weren’t for ___” (put his or her name in the blank).
The main problem with that is that it doesn’t help. In fact, it hurts us because it keeps us from facing the real problem.
Which is where we came in.
The truth is, Satan takes advantage of things within us to lead us astray.
He may use other people, or outside situations, but I don’t sin without my own consent.
So if you’re struggling, ask yourself which desire Satan is using.
Think about how you can satisfy that desire within God’s will instead.
Pray about what barriers you might build to thwart Satan’s plan.
The last place Satan wants you to look is within yourself, and truly examine yourself, because he knows one of our best defenses is recognizing that we are at fault, nobody else.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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