Historical Posts
Mark 10:35-45 – A Selfish Request – audio
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Text: Mark 10:35-45
Introduction
A. Sometimes people ask for something and do not realize the nature of the request.
B. Sometimes a simple request can be of great importance.
C. It may turn out for greater good than realized
D. Or it can turn out to cause more problems than anticipated.
E. A case in point involves James and John, two of Jesus’ apostles.
Body
I. They wanted Jesus to do something for them.
A) Sometimes we want something for selfish reasons, and God does not give us what we want.
B) Instead, He gives us what we need (James 4:1-3; Matthew 6:33).
II. They wanted what they considered the best places of authority.
A. This was a common request of the scribes (Mark 12:38-40)
B. And of the Pharisees (Luke 11:43)
C. Both of which Jesus warned against.
III. They claimed they were able to drink the cup that Jesus drank (John 18:11; Matthew 26:39) and be baptized with the same baptism that Jesus was baptized with (John 12:50).
A. Jesus said it was not for Him to grant this request
B. Instead, they would receive what was prepared and deserved (Hebrews 11:13-16; Revelation 21:1-2; Matthew 25:31-34, 41, 46).
IV. This request caused many others to be displeased with them.
V. Jesus stressed that even though some appear to be great on the outside, they are not great on the inside.
A. Greatness is not all about exercising authority or power.
B. Greatness is about being a servant.
1) Jesus Christ came to be a servant (Luke 22:27; John 13:14-17; Philippians 2:7-8).
2) Jesus Christ gave His life as a ransom for many (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Titus 2:14).
Conclusion
A. What would you request of Jesus?
1) Would it be beneficial?
2) Would it cause conflict?
B. How would it affect your eternal salvation?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Mark 08:34-37 – Your Soul is Priceless – audio
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Text: Mark 8:34-37 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction
A. Prices are put on a lot of things in this world, but they are only temporary.
B. A price cannot be put on an eternal soul!
Body
I. God gave us a soul.
A. God breathed into man’s nostrils, and he became a living soul (Genesis 2:7).
B. God said all souls belong to Him (Ezekiel 18:4).
C. The LORD cares for the soul (Psalm 23:3).
II. God put us in charge of our souls.
A. The soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4); therefore a sinner must turn from the error of his way (James 5:20).
B. Lot tormented his righteous soul by seeing and hearing lawless deeds (2 Peter 2:8).
C. The Word of God is able to save our souls (James 1:21).
1) It pierces to the division of soul and spirit (Hebrews 4:12).
2) We must believe God’s Word (Hebrews 10:39).
3) We must obey God’s Word (1 Peter 1:22).
D. God sent Jesus Christ, who can save our souls.
1) As the blood makes atonement for the soul (Leviticus 17:11), so the blood of Christ cleanses our soul (Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:22).
2) He is the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25). Thus, we must be submissive to those who follow Christ, watching out for our souls (Hebrews 13:17).
3) We must commit our souls to Him, and do His will (1 Peter 4:19).
E. We must abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11).
F. We must give up our lives, and this world we live in (Luke 9:23-25; Mark 8:34-37).
III. The soul of man will be eternally saved or lost.
A. We must not fear those that can only destroy the body, but rather fear Him who has the power to destroy both body and soul in hell (Matthew 10:28).
B. We must not only fear Him, but also keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).
C. Those that do not listen to Christ will be destroyed (Acts 3:20-23).
D. The soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4,20).
E. The rich man’s soul was required of him, as he made the wrong investment of the world instead of his soul (Luke 12:16-21).
Conclusion
A. Are you taking care of your soul?
B. If your soul was required today, where would you spend eternity?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Mark 12:28-34 – You are Not Far from the Kingdom of God – audio
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Text: Mark 12:28-34 (Reading by Clark Perkins)
Introduction
A. A scribe was very impressed with the answers that Jesus had given to the Pharisees and Sadducees concerning the paying of taxes and the issue of resurrection.
B. As a result, he wanted to ask Jesus a question.
C. This was a very important question, and the answer would encourage him to be a part of the kingdom of God.
Body
I. What is the first commandment of all?
A. There are many commandments that come from God.
1) Perhaps the ones that are most familiar are those given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 20:1-17; Deuteronomy 5:1-22).
2) In addition to these, the book of Leviticus is filled with specific instructions that God had given to the Levites for the priestly duties.
3) Knowing the challenge of learning all commands, the scribe wanted to know which was most important.
B. Jesus says that first one must know God, and love Him.
1) He reminds the scribe of what God told Moses to tell the Israelites (Deuteronomy 6:1-9) about the ONE and ONLY GOD!
2) Later, the Israelites learned what God required of them: to fear Him, walk in all His ways, love Him, serve Him with all their heart and soul, and keep His commandments and statutes (Deuteronomy 10:12-13).
3) Even Solomon said the conclusion of the whole matter is to fear God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
4) We show God we love Him by keeping His commandments (John 14:15; 1 John 5:3).
5) We love Him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
C. Jesus even went further to answer the scribe.
1) As He Himself taught to go two miles with one that asked to go one (Matthew 5:41), Jesus gave a second commandment in addition to the first commandment.
2) The second commandment, like the first, was to love his neighbor as himself.
3) Again this commandment was given to the Israelites (Leviticus 19:18), as no doubt both were very familiar.
4) Even the apostle Paul commands Christians to keep many old laws, but all are summed up in this one: loving your neighbor (Romans 13:8-10).
5) On another occasion, Jesus was asked what to do to inherit eternal life. After reminding this person of the same two commandments, He was asked who his neighbor was. Jesus then went on to teach about the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25ff.).
II. There is only ONE God!
A. Again, the scribe insisted Jesus answered well and true. He then confessed that there is ONE God, and no other!
B. This is often confirmed in the Scriptures (Deuteronomy 4:39; Malachi 2:10; Ephesians 4:6).
III. Sacrifice is not the most important thing to God.
A. Again, the scribe points out that God requires so much more than just an offering or sacrifice.
1) Hosea prophesied, “For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings (Hosea 6:6).”
2) Samuel, too, said: “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams (1 Samuel 15:22).”
IV. The scribe was not far from the kingdom of God.
A. Jesus knew the scribe had answered wisely.
1) As a result, Jesus knew he was not very far from the kingdom of God.
2) However, we are never told whether this person did enter the kingdom of God.
3) God does, however, teach us what to do to be a part of His kingdom.
B. The reality is that not everyone will be in the kingdom of God (Luke 13:23-29).
C. Jesus taught the Pharisees that the kingdom of God is within them (Luke 17:20-21).
E. Jesus taught Nicodemus he must be born again, of water and the Spirit, to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3ff.).
E. The apostle Paul taught that the kingdom of God is “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).”
F. Paul praised the Thessalonian church for their faithfulness, and therefore they were worthy of the kingdom of God (2 Thessalonians 1:3-5).
Conclusion
A. The scribe was very close to the kingdom of God, but one can only guess as to whether he entered or not.
B. What about you? Are you in the kingdom of God?
C. You know how to enter, so will you do what God requires of you?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Mark 10:17-22 The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of the Rich Young Ruler
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Text: Mark 10:17-22
Introduction
1. There is an old Clint Eastwood movie that I like very much that came to mind as I read this account in Mark
2. It is easy to only see the good but we need to look at the bad and the ugly
Body
I. The Good of the Rich Young Ruler
1. Came urgently / running – 2 Corinthians 6:2
2. Came reverently / kneeled – Acts 4:12
3. Came comprehending / Good Master – John 3:2
4. Came asking / what to do? – Acts 16:30-34
5. Came seeking / eternal life – John 6:63, 68
II. The Bad of the Rich Young Ruler
1. Went away / lacking one thing – James 2:10
2. Went away / not bearing cross – Luke 14:27
3. Went away / sad at the saying – James 4:17
4. Went away / grieved to give up – 2 Corinthians 8:12
5. Went away / trusting wealth – 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Conclusion
1. The ugly of the rich young ruler
a. We never of him changing his mind or his actions
b. Revelation 3:14-22
2. Are we following the good or the bad example of the rich young ruler
3. Will your end be wonderful or ugly?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Mark 15:01-39 Necessity of the Cross
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Text: Mark 15:1-39
Introduction
- The cross of Jesus Christ is essential to every soul. It has even more importance than food, shelter, and love have on you and I. Without the cross of Calvary, we would be lifeless, hopeless and in despair – Ephesians 2:16.
- The cross of Calvary is the most significant event in human history that has changed the outlook and well being of nations and peoples that have embraced the power of God to save man – Romans 1:16-17. The cross of Jesus Christ overshadows all tragedies that mankind has seen because through the cross of Jesus, His death, burial, and resurrection one can be saved & be reconciled with God – Romans 5:8-10.
The Preaching of the Cross is Necessary to Save the Lost
- Men, women, boys, and girls will never have true love, joy, peace, and unity with their Creator until the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ is planted in the minds of the lost – Romans 10:14-15.
- Christians should feel the necessity of teaching the message of God because it is our ministry – 2 Corinthians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 9:16. Without faithful servants of Jehovah teaching the gospel the world will be lost because only the preaching of the cross will save those that will believe – 1 Corinthians 1:18, 21.
- Examples of those confronted with the cross of Jesus Christ: Acts 2:36-41 (Day of Pentecost); Acts 8:26-39 (Ethiopian Eunuch); Acts 16:19-33 (Philippian Jailer). There will be two responses when one is confronted with the cross of Calvary – Obedience or Rejection
The Cross of Jesus is Necessary for Eternal Happiness
- It is through the cross of Jesus Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection that Christians can look forward to being resurrected in that Great Day – John 6:40. Without the cross of Jesus Christ we would be forever separated from God. Without the cross there would be no salvation, no forgiveness of sins, no peace, no hope, only condemnation for all, no possibility of eternity in heaven, and we would always be at enmity with God. Therefore let us be thankful for the cross!
- The cross of Calvary is so necessary to us because without it, the preaching of the gospel would be meaningless. We could not enjoy and rejoice in some of the songs we sing such as “The Old Rugged Cross”; “Lead Me To Calvary”; “Lift Him Up” Your faith in God would be without strength & value, and we would live in constant misery – 1 Corinthians 15:12-19.
- Jesus Christ the only begotten of the Father has bore the pain, agony, and shame of sin on the cross. Why not make a decision today to follow Jesus, to take up your cross and follow him. Why not come obeying today?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Mark 16:15-16 Five Views of Salvation – powerpoint
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Mark-16-15-16-Five-Views-of-Salvation.pdf
Mark-16-15-16-Five-Views-of-Salvation.pptx
Text: Mark 16:15-16
Introduction
1. In Mark’s account of the Great Commission, Jesus’ words are clear and simple
a. He wanted the gospel proclaimed to everyone – Mark 16:15
b. These who believe and are baptized will be saved – Mark 16:16
c. Those who do not believe will be condemned
2. Even so, there are at least five diverse views regarding salvation:
a. One view takes Jesus’ words at face value
b. Four other views can be summarized by slightly altering the words of Jesus
Body
I. HE WHO BELIEVES AND IS BAPTIZED WILL NOT BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY TWO SEPARATE GROUPS
1. Atheists who do not believe in God, heaven or hell, or salvation of any kind
2. All who do not believe in Jesus:
a. Most Jews, Muslims, Hindus, etc. – who believe in God (or gods)
b. But who do not believe that salvation is to be found in Jesus
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. There is a God who offers salvation (contrary to the views of atheists) – 1 Timothy 2:3-4
2. Salvation does come through Jesus, and through Him only – 1 Timothy 2:5-6; John 14:6
C. I doubt any present (at the time this was presented) actually hold to this view, but many people do, and this begins to illustrate how some are willing to deny the plain statement of Jesus.
II. HE WHO DOES NOT BELIEVE AND IS NOT BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY UNIVERSALISTS
1. Who believe that God will save everyone eventually
2. To support their view, they will isolate some verses like 1 Timothy 2:6
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. Jesus Himself told that there would be few who would be saved – Matthew 7:13-14
2. Paul warned of those who would not be saved, but face the wrath of God – Ephesians 5:5-6
C. Most Bible-believing, professing Christians would not accept the two views covered thus far
III. HE WHO DOES NOT BELIEVE AND IS BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY MOST WHO PRACTICE INFANT BAPTISM
1. By “baptizing” (actually sprinkling, not immersing) infants incapable of faith
a. They (esp. Catholics) indicate that faith is not essential to salvation
b. Some (esp. Lutherans) try to get around this by saying that God imparts saving faith to the infant so baptism can still save
2. By sprinkling or pouring instead of immersion, they also indicate Jesus did not mean what He said
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. Faith is a necessary prerequisite
a. For baptism – Acts 8:35-37
b. For salvation – Romans 10:9-10
2. Sprinkling or pouring is NOT Bible baptism
a. The Greek word used in the Bible is “baptizo”, and it means “to immerse”
b. This is why baptism is described in the Bible as a “burial” – Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12
c. Sprinkling or pouring was substituted in the place of baptism (immersion) hundreds of years after Christ and His apostles
d. By keeping the “tradition of men” by sprinkling or pouring, we fail to keep the command of God” concerning baptism and Jesus’ condemnation of displacing God’s commands with traditions of men – Matthew 15:3-9
3. Baptizing infants is without scriptural precedent
a. There are no commands or examples of infant baptism
b. Since the prerequisites of faith (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:37) and repentance (Acts 2:38; Acts 17:30) are beyond the infant’s capability, they are not suitable candidates for baptism
4. Most who hold to the view of sprinkling infants are honest and sincere. Even so, they are just as guilty of teaching a view of salvation different from Jesus as are atheists, many Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and universalists.
IV. HE WHO BELIEVES AND IS NOT BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN FAITH ONLY
1. That one is saved before baptism, that baptism is not essential to salvation
2. A view is held for all practical purposes by most evangelical denominations
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. For faith “alone” cannot save
a. As declared by Jesus – Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46
b. As taught by His apostles – Romans 6:17-18; Hebrews 5:9; James 2:14; James 2:17; James 2:20; James 2:24; James 2:26; 1 Peter 1:22
2. For baptism is essential to salvation
a. According to Jesus – John 3:5; Mark 16:16; Matthew 28:18-20
b. According to His apostles – Acts 2:38; 22:16; Colossians 2:12-13; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 3:21
C. Most who hold this view are sincere, and would not knowingly twisting the words of Jesus. I think of such people as Paul thought of his brethren in the flesh – Romans 10:1-3
V. HE WHO BELIEVES AND IS BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW TAKES JESUS’ WORDS AT FACE VALUE
1. No explanations are necessary
2. Jesus says what He means, and means what He says
B. THIS VIEW IS CLEARLY WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES
1. That one must “believe” – Acts 8:36-37
2. That one must be “baptized” to enjoy the forgiveness of sins – Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16
Conclusion
1. Which one of the five views of salvation do you hold to…?
a. He who believes and is baptized “will not” be saved?
b. He who “does not believe” and “is not baptized” will be saved?
c. He who “does not believe” and “is baptized” will be saved?
d. He who believes and “is not baptized” will be saved?
e. He who believes and is baptized will be saved?
f. It should be clear there is only view which is in harmony with Jesus’ words
2. Just as important, with which of these views is your life consistent…?
a. One may profess the fifth view
1) But act as though they believed the second view
2) How? By never confessing faith in Christ and being baptized!
b. One may profess the fifth view
1) But act as though they believed the third view
2) How? For though they may have been “baptized”, they are not living the life of faith required of one in Jesus!
c. One may profess the fifth view
1) But act as though they believed the fourth view
2) How? For while believing in Jesus, they have never submitted to being baptized!
3. Only those who come to Jesus in faith and act in harmony with His teachings can have the assurance of salvation. The words of Jesus and His apostles are clear:
“And He said to them, “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
“Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'” – Acts 2:38
“And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” – Acts 22:16
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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