Historical Posts
John 01:01-14 – Jesus Christ was in the Beginning with God – Audio
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Text: John 1:1-14
Introduction
- Jesus Christ must be understood and acknowledged as God in the flesh or God in human form. To save man from his sins, and to bring him back into fellowship with God, God sent His Son Jesus Christ, as man & God for the purpose of destroying sin in the flesh – Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-23.
- Jesus Christ has always been in existence. The birth of Mary’s firstborn child, Jesus does not mark the beginning of Jesus existence. In Revelations 1:8, Jesus Christ lets you & I know that He is the beginning and the end.
In the Beginning was The Word, The Word was with God, The Word was God
- In the beginning before God created the heavens and the earth and all that’s therein the Word was present with God – John 1:1-2. In 1 John 1:1-3, the Apostle John describes Jesus as the “Word of life.” In 1 John 5:7, the Word of God reveal those that bear witness in heaven, and one of them is the Word, Jesus Christ.
- In John 8:56-59, the Jews show their disbelief in the divinity of Jesus Christ when Jesus told them Abraham rejoiced to see His day and saw it and was glad, and told them that He existed before Abraham. These Jews did not believe Jesus Christ is God
- In John 1:3, the Sword of the Spirit teaches that all things were made by Jesus Christ. Everything that was created was made by Him. This means Christ is our Creator – Ephesians 3:9; Colossians 1:12-18; Hebrews 1:1-2.
The Word, Jesus Christ, Was Made Flesh
- Through the power of God, the Word was made flesh when the Holy Spirit overshadowed a virgin name Mary. And that which was conceived of Mary was the Word, Jesus Christ the Son of God – Luke 1:26-35.
- John the baptizer was sent from God to bear witness of the Light of Jesus Christ, and to prepare the way of the Lord – John 1:6-9. This is that light that you must walk in to be forgiven of your sins – John 3:16-21; 1 John 1:5-7.
- Even though the world was made by Christ, the world did not know Him. And even His own people the Jews rejected Him – John 1:10-11. But if you believe in Christ the Son of God, He has the power to made us the sons of God, He has the power to save us through His sacrifice on the cross – John 1:12-14.
- Do you want life or do you want death? Do you want to seize liberty, or do you want to remain in bondage. Jesus Christ is the way and life. Why not obey Him now and accept His salvation – Revelation 21:6-8?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.
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John 03:01-07 – You Must be Born Again – audio
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Text: John 3:1-7 (reading by Don Treadway)
Introduction
A. Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night, and confesses that He is a teacher come from God.
B. Jesus used this opportunity to teach him a lesson:
1) One must be born again to see the kingdom of God.
2) Nicodemus does not understand;
a) he thinks physically
b) Jesus is teaching spiritually.
Body
I. One must be born of water and the Spirit.
A. Philip baptized the Ethiopian eunuch in water (Acts 8:36-39).
B. Peter commanded those on Pentecost to be baptized for remission of sins, and they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).
C. Ananias told Saul of Tarsus to “arise and be baptized, washing away his sins (Acts 22:16).”
D. God saves us through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5).
II. One must be born of incorruptible seed.
A. We purify our souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit (1 Peter 1:22).
B. We are not born again of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever (1 Peter 1:23).
1) We were born of corruptible seed (Ecclesiastes 3:2; Job 14:5; Hebrews 9:27).
2) We can be born of incorruptible seed (John 3:15-18; 5:39; 10:28; 11:25-26; 1 John 5:11-13; Galatians 3:26-27).
III. Those born again must possess certain characteristics:
A. They have the right to become children of God (John 1:12-13); what a blessing (1 John 3:1-3)!
B. They love God and others; they know God (1 John 4:7).
C. They believe Jesus is the Christ (1 John 5:1).
D. They overcome the world through faith (1 John 5:4).
E. They do not continue to live in sin (1 John 5:18). Instead, they keep themselves pure, unspotted from the world (James 1:27).
F. They are new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17), walking in newness of life (Romans 6:3-6).
G. The Spirit of God dwells in them, and they in the Spirit (Romans 8:9).
Conclusion
A. One must be born again in order to enter the kingdom of God!
B. Are you truly born again?
C. Are you living the new life in Christ?
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 11:20-27 – I Am the Resurrection and the Life – audio
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Text: John 11:20-27
Introduction
A. Jesus has the power to raise us all from the dead.
B. Here in John 11, Lazarus was sick and later died.
1) Jesus was not there at that exact time.
2) He explained that the Son of God would be glorified through it (John 11:4).
3) That those present would believe (John 11:15).
C. He had a very important discussion with Martha.
1) Like her, we must believe His words.
Body
I. Jesus is the resurrection.
A. Jesus claimed to be the resurrection (John 11:25), and proved it by raising Lazarus (John 11:42-44).
B. Jesus later arose from the grave.
1) Those that came to the tomb learned “He is risen (Matthew 28:5-7; Mark 16:6,9; Luke 24:6; John 20:9)!”
2) The apostles affirmed His resurrection.
i. Paul declared the gospel of which he also received (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
ii. Paul reminded Timothy that Jesus was raised from the dead according to the gospel (2 timothy 2:8).
iii. Paul declared that Christ is risen from the dead, and all shall be made alive in Him (1 Corinthians 15:20-22).
iv. Peter preached the resurrection of Christ, beginning on Pentecost (Acts 2:24,32; 3:15,26; 4:10; 5:30; 10:40). It is through the resurrection of Christ that we have a living hope (1 Peter 1:3).
3) God raised up Christ (see iii above), and thus Christ gives life to whom He wills (John 5:21). As He raise up Jesus, so will we be raised (1 Corinthians 6:14; 2 Corinthians 4:14).
C. Jesus said there would be a resurrection of life to those who have done good, and a resurrection of condemnation to those who have done evil (John 5:28-29).
II. Jesus is the life.
A. In Christ, we live (Acts 17:28).
B. In Christ was life (John 1:4).
C. Eternal life is in Christ (1 John 5:11-12).
D. Jesus, whom God raised from the dead, delivers us from the wrath to come (1 Thessalonians 1:10).
III. We must believe in Christ.
A. Jesus said that though we may die, if we believe in Him, we shall live (John 11:25-26).
B. We all must die (Hebrews 9:27).
C. At the last day, Jesus will raise up those who believe in Him unto everlasting life (John 6:39-40,44).
D. Paul taught the Ephesians of God’s exceedingly great power towards the believers of Christ’s resurrection (Ephesians 1:19-20).
E. Our faith and hope are in God, who raised Christ from the dead (1 Peter 1:21).
F. Christ was raised from the dead for our justification (Romans 4:24-25).
G. We must believe Christ in order to be saved (Romans 10:9-10).
H. The Spirit of God must dwell in us, in order to receive eternal life (Romans 8:9-11,13; Ephesians 3:16-17). The body is the temple of God, where His Spirit dwells (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19).
Conclusion
A. God raised Christ from the dead, and will raise us up if we believe in Him.
B. Eternal life is in Christ, and if we want to live forever we must be in Christ.
C. We do so by being baptized into Christ, and rise to walk a new life as Christ was raised from the dead (Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:3-5, 8-9).
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 09:01-07 – Jesus and the Blind Man – audio
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Text: John 9:1-7 KJV (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction
A. Jesus encounters a blind man who, we are later told, was blind from birth (John 9:19-20).
B. The disciples asked Jesus about his blindness, and Jesus answers them by words and example.
C. By doing this, Jesus teaches not only the disciples, but also the blind man, Pharisees, and Jews.
Body
I. The disciples assumed sin caused the man’s blindness (John 9:1-3).
A. The disciples asked who sinned (John 9:1).
B. The Jews accused this man born in sins, and cast him out of the synagogue (John 9:34).
C. The Pharisees and Jews accused Jesus of being a sinner, but the formerly blind man refused to admit this (John 9:16,24-25).
D. The natives of Malta thought Paul was a sinner and was going to die when a viper fastened on his hand (Acts 28:3-6).
E. Jesus answered that sin was not to blame for the man’s blindness, but for another reason (John 9:3).
1) This does not mean that the man did not sin.
2) We all sin (Romans 3:23).
II. Jesus used the man’s blindness to do the work of God (John 9:4-7).
A. Jesus used these good works to prove that He came from God, His Father (John 5:17-23,36; 10:25,37-38).
B. By believing in Christ, we shall see the glory of God (John 11:4,40). Remember recently we studied about seeing the salvation of the LORD!
III. Christ is the light of the world for as long as He was in the world (John 9:5).
A. John identified Jesus as the Light of the world (John 1:1-9).
B. Jesus explained to Nicodemus why light is rejected (John 3:19).
C. We must believe the true Light (John 12:44-50).
D. By following Christ, we can have the light of life (John 8:12).
IV. We must walk in the light, doing the works of God.
A. Jesus says to follow the light, believe the light, and become sons of light (John 12:35-36).
B. We walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7).
C. Seeing the light will not cause us to stumble (John 11:8-10).
D. Whatever we do, like Christ, we do to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Conclusion
A. After the formerly blind man was cast out of the synagogue, Jesus found Him.
B. This man wanted to believe in the Son of God, and Jesus claimed that identity.
C. He confessed his faith, and worshiped Him.
D. Some of the Pharisees questioned if they, too, were blind (John 9:35-41).
E. Based on Jesus’ answer, are we blind also (John 15:22-24)?
1) Let us see Christ, the true Light.
2) Let us believe He is the Son of God, and do His work!
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 4:25-42 The Samaritan Woman’s Mission – audio
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Text: John 4:25-30, 39-42
Introduction
We have a mission in this world: come to know Christ, and help others come to know Him!
There was one woman who did this very well. She is the Samaritan recorded in the gospel of John (John 4:25-30, 39-42).
Body
I. Jesus revealed Himself to the Samaritan woman.
A. It was foretold that a Prophet would arise out of Israel (Deuteronomy 18:15), and she had earlier perceived that Jesus was a prophet (John 4:19).
B. Daniel prophesied of the Messiah (Daniel 9:24-27), and the Samaritan woman knew that He was coming (John 4:25). Even Andrew pointed out to Peter that he had found the Messiah (John 1:41). These all quickly learned that Jesus, in fact, was the Messiah and Christ.
II. She went and told others about Him.
A. Jesus commanded a man who was healed from demons to go and tell others what the Lord had done for him (Mark 5:19-20).
B. Jesus commanded John’s disciples to go and tell him what they had seen and heard (Luke 7:22-23).
C. The Samaritan woman went on her own and told others (John 4:28-30).
III. People came to learn about Jesus.
A. They were brought to Christ by the Samaritan woman (John 4:39-40).
B. Many believed because of Christ’s own words (John 4:41).
1. Christ’s words are with authority (Matthew 7:29; Mark 1:22; Luke 4:32).
2. The words Christ speaks are spirit and life (John 6:63,68).
3. His words are with us today (John 17:8; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 Peter 1:23-25).
C. Many believed for themselves, and not to appease the Samaritan woman (John 4:42).
1. We must have our own faith (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6).
2. We must all give account of ourselves to God (Romans 14:12; 1 Peter 4:5-6).
Conclusion
The Samaritan woman is a good example of leading others to Christ.
It is our duty to share the good news of Christ with others.
It is God’s duty to help the church grow (Acts 2:47; 1 Corinthians 3:6-7; Ephesians 4:16; Colossians 2:19).
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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John 08:31-32 Four Truths – audio
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Text: John 8:31-32
Opening Comments
When the trials are past (3rd verse)
Introduction
A. Jesus said if we abide in His Word we are His disciples
1. We shall know the Truth
2. This Truth will set us free
B. Tonight we will look at four of these truths
Body
I. THERE IS REDEMPTION FOR THE SLAVE – Ephesians 1:7
A. In Him refers to in the Beloved of Ephesians 1:6
B. We have redemption
1. To redeem one by paying the price
2. A releasing effected by payment of ransom
3. Deliverance
C. Note the change from adoption in Ephesians 1:5 to redemption of a slave or a captive
D. Through His blood
1. There is no redemption without His blood – Hebrews 9:22
2. It is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats can take away sin – Hebrews 10:4
E. The forgiveness of sins
1. Release, as from bondage, imprisonment
2. Forgiveness, pardon, of sins
3. Letting them go, as if they had not been committed
II. RECONCILIATION FOR THE ENEMY – Romans 5:10.
A. Man is reconciled to God and not God to man
1. Reconciled – to change, exchange, as coins for others of equivalent value
2. To reconcile those who are at variance
3. Return to favor with, be reconciled to one
4. To receive one into favor
B. Man departed from God so man needs to return to God
C. How are we reconciled?
1. By the death of the Christ and then we will be saved by His life – Hebrews 7:25
D. How are we saved by his life?
1. By being added to the church – Acts 2:47
2. By Him providing a way of escape – 1 Corinthians 10:13
3. By Him providing mercy and grace to help in time of need -Hebrews 4:15-16
4. Because He is reigning over all things – 1 Corinthians 15:25-26
III. REGENERATION FOR THE SINNER – Titus 3:5
A. The only washing relating to Christianity is baptism – John 3:1-12; Acts 22:16
B. The renewing process is accomplished by the knowledge of the Word of God – Romans 12:2
1. The mind is renewed – Romans 12:2
2. The mind is renewed by knowledge – Colossians 3:10
C. The Holy Spirit works through the knowledge He has given to renew the inner man
IV. RESTORATION FOR THE WANDERER – Galatians 6:1
A. A Christian might be overtaken in sin, but not be devoted to it – 1 John 1:8-2:2
B. Overtaken – to take one by forestalling him by surprise, detect
C. Restore – to render fit, sound, complete; to mend, to repair
Conclusion
A. Redemption for the slave
B. Reconciliation for the enemy
C. Regeneration for the sinner
D. Restoration for the wanderer
E. Obey while you have time!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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John 17:20-21 Causes of Denominationalism – audio
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Text: John 17:20-21.
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Introduction
1. “Denominate” – to name.
2. “Denomination” – a name or designation, especially one serving to classify a set of things. A recognized autonomous branch of the Christian church.
3. There are about 20-30 major denominations in existence today.
4. Among those major groupings, there are countless sub-divisions.
5. For example: Read list of Baptist Subdivision in the United States.
6. That God is displeased with this situation is beyond doubt.
7. How did we get to this current state of affairs?
8. Some would look back to the Reformation movement of the 1500’s with Martin Luther as the start of Denominationalism.
9. While it is true that most of the modern denominations had their origins in the Reformation; it is also true that the underlying causes of denominationalism were present long before even the establishment of the church.
Body
I. Jesus’ Disciples. Mark 9:33-38.
A. Even before the church was established there were certain “red flags” that warned of division to come.
B. Jesus’ disciples were concerned with who would be the greatest among them.
C. Pride is one of the major causes of denominationalism.
D. There always have been and always will be people who desire to have a following.
1. Paul warned the Ephesian elders of this. Acts 20:29-30.
2. Diotrephes is another example. 3 John 9.
E. Also we see in Mark 9:33-38, that the disciples demonstrated an elitist attitude.
1. There was a man casting out demons in the name of Jesus.
2. Thus, he was a true follower of Jesus or else he would not be able to do such.
3. Yet the disciples forbade him because he was not part of their little group.
4. This is much like the attitude that Diotrephes demonstrated.
5. This type of divisive attitude is also one of the causes of denominationalism.
F. Jesus’ answer?
1. Don’t seek to be great.
2. Seek to be a servant.
3. Greatness in the kingdom of Christ comes from serving others!
II. The church at Corinth. 1 Corinthians 1:11-12.
A. Spiritual immaturity is another cause of denominationalism.
B. Just like there will always be certain men who want to have followers, there will always be people who are more interested in the preacher than what is being preached.
C. Sometimes these people will denominate them selves even when their leader does not desire it.
For example, Martin Luther said, “I pray you leave my name alone and not to call yourselves Lutherans, but Christians. Who is Luther? My doctrine is not mine: I have not been crucified for any one…How does it then benefit me, a miserable bag of dust and ashes, to give my name to the children of Christ? Cease, my dear friends, to cling to these party names and distinctions; away with all of them; and let us call ourselves only Christians, after Him from whom our doctrine comes.”
1. I disagree with Luther on a lot of things but he had it exactly right in this statement!
2. Yet, his followers still call themselves Lutherans.
D. What were Paul’s instructions?
1. 1 Corinthians 1:10.
2. 1 Corinthians 1:13.
3. 1 Corinthians 3:3-4.
III. The Pharisees.
A. Mark 7:1-9.
1. The Pharisees had no respect for the authority of the Scriptures.
2. They had placed the traditions of men above the Scriptures. (v.9)
3. Jesus says that those who do this are far from God. (v.6)
4. Furthermore, He says that their worship is vain. (v.7)
B. The Bible alone will make Christians only.
1. We don’t read of Methodists, Lutherans, Baptists, Episcopalians, etc… in the Bible.
2. These names and different doctrines are the result of man’s lack of respect for the authority of the Scriptures.
3. Sometimes it is not a lack of respect for Biblical authority but is rather an incorrect view of it.
a) Some feel that anything not expressly forbidden by Scripture is authorized.
b) Time and time again we are shown that God’s silence does not authorize.
(1) Leviticus 10:1-2.
(2) 2 Samuel 7:1-7.
IV. The Galatians.
A. Galatians 1:6-9.
1. The Galatians were allowing their selves to be led astray by certain people who were perverting the Gospel of Christ.
2. Paul marveled (was amazed) that they were turning away so soon.
3. The Galatians, evidently, were either ignorant of the truth or simply didn’t care that the truth was being perverted.
a) How could they not know the truth? Weren’t they Christians?
b) The answer is yes, but even Christians, if they do not continue to study and grow, can forget the very fundamental truths upon which their salvation was built.
c) Hebrews 5:12.
d) Hence the reason Peter felt the need to constantly remind the brethren of basic, fundamental truths. 2 Peter 1:12-15.
B. Lack of knowledge, will all too often, lead to denominationalism.
1. Hosea 4:6.
2. It amazes me how many people do not even know the basic tenets of their denomination.
a) I have yet to meet a member of any denomination who tells me that they believe a little baby is born sinful.
b) But a common tenet of most denominations is the doctrine of Original Sin which teaches that very thing!
3. Many have never taken the time to find out what their church teaches much less what the Bible teaches on a given topic.
4. 1 John 4:1.
Conclusion
1. Denominationalism is wrong.
2. However, denominationalism is just a symptom of deeper problems which have been a constant danger to man.
a. Pride and an elitist attitude.
b. Spiritual Immaturity.
c. No respect for Biblical authority or a perverted view of such.
d. Ignorance of the truth and apathy.
3. All of these things will lead to religious division.
4. What is the answer?
5. Repent and go back to the authority – The Bible!
Delivered on: January 15, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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John 13:01-17 Are You Service God or Self?
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Text: John 13:1-17
Introduction
- It must be determined, who’s the master, and who’s the servant? A master is one that has the ownership and authority over another – Matthew 28:18-20. Our heavenly Father, the great I AM, the one that has created us & owns all things including our souls is our master! The mark of a master is one that teaches and leads by example and action.
- It is an error in judgment, for a man or woman to conceive themselves as a master, the one that is in control. Pharaoh, the King of Egypt thought he was in control until he was confronted with the God of Israel – Exodus 5:2.
- A servant is one who expresses submission, and service to another. A servant is a sheep that follows and obeys the shepherd. You and I, God’s special creation, need to serve Him completely instead of our own desires – Psalm 100:1-5.
Being a Servant is not Belittling or Shameful
- It is commonly taught in our society that being a servant, or under the authority of another, is not desired because it restricts your freedom, and is viewed to be lowly and degrading. This is the same thought Peter had when Jesus came to wash his feet – John 13:8. Jesus came down from heaven to serve man by sacrificing His life that we might live – Matthew 20:20-28. [The mother of James and John asked Jesus to set them on His right and left hand]
- Being a servant to God in any capacity is a great blessing – Ecclesiastes 9:10. Why does the world shun being submissive to the one in authority in the family, in the church, or your employer? Why not just obey God and serve Him – Colossians 3:17-25.
- Instead of being selfish and stepping on everybody else, trying to get to the place you want to be in life, why not find ways to help one another out, so that we can all enter the gates of heaven together – John 13:12-15.
Your Mind Must Turn from Selfish Interests to God’s Ways
- To be an obedient servant of the Lord you must transform, alter, and change the way you think, behave, and live in such a way that your intellect, body and soul will become just like the mind of Jesus Christ our Lord – Romans 12:1-2. The Apostle Peter learned this – John 13:4-9.
- To be a servant of the Lord you must be willing to remove all forms of selfishness from your life. You must decide whom you will serve, God or man – Matthew 6:24. Jesus teaches if you want to save your lives, you must be will to lose it. In other word you must deny self – Matthew 16:24-26.
Are you serving God, or are you serving yourself?
Why not give up self, and submit yourself to God and serve Him with joy. Jesus is extending His arms of love to you today why not come?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
John 14:06 There Is Only One Way To Salvation
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Text: John 14:6
Introduction
- In John 14:6, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, declares, “…I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” In Acts 4:12 and John 3:16, the Bible teaches salvation comes by no other name than Jesus.
- On June 24, 2008, The Columbus Dispatch, published on the front page an article entitled “U.S. Believers Open-Minded Most See Several Paths To Heaven” According to a study by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life 70% said that many religions-not just their own-can lead to eternal life.
- The world’s Burger King Religion (You Can Have It Your Way) will lead us to destruction. In Proverbs 14:12, the Word of God teaches the way that seems right to us will destroy us – Proverbs 16:2. The problem is we have abandoned the Bible and God’s commandments – Jeremiah 6:16; Acts 17:11.
Enter at the Door Because You Can’t Climb in Some Other Way
- Many will try to enter the sheepfold by a way God has not authorized, and will be prevented – John 10:1-2. You must enter the door of Jesus to be saved, because only He sacrificed His life that you might live – John 10:7-11; John 20:30-31
- There are two ways (2 doors) in which you can attempt to enter. One way goes where you want and will lead you to life, the other only leads to death. Your decision will primarily be based on whether you’re carnally or spiritually minded – Romans 8:5-8. In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus teaches many will choose the broad way of destruction, and few will choose the narrow way to life – Luke 13:24 and 1 Peter 3:20
- Religious groups and denominations are the wrong way because they replace the Word of God with their own traditions and doctrines of men. They’re trying to climb up into the kingdom by some other way – Mark 7:5-13; Matthew 7:21-23.
The One Way is the Church Jesus Purchased with His Blood
- In John 14:6, Jesus says “…I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” There is only one church, one body, that God has called us out of darkness into the Light of Christ – 1 Peter 2:9-10. The Bible teaches the church, the body of Christ is one – 1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18
- This is the church that Jesus purchased with His own blood – Acts 20:28. After Peter, confesses Jesus divinity, Jesus said I will build my church – Matthew 16:13-19. The church is Jesus Christ body where sinners can be added & reconciled to God in one body by the cross – Ephesians 2:13-16
- If you’ve been driving the wrong way, God wants you to turn to His Son Jesus Christ, that has made a way for you – John 8:36
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Preached at the Gahanna-Jefferson church of Christ 7-12-2008
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
John 04:20-26 The Meaning of Worship
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Text: John 4:20-26
Introduction
To worship is:
- To quicken the conscience by the holiness of God.
- To feed the mind with the truth of God.
- To purge the imagination with the beauty of God.
- To open the heart to the love of God.
- To devote the will to the purpose of God.
I. It’s important for us to understand what the Bible means when “worship” is used.
II. Worship is a fundamental Bible concept and is absolutely essential to a right relationship with God.
A. In the O.T., worship meant “to bow down, to bow down before God, to worship, to pay adoration, even without prostration.”
B. In the N.T., worship means “to kiss toward, an act of homage or reverence.”
III. Worship is a very important part of our existence – Ecclesiastes 12:13
A. Gordon Dahl, “Most middle class Americans tend to worship their work, to work at their play, and to play at their worship. As a result, their meanings and values are distorted. Their relationships disintegrate faster than they can keep them in repair and their lifestyles resemble a cast of characters in search of a plot.”
IV. This evening we will focus upon the Art of Worship, the Attitude of Worship and the Acts of worship.
Body
I. THE ART OF WORSHIP.
A. Worshiping God is an art.
1. Webster says worship is, “Skill acquired by experience, studying, or observation.”
2. Worship demands skill. Skill comes from study and experience – John 4:24
B. Worshiping God requires knowledge.
1. We must know the truth to properly worship God – John 4:24
a. The truth came unto men by Jesus Christ John 1:17; 14:6
b. The truth is found in God’s word – John 8:32; 17:17
c. The truth was given by Spirit-guided men.
(1) They orally proclaimed the truth – John 16:13
(2) They wrote the truth – 1 Corinthians 14:37
2. We must know God to properly worship Him – John 4:24; Hebrews 8:11
a. We know God through nature – Romans 1:20
b. We know God through revelation – Acts 17:23
c. We know God through Jesus Christ – John 1:18
3. We must have biblical knowledge or our worship will be rejected.
a. Some have worshiped in vain – Matthew 15:8-9
b. Some have been guilty of will-worship – Colossians 2:23
c. Some have been in ignorance – Acts 17:23
C. Worshiping God properly is rewarding.
1. Worship is for God’s glory – Psalm 29:2
2. Worship is for man’s good – Hebrews 10:19-20
a. It allows us to draw near to God – Hebrews 10:22
b. It reinforces faith – Hebrews 10:23
(1) Worship reminds us of God’s reality.
(2) Worship reminds us of God’s power.
c. It provokes Christian living – Hebrews 10:24-25
d. It protects our souls – Hebrews 10:26-31
(1) We must not be sinners; we must be worshipers.
II. THE ATTITUDE OF WORSHIP.
A. We must worship God rationally and sincerely.
1. There is a difference between form and faith.
a. The Pharisees were strong advocates of tradition.
b. But worship must be of faith – Romans 10:17
2. There is a difference between show and sincerity.
a. Some want to be seen of men.
(1) In giving – Matthew 6
(2) In praying – Matthew 6
b. We must come to worship with sincere hearts – Psalm 51:16-17
(1) To the Pharisees, worship was a ritualistic ceremony.
3. There is a difference between hypocrisy and holiness.
a. Jesus called some worshipers “hypocrites” – Matthew 15:7
(1) The word “hypocrite” originally meant a play actor.
b. God wants holy worshipers who are genuine – 1 Chronicles 16:29
B. We must worship God spiritually.
1. From Isaiah 6, we see 4 things needed for spiritual worship.
a. An insight into God’s majesty – Isaiah 6:1-4
(1) Song – Holy, Holy, Holy.
b. An awareness of the sinfulness of man – Isaiah 6:5
c. A sense of cleansing – Isaiah 6:6-7
d. A preparation for service – Isaiah 6:8-10
(1) There is a correlation in worship and service.
C. We must worship God enthusiastically.
1. The Bible teaches God’s people to:
a. Go gladly – Psalm 122:1
b. Worship reverently – Psalm 95:6
c. Pray earnestly – James 5:16
d. Sing joyfully – Psalm 95:1-2
e. Give freely – Matthew 10:8
f. Listen attentively – James 1:19
g. Act unitedly – Psalm 133:1
h. Live peacefully – Numbers 6:24-26
i. Do dutifully – James 1:22
III. THE ACTS OF WORSHIP.
A. Worship consists of acts – Matthew 2:1-2
1. A concise definition of worship is found in a footnote to Matthew 2:1-2
a. “The Greek word denotes an act of reverence whether paid to a creature or to the Creator.”
b. Worship is not just a feeling, mood, or attitude.
c. Worship has always been an overt act from the heart – Genesis 22:5; 2 Samuel 12:20; Acts 24:11
B. Worship on the Lord’s day consists of 5 acts of worship.
1. Singing is worship to God – Ephesians5:19
2. Praying is worship to God – Acts 2:42; John 14:13-14
3. Giving is worship to God – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7
4. Lord’s Supper is worship to God – Matthew 26:26-28; Acts 20:7
5. Preaching or teaching is worship to God – 2 Timothy 4:1-4
C. Worship is on the Lord’s Day, and not Saturday.
1. The purpose of the Sabbath has been accomplished.
2. The Law of the Sabbath has been abolished.
3. The power of the Lord’s Day has arrived.
a. Christ was raised from the dead.
b. Christ appeared to His apostles.
c. Holy Spirit came.
d. Church began.
e. Disciples gave.
f. Church came together to break bread.
Conclusion
I. We have explored the art, the attitude, and the acts of worship.
A. We have seen that we need to offer acceptable worship.
II. To offer acceptable worship, we need to be acceptable worshipers.
A. Become a Christian – Psalm 95:6-7
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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John 15:09-17 True Friendship – audio
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Text: John 15:9-17
I. What are the characteristics of a friend?
A. One who loves at all times (Proverbs 17:17)
B. Shows himself friendly and sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24)
C. Gives gifts (Proverbs 19:6)
D. Loves purity of heart and has grace on his lips (Proverbs 22:11)
E. Gives hearty counsel, is not forsaken, and sharpens the countenance of another (Proverbs 27:9-10, 17)
II. Can we always trust our friends?
A. Do not trust them nor put confidence in them; rather, trust in God (Micah 7:5-7)
B. They are deceitful and speak lies, refusing to know God (Jeremiah 9:4-6)
III. Jesus was a friend…
A. …to tax collectors and sinners (Matthew 11:19; 9:9-13)
B. …as was Paul (1 Corinthians 9:19-22)
IV. Abraham was a friend of God (2 Chronicles 20:7; Isaiah 41:8; James 2:23; Genesis 15:6)
V. Was Judas a friend to Jesus?
A. Jesus called him “friend” after he betrayed Him with a kiss (Matthew 26:47-50)
B. A friend does not betray another (Psalm 41:9; 55:12-13)
VI. Was Peter a friend to Jesus?
A. Peter claimed that he would not deny Him, even if he had to die with Him (Matthew 26:31-35)
B. He denied Him three times before the rooster crowed, as Jesus said (Matthew 26:69-75)
VII. The Jews accused Pilate of not being a friend to Caesar because he allowed Jesus to call Himself a king (John 19:12)
VIII. Are we friends to Jesus?
A. We are if we keep His commandments (John 15:9-17)
B. Friendship with the world is enmity against God (James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17; Galatians 1:4; 6:14)
Content by Richard Dillon
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Why We Need The Holy Spirit – John 07:37-39
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Text: John 7:37-39
Introduction
1. In this series we have briefly discussed why we need
a. God
b. The Bible
c. Jesus Christ
2. Let’s now turn our attention to why we need the Holy Spirit
a. The subject of much confusion and error
b. Prompting some Christians to avoid the subject altogether
3. Yet the Holy Spirit plays a prominent role in the life of the Christian, and error should not discourage us from seeking truth.
Body
I. BECAUSE OF THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. PROMISED BY JESUS
1. To all who believe in Him – John 7:37-39
2. A special dispensation of the Spirit unlike any before; different from:
a. The miraculous workings of the Spirit
b. The normal influences through the Word
3. Jesus promised the Spirit to all who believe
B. PROMISED BY PETER
1. To all who repent and are baptized – Acts 2:38-39
a. The “gift” could be that which the Spirit gives (e.g., salvation)
b. But I understand it to be the Spirit Himself
2. To those who obey God – Acts 5:32
3. Peter promised the Spirit to all who obey
C. PROMISED BY PAUL
1. To those who become children of God – Galatians 4:6; Romans 8:14-16
2. Indeed, one cannot be Christ’s unless they have the Spirit dwelling in them – Romans 8:9
3. Paul proclaimed that those who are in Christ have the Spirit in them
D. The promise of the Spirit described above mostly relates to His indwelling and the accompanying blessings (which we will summarize shortly).
II. BECAUSE OF THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. CONVICTING THE WORLD
1. Of sin, righteousness, and judgment – John 16:7-11
2. Done through the gospel of Christ
a. The instrument designed to produce faith – Romans 10:17
b. Which is God’s power to save – Romans 1:16-17
c. And determines who will be judged (condemned) – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
3. Through the Word, the Spirit convicts the world of sin
B. REGENERATING THE SINNER
1. Saving those who respond through the washing of regeneration – Titus 3:4-6
a. Being born again of water and the Spirit – John 3:5
b. In which one’s sins are washed away by the blood of Christ – Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7
2. Causing them to be reborn, in conjunction with the Word – 1 Peter 1:22-23,25
3. When one obeys the Word, the Spirit regenerates the sinner
C. SANCTIFYING THE SAVED
1. A process that begins when washed and justified – 1 Corinthians 6:11
2. A process that continues with the aid of the Word
a. We are sanctified by God’s Word – John 17:17
b. Which is the sword of the Spirit – Ephesians 6:17
3. When one abides in the Word, the Spirit sanctifies the believer – Romans 15:16
D. The work of the Holy Spirit is necessary for both salvation and sanctification.
III. BECAUSE OF THE BLESSINGS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. THE INDWELLING OF THE SPIRIT
1. Indwelling the Christian – Romans 8:9-11; cf. 1 Corinthians 6:19
2. Enabling us to put to death the deeds of the body – Romans 8:12-13
3. Strengthening us in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16,20; cf. Philippians 2:12-13
4. The Spirit is the Father’s instrument to empower the Christian
B. THE SEAL OF THE SPIRIT
1. A seal marking us as belonging to God – Ephesians 1:13
2. Looking forward to the day of our redemption – Ephesians 4:30
3. The Spirit is the Father’s identifier that we belong to Him
C. THE EARNEST OF THE SPIRIT
1. A guarantee or down payment of our inheritance – Ephesians 1:13-14
2. Given in our hearts as a guarantee of our redemption- 2 Corinthians 1:22; 5:5
3. The Spirit is the Father’s insurance that He will deliver as promised
D. THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
1. Developing graces of Christ-like conduct – Galatians 5:22-26
2. Engendering a deepening love for God as Father – Galatians 4:6; Romans 8:15-16
3. Filling us with hope – Romans 15:13
4. The Spirit is the Father’s instrument to bless the Christian
E. THE INTERCESSION OF THE SPIRIT
1. Helping us in our weakness, even in our prayers – Romans 8:26
2. Making intercession for with groanings that cannot be uttered – Romans 8:26-27
3. The Spirit is the Father’s interpreter to hear the Christian
Conclusion
1. Why do we need the Holy Spirit? Simply because
a. He was promised to us!
b. He has much work to do in us!
c. He is the source of wonderful blessings for us!
2. We may not always understand how the Holy Spirit works
a. We must beware of false doctrines regarding Him
b. Studying the truth concerning the Spirit is the best antidote to error
3. But we must also beware of
a. Quenching the Spirit in our lives – 1 Thessalonians 5:19
b. Grieving the Holy Spirit of God – Ephesians 4:30
4. Receive the Spirit initially through obedience to the gospel
a. Which involves faith, repentance and baptism – Acts 2:38; 5:32; Ep1:13
b. Whereby we become children of God, and thereby receive the Spirit in our hearts – Galatians 4:6
5. Be filled with the blessings of the Spirit by…
a. Feeding on His Word (the things of the Spirit) – Romans 8:5-6; Ephesians 6:17
b. Praying for God to strengthen you by His Spirit in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16,20
c. Singing with melody in your hearts to the Lord – Ephesians 5:18-19
6. Do we truly appreciate the need for the Holy Spirit in our lives as Christians…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Believe in Jesus Christ – John 3:13-18
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(Why I Believe in Jesus Christ)
Text: John 3:13-18
Introduction
1. The greatest story ever told is that of Jesus Christ
a. The Son of God becoming flesh, dwelling among men
b. His life, His miracles, His teachings, His death, His resurrection and ascension to heaven
c. How He shed His blood to provide atonement for the sins of the world!
2. It is a story that calls for faith
a. For those willing to believe, eternal life is possible – John 3:16
b. For those choosing not to believe, there is condemnation – John 3:18
3. Why do I believe in Jesus Christ? There are two reasons, both of which were stressed in the reaching of the apostles of Christ.
Body
I. FULFILLED PROPHECY
A. EXPLANATION
1. The apostles appealed to Messianic prophecies to produce faith in Jesus
a. Peter in his second sermon at Jerusalem – Acts 3:18
b. Paul in Thessalonica, as was his custom – Acts 17:1-3
2. Some examples of Messianic prophecies
a. The conflict between the serpent and the seed of woman – Genesis 3:15
b. The blessing upon all nations through the seed of Abraham – Genesis 12:3; 22:18
c. The prophet to come who would be like Moses – Deuteronomy 18:15, 17-19
d. Who would be born of a virgin – Isaiah 7:14
e. The forerunner who would prepare the way of the Lord – Isaiah 40:3
f. The suffering Servant who would bear our iniquities – Isaiah 53:4-12
g. His resurrection from the dead – Psalm 16:8-11
h. His ascension into heaven – Daniel 7:13-14
B. SIGNIFICANCE
1. They help to identify the One who is truly the Messiah, God’s “Anointed One”
a. The Old Testament has approximately 330 prophecies concerning the Messiah
b. Jesus of Nazareth fulfilled every one!
2. The mathematical probability of it being a coincidence is astounding!
a. The probability of any man who has lived fulfilling just eight prophecies has been calculated as 1 in 10 to 17th power (100,000,000,000,000,000)! – Peter Stoner
b. To illustrate how large this number is, Stoner gave this illustration:
Suppose that we take that many silver dollars and lay them on the face of Texas. They will cover all of the state two feet deep. Now mark one of these silver dollars and stir the whole mass thoroughly, all over the state. Blindfold a man and tell him that he can travel as far as he wishes, but he must pick up one silver dollar and say that this is the right one. What chance would he have of getting the right one? Just the same chance that the prophets would have had of writing these eight prophecies and having them all come true in any one man, from their day to the present time, providing they wrote them in their own wisdom.
c. The probability of fulfilling just 48 prophecies is one in 10 to 157th power!
1) Counting at the rate of 250 units per minute
2) …it would take 19 million x 19 million x 19 millions years to count to 10 to the 157th power!
3. Jesus fulfilled not 8, not 48, but over 300 prophecies! It is easy to see why the apostles appealed to Messianic prophecies to prove that Jesus was the Christ. But they also appealed to their own
II. APOSTOLIC TESTIMONY
A. EXPLANATION
1. The apostles claimed to be eyewitnesses
a. As professed by Peter – Acts 10:39-42; 2 Peter 1:16-18
b. As professed by John – 1 John 1:1-3
2. The apostles by their testimony force us to make a decision
a. Were they truly eyewitnesses, or false witnesses? – 1 Corinthians 15:14-15
b. Was their testimony based on truth, or cunningly devised fables? – 2 Peter 1:16-18
3. We cannot say they were sincerely deceived or mistaken
a. Especially in reference to the resurrection of Jesus
1) They claim they ate and drank with Him afterwards – Acts 10:39-41
2) They claim they saw and touched Him – 1 John 1:1-3
b. They leave no room for saying they were mistaken or deceived
1) Some skeptics have tried to offer this as an alternative
2) That perhaps in their grief and loss over the crucifixion they hallucinated or saw grief-inspired visions
3) But hallucinations and visions are highly individualistic experiences
4) The resurrection appearances of Jesus were often witnessed by many at the same time (over 500 on one occasion) – 1 Corinthians 15:4-8
B. SIGNIFICANCE
1. If the apostolic testimony is false
a. The New Testament is a carefully orchestrated lie!
b. The apostles suffered extreme hardship for what they knew was a lie! – 1 Corinthians 4:9-13
c. Those martyred (all but one) knew they were dying for a lie!
d. They went against everything Jesus and they themselves taught! – 1 Peter 2:1
e. The greatest book ever written (as per Charles Dickens) with its high standards and lofty goals was composed by liars, frauds and deceivers!
2. But if the apostolic testimony is true
a. Then Jesus is everything they taught He claimed to be!
1) He is the Son of God – Romans 1:4
2) He truly has all authority in heaven and earth – Matthew 28:18; Acts 2:36
b. Then everything they testified concerning what He taught is true!
1) He was from the Father above, and spoke the words of the Father – John 8:28-29
2) No one can come to the Father but through Him – John 14:6
3) His blood was shed for the remission of sins – Matthew 26:28
4) He came to offer abundant life – John 10:10
5) He went to prepare a place for us – John 14:2
6) He shall come again – John 14:3
7) There will be a resurrection of the dead and ensuing judgment – John 5:28-29; 12:48
Conclusion
1. We have good reason to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
a. The testimony of Scripture, in the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies
b. The testimony of eyewitnesses, in the credible account of the apostles
2. For those willing to obey Jesus, there is yet another reason to believe
a. In keeping His word, they will come to know He has spoken from God – John 7:16-17
b. “He shall have evidence, in the very attempt to do the will of God, of the truth of the doctrine.”
c. “He who in his heart says, ‘Thy will be done, give me light and I will walk in it,’ will find that Christ is just the teacher demanded by his soul, and that the gospel meets his soul’s want. Jesus will so meet the wants of his soul that he will be satisfied and will know the doctrine, that it comes from him who made the soul.”
3. Yes, I believe in Jesus Christ, not only because of the Messianic prophecies He fulfilled and the eyewitness testimony of His apostles, but because I have tried Him and not found Him wanting…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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