Historical Posts
James 01:26-27 Religion, Pure and Undefiled – audio
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Text: James 1:26-27
Introduction
1. What kind of religion do we have? Is it like a:
a. SPARE TIRE (used only in the case of an emergency)?
b. WHEELBARROW (easily upset and must be pushed)?
c. BUS (ridden only when it goes your way)?
2. Whatever kind of religion we have, it is of no value unless it is pleasing to God in heaven
3. We can find what constitutes pure and undefiled religion before God – James 1:26-27
4. To be sure that our own religion is acceptable before God, let’s notice some attributes of pure and undefiled religion
a. Indicated in this verse
b. It’s immediate context
Body
I. A PRACTICING RELIGION
A. IT INVOLVES DOING SOMETHING ON OUR PART
1. This is clearly implied in the phrase to visit, and to bridle our tongue
2. The context prior to this verse also makes it clear that we must be doers and not hearers only – James 1:22-25
3. This echoes the teachings of Jesus Himself – Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46
B. IF WE ARE NOT DOERS, WE ARE DECEIVING OURSELVES (James 1:22)
1. And usually, it is ONLY ourselves we are deceiving!
2. We are certainly not deceiving God, nor Satan
3. And it unlikely that we fool others, especially our children
II. A PRACTICAL RELIGION
A. GOD DID NOT INTEND FOR OUR RELIGION TO CONSIST SOLELY OF GOING TO CHURCH
1. Extending OUR HEART TO GOD IN WORSHIP is certainly important
2. But so is extending OUR HAND TO MAN IN SERVICE! – James 1:27
B. THROUGHOUT THE N.T., MUCH EMPHASIS IS PLACED UPON DOING GOOD
1. From the writings of Paul – Galatians 6:10; Titus 2:14; 3:8, 14
2. From the author of Hebrews – Hebrews 13:16
3. From the apostle John – 1 John 3:17-18
III. A PERSONAL RELIGION
A. IMPLIED BY THE USE OF SINGULAR PRONOUNS IN THE TEXT
1. anyone – James 1:23
2. he, his – James 1:23
3. himself, he – James 1:24
4. he, this one – James 1:25
5. anyone, he, his, this one’s – James 1:26
6. oneself – James 1:27
B. NOW, THERE IS A PLACE FOR CORPORATE GIVING
1. That is, where we give in conjunction with others to meet a need
2. For example, in helping needy Christians – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
C. BUT IT WAS NEVER INTENDED TO REPLACE OUR INDIVIDUAL AND PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY!
1. Some might think:
a. That their giving on Sunday fulfills their responsibility to the poor, the widows, and the orphans
b. That it fulfills their obligation to preach the gospel
2. God still expects us to fulfill our personal service to the poor, widows, and orphans as we have the ability and opportunity
3. Just as we find in the Old Testament
a. Though the third year tithe was for the widows and orphans – Deuteronomy 26:12
b. They were to always help them whenever they had the opportunity!
IV. A PURE RELIGION
A. THIS SOUNDS REDUNDANT, BUT IN OUR DAY IT MUST BE EMPHASIZED!
1. Our society has become increasingly immoral and materialistic
2. Such is wreaking havoc upon many in the Lord’s church
3. What we hear and see may only be the tip of the iceberg!
B. OUR RELIGION IS FOR NOTHING, UNLESS IT IS
1. PURE – without blemish
2. UNDEFILED – untainted
3. Capable of keeping us UNSPOTTED from (by) the world
C. BUT IF WE ARE SINNERS (as affirmed in 1 John 1:8), HOW CAN WE EVER BE PURE, UNDEFILED, AND UNSPOTTED?
1. It is possible, only BY THE BLOOD OF CHRIST!
a. Which can cleanse us and make us pure if we walk in the light with God – 1 John 1:7
b. This involves keeping the commandments of God – 1 John 2:3
1) For example, experiencing the INITIAL CLEANSING of the blood when we obey the commands to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins – Acts 2:38
2) And, experiencing the CONTINUOUS CLEANSING of the blood when we confess our sins to God – 1 John 1:9
2. It is possible only BY THE HELP OF GOD!
a. Who not only provides the blood of Christ to cleanse us from sin
b. But also a way of escape in times of temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:13
3. Yes, with Christ’s blood and God’s help, it is possible to be pure, undefiled, and unspotted by the world!
4. And this is what makes the religion of Jesus Christ UNIQUE!
a. Other religions may be practicing, practical and personal
b. But only the true religion of Jesus Christ can present one pure in the sight of God! – John 14:6
Conclusion
1. What kind of religion do YOU have?
a. Is it a PRACTICING religion?
1) Does it go beyond the walls of a building?
2) Does it go beyond the printed pages of the Bible?
3) Does it go beyond a superficial hearing of the Word?
b. Is it a PRACTICAL religion?
1) Does it consist of more than JUST going to church, reading, and praying?
2) Does it reach out and manifest itself in compassion to those in need?
c. Is it a PERSONAL religion?
1) Going beyond what we may do in conjunction with others?
2) Including our personal involvement apart from what others may do?
d. And is it a PURE religion?
1) Involving our initial cleansing from sin by the blood of Christ as we in faith repented and were baptized?
2) Involving our continual cleansing by the blood of Christ as we confess our sins and repent of them?
3) Does it include a putting away of sin with the help of God so that we might be unspotted by the world?
2. If not, then whatever religion we have is USELESS and we are simply DECEIVING OURSELVES!
3. Let’s always encourage one another to be sure and have a pure and undefiled religion before God!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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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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Christian – Belonging to the Lord – 1 Corinthians 06:19-20
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Text: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Introduction
1. In our previous lesson, we began this series
a. Asking what is the significance of being a Christian
b. Starting with the idea that a Christian is “A Person Reborn“
2. We noted that a Christian is a person reborn because in Christ
a. They are a new creation – 2 Corinthians 5:17
b. They have been born again – 1 Peter 1:22-23
c. They now have a new loyalty: to serve Jesus Christ – Galatians 2:20
3. We begin this lesson by noting Paul’s comments to the Corinthians
a. As recorded in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
b. In which he challenged their thinking by asking “Do you not know…you are not your own?”
c. The Christian needs to understand that he or she has been “bought at a price” and consequently is a person “Belonging To The Lord”
4. Belonging to the Lord” has many connotations attached to it. One is that a Christian is:
Body
I. GOD’S SPECIAL PERSON
A. CHRISTIANS ARE NOW GOD’S OWN SPECIAL PEOPLE
1. Note how Peter describes them in 1 Peter 2:9-10
a. “a chosen generation”
b. “a royal priesthood”
c. “a holy nation”
d. “His own special people”
2. These are terms that were once reserved for the physical nation of Israel
a. The Lord had chosen them – Deuteronomy 10:15
b. He made them a kingdom of priests and a holy nation – Exodus 19:5
c. Thus they had become a special people above all other nations – Deuteronomy 7:6
d. What had once been limited to physical Israel, is now possible to all people who are in Christ, as promised to Abraham – Galatians 3:8-9,28-29
B. A SPECIAL PEOPLE, WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
1. To proclaim the praises of God – 1 Peter 2:9-10
a. Because He called us out of darkness into His marvelous light
b. Because He showed mercy, and made us the people of God
2. To grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 1:8-11
a. To make our calling and election (as God’s people) sure
b. To have an abundance entrance into the everlasting kingdom
3. From the example of physical Israel, let us beware of becoming hardened and not lose faith, or we may not enter the heavenly rest that awaits us! – Hebrews 3:12-4:2,11
C. A Christian is truly “a special person” because he belongs to the Lord.
a. He can rejoice in knowing that he is one of God’s “beloved” – Romans 1:7
[God’s love for the Christian is made even more evident when we note that he is also:]
II. GOD’S BELOVED CHILD
A. CHRISTIANS ARE BLESSED TO BE CHILDREN OF GOD
1. In one sense, all people are God’s children – Acts 17:26-29
2. In another sense, many do not have God as their Father – John 8:42-44
3. Yet Christians are the children of God in a very special way
a. Because of their faith, and having put on Christ in baptism – Galatians 3:26-27
b. Redeemed and adopted by God, they have received His Spirit into their hearts – Galatians 4:4-6
c. Because we do the Father’s will, Jesus considers us His family – Matthew 12:48-50
d. Christians should be touched by this expression of God’s love – 1 John 3:1-2
B. AS GOD’S CHILDREN, WE HAVE BLESSINGS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. We are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ – Galatians 4:7
a. For we are heirs according to the promise of God – Galatians 3:29
b. It is an inheritance that is incorruptible, undefiled, that does not fade, and is reserved for us in heaven – 1 Peter 1:4
2. As heirs, we have many responsibilities, including:
a. Being thankful for the inheritance we have – Colossians 1:12
b. Abstaining from the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:19-21
c. Perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord – 2 Corinthians 6:17-7:1
d. If we wish to receive the promised blessings, we need to patiently carry out our responsibilities with an enduring faith – Hebrews 10:35-39
C. Besides being God’s special person and God’s child, a Christian who “belongs to the Lord” also has a special relationship to the world in which he or she lives:
III. GOD’S HEAVENLY PILGRIM
A. CHRISTIANS ARE IN THE WORLD, BUT NOT OF THE WORLD
1. As Jesus mentioned in His prayer for His disciples – John 17:15-16
2. Like Abraham, a Christian is a sojourner, a pilgrim – Hebrews 11:13; 13:14; 1 Peter 1:1
3. We are fellow citizens with members of God’s family – Ephesians 2:19
4. As such, our true citizenship lies in heaven, not here on earth – Philippians 3:20
B. AS GOD’S PILGRIMS, WE HAVE SEVERAL OBLIGATIONS
1. To conduct our sojourn on earth with fear – 1 Peter 1:17
2. To abstain from worldly lusts – 1 Peter 2:11; 1 John 2:15-17
3. To keep our conduct honorable, filled with good works – 1 Peter 2:12
4. To obey the laws, and respect the leaders, of the countries in which we sojourn – 1 Peter 2:13-17
Conclusion
1. We have seen that a Christian is a person who “belongs to the Lord”, one who is:
a. God’s special person
b. God’s child
c. God’s pilgrim
2. The more we understand the significance of such privileges
a. We ought to be filled with gratitude and humility
b. We ought to be moved to be the kind of people God intended
3. Are we living and conducting ourselves as those who “belong to the Lord”?
a. Are we acting like a special people?
b. Do we live like a child of God should?
c. Is our life truly a sojourn, or are we living like we want to make this earth our permanent home?
d. As we saw in our beginning text: “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
4. May the significance of belonging to God prompt us to always glorify God in our bodies and our spirits!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Angels, Who Are They? – Hebrews 01:13-14
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Text: Hebrews 1:13-14
Introduction
1. The subject of angels has certainly become a popular one
a. Bookstores are filled with books dealing with angels
b. Popular TV shows and movies depict angels working in our lives
2. Angels were an important part of the Jewish religion
a. Angels assisted with the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai – Deuteronomy 33:2; Psalm 68:17; Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19
b. They appear throughout the history of Israel, coming to Abraham, Daniel, and others
3. Angels also serve an important role in the Christian faith
a. They are described as “ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation” – Hebrews 1:13-14
b. They have certainly ministered in the past – cf. Luke 1:11-38
c. They will certainly minister at the time of Christ’s return – cf. Matthew 13:36-43
4. But to what extent do they minister in the present?
a. This is a subject that is prone to much speculation
b. It is easy to get caught up in idle myths and fables
c. About which we are warned to avoid – cf. 1 Timothy 1:3-4; 4:7; 6:20; 2 Timothy 2:16; 4:3-4
5. Yet angels are a Biblical subject, therefore worthy of careful consideration
[With a desire to be content with what the Bible reveals on the subject of angels, we begin this study with a look at some terms and descriptions regarding angels…]
Body
I. TERMS USED IN CONNECTION WITH ANGELS
A. THE WORD ‘ANGEL’
1. The Hebrew word malak (found 103 times in the OT) simply means “messenger”
a. It can refer to a human messenger – 1 Kings 19:2
1) It is applied to the prophet Haggai – Hag 1:13
2) It is applied to a priest – Mal 2:7
3) It is applied to both John the Baptist and Jesus in prophecy – Malachi 3:1
4) The name of the prophet Malachi comes from the same word
b. It can refer to a divine messenger – Genesis 28:12
1) Supernatural or heavenly beings sent as messengers to men
2) Agents who carry out the will of God – ISBE
2. The Greek word angelos likewise means “messenger”
a. The word occurs 175 times in the NT
b. Of men, it is used only 6 times in the NT
B. OTHER TERMS APPLIED TO ‘ANGELS’…
1. Sons of God – God’s sons by virtue of His creation – cf. Job 1:6; 38:7
2. Holy ones – suggesting they belong to God, ‘set apart’ for His purposes – Psalm 89:5,7
3. Watcher, watchers – likely referring to angels – cf. Daniel 4:13,17,23
4. Host – denoting the armies of heaven, which likely included angels -1 Sam 17:45
5. Archangel – used twice, once in connection with Michael – 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Jude 9
6. Prince, chief princes, great prince – used in the book of Daniel – Daniel 10:13,21; 12:1
7. Paul used terms that may refer to angels – cf. Colossians 1:16; Ephesians 1:21; 3:10
a. Principalities (archai)
b. Powers (exousiai)
c. Thrones (thronoi)
d. Dominions (kyriotetes)
e. Powers (dynamesis)
8. Yet these are sometimes distinguished from angels (Romans 8:38; 1 Peter 3:22), and at times described as negative forces (Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 6:12)
[It quickly becomes apparent that the Bible has a lot to say about angels. More about angels can be gleaned from the Bible as we consider…]
II. DESCRIPTIONS OF ANGELS
A. THEIR NATURE AND ATTRIBUTES
1. They are spirit beings
a. Called “spirits”, suggesting they do not have corporeal bodies – Hebrews 1:14
b. Though they did reveal themselves at times in the form of human bodies – Genesis 18:3
c. They do not function as human beings in such things as marriage – Mark 12:25
d. They are not subject to death – Luke 20:36
2. They are created beings
a. They are part of the creation that is to praise Jehovah – Psalm 148:1-5
b. They were created by Christ, among all other things – Colossians 1:16
3. They are innumerable
a. An innumerable company – Hebrews 12:22
b. John’s descriptions suggests their number is countless – Revelation 5:11
4. They are a higher order than man
a. Man was created lower than the angels – Hebrews 2:6-7
b. Angels are not capable of death – Luke 20:36
c. They have greater wisdom, though limited – 2 Samuel 14:20; Matthew 24:36
d. They have greater power, though it too is limited – Matthew 28:2; Daniel 10:13
5. They always appeared as men
a. Never as women or children, always clothed
b. Other than Cherubim and Seraphim (whose classification as angels is suspect), they never have wings – though cf. Revelation 8:13; 14:6
c. Many times they were so disguised as men they were not first identified as angels – Gen18:1-2; 19:1; Hebrews 13:2
B. THEIR CLASSIFICATIONS
1. The archangel, the “great prince”
a. Michael is called the archangel – Jude 1:9; cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:16
b. Michael is called the “great prince”, who watched over Israel – Daniel 12:1; cf. 10:21
c. Michael is mentioned in Revelation 12:7
d. Some (JWs and others) believe Michael was the pre-incarnate Christ
2. The chief princes
a. Of whom Michael was one – Daniel 10:13
b. Some would include Gabriel in this classification
1) The angel sent to explain visions to Daniel – Daniel 8:16; 9:21
2) Who also made announcements to Zacharias and Mary – Luke 1:19, 26
3. The princes
a. The term applied to angels in the book of Daniel – e.g., Daniel 10:13, 21
b. Also to what appear to be evil angelic forces – cf. Daniel 10:13, 20-21
4. The Angel of the Lord
a. An angel who seems to speak as the Lord Himself – e.g., Judges 2:1; Genesis 16:10-13
b. Leading some to wonder if this was the pre-incarnate Christ
5. Cherubim?
a. Thought by some to be an order or class of angels, though others hold them to be a higher class of heavenly beings than angels
b. Whose purpose was to be “proclaimers and protectors of God’s glorious presence, His sovereignty, and His Holiness” -C. Fred Dickason
c. In the Bible
1) They stood guard at the Garden of Eden – Genesis 3:24
2) Their golden figures covered the mercy seat above the ark in the tabernacle – Exodus 25:17-22
3) Their designs graced the walls and veils of the tabernacle, and later in the temple – Exodus 26:1,31; 1 Kings 6:23-35; 7:29, 36
4) They attended the glory of God in Ezekiel’s vision – Ezekiel 1:1- 28; cf. 10:1-20
d. Their description fits those of the four living creatures in Revelation rather than angels – cf. Revelation 4:4-6
6. Seraphim?
a. Six winged creatures attending the Lord in Isaiah’s vision – Isaiah 6:1-13
b. Whose name literally means “burning one”, also considered by many as a higher class than angels
c. Their work was to “praise and proclaim the perfect holiness of God”
d. Their description is also akin to those of the four living creatures in Revelation rather than angels – cf. Revelation 4:8-9
7. Satan and his angels
a. Many believe that Satan is a fallen angel
1) That he is “Lucifer”, a name applied to the king of Babylon – Isaiah 14:1-12
2) That he was among the highest of God’s creation, a cherub whose fall and judgment is applied figuratively to the king of Tyre – cf. Ezekiel 28:11-19
b. Satan does has his angels, for whom condemnation awaits – cf. Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10
c. The doctrine of Satan and his angels (along with demons) will hopefully be examined in another study
Conclusion
1. With this brief introduction it should be apparent that
a. The Bible has much to say about angels
b. It is easy to speculate about angels
2. My hope and prayer is that our future studies will
a. Focus on what the Bible actually reveals
b. Avoid the vain speculation that is condemned
3. In the course of our study, we should never forget the One who deserves our greatest attention:
“For to which of the angels did He ever say: ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You’? And again: ‘I will be to Him a Father, And He shall be to Me a Son’? But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: ‘Let all the angels of God worship Him.'” (Hebrews 1:5-6)
4. Have we joined the angels in worshipping the Son, through our own faith and obedience…?
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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Believe in God – Hebrews 11:01-06
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(Why I Believe in God)
Text: Hebrews 11:1-6
Introduction
1. I am happy to profess that I believe in God
a. Such faith is a source of great comfort – cf. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
b. And according to the Bible, necessary to pleasing God – Hebrews 11:6
2. Why do I believe in God?
a. I cannot see Him
b. I have never heard His voice
c. Yet I believe it is more reasonable to believe in God than to not believe
3. What reasons are there for believing in God? While not exhaustive, there are several reasons, the first commonly referred to as the teleological argument for God
Body
I. THE EVIDENCE OF DESIGN IN THE UNIVERSE
A. EXPLANATION
1. Orderly movement of heavenly bodies, making space travel possible
2. Animal instinct, such as the migration patterns of birds, eels, and salmon
3. The human body itself, e.g., the eye
B. IMPLICATION
1. Design suggests a “designer”
2. Design suggests a Being with intelligence possessing purposea.
a. A watch shows design, and implies a watchmaker
b. To credit such intricate and precise workmanship to blind chance is unreasonable
3. Contemplating on the universe and the human body rightfully produces awe, and points man to his Creator – cf. Psalm 19:1-2;139:14; Romans 1:19-20
C. Another reason to believe in God is called the moral or anthropological argument for God, or
II. THE UNIVERSAL SENSE OF OUGHT
A. EXPLANATION
1. Everywhere people have a sense of ought
2. That in certain circumstances, certain things should be done
3. People are concerned
a. That people should act a certain way
b. That people do not often act the way they should
4. Even atheists and agnostics have a sense of justice, and are angered when it is violated (as in the case of rape and murder)
B. IMPLICATION
1. This moral nature in man suggests a Moral Being as the Original Cause
2. If there is no God, there is no right or wrong, good or evil
3. If there is no God, no atheist can object on moral grounds if I want to kill them
C. A similar reason to believe in God is called the general argument
III. THE UNIVERSAL RELIGIOUS INSTINCT AND BELIEF IN GOD
A. EXPLANATION
1. Men in all the world, and throughout all time, not only believe in deity, but also engage in acts of worship and devotion.
2. The religious principle is extremely potent in all nations, dominating their thought and history.
3. Everywhere the human heart has a craving for God. There will be exceptions as individuals, but the exceptions do not invalidate the rule. The atheist is an exception in every society!
B. IMPLICATION
1. For every deepest longing of man, there is something that satisfies it
a. E.g., food satisfies man’s hunger
b. E.g., water satisfies man’s thirst
2. There must be a reality (i.e., God) that complements and meets the universal craving for a Supreme Being
3. Paul says this longing for God was placed in man by God Himself – Acts 17:26-27
C. Then there is the cosmological argument for believing in God
IV. THAT EVERY EFFECT MUST HAVE A CAUSE
A. EXPLANATION
1. This is also called the argument from first cause
2. It is based upon the premise that every effect must have a cause
B. IMPLICATION
1. The cosmos (universe) is an effect that has adequate cause
2. The Bible reveals that adequate cause: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1
3. A common objection is often raised: “Who created God?”
a. The law which states every effect has a cause applies to things that are “physical”
b. God by definition is not physical, and therefore not bound by laws which we may discern to apply to physical things
1) God is a spiritual being – cf. John 4:24
2) His omnipresence is an example of how He defies laws of nature – cf. Jeremiah 23:23-24
c. So the argument does not apply to Him; Hebrews is the Uncaused Cause of all things!
C. There is also the esthetical argument for believing in God
V. THE PRESENCE OF BEAUTY AND SUBLIMITY
A. EXPLANATION
1. This argument is based upon the presence of beauty and sublimity in the universe
2. It observes that you have both
a. The presence of beauty in nature itself, and in art produced by man
b. The response of man to such beauty (appreciation and awe)
B. IMPLICATION
1. How did this “beauty”, and the “ability to appreciate” it, develop?
2. Were both the result of blind chance?
3. Or did it come from a Supreme Being, who is:
a. Intelligent (an argument from design)
b. Moral (an argument from our sense of ought)
c. Artistic (an argument from beauty and our sense of it) – cf. Psalm 96:4-6
Conclusion
1. These arguments are philosophical arguments, but they are based upon what the Bible itself says can be learned about God from nature – Psalm 19:1-2; Romans 1:20
2. Other arguments can be offered to support the existence of God
a. Fulfilled prophecies in the Scriptures
b. Scientific foreknowledge of the Scriptures
c. Uniformity of the Scriptures
d. Evidences for the resurrection of Jesus from the dead
— We shall examine these when we talk about believing in the Bible, Jesus, etc.
3. Do you believe in God?
a. Faith in God is a choice that we make between two alternatives.
1) The river of evidence for God’s reality runs strong and deep, but its current is not irresistible.
2) Many people do swim against it, at least for awhile.
b. Choosing to believe that God exists is a voluntary act of trust.
1) We believe not because we think the reality of God is absolutely unequivocal, but because we judge the evidence to be greatly in its favor.
2) After careful thought, faith puts its trust and confidence in a premise that is seen to be supported by the weight of the evidence.
3) Faced with the ultimate fork in the road, faith understands that a decision must be made, and it responsibly chooses one alternative.
c. But the decision to believe isn’t merely the adoption of an intellectual position.
1) It’s the courageous taking of a stand. Like all ideas, the idea of God has consequences, and faith dares to accept those consequences.
2) It says: “I have considered the matter and am prepared to make my choice.
3) What I have seen has taught me to trust this thing which I can’t see, the reality of God.
4) I not only believe, I am prepared to follow my faith wherever it leads. – Diligently Seeking God
4. Are you willing to make the decision to believe in God?
a. The time is coming, however, when the reality of God will no longer be a matter of faith.
b. It will be an overwhelming fact, impossible to deny and terrifying in its implications for those who have tried to deny it.
c. “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” – Romans 14:11
5. Only a fool would suppress the evidence for the existence of God that is out there
“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,” – Romans 1:20
“The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.'” – Psalm 14:1
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Jude 01:01-02 Called, Sanctified and Preserved
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Text: Jude 1:1-2
Introduction
1. In several passages throughout the New Testament, we find serious warnings about impending apostasy
a. Jesus warned that false prophets would arise, the love of many would grow cold, and only those who endure to the end would be saved – Matthew 24:11-13
b. Paul foretold of many disciples being drawn away – Acts 20:29-30
c. Peter warned about the rise of false teachers, and how many would follow their destructive ways – 2 Peter 2:1-3
2. But by the time the epistles of John and Jude were written, the danger was no longer impending, it was very much in existence
a. Antichrists were present, and false prophets were in the world – 1 John 2:18; 4:1; 2 John 7
b. Jude was forced to change his original purpose to deal with the crisis – Ju 3-4
3. If the danger of apostasy was already present in the First Century A.D
a. We should not be surprised that the dangers exists in the twentieth century!
b. We would do well to pay close heed to those epistles written to tell us how to deal with it
4. That makes The Epistle Of Jude especially relevant, and with this lesson we begin a series of expository sermons based upon its contents
5. In verses 1-2, Jude begins his letter in typical fashion:
a. He identifies himself
1) As “a servant of Jesus Christ” and “brother of James”
2) It is considered very likely that James was the brother of the Lord who had become prominent in the church at Jerusalem – cf. Galatians 1:16; 2:9
3) This would mean Jude was also a brother to the Lord Jesus – Matthew 13:54-56
4) That Judas would describe himself as a servant of the Lord and not His brother is typical of the modesty shown by James as well – James 1:1
b. He then addresses his original readers
1) No particular church or individuals are named
2) They are simply “those who are called, sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ:”
3) For this reason, the epistle of Jude has been categorized as a catholic, or general, epistle (like James, 1st & 2nd Peter, and 1st John)
c. He concludes his salutation with a three-fold benediction: “Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you”
6. Before we go any further, the manner in which Jude addressed his readers is worthy of careful notice
a. Jude’s purpose is to warn of those “ungodly men” who have crept in
b. That a warning is necessary suggests a danger that is real: being led away from the faith
c. Yet Jude uses terms in his address that some would say teaches the impossibility of apostasy (especially the phrase: “preserved in Jesus Christ”)
[Therefore I would like for us to focus on the concepts suggested by the three words in the title of our study: “Called! Sanctified! And Preserved!”
Body
I. THOSE WHO ARE “CALLED”
A. THOSE IN CHRIST HAVE BEEN “CALLED”
1. We have been called with “a holy calling” – 2 Timothy 1:9
2. This calling was not according to our meritorious works
3. It was according to God’s own purpose and grace before time began
B. THIS “CALL” CAME THROUGH THE GOSPEL
1. We became God’s chosen and called by the gospel – 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14
2. By having the gospel preached to “every creature”, the call is made available to all – cf. Mark 16:15-16
a. This is consistent with God’s desire that “all men be saved” – 1 Timothy 2:3-4
b. This is consistent with God’s offer of His Son as “a ransom for all” – 1 Timothy 2:5-6
c. This is consistent with the Lord’s unwillingness that “any should perish”, but that “all should come to repentance” – 2 Peter 3:9
C. OUR RESPONSIBILITY, HAVING ACCEPTED THE “CALL”, IS TO MAKE OUR “CALLING AND ELECTION SURE”
1. This requires much diligence on our part – 2 Peter 1:10-11
2. Otherwise, we will be like the Israelites in the wilderness – Hebrews 3:12-19; 4:1-2, 4:11
a. All were called by God to enter the Promised Land of rest
b. But most were unable to enter because of unbelief that led to lack of diligence!
[It is the need for faithful diligence that explains the many warnings against apostasy found in the Scriptures. It also helps to understand why Jude felt it necessary to write his epistle!]
II. “SANCTIFIED” BY GOD THE FATHER
A. THE WORDS “SANCTIFY”, “SANCTIFICATION”
1. Are translated from the Greek word “hagiazo” {hag-ee-ad’-zo}
2. Which means to make holy, to set apart for a special purpose
3. Therefore, God has set apart those who have been called – Ju 1
B. THE PROCESS OF SANCTIFICATION
1. Is said to be the work of the Holy Spirit
a. “sanctified by the Holy Spirit” – Romans 15:16
b. “sanctified…by the Spirit of our God” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
c. “sanctification by the Spirit” – 2 Thessalonians 2:13
d. “the sanctifying work of the Spirit” (NASV) – 1 Peter 1:2
2. Is also said to be the work of the Word of God
a. “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” – John 17:17
b. “that He might sanctify…by the word” – Ephesians 5:26
3. Since the Word of God is said to be the “sword of the Spirit” (Ep 6:17), the Word is evidently the instrument used by the Spirit to help bring about our sanctification
C. THE PROGRESS OF SANCTIFICATION
1. Some people understand “sanctification” as “all at once” or “in two stages” (e.g., the Wesleyan concept of entire sanctification)
2. The Biblical evidence suggests otherwise:
a. The church at Corinth was made up of members
1) Who were “sanctified in Christ Jesus” – 1 Corinthians 1:2
2) Who had been “sanctified” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
b. Yet, many of these members were “babes in Christ” and “carnal” – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
3. As written to the Hebrews, those in Christ are “being sanctified” – Hebrews 2:11
a. I.e., sanctification is an on-going process
b. It begins at conversion, and continues as we grow in the faith
4. As Paul prayed for the Thessalonians: “may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23
[Whether God does indeed complete the process of sanctification for those who are called will be determined by whether or not we remain”preserved in Christ Jesus”. (Jude 1:1)]
III. “PRESERVED” IN JESUS CHRIST
A. THE MEANING OF THE WORD “PRESERVED”
1. It comes from the Greek word “tereo” {tay-reh’-o}
2. Which means “to guard (from loss or injury)”
3. It is used to describe that which is closely watched and guarded
a. Such as those disobedient angels who are awaiting the Judgment Day – Ju 6
b. Such as the punishment awaiting “ungodly men” – Ju 13
B. THIS WORD SPEAKS OF OUR WONDERFUL ASSURANCE IN CHRIST
1. We are being carefully “guarded” in Christ!
2. Peter uses a different word (phroureo, froo-reh’-o) to express a similar idea – 1 Peter 1:5
3. Paul used yet another word (sozo, sode’-zo) to express his own confidence in God’s preservation – 2 Timothy 4:18
4. Indeed, Jesus reassured his disciples that no one could “snatch” them out of His hand – cf. John 10:27-29
5. But does this mean that it is impossible to fall away? Do we have no personal responsibility to remain “preserved in Jesus Christ”?
C. THERE IS SOME PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
1. Jude uses the same word for “preserved” in Ju 21: “keep yourselves…”
2. This indicates that we must cooperate with God
a. As Peter indicated, we are “kept by the power of God through faith” – 1 Peter 1:5
1) God provides the power to keep us safe
2) But we must provide the faith
b. Jesus’ teaching on security is for those who are “believers”
1) No one can “snatch” us away from God against our will
2) But what if “believers” become “unbelievers”?
a) Does the promise still apply if the conditions have changed?
b) What if we choose to leave or jump out of God’s protective hand?
c. That “believers” can become “unbelievers”, and thereby in danger of losing one’s salvation, is clearly taught in He 3:12-19; 4:1-2,11
3. Thus we are “preserved in Jesus Christ”
a. But remaining “preserved” involves personal responsibility!
b. It requires that we “keep ourselves” in the love of God!
Conclusion
1. We who are in Christ are indeed richly blessed:
a. We have been “called” by the gospel of Christ, to which call we responded when we obeyed the conditions of the gospel (faith, repentance, confession, and baptism)
b. We have been “sanctified” or set apart for a holy purpose by God the Father, as He works upon us through His Holy Spirit in conjunction with His Holy Word
c. On the basis of our faith, we are “preserved” in Jesus Christ unto eternal life
2. But dear brethren, forces of Satan are very much at work
a. They seek to undermine our faith in Christ
b. They seek to harden our hearts, and to develop an evil heart of unbelief
c. They seek to make us spiritually lazy, and not to maintain the diligence necessary to keep ourselves in the love of God
3. Yet God in His grace has preserved His Word to give us ample warning; shall we not heed the warnings found throughout His Word, such as those found in The Epistle of Jude?
4. And as we speak of giving heed…have you given heed to the call of the gospel of Christ? – Acts 2:36-38
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Discipline of Meditation – Philippians 04:08
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Text: Philippians 4:8
Introduction
1. In this series we have defined spiritual disciplines as
a. Spiritual exercises that bring one closer to God, to become more godly in character and behavior
b. Spiritual activities such as prayer, meditation, singing, giving, etc.
2. Our previous study examined the discipline of prayer
a. Noting especially the value of secret, simple, and steadfast prayer
b. In which we praise God, make supplication for our needs, and intercede for others
3. Closely tied to prayer is the disciple of meditation
a. A spiritual exercise practiced by men of God – Genesis 24:63; Psalm 1:1-2
b. A spiritual duty given to those who are Christians – Philippians 4:8; 1 Timothy 4:15
4. But some questions may come to mind
a. What exactly is meditation?
b. Why should we take time to meditate?
c. How should we meditate?
Body
I. MEDITATION IN THE BIBLE
A. WHAT IS NOT MEDITATION IN THE BIBLE
1. That practiced by many Eastern religions
a. Like Hinduism, Buddhism, or Transcendental Meditation
b. Where the object is to experience truth, peace, or being, usually inexpressible
2. That practiced by Christian mystics
a. Such as Quakers, and others often found among Catholics and Protestants
b. Who meditate to experience God, or to receive some revelation from God
3. Both Eastern and Christian mystical meditation usually seek to empty the mind so as to find or receive truth within (i.e., a subjective form of meditation)
B. WHAT IS MEDITATION IN THE BIBLE
1. To contemplate on truth or reality already revealed (i.e., an objective form of meditation)
2. For example, the man “after God’s own heart” is one who meditates on:
a. The Lord Himself – Psalm 63:6
b. His wonderful Works – Psalm 77:12
c. His revealed Word – Psalm 119:15,23,48,97-99,148
3. In the words of Paul, we are to meditate on “things” – Philippians 4:8
a. Things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report
b. Things that are of any virtue, and are praiseworthy
[There is a very real difference between Biblical meditation and that commonly practiced by many religions: Christian meditation dwells on that already revealed in creation or inspired revelation, whereas other forms of meditation seek some new truth or experience to be revealed. Understanding the difference, why is Biblical meditation important…?]
II. WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD MEDITATE
A. A SOURCE OF JOY AND STRENGTH
1. As seen from such passages like Psalm 1:1-3; Isaiah 40:28-31
2. This alone should motivate us to meditate more often
B. AN IMPORTANT PART OF OUR TRANSFORMATION
1. The goal of the Christian is to become more like Christ – cf. Romans 8:29
2. This requires a “transformation” – Romans 12:1-2
3. But notice that this is possible only by “renewing the mind” – Romans 12:2
4. This “renewing” is possible only when we “set our minds” on proper things
a. On things above
b. Not on things on the earth – Colossians 3:1-2
5. Only then, when our minds are “set on things above”, will we be successful in completing the “transformation” which includes “putting off the old man” and “putting on the new man” – cf. Colossians 3:1-2 with Colossians 3:5-14
C. MANY FALL BECAUSE THEY MEDITATE ON THE WRONG THINGS
1. They “mind the things of the flesh”, which leads to “death” and “enmity with God” – cf. Romans 8:5-8
2. You cannot be a spiritual person if you “dwell” on carnal things
a. “Recent studies conducted by a Stanford University research team have revealed that ‘what we watch’ does have an effect on our imaginations, our learning patterns, and our behaviors.” – Denis Waitley, Seeds Of Greatness, p. 47-48
b. ” First we are exposed to new behaviors and characters. Next, we learn ` or acquire these new behaviors. The last and most crucial step is that we adopt these behaviors as our own.” – ibid.
c. “One of the most critical aspects of human development that we need to understand is the influence of ‘repeated viewing’ and ‘repeated verbalizing’ in shaping our future.” – ibid.
d. The information goes in, ‘harmlessly, almost unnoticed,’ on a daily basis, but we don’t react to it until later, when we aren’t able to realize the basis for our reactions.” – ibid.
e. “In other words, our value system is being formed without any conscious awareness on our part of what is happening!” – ibid.
f. “You are what you watch and think.” – ibid., p. 45
g. “If a sixty second commercial, by repeated viewing, can sell us a product, then isn’t it possible for a sixty minute soap opera or ‘smut- com’, by repeated viewing, to sell us a lifestyle?” – ibid., p. 47
3. Fill your mind with positive and spiritual thoughts if you really want to:
a. “renew the mind”
b. “be transformed”
[If Christians are to succeed, they must set their minds (meditate) on the things of the Spirit, on things above, where Christ is! Only then will they with God’s help put off the old man and put on the new man. Finally, a few thoughts on…]
III. HOW TO MEDITATE
A. FIND A QUIET TIME AND PLACE
1. For Isaac, it was in the field at evening – Genesis 24:63
2. For David, it was in bed during the night watches – Psalm 4:4; 63:6; 119:148
3. A time and place free from distraction
B. CONTEMPLATE SOMETHING OF VALUE
1. David focused his meditation on three things:
a. The Lord Himself – Psalm 63:6
b. His wonderful Works – Psalm 77:12
c. His revealed Word – Psalm 119:15, 23, 48, 97-99, 148
2. Paul mentioned things that possess virtue and are praiseworthy – Philippians 4:8
a. Whatever is noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report
b. Which could include devotional writings by uninspired authors
c. A subject or object worthy of mindful contemplation
C. LET THE BIBLE BE YOUR PRIMARY FOCUS
1. Read it contemplatively every day – Psalm 1:2; 119:15
2. Read it with a prayer in your heart – cf. Psalm 119:18
3. As you read, occasionally read it aloud to yourself
a. The Hebrew word in Psalm 1:2 for meditate means “to mutter”
b. Reading slowly and audibly helps to focus one’s mind on the words
4. As you read, you might ask yourself the following questions:
a. Is there some truth I should know from this verse?
b. How does this passage affect a previously held conviction?
c. Is there something I should stop doing in light of this verse?
d. Is there a practice I should change?
e. Is there a habit I ought to begin?
5. You might end with a prayer such as David’s – cf. Psalm 119:10
— “Hold the Word of God in your heart until it has affected every phase of your life…this is meditation.”
Conclusion
1. We find David praying in Psalm 19:14
“Let the words of mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, “O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”
2. By heeding Paul’s command (“meditate on these things” – Ph 4:8), we can ensure that our meditations will be acceptable in the sight of our Lord!
3. Together with frequent prayer, the practice of meditation will go a long way toward exercising one’s self unto godliness…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Disciplines for the Disciple – 1 Timothy 04:01-10
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Text: 1 Timothy 4:1-10
Introduction
1. We find Paul exhorting Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:7
a. “exercise yourself toward godliness”
b. What does this mean?
2. Compare other translations
a. “train yourself for godliness” (1 Timothy 4:7 ESV, 1 Timothy 4:7 NET)
b. “train yourself to be godly” (1 Timothy 4:7 NIV, 1 Timothy 4:7 NLT)
c. “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (NASB)
3. Consider what some commentators have written
a. “cultivate piety, and seek to become more holy” – Barnes
b. “Timothy is told that as an athlete trains his body, so the
Christian must train his soul.” – Barclay
4. The value of such spiritual exercise is seen in 1 Timothy 4:8
a. “godliness is profitable for all things”
b. “having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come”
5. The disciple, therefore, is to engage in various “exercises” or “disciplines” that cultivate godliness or piety. In this series, we shall take a look at such disciplines for the disciple. But in this lesson, some introductory thoughts regarding
Body
I. THE CONCEPT OF SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE
A. DEFINITION OF SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE
1. In general terms, discipline means:
a. “any training intended to develop moral character, or produce a pattern of behavior.”
b. “training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties or moral character – Merriam-Webster
2. Regarding spiritual disciplines in particular:
a. “A spiritual discipline is, when practiced faithfully and regularly, a habit or regular pattern in your life that repeatedly brings you back to God and opens you up to what God is saying to you.”
b. “Spiritual disciplines can be described as behaviors that facilitate spiritual growth.”
3. Spiritual disciplines, then, are spiritual exercises that one engages in habitually which bring one closer to God and thus become more godly in character and behavior
B. EXAMPLES OF SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES
1. Prayer – in which one spends time talking to God – e.g., Daniel 6:10; Colossians 4:2
2. Meditation – in which one contemplates on God’s Word, or other things worthy of such attention – cf. Psalm 1:1-2; Philippians 4:8
3. Singing – through which one can praise God and be edified – Psalm 71:23; Acts 16:25
4. Giving – by which we can please God and be blessed – cf. Hebrews 13:16; Acts 20:35
5. Assembling – where we can exhort one another – cf. Psalm 122:1; Hebrews 10:24-25
6. Hospitality – showing kindness to strangers, which often results in a blessing – Hebrews 13:2
7. Teaching – which usually benefits the teacher more than the student – Hebrews 5:12-14
8. Such spiritual activities help to discipline or train one to be more godly
We shall examine these more carefully in future lessons. But to appreciate the importance of spiritual disciplines for those who call themselves disciples of Christ, let’s review
II. THE CONCEPT OF DISCIPLESHIP
A. THE WORD “DISCIPLE”
1. Literally means a learner
2. It denotes “one who follows another’s teaching” – Vine
3. A disciple was not only a learner, he was also an adherent
4. For such reasons, disciples were spoken of as imitators of their teachers
B. THE GOAL IN BEING A DISCIPLE
1. Stated by Jesus himself: to be like the teacher – Luke 6:40
2. To be Christ’s disciple, then, is to strive to be like Him!
3. This coincides with God’s goal in the redemption of mankind, that they be conformed to the image of His Son – Romans 8:29
4. Since Jesus is the Son of God, the goal of a disciple is to be more godly
Conclusion
1. Are you a disciple of Christ…?
a. Jesus wants you to become His disciple – Matthew 28:19-20
b. Jesus wants you to become like Him – Luke 6:40
2. With the aid of spiritual disciplines, we are more likely to become what Jesus wanted…
a. For Jesus Himself often taught His disciples to engage in such activities
b. Through both precept and example, Jesus taught His disciples regarding such activities
3. If you are a disciple of Jesus Christ, then I trust that this series,”Disciplines For The Disciple” will be of special to interest to you. Remember what Paul wrote to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:7-9
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Corinthians 09:01-09 Giving the Right Way
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Text: 2 Corinthians 9:1-9
Introduction
1. Giving
2. Many do not like to talk about it
3. The Bible does not have a lot to say about it (neither does it the Lords’ Supper)
4. The are more verses that talk about giving than the Lord’s supper
5. Background (O.T.)
a) Sacrifices
b) Portion of sacrifices went to support the temple (tithes support Levites)
c) Feast of First Fruits, (first of the harvest brought to God)
d) Classic example of attitude was when people brought gifts to build temple
e) By the time of Jesus (Temple Tax) and an offering for synagogue
6. 2 Corinthians 8:1-9 – Principles behind giving
Body
I. Giving is reflective of a greater hope (2 Corinthians 8:2-3)
A. They gave liberally our of their poverty
B. Christian attitude toward money
1. Matthew 6:24 – Cannot serve God and mammon (riches)
2. Colossians 3:5 – consider selves dead to greed, = idolatry
3. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 – Don’t fix your hopes on the uncertainty of riches, be rich in good works, storing up treasure of a solid foundation for the future
C. Illustration: Save for retirement (Prudential – Get a piece of the rock) Rock will dissolve – Ecclesiastes 5:8-17
D. We can give liberally because we have a greater hope
1. They gave with an abundance of joy
2. God loves a cheerful giver (hilarious) (2 Corinthians 9:9:7)
II. Giving is a reflection of God’s grace received (2 Corinthians 8:1, 2 Corinthians 8:6-7)
A. Mentions grace given by God, and calls giving a gracious work
B. It means that this giving is motivated by God
1. We get confused thinking God’s will is for us to just be happy
2. (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) God gives, so we can give (abundance for every good deed)
3. Philippians 4:10-20 – is called an acceptable sacrifice to God
4. God will in turn supply all their needs
C. Illustration: Parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:23-35)
D. We have received bountiful grace, we give grace to others by helping them
III. It is a reflection of our fellowship
A. The word used for giving was fellowship (koinonia) participation, communion
B. The concept of communion graphically exemplified (Acts 2:43-47; Acts 4:32-37; Acts 6:1-6)
C. It is fellowship (sharing in) for these reasons
1. We are sharing with each other (2 Corinthians 8:12-15)
a. 2 Corinthians 9:13 – Not for just the purpose of easing financial difficulties but it was doctrinal, an expression of the union in Christ (1 body)
b. 2 Corinthians 9:8 – It was an expression of sincere love (1 John 3:16)
2. We are sharing/fellowshipping with Christ (2 Corinthians 9:9)
a. Fellowshipping in Grace (for you know the Grace…)
b. Jesus was rich and became poor
c. Do we have any fellowship with Christ if we attached to material things
D. Parable: Man who built bigger barns (Luke 12:16-21)
IV. It is worship GIVEN to God
A. Many do not view giving as worship
1. See it as just meeting the budget
2. While planning (budget) is good, there is more to giving than that
B. Biblical Text
1. It is called “fellowship” , same word used for the Lord’s Supper (2 Corinthians 9:4)
2. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 – they were to do it on the “first day”, the day they worshipped – it was to be done systematically, not carelessly (preparation)
3. Romans 12:1 – It is sacrificial, which is worship
4. 2 Corinthians 8:2 – It is an expression of Joy (just like worship typically is)
5. 2 Corinthians 8:5; 9:6-7 – Heart has to be right (just like for Lord’s Supper & worship)
6. Jesus made it clear that when we serve the brethren, we are serving him
C. We do it following the Lord’s Supper
1. It is appropriate, remember our gift, and we give in turn
2. More time should be given for our giving (sometimes we rush through it)
3. Want thoughts and heart to be right for Lord’s Supper, what about for the offering?
4. It is a gift to God
D. Our giving, is a direct reflection on our giving and service in other areas of life
Conclusion
1. Reflection of Greater hope / Grace / Fellowship / Worship
2. Do you give with the right heart (all week long)
3. How?
4. Steps:
a. Pray
b. Thank God for blessings, specifically
c. Ask God to help you use them to serve Him
d. Consider ways you can use them (God will show you)
e. It may be by giving more to the offering
– It may be by sending money for Bibles to Russia
– It may be by helping with someone’s utilities
5. WE ARE INVESTING IN A BOND THAT WILL NOT BURN UP OR DISAPPEAR IN AN ECONOMIC DEPRESSION!!!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 21:23-25 Authority in Religion
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Text: Matthew 21:23-25
Introduction
1. The Lord’s church can expect to confront many challenges
a. Opposition by Satan was foretold in the parable of the tares – Matthew 13:24-30, Matthew 13:36-43
b. Attacks from within and without foretold by Paul – Acts 20:29-30
c. Apostasy was foretold, and began very early – 2 Peter 2:1-3; Jude 4
2. The local church will be at the front of the confrontation
a. As the church universal is a spiritual entity well preserved by Jesus
b. But the church local is subject to many things that can threaten its existence
c. How can the church local stand strong and firm in the service of Christ?
3. I believe the key is respecting the proper authority
a. How shall we determine what is right or wrong, good or evil?
b. What shall be our authority in matters of religion?
c. Is a particular doctrine or practice from heaven or from man? – Matthew 21:23-25
Body
I. WHAT MANY CHURCHES ACCEPT AS AUTHORITY
A. THE OLD TESTAMENT
1. From the beginning of the church, many have appealed to the OT – Acts 15:1-5
2. The OT has its place, when properly handled – Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:11; 2 Timothy 3:14-17
3. But it can be misused, to authorize things no longer required – Galatians 5:1-4; 1 Timothy 4:1-3
4. We cannot assume that just because something is in the OT, it is authorized!
B. TRADITIONS OF MEN
1. The handing down of traditions was common in Rabbinic Judaism – Mark 7:1-5
2. Traditions of God are not wrong – 1 Corinthians 11:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:6
3. But Jesus condemned the traditions of men
a. When they are taught as doctrines of God – Mark 7:6-7
b. When they displace the commands of God – Mark 7:8-13
4. Uninspired traditions cannot be equated with or replacements for the Word of God!
C. MODERN DAY PROPHETS
1. Throughout church history, many have claimed to be prophets of God – Revelation 2:20
2. Christ and His apostles warned against false prophets – Matthew 7:15; 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 4:1
3. The OT gives us two ways to test the prophets
a. Do their prophecies come to pass? – Deuteronomy 18:20-22
b. Even if they do, is their doctrine consistent with God’s Word? – Deuteronomy 13:1-5
4. Since the 1st century A.D., all prophets have failed either one or both tests!
D. MAJORITY RULE
1. Many people and church councils decide doctrine or practice based on majority rule
2. Yet Jesus warned of the danger of following the majority – Matthew 7:13-14
3. If we had followed the majority
a. In Noah’s day, we would have perished in the flood
b. In Joshua’s day, we would have perished in the wilderness
4. Following the majority is not a good guide for authority in religion!
E. CONSCIENCE
1. Let your conscience be your guide is the motto of many
2. But our conscience cannot always be reliable
a. Paul had served God with a good conscience throughout his life – Acts 23:1
b. Even at a time when he was persecuting Christians! – Acts 26:9-11
3. The conscience is like a clock, which works properly only if set properly
4. Our conscience is not always a reliable guide in matters of religion
F. HUMAN WISDOM
1. Many feel that through their own wisdom they can determine right and wrong
2. But God’s thoughts and ways are not always our own – Isaiah 55:8-9
3. In fact, God has chosen to save man in a manner specifically designed to confound those who depend solely upon human wisdom – 1 Corinthians 1:18-29
4. For us to know God’s will, it was necessary for Him to reveal it to us – 1 Corinthians 2:9-12
5. This He has done through His Spirit-inspired apostles – Ephesians 3:1-3
6. Who in turn shared it with us through their writings – Ephesians 3:4-5
7. Human wisdom is often the exact opposite of God’s wisdom!
G. FEELINGS
1. This is often the standard of authority for many people and churches
a. Who go by whatever ‘feels right’
b. Who place stock in a religion ‘better felt than told’
c. Who will follow societal trends that may seem good and right
2. Yet the Bible declares the danger of trusting in feelings
a. There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death – Proverbs 14:12
b. He who trusts in his own heart is a fool – Proverbs 28:26
c. O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps. – Jeremiah 10:23
3. Such subjective feelings are from the heart of man, not the mind of God!
These seven standards of authority in religion are from men, not from heaven, and are the main reason for much religious confusion and division that exists today.
II. WHAT CHURCHES SHOULD ACCEPT AS AUTHORITY
A. THE WORDS OF JESUS CHRIST
1. Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and on earth – Matthew 28:18
2. He expects us to observe all things whatsoever He commanded – Matthew 28:19-20
3. He is the head of the church, which is to be subject to Him – Ephesians 5:23-24
4. As the body of Christ, we must submit to our Head!
B. THE DOCTRINE OF THE APOSTLES
1. To receive Christ, we must receive His apostles – John 13:20
2. They were sent as His ambassadors – 2 Corinthians 5:20
3. To ensure reliability, Jesus promised them the Holy Spirit – John 14:26; 16:12-13
4. The apostles’ wrote so that we might have their understanding – Ephesians 3:1-5
5. They wrote their epistles that we might always be reminded – 2 Peter 1:12-15; 3:1-2
6. Their writings were the commandments of the Lord – 1 Corinthians 14:37
7. They received their word as the word of God – 2 Thessalonians 2:13
8. Thus the early church continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine – Acts 2:42
9. Any true local church of Christ respects the doctrine of the apostles as their authority
C. THE FAITH REVEALED ONCE FOR ALL
1. The faith or doctrine of Christ was delivered once for all time (NLT) – Jude 3
2. The apostles did not hesitate to proclaim the whole counsel of God – Acts 20:27
3. They proclaimed all things pertaining to life and godliness – 2 Peter 1:3
4. The Scriptures provide everything needed to make one complete – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
5. With the Scriptures as an all-sufficient guide, we need no other authority!
Conclusion
1. The only proper authority in religion
a. Is that which emanates from Jesus as the head of His church
b. Which has come to us through the doctrines of His Spirit-inspired apostles
c. Which has been preserved in the form of the New Testament
2. All other authority in religion comes from:
a. Either misapplication of the Scriptures (e.g., the Old Testament)
b. Or uninspired men (and women) who usurp authority based on feelings, etc.
3. When confronted with any challenge, the church today needs to:
a. Look to the words of Christ, and the writings of His apostles
b. Observe all things He commanded, and continue steadfastly in their doctrine
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 07:01-07 Melchizedek, Christ and Us – powerpoint – audio
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Hebrews-07-01-07-Melchizedek-Christ-Us PDF
Hebrews-07-01-07-Melchizedek-Christ-Us Powerpoint
Text: Hebrews 7:1-7
Melchizedek |
Christ |
Us |
|
King |
Hebrews 7:1 | Revelation 17:14 | Revelation 1:6 |
Priest |
Hebrews 7:1 | Hebrews 4:14-15 | 1 Peter 2:5 |
Righteous |
Hebrews 7:2 | 1 John 2:1 | Romans 6:17-18 |
Peaceable |
Hebrews 7:2 | Isaiah 9:6 | Romans 14:19 |
Unique |
Hebrews 7:3 | John 3:16 | 1 John 2:15-17 |
Blessing |
Hebrews 7:4-7 | Ephesians 1:3 | Galatians 6:10 |
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Resolutions – Ephesians 3:16
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Text: Ephesians 3:16
(presented on 12/31)
If we’re the resolution-making type, what we’re really resolving to do is to have more self-discipline, right?
- We just apply it to different areas of life:
- Weight loss (avoid Krispy Kreme)
- Productivity (manage time better)
- Spirituality (stick to one-year Bible-reading plan)
It’s all about self-discipline.
Everything will work out if I do this or don’t do that.
If I do what I don’t want to and don’t do what I want do.
If I stick with it.
It’s all about me.
Except it’s not. Not really.
Especially when we’re talking about spirituality.
Growing in our relationship to Christ is about what God does in us.
Notice the common factor in these verses:
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23).
That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man (Ephesians 3:16).
Did you catch the common thread?
How can you can be more:
- loving
- joyful
- patient
… and have more self control?
Paul says it comes from the Spirit; it’s His fruit (not ours).
How do you grow spiritually?
- Is it by trying harder?
- Is it by praying harder?
- Is it by serving harder?
No.
It is God who strengthens you.
Too often we get frustrated spiritually because we think it’s all up to us.
We’ll reach our spiritual goals if we can just get the formula right: incorporate the spiritual disciplines in the right way, and conformity to Christ follows.
But it doesn’t work that way.
We need to realize that holiness, growing more and more into Christ’s image, is God’s work, not ours.
So much of our striving and stretching and reaching ends up putting the focus where it doesn’t need to be. On us.
And history shows that our efforts at attaining holiness fail miserably.
This year, focus on trusting God, not yourself.
- Talk to Him
- Love Him
- Worship Him
- Ask Him to mold you and shape you
Yes, read your Bible! But not so you can claim sainthood as a Daily Bible Reader. Do it to know God better.
Pray to God, not to shape His will to yours, but to cultivate your relationship with Jesus and shape your will to His.
Worship Him weekly, not for what you get out of it, but to love and adore Him openly.
When everything we do is God-focused, we might be amazed at the incredible things He will do.
He doesn’t really need our help.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 21:12-13 The Courage of Jesus – audio
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Text: Matthew 21:12-13
Introduction
1. Jesus went against the culture of the day. He was not “politically correct” in His actions, but He was correct in the eyes of His Father.
2. How do we measure up to the courage of Jesus? – 2 Timothy 1:7-11
Body
I. His courage among His friends
A. Jesus did not stoop to the level of human habits but encouraged them to His level. Jesus stated many times that man should not fear this world, but overcome the world. – Luke 12:4-5
B. Are we walking like Jesus in the presence of our friends? Do we have the courage to turn away from “friends” who would lead us to sin? – Ephesians 5:8-14
II. His courage among His enemies
A. Jesus faced Satan:
1. at His temptation – Matthew 4:1-11
2. the Jews at His arrest – John 18:4-9
3. the cross without fear – Luke 23:26-31
B. Are we standing up to the enemies of the cross?
1. Ephesians 6:10-17
2. Philippians 1:1-17
III. His courage among false teachers
A. Jesus never hesitated nor retreated. He attacked the hypocritical and was uncompromising and fearless. – John 8:44
B. Too many today will not call sin “sin”. They call it “a mistake”. Do you stand courageous against false teachers and their doctrine?
1. Acts 4:13, Acts 4:18-21
2. Galatians 1:6-10
3. 2 John 9-11
Conclusion
1. It takes courage to live the Christian life.
2. Let Jesus be your great example.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Romans – What Would Paul Preach?
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Introduction
I. Most people today have been to a concert.
A. They sing the same song.
II. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to hear the Apostle Paul?
A. Christians at Rome had not been privileged to hear Paul preach.
1. The Book of Romans is different for the other epistles.
B. But in the Book of Romans, Paul is preaching what he would have preached.
III. Paul is going to preach the gospel (Romans 1:16).
A. The gospel deals with God’s scheme of redemption.
1. Sin [expresses the need of redemption] (Romans 5:12; Romans 3:10, 23).
2. Seed [the promise seed is the solution] (Romans 1:3; Romans 4:13-14).
3. Statutes [the law was the vehicle] (Romans 5:20-21; Romans 10:1-4).
4. Savior [the Christ of redemption] (Romans 3:23-24; Romans 10:9-10).
B. The gospel is for all–“4-all.”
1. All are guilty of sin [universal sin] (Romans 3:23).
2. All need a Savior [universal need] (Romans 5:10).
3. All are saved by Jesus’ death [universal death] (Romans 5:8).
4. All are one body in Christ [universal unity] (Romans 12:4-5).
IV. What would Paul preach at Gahanna-Jefferson?
(1 Corinthians 2:2 KJV) For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
(1 Corinthians 4:17 NKJV) For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church.
Body
I. PAUL WOULD PREACH SALVATION (ROMANS 10:1-2).
A. Hear (Romans 10:16-17; cf. John 6:45).
B. Believe (Romans 10:13-15; Romans 3:21-23).
1. Obedient faith (Romans 1:5; Romans 5:1; cf. John 8:24).
C. Repent (Romans 1:28-32; Romans 2:4; cf. Luke 13:3; Acts 17:30-31).
D. Confess (Romans 10:9-10; cf. Matthew 10:32).
(Mark 14:61-62 NKJV) But He kept silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” {62} Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.”
(1 Tim 6:12 NKJV) Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
E. Be Baptized (Romans 6:17, 3-4; cf. Mark 16:16).
II. PAUL WOULD PREACH ADORATION.
A. God is to be worshiped (Romans 1:18-25).
1. He is the invisible God.
2. He has the eternal power.
3. He has a divine nature.
4. He is the incorruptible God.
5. He is the Creator.
B. God is to be served in His church (Romans 12:3-5).
III. PAUL WOULD PREACH TRANSFORMATION.
A. Our relationship to GOD must change (Romans 12:1-3).
1. I give God my body.
2. I give God my mind.
3. I give God my will.
B. Our relationship to OTHERS must change (Romans 12:9-16).
C. Our relationship to OUR ENEMIES must change (Romans 12:17-21).
D. Our relationship to THE STATE must change (Romans 13:1).
E. Our relationship to OTHER CHRISTIANS must change.
1. We are to receive one another (Romans 14:1).
2. We must edify one another (Romans 14:19).
3. We must please one another (Romans 15:1-2).
Conclusion:
I. If the Apostle Paul were here, he would preach what I have been preaching for years.
A. Become a Christian
B. Worship God faithfully
C. Live the Christian life.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Ephesians 04:02-09 What Are You Doing with God’s Grace? – audio
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(Presented at Willowbrook Christian Home on 8/19/2012)
Text: Ephesians 2:4-9
Introduction
Mercy
From God’s Word, we recognize that mercy is the forbearance, compassion, kindness shown by God from inflicting punishment for those who break the law.
In John 8:1-11 the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman to Jesus taken in the act of adultery, and ask Jesus what would he do in light of the law of Moses. He asked a question that convicted them of their own sins and the woman was left uncondemned. Jesus said go and sin no more.
Through God’s mercy we are saved – 1 Peter 1:3-5
Grace
A companion of mercy is grace.
Grace means that which causes joy, pleasure, delight, charm, sweetness, and loveliness. This has come to signify the kindness of God toward man.
God’s unmerited favor saves mankind by providing a sufficient and perfect sacrifice to remit the sins of man, so that he can be reconciled to his God.
The Oracles of God declare we are saved by God’s grace through faith – Ephesians 2:4-8
It (grace) has appeared unto all men – Titus 2:11
The Benefits of God’s Grace are Accessed Through Faith
Through Faith
If you want to enjoy the benefits of the grace of God, such as eternal life with God, love, joy, and peace, you must access them through faith in God – Ephesians 2:8; Romans 5:1-2
Dead or Living?
The question you must ask yourself is your faith dead or alive?
A dead faith merely believes, but does not produce obedience to God. James 2:14-17 describes faith without works as dead. But a living faith is characterized by loving obedient actions towards God – James 1:22-25.
Living Faith
You can only benefit from the grace of God when you decide to be faithful and obedient to Him and live for Him – Hebrews 4:1-2
Plan of Salvation
- Hear the Word of God – Romans 10:17; Hebrews 3:15
- Believe in Jesus Christ – Hebrews 11:6
- Repent of past Sins – Luke 13:3
- Confess Jesus is the Son of God – Romans 10:9-10
- Baptized for the forgiveness of your Sins – Acts 2:38
- Daily Live Faithful for Jesus – Revelation 2:10
What Are You Doing with God’s Grace?
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Luke 13:23-28 Lord, Are There Few That Be Saved? audio
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Reading: Matthew 7:13-14
Text: Luke 13:23-28
Introduction
- QUOTE: John 3:16-17
When you read the message of God, you should get excited, because God has made a way for all in the bondage of sin to be delivered out darkness into the Light by Jesus – Colossians 1:12-14
Therefore, salvation is being delivered from end result of sin (death).
- Almost Everyone Wants to Be Saved
Interestingly, when you converse with people about salvation, almost everybody wants to be saved or wants to go to heaven, but only a few are willing to strive to comply with God’s requirements to be saved – Luke 6:46; Matthew 15:8-9
Today, the sermon is titled LORD, ARE THERE FEW THAT BE SAVED? (Luke 13:23-28)
Jesus Says to Strive (Agonize) to Enter in at the Strait Gate
- Jesus admonishes striving to enter the strait gate – Luke 13:23
The word strait means to be constrained, restricted, or narrow.
Therefore, the strait gate will be difficult and not easy to pass through because it requires faithfulness (obedience) to God.
As a result, few will enter in – John 14:15
- Deception
It’s a deception of our adversary the devil (1 Peter 5:8), to believe entering into the kingdom of God (the strait gate) takes little forethought or effort – Luke 13:23
In Acts 14:22, we learn it will take continued faithfulness, and going through much tribulations to enter into the kingdom of God.
It’s not good enough just to get at good start.
We must continue to the end – John 8:31-32; Matthew 10:22
Entering the strait gate will require faithfulness until death – Revelation 2:10
- Two Ways
There are two ways you can follow, the narrow way (life) and the broad way (destruction) – Matthew 7:13-14
There will be many people whom will follow the broad way, and a few will be faithful to God and follow the narrow way that leads to eternal life.
Jesus, tells us to strive to enter the strait gate because many will seek to enter in and not be able – Luke 13:23
Jesus Says That Many Will Seek to Enter in and Not Be Able
- Many Will Seek
Many will seek to enter in and not be able because they have entered the wide gate of disobedience to God – Matthew 7:21-23
Multitudes in this group will take the path of least resistance, they will do things there way and not God’s way and will find themselves lost – Luke 13:25-29
- A High Price
The cost of becoming a Christian (or entering the strait gate) is too high a price for many people to pay for salvation – Mark 10:17-22; Matthew 16:24-26
For masses of people, obeying the gospel of Christ is not easy task for them. Why? Because it requires one to forsake all things and to love God more than man – Luke 14:26-33
- Biblical History
And finally can anyone ignore the Biblical history on the question Lord, are there few that be saved?
– In Genesis 6:5-8, God sees the wickedness of man but Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.
– In 1 Peter 3:20, we find a few souls were saved from the great flood.
– Shall we not also consider Israel whom God saved from Egyptian bondage but afterward destroyed them because of unbelief – Jude 5.
– Only two men entered Canaan land that left Egypt Joshua & Caleb – Numbers 26:63-65
Therefore, let us strive to enter in the strait gate, since few will be saved! When Jesus comes back again, do you want to be on the outside looking in? – Luke 13:28
HEAR BELIEVE REPENT CONFESS BAPTISM LIVE FAITHFULLY
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
The Husband’s Duties – Ephesians 05:25-29
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Text: Ephesians 5:25-29
Introduction
1. Our previous lesson argued that marriage is not an institution
a. Created and designed by man or the state
b. Subject to alteration by societal whims
2. But rather, that marriage is a sacred institution
a. Instituted by God in the beginning
b. Regulated by Jesus and His apostles in the Word of God
c. Reserved for sexual intimacy between a man and a women
3. Indeed, marriage is a successful institution
a. When we follow the Biblical injunctions concerning it
b. When members of the family fulfill their proper roles
c. Preventing marriage and family from becoming an emotional and psychological straitjacket, the proverbial ball and chain, and source of much strife and hurt in one’s life
4. What are those Biblical injunctions concerning the proper roles?
Body
I. LOVE YOUR WIVES!
A. HUSBANDS ARE TO LOVE THEIR WIVES
1. As Christ loved the church – Ephesians 5:25-27
a. He gave Himself for the church!
b. He nourishes and cherishes the church!
2. As they love their own bodies – Ephesians 5:28-29
a. Which they nourish and cherish
b. Which they handle with care
3. Free from bitterness – Colossians 3:19
a. That is, resentment or hate
b. Often accompanied with wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking – Ephesians 4:31
B. HUSBANDS ARE TO LOVE THEIR WIVES
1. With “agape” love (active good will)
a. Which is commanded – Ephesians 5:25
b. Which is defined – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
c. The same sort of love we are to have toward God and all men
2. With “phileo” love (sentimental, affectionate)
a. As one would have for his own body – Ephesians 5:29
b. As parents would have for their children – Ephesians 6:4; 1 Thessalonians 2:7
3. With “eros” love (sexual)
a. Joining together as one flesh – Ephesians 5:31
b. Providing physical attention and affection due the wife – 1 Corinthians 7:2-5
4. Husbands have a duty to love their wives in every way!
II. RESPECT YOUR WIVES!
A. BY HOW YOU TREAT THEM
1. With understanding – 1 Peter 3:7
a. In an understanding way – 1 Peter 3:7 ESV
b. Be considerate – 1 Peter 3:7 NIV
c. Learn what makes her “tick”, and treat her accordingly
2. With honor – 1 Peter 3:7
a. Praise her in the gates – Proverbs 31:28
b. Put her on a pedestal
c. Do not ridicule her publicly
3. As to the weaker vessel – 1 Peter 3:7
a. Not that your wife may actually be the weaker vessel
b. Many wives are spiritually stronger, some physically stronger
c. But treat her “as” a weaker vessel (treat her like china, not steel)
B. BY HOW YOU VIEW THEM
1. As a fellow heir of the grace of life – 1 Peter 3:7
a. For whom Christ died
b. A beloved sister in Christ, worthy of respect
c. With whom you hope to spend eternity
2. As one who affects the efficacy of your prayers! – 1 Peter 3:7
a. How we treat others has a bearing on our prayers – Mark 11:26; Proverbs 21:13
b. God will not heed our prayers if we mistreat our wives! – Malachi 2:13-16
III. SUPPORT YOUR WIVES!
A. BY PROVIDING FOR THE FAMILY
1. The husband (and father) has the duty to provide for his family – 1 Timothy 5:8
2. Failure to do so is to deny the faith (the doctrine of Christ!) – ibid.
3. Unbelievers (and most creatures) provide for their own
4. A man should not take a wife unless he is willing and able to support her financially
B. BY LETTING HER CONTRIBUTE
1. The virtuous woman contributed much to the support of the family – Proverbs 31:16-19,24
2. A wise husband lets her contribute, and to be praised for it! – Proverbs 31:31
3. Of course, not to the neglect of her familial duties – Proverbs 31:21,27; 1 Timothy 5:14; Titus 2:4-5
Conclusion
1. The Christian husband is a man who
a. Loves his wife in every way
b. Respects his wife by how he treats her and views her
c. Supports his wife financially, emotionally, and spiritually
2. This is because the Christian husband is a man who
a. Is a Christian first, and a husband second
b. Gladly accepts the Biblical injunctions given to him as a husband
c. Looks to the Word of God and prayer for the strength he needs to fulfill his duty
3. When a man is a Christian husband
a. He is more likely loved and respected by his wife
b. She is more likely the sort of wife she should be
c. The children are more likely as they should be
4. In our next lesson, we shall consider the duties of wives.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Acts 08:14-25 God’s Second Law of Pardon
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Text: Acts 8:14-25
Introduction
1. The Scriptures reveal different instructions on how to obtain forgiveness
a. To alien sinners outside of Christ
1) 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)
2) 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)
b. To erring Christians guilty of sin
1) Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. (Acts 8:22)
2) If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. The difference has been described by some as God’s Two Laws Of Pardon
a. For the alien sinner, there is God’s first law of pardon
1) Hear the gospel
2) Believe that Jesus is the Christ, who died for our sins
3) Repent of sins
4) Confess faith in Christ
5) Be baptized for the remission of sins
b. For the erring Christian, there is God’s second law of pardon
1) Repent of sins
2) Pray to God
3) Confess sins to God
3. As we evangelize, we often spend much time explaining the first law. As Christians seeking to maintain our relationship with God, we should be equally concerned with the second law. So let’s take a closer look at God’s second law of pardon
Body
I. WHAT CHRISTIANS MUST DO
A. WE MUST REPENT OF SINS
1. Note that repentance is required in both laws of pardon
2. What does it mean to repent? Literally, it means “a change of mind”
a. “signifies to change one’s mind or purpose” – Vine
b. a change of mind involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God
3. Thus it involves making a decision to stop sinning
a. Just as the alien sinner is called to do so in becoming a Christian
b. So the erring Christian must do to return to the Lord
4. Repentance is produced by “godly sorrow”
Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. (2 Corinthians 7:9-10)
a. A sorrow for having sinned against God
Against You, You only, have I sinned, And done this evil in Your sight That You may be found just when You speak, And blameless when You judge. (Psalms 51:4)
b. As opposed to worldly sorrow for getting caught or being exposed
5. Repentance is also prompted by God’s goodness
Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? (Romans 2:4)
a. Awareness of God’s grace and kindness should lead us to repent
b. Frequent meditation on the Word of God will help in this regard
6. Repentance will be manifested by a remarkable change
For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter. (2 Corinthians 7:11)
a. Such as diligence and zeal to do right
b. Such as indignation for our sins and a desire to make right
7. So the first step for erring Christians is to repent of their sins!
B. WE MUST PRAY
1. So Peter told Simon when he sinned after having believed and was baptized
Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. (Acts 8:22)
2. Compare this to God’s first law of pardon
a. Baptism is an act of faith, in which we make an appeal
There is also an antitype which now saves us baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 3:21)
b. Prayer is also an act of faith, as we appeal for forgiveness
c. Yet alien sinners are commanded to repent and be baptized
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)
d. While erring Christians are commanded to repent and pray
3. The difference is understandable
a. Before baptism, one is not a child of God
For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Galatians 3:26-27)
Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. (John 3:3-5)
b. After baptism, prayer is a privilege for those who are God’s children
And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Galatians 4:6-7)
4. Praying is effective for the Christian because of our two intercessors
a. Jesus, who understands our feelings
Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted. (Hebrews 2:17-18)
Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:14-16)
But He, because He continues forever, has an unchangeable priesthood. Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:24-25)
b. The Holy Spirit, who communicates our feelings
Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27)
5. As we pray, we must do so with humility
a. Compare the difference between the Pharisee and the publican
Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other menextortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:9-14)
b. God favors the humble and contrite in spirit
The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. (Psalms 34:18)
Thus says the LORD: “Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest? For all those things My hand has made, And all those things exist,” Says the LORD. “But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word. (Isaiah 66:1-2)
6. Having repented, the erring Christian humbly needs to pray!
C. WE MUST CONFESS
1. So John wrote to Christians, to experience God’s forgiveness
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. Compare this to God’s first law of pardon
a. Where confession is commanded, but not confession of sins
b. Instead, confession is made concerning Jesus Christ
that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Romans 10:9-10)
Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” (Acts 8:37)
3. Understanding the word “confess”
a. Comes from the Greek word homologeo
b. “lit., to speak the same thing; to agree with, admit” – Vine
c. In regards to sin, it means to openly and honestly admit sin without hiding it or offering excuses for it
And I prayed to the LORD my God, and made confession, and said, “O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments, we have sinned and committed iniquity, we have done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgments. Neither have we heeded Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your name to our kings and our princes, to our fathers and all the people of the land. (Daniel 9:4-6)
4. Confession of sins should be made
a. Continuously – for John literally wrote “If we keep confessing our sins…”
b. For both known and unknown sins
Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults. (Psalms 19:12)
c. Always to God, sometimes to each other
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (James 5:16)
5. So as the erring Christian prays, confession of sins should be made!
[Simple is God’s second law of pardon: to repent and pray, confessing our sins! To encourage us to be diligent in taking advantage of this wonderful grace, consider now…]
II. WHAT GOD WILL DO
A. GOD WILL BE FAITHFUL
1. As John promised in encouraging us to confess our sins
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. This means He will be true to His promise
3. What promise? The promise found in the prophecy of the New Covenant!
a. Found in Jeremiah, repeated in Hebrews
“Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the LORD. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the LORD: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know the LORD,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second. Because finding fault with them, He says: “BEHOLD, THE DAYS ARE COMING, SAYS THE LORD, WHEN I WILL MAKE A NEW COVENANT WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL AND WITH THE HOUSE OF JUDAH NOT ACCORDING TO THE COVENANT THAT I MADE WITH THEIR FATHERS IN THE DAY WHEN I TOOK THEM BY THE HAND TO LEAD THEM OUT OF THE LAND OF EGYPT; BECAUSE THEY DID NOT CONTINUE IN MY COVENANT, AND I DISREGARDED THEM, SAYS THE LORD. FOR THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS IN THEIR MIND AND WRITE THEM ON THEIR HEARTS; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. NONE OF THEM SHALL TEACH HIS NEIGHBOR, AND NONE HIS BROTHER, SAYING, ‘KNOW THE LORD,’ FOR ALL SHALL KNOW ME, FROM THE LEAST OF THEM TO THE GREATEST OF THEM. FOR I WILL BE MERCIFUL TO THEIR UNRIGHTEOUSNESS, AND THEIR SINS AND THEIR LAWLESS DEEDS I WILL REMEMBER NO MORE.” In that He says, “A NEW COVENANT,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away. (Hebrews 8:7-13)
b. Thus we have the assurance of God’s response!
B. GOD WILL BE JUST
1. As John promised in encouraging us to confess our sins
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. This means He will be righteous in forgiving our sins
3. How can this be? By virtue of the cleansing blood of Jesus!
a. A cleansing alluded to earlier
But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. (1 John 1:7)
b. So God can be both just and justifier of those who have faith in Christ
being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:24-26)
c. Thus we have the basis for God’s response!
C. GOD WILL FORGIVE AND CLEANSE
1. He will “forgive us our sins”
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
a. The word ‘forgive’ describes the act of canceling a debt and the restoration of the debtor
b. No longer will the guilt of our sins be held against us!
2. He will “cleanse us from all unrighteousness” – 1 John 1:9
a. “The word ‘cleanse’ refers to making the forgiven sinner holy so that he is able to have fellowship with God”
b. The word “all” is reassuring; no sin is beyond God’s ability to forgive the penitent Christian who confesses their sin!
3. Thus we have blessedness of God’s response!
Conclusion
1. With God’s second law of pardon, the Christian who repents, prays, and confesses will
a. Experience the continual cleansing of the blood of Christ!
b. Enjoy the blessedness of knowing your sins are forgiven!
2. Why would any Christian hesitate to obey God’s second law of pardon…?
a. You can have the same joy of salvation as when you were baptized into Christ!
b. For you rise from prayer as cleansed from sin as when you arose from the watery grave!
If you want to have the same joy, the same assurance of salvation, as that new babe in Christ who comes forth to a new life, then take advantage of “God’s Second Law Of Pardon”…!
Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. (Isaiah 55:6-7)
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Peter 02:20-22 Anatomy of a Backslider
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Text: 2 Peter 2:20-22
(Learning From One Who Knows By Experience)
Introduction
1. We read of the real possibility and serious consequences of backsliding in 2 Peter 2:20-22
2. It is interesting that we find this passage coming from the inspired pen of Peter
a. For if anyone knew “firsthand” the reality and dangers of backsliding, it was Peter!
b. As he discovered the night he denied Jesus!
3. The process of backsliding is a gradual one, often overtaking a person by surprise; and lest we fall from our own steadfastness
a. We shall carefully examine the process that led to Peter’s denial of Christ
b. Followed by noticing how Peter’s own words in his epistles are designed to prevent the same from happening to us!
Body
I. THE ANATOMY OF A BACKSLIDER
A. PRIDE – Mark 14:27-31
1. In a boastful manner, Peter claims he will not fall away or deny Christ!
2. In doing so, Peter takes the first step in backsliding: “pride”! – Proverbs 16:18
3. Why is this the “first” step?
a. Because the first step in entering the kingdom is humility – Matthew 18:3-4
b. So if we lose “humility”, we take that first step backward
4. Paul’s advice to the Corinthians is very apropos in this regard – 1 Corinthians 10:11
B. LAZINESS – Mark 14:32-42
1. Told to keep watch, Peter kept falling asleep
2. It was therefore lack of diligent preparation which caused him to be caught off guard for what was to follow
3. The same thing can happen to us!
a. Without diligence, we too can be found unprepared – Luke 21:34-36
b. More often than not, it is a “gradual drifting” that catches us off guard – Hebrews 2:1-3
c. But when we are proud of ourselves, we become lazy, and that easily leads to the next step
C. COWARDICE – Mark 14:54
1. Note that it says “…Peter followed Him at a distance”
2. Now that Jesus had become unpopular…
a. Peter stays far enough away so as not to be identified with Him
b. Peter was unprepared for the challenge of facing ridicule and persecution
3. Without diligent preparation, we too can become guilty of cowardice!
a. Ashamed to be seen carrying a Bible
b. Ashamed to be seen giving thanks
c. Ashamed to be seen with other Christians
d. Perhaps even ashamed to let others know that we are Christians!
4. And yet, Jesus has made it clear what He thinks of “cowardice” – Mark 8:38; Revelation 21:8
5. When we are ashamed of Christ, it is natural for to fall into the next step of backsliding
D. WORLDLINESS – Mark 14:54
1. We now find Peter sitting with the servants of the High Priest and warming himself by the fire
2. Ashamed to be seen with Christ, it becomes easy to mingle with those of the world and enjoy their comforts
3. But one cannot be “comforted by the fire” of the world, and not be “burned”!
a. Close contact with that which can harm has its effects! – Proverbs 6:27-29
b. So it is we cannot “flirt with the world” and walk away untouched! – 1 Corinthians 15:33
4. By the time we become “friends with the world”, it is only a short time before we take the next and final step of backsliding
E. DENIAL – Mark 14:66-71
1. Away from Christ, at comfort with those in the world, Peter finds himself denying His Lord and Savior!
2. In so doing, he has put himself in grave danger – Mark 10:32-33
3. Though we may never actually deny Jesus in “words”, we can easily backslide to the point of denying Him in “action”
a. We are called to worship Him…but make excuses why we cannot
b. We are called to serve Him…but render little or no service
c. We are called to stand by His side and suffer for His name …but stand afar off in the safety of the world’s comfort
[When we deny the Lord, our backsliding is complete; unless we repent, the only thing left is to one day face the Lord, where we will fully realize the error of our ways! For Peter, he fully realized his sin when the Lord turned and looked at him there in the courtyard (cf. Luke 22:60-62). Imagine the feeling in Peter’s heart as those eyes of His Savior pierced his soul! Like Judas, Peter wept bitterly over his sin. Unlike Judas, Peter had “godly sorrow” that results in true repentance (cf. 2 Corinthians 7:10-11). And years later, we find Peter writing the sort of things that would prevent us from making the same mistake he did…]
II. ADVICE FROM ONE WHO LEARNED THE HARD WAY
A. TO GUARD AGAINST “PRIDE”
1. Peter enjoins “humility” – 1 Peter 5:5-6
2. Indeed, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble”
B. TO WARD AGAINST “LAZINESS”.
1. Peter commands “diligence” – 1 Peter 5:8-9
2. Note especially his words in his second epistle – 2 Peter 1:5,10; 3:14
C. INSTEAD OF “COWARDICE”.
1. Peter charges us to “glorify God” – 1 Peter 4:16
2. Think not of what it means to you, but what it means to God!
D. INSTEAD OF “WORLDLINESS”
1. Peter tells us to “abstain” – 1 Peter 2:11-12
2. Remember that we are “sojourners and pilgrims”, destined for a better place than the things of this world have to offer!
E. INSTEAD OF “DENIAL”
1. Peter exhorts us to ever be ready to “give a defense” – 1 Peter 3:15
2. By careful preparation, we will “defend” Christ, and not “deny” Christ!
Conclusion
1. From one who learned by the hard road of experience, let’s heed his advice lest we one day backslide ourselves, and in so doing deny the Lord! – 2 Peter 3:17-18
2. Remember too that when Peter saw the eyes of his Lord, he realized the error of his way
a. Fortunately for him, there was still time to repent
b. But for us, when we see Jesus “face to face”, the time to repent will be gone…it will be the time for judgment!
3. If we realize that we are guilty of backsliding
a. Repent now; do not wait until you stand before Jesus
b. Do it now, so that your “face to face” encounter with Jesus will be terrific, not terrifying!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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