Historical Posts
Luke 11:37-41 Cleaning the Inside
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Text: Luke 11:37-41
Introduction
1. People are often concerned about appearances
a. Especially that they are viewed as moral and upright
b. Even when deep down they are not moral and upright
2. Jesus warned of cleaning the outside without cleaning the inside – Luke 11:37-41
a. Of which the Pharisees were often guilty – Matthew 23:25-26
b. Appearing righteous, but full of hypocrisy and lawlessness – Matthew 23:27-28
Body
I. THROUGH CONVERSION
A. BY BEING BORN AGAIN
1. Jesus taught the necessity of a “new birth” – John 3:3-8
2. This new birth involves the Spirit and water – John 3:5; Titus 3:5
3. It also involves the Word of God – James 1:18, 21; 1 Peter 1:22-23
B. BY OBEYING THE GOSPEL
1. The Word which causes rebirth is proclaimed in the gospel – 1 Peter 1:24-25
2. The good news Jesus which Jesus wanted everyone to hear – Mark 16:15-16
3. A message including faith, repentance, baptism – Acts 2:37-38
4. When one obeys the gospel in faith, repentance, and baptism, their sins are washed away through the blood of Christ – Acts 22:16
That is truly “cleaning the inside”! But the cleansing continues:
II. THROUGH SANCTIFICATION
A. PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN
1. Sanctification involves becoming “holy”, “set apart”
2. This requires seriously addressing those things which defile a man – Mark 7:21-23
3. This is an ongoing process for Christians, putting off the old man – Colossians 3:5-11
B. PUTTING ON THE NEW MAN
1. It is not enough to get rid of the old; we must replace it – Matthew 12:43-45
2. Replacing the old man by putting on the new man – Colossians 3:12-17
3. Producing the fruit of the Spirit instead of works of the flesh – Galatians 5:19-23
Conclusion
1. Are we clean on the outside while dirty on the inside?
2. Look to Jesus for true conversion and sanctification, or remain as whited sepulchers!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 01:23-25 Beyond the Manger
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Text: Matthew 1:23-25
Introduction
1. The virgin birth of Jesus is a central truth of Christianity.
2. The fact that God relinquished heaven to come to the earth and live as a man is captivating to say the least – John 1:1; John 1:14
3. While the facts surrounding the birth of Jesus are firmly rooted in Scripture, the special celebration of his birth is a man made event.
a. It wasn’t until 354 A.D. that the Bishop of Rome decided to observe December 25th, formerly a pagan holiday observed intended to honor the God, Saturn to a celebration of the birth of Jesus.
4. This afternoon, I wish for us to focus on the Jesus beyond the manger.
Body
I. As a Baby, He Was Helpless – As A Man, He Was All Powerful
A. As a Baby, he was totally dependent on others for survival.
B. As a man, we become totally dependent on him for survival.
C. Matthew 28:18-20
D. The power of Jesus must have been, and still is awe inspiring – John 11:43
E. This sort of power demands our respect.
II. As A Baby, He Was Loved – As A Man, He Was Hated
A. While it is true that Herod hated Jesus when he was born (Matthew 2), most people love a baby.
B. (John 15:18-20) Jesus was different and thus hated.
C. By his light, he exposed the darkness and the shame in others – John 3:19
III. As A Baby, He Made Demands Of His Mother – As A Man, He Makes Demands Of Everyone
A. Every parent knows from experience the taxing demands of an infant.
B. But as Jesus grew, so did the scope of his demands.
C. He began to call all men to repentance and a change of lifestyle – John 8:11; Luke 13:3; Matthew 16:24
IV. Jesus Was Born To Die So That We Can Be Born To Live
A. Christianity is full of paradoxes.
B. It was God’s plan from before the creation of the world to send Jesus to the earth to die – Revelation 13:8; Luke 24:46-47
C. Today, those who are born again can have life – John 3:3-5; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 5:4
Conclusion
1. As important as the birth of Jesus is, we must look beyond the manger;beyond the babe; and see the Christ of the cross who has all authority, who makes demands of your life, but who also promises you everlasting life.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 03:15 Why Do You Believe in Jesus?
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Text: 1 Peter 3:15
Introduction
1. In 1 Peter 3:15, all Christians are commanded to be ready to make a”defense” for the reason of their hope in Christ
a. The word “defense” is from apologia, which means “a speech in defense of what one has done, or of truth which one believes”
b. The formal use of this word is used by Paul in Acts 22:1; 1 Corinthians 9:3
2. Peter, however, uses the word in the context of an informal inquiry by a friend or neighbor.
a. Someone asking “Why are you a Christian?”
b. To such Peter says that we should be ready to give reasons why we believe
3. In this series of lessons on “CHRISTIAN APOLOGETICS”, we shall examine some of the evidence that exists for placing one’s faith in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God
4. In doing so, I hope to accomplish two objectives:
a. To STRENGTHEN OUR FAITH in Jesus Christ
b. To HELP PREPARE OURSELVES to be able to do the thing required by Peter in 1 Peter 3:15
Body
I. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “AN INTELLIGENT, RATIONAL FAITH”
A. IT APPEALS TO THE “MIND” AS WELL AS TO THE “HEART”
1. God expects us to use our minds – Matthew 22:36-38; John 8:32
a. I.e., we do not have to commit “INTELLECTUAL SUICIDE” in order to have faith!
b. More than one person said, My heart cannot rejoice in what my mind rejects
1) A “WEAK FAITH” may be the result of the heart trying to believe in something the mind cannot accept
2) But the “STRONG FAITH” God requires involves both the mind and the heart
2. So it is important that we present reasons why we believe in an INTELLIGENT and RATIONAL manner
B. DOES THIS MEAN WE CAN OFFER 100% PROOF?
1. No, but there is virtually nothing of which we can be 100% sure, who our parents are
2. Yet, we often make 100% commitments with less than 100% proof; flying
a. We cannot be 100% certain that we will have a safe journey
b. But the statistical evidence is strong enough to convince us that we will
c. So though we may not have 100% certainty of arriving safely, when we step on the plane we make a 100% commitment!
3. So the question becomes: IS THERE ENOUGH EVIDENCE OR PROOF TO WARRANT MAKING A 100% COMMITMENT TO CHRIST?
a. There is certainly enough evidence to commit myself 100% FOR HIM, rather than be 100% AGAINST HIM!
b. There is no other alternative – Matthew 12:30
c. Jesus is like an airplane; either we get on board totally, or we get left behind!
C. So the Christian faith is to be an INTELLIGENT, RATIONAL FAITH.
II. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “A HISTORICAL, FACTUAL FAITH”
A. CHRISTIANITY APPEALS TO HISTORY, AND THE FACTS OF HISTORY
1. The facts backing the Christian claim are not a special kind of ‘religious’ fact. They are the cognitive, informational facts upon which all historical, legal, and ordinary decisions are based.
2. It will be my purpose in future lessons:
a. To present these HISTORICAL FACTS
b. Then demonstrate that the Christian interpretation is more logical than any other
B. TO BRIEFLY ILLUSTRATE THAT CHRISTIANITY IS BASED UPON HISTORICAL FACTS
1. Consider Luke 2:1-5; Luke 3:1-2
2. Notice the appeal to time, places, people and events that actually existed in history
C. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH, THEREFORE, IS A HISTORICAL FAITH THAT APPEALS TO CERTAIN FACTS OF HISTORICAL OCCURENCE
1. Not a PHILOSOPHICAL faith appealing to philosophies of men
2. Not a faith based upon MYTHS and LEGENDS
III. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “AN OBJECTIVE FAITH”
A. IT IS A FAITH IN AN “OBJECT”: JESUS OF NAZARETH!
1. Faith in WHO He was: The Christ, the Son of God
2. Faith in WHAT He did: He rose from the dead on the third day
B. IT “DOES” MAKE A DIFFERENCE “WHAT” WE BELIEVE!
1. The old cliche “It doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as you believe in something” is inconsistent with the Christian faith
2. Consider John 8:24; Romans 10:9
a. Note that it is not faith IN OF ITSELF that is important
b. But IN WHOM (the object) our faith is based!
IV. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “BASED ON PRINCIPLES OF TRUTH”
A. SUCH AS “TRUTH IS ALWAYS OPEN TO EXAMINATION”
1. So is the Christian faith
a. Acts 2:22 – Peter appealed to the crowd to examine what they themselves knew
b. Acts 26:24-26 – Paul invited Agrippa to examine the evidence
2. Unlike some religions (esp. “Jehovah’s Witnesses” and the “Mormons”), the CHRISTIAN FAITH is open to honest examination
B. SUCH AS “TRUTH IS ALWAYS OPEN TO NON-TRUTH (FALSIFICATION)”
1. That is, it is open to be proven wrong
2. To illustrate, if you don’t believe Jesus was raised from the dead
a. Use the evidence that is available, and…
b. Attempt to prove by it that He wasn’t!
c. Do this and then we shall see which interpretation of the facts is more logical (intelligent and rational)
V. WHY PEOPLE REJECT CHRIST
A. AS IN THE DAYS OF CHRIST, IT IS USUALLY DUE TO ONE OF THREE REASONS:
1. IGNORANCE – John 7:40-43
a. Some rejected Jesus as the Christ because they were ignorant of the historical facts concerning His birth
b. So many do today for a similar reason: LACK OF ACCURATE INFORMATION!
2. PRIDE – John 12:42-43
a. Pride in wanting to be approved kept them from confessing Jesus as the Christ
b. Today, many do not want the RIDICULE or REJECTION one might face for following Christ
3. MORAL PROBLEM – John 3:19-20
a. Some people reject the evidence because it would mean having to change their LIFESTYLE
b. Today, many people in efforts to justify their immorality
1) Accept only that evidence which supports theories which allows them to continue their lifestyle
2) Reject any evidence which may support a doctrine which would condemn their behavior and require a change
B. WHAT IT OFTEN BOILS DOWN TO IS THIS
1. The rejection of Christ
a. Is not so much a problem of the “MIND” but of the “WILL”!
b. Is not so much “I CAN’T” but “I WON’T”!
2. There is enough evidence to convince the honest and sincere seeker
3. But there is not enough evidence to force a man against his will when he is determined to reject it!
Conclusion
1. It is with these “BASICS” in mind that I shall endeavor to give evidence that warrants faith in Jesus of Nazareth as the Christ, the Son of God
2. I shall not attempt to prove anything “beyond a shadow of a doubt,” for that is not possible
3. But I shall try to show that it is more logical to believe in Jesus, than for one not to!
4. And we shall begin by examining the evidence that demonstrates Jesus to be a true, historical figure, a person who actually lived!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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An Introduction to Titus – Titus 01:01-04
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Text: Titus 1:1-4
Introduction
1. As the apostles fulfilled their ministry, it lead to the creation of churches
a. Initially established by the preaching of the gospel – Acts 14:1-21
b. Further established by following up – Acts 14:21-23
2. From Acts 14:21-22, we learn that the process of follow up involved:
a. Strengthening the souls of the disciples
b. Exhorting them to continue in the faith
c. Appointing elders in the church
3. The apostles did not always do the follow up themselves:
a. Paul left Timothy in Ephesus – 1 Timothy 1:1-3
b. He also left Titus on the island of Crete – Titus 1:5
Body
I. THE AUTHOR OF THE EPISTLE
A. PAUL
1. Known formerly as Saul of <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Tarsus”>Tarsus</a>, persecutor of the church – Acts 9:1-2
2. Who became known as the apostle to the Gentiles – Acts 9:15
3. Author of half of the books of the New Testament
B. HIS SELF-IDENTIFICATION
1. A bondservant (slave) of God
a. So James described himself – James 1:1
b. Also Peter and Jude – 2 Peter 1:1; Jude 1:1
c. Paul normally identified himself as a bondservant of Christ, only here does he describe himself as bondservant of God – Romans 1:1; Philippians 1:1
2. An apostle of Jesus Christ
a. apostolos – a delegate, messenger, one sent forth with orders
b. An apostle chosen by Christ Himself – Galatians 1:1
3. Paul expresses his objective as an apostle – Titus 1:1-3
a. Proclaim the faith of God’s elect
b. Preach the truth that leads to holy living
c. Nurture hope for eternal life
1) Which God promised before time began
2) And has now made manifest through preaching, as God commanded
4. The epistle itself was written toward fulfilling Paul’s objective as an apostle. Titus assisting him in fulfilling his objective.
II. THE RECIPIENT OF THE EPISTLE (1:4)
A. TITUS, A TRUE SON IN OUR COMMON FAITH
1. Calling him a true son suggests he was a convert of Paul – 1 Corinthians 4:15
2. There is no mention of Titus by name in the book of Acts
3. But we can glean some things about him from the epistles of Paul
B. HIS BACKGROUND
1. He was a Gentile by birth – Galatians 2:3
2. He accompanied Paul to Jerusalem during the controversy over circumcision – Acts 15:1-2; Galatians 2:1-5
3. During Paul’s third journey Titus became his personal emissary to the church at Corinth
a. First seeking to learn how they received his first letter
1) When Titus did not return to Troas as expected, Paul went on to Macedonia – 2 Corinthians 2:12-13
2) There Paul and Titus finally connected, much to Paul’s relief when Titus reported how well he was received by the Corinthians – 2 Corinthians 7:5-7,13-15
b. Paul then sent Titus and two others back to Corinth – 2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5
1) Bearing the letter we call Second Corinthians
2) Exhorting the brethren to complete their collection for the needy saints in Jerusalem
C. HIS PRESENT AND FUTURE MINISTRY
1. At the time of Paul’s epistle to Titus – Titus 1:5
a. He had been left on the island of Crete by Paul
b. To set in order the things that are lacking
2. If Paul’s plans as expressed in this epistle materialized – Titus 3:12
a. Titus left soon after the arrival of Artemas or Tychicus
b. He met Paul at Nicopolis in northwest Greece
3. We last read of Titus that he had gone to Dalmatia (in modern Croatia) during the final days of Paul’s life – 2 Timothy 4:10
III. THE TIME AND PLACE OF WRITING
A. THE TIME AND PLACE IS UNCERTAIN
1. Not all are in agreement as to when and where it was written
2. It really doesn’t matter in the final analysis
IV. THE PURPOSE AND CONTENT OF THE EPISTLE
A. THE PURPOSE
1. This letter is written to a young preacher assigned a difficult task
2. The churches on the island of Crete were in need of maturation, and this letter is designed to assist Titus in that work
3. Therefore, Paul wrote to encourage Titus:
a. To see that qualified elders were appointed in every city – Titus 1:5-9
b. To preach things befitting sound doctrine – Titus 2:1
c. To exhort the brethren to be zealous for good works – Titus 2:14; 3:1, 8, 14
B. THE CONTENT
1. The epistle is unique in that every chapter includes the phrase good work(s) – Titus 1:16; Titus 2:7; Titus 2:14; Titus 3:1; Titus 3:8; Titus 3:14
2. Here is a brief outline of the epistle:
a. Introduction – Titus 1:1-4
b. Instructions concerning church organization – Titus 1:5-16
1) Qualifications of elders – Titus 1:5-9
2) Dealing with the insubordinate – Titus 1:10-16
c. Instructions concerning Christian conduct – Titus 2:1-3:11
1) For older men and women – Titus 2:1-3
2) For younger women and men – Titus 2:4-8
3) For servants – Titus 2:9-14
4) For brethren in general – Titus 3:1-11
d. Conclusion – Titus 3:12-15
Conclusion
1. With such an emphasis on good works, an appropriate theme for this epistle would be: Maintain Good Works!
2. In keeping with such a theme, I offer the following passage as the key verse of the epistle:
This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. – Titus 3:8
3. As we proceed through this epistle, it will be my prayer and aim that our study will help:
a. To set in order the things that are lacking
b. To encourage one another to be careful to maintain good works
4. Note finally Paul’s greeting to Titus: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior – Titus 1:4
5. Are you lacking in that wonderful grace, mercy, and peace?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Timothy 01:12-17 Master, Let Me Walk with Thee – audio
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Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Introduction
A. It is very important to have a sound concept of what being a Christian is all about. In particular, we need to have a scriptural perspective on what is involved in being a servant of God
B. We ought to view serving God just as the Prodigal Son viewed going home to his father, requesting the privilege of being just a servant – Luke 15:18-19
C. A wholesome concept of godly service is reflected in the song: O Master, let me walk with Thee in lowly paths of service free
Body
I. LIFE IN CHRIST IS A MATTER OF WALKING WITH GOD
A. The Bible pictures faithful men walking with God
1. Enoch – Genesis 5:24 – He pleased God (Hebrews 11:5)
2. Noah – Genesis 6:9
B. Walking with implies friendship and close companionship
C. Walking with God requires walking in His truth – 1 John 1:5-7
1. Zacharias and Elizabeth – Luke 1:5, 6
2. Psalm 86:11; Isiah 2:3
II. THE ONE WITH WHOM WE WALK IS OUR MASTER — WE ARE HIS DISCIPLES
A. Disciple = learner, follower, one under the discipline of another
B. We must live with the Master, and adopt His manner of life and character – Matthew 28:19-20
C. Walking with the Master is not always easy – John 6:66
III. WE WALK WITH THE LORD IN PATHS OF SERVICE
A. Life in the Lord’s kingdom is a life of service – Matthew 20:25-26
1. Acts 20:35
2. Life ought to be more than a selfish concern about whether our own needs are being met
3. It is not the servitude, but the master, that makes slavery degrading – Exodus 21:5-6
B. Jesus Himself was a Servant: Luke 22:27; Matthew 20:28
1. Galatians 6:2
2. 2 Corinthians 12:15
C. In His service to us, Jesus is the Great Example – John 13:1-17
IV. DISCIPLESHIP TO CHRIST IS AN OPPORTUNITY, A PRIVILEGE
A. 1 Timothy 1:12
B. 1 Corinthians 15:9-10
C. God had to be merciful to each of us to allow us to be His servants. Service to Him is not a thing to resent, but to be thankful for!
D. Gratitude for God’s grace and mercy shows up eventually as zeal, enthusiasm, and diligence in God’s service
Conclusion
A. We need to make discipleship an entire way of life, not just one of our many activities
B. When we walk with the Lord, we come to know Him – John 17:3
C. The words of another song speak of the glory of walking with the Master:
When we walk with the Lord in the light of His word, what a glory He sheds on our way.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 13:04 Sanctity of Marriage
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Text: Hebrews 13:4
Introduction
1. Marriage as an institution today is struggling
a. Many seek to redefine what constitutes a marriage
b. We hear of same-sex marriages, open marriages, polygamy, polyandry, polyamory
c. Others decry marriage altogether, preferring simple cohabitation
d. Many joke about it: Marriage is a wonderful institution – But who would want to live in an institution?
2. The family as an institution today is struggling
a. Husbands and wives often suffer strained relationships
b. Parents and children are frequently at odds with one another
c. Much misery in life is due to dysfunctional family relations
d. Some prefer that government assume the role of raising children
3. I believe much of the problem is due to self-centeredness in our society
a. People are told to look out for #1 in all their relations (business, family, etc.)
b. Thus many enter marriage and start families with selfish attitudes
c. Yet no relationship can exist peacefully and lovingly with selfish participants
4. The Bible has much to say about marriage and family
a. Especially in the teachings of Jesus and His apostles
b. That has helped many to have long-lasting, fulfilling relationships
c. Which can affect both our temporal and eternal happiness
Body
I. THE SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE DEFINED
A. THE MEANING OF SANCTITY…
1. Sanctity is defined as the quality of being holy, sacred
2. Thus it is common to speak of holy matrimony (i.e., sacred marriage)
B. THE SACREDNESS OF MARRIAGE
1. Marriage is one of the holiest of relations two people can have
2. Marriage is a bond created by God Himself, thus we must treat it as sacred
3. Marriage is not something to be entered into lightly
C. Is the idea of marriage as a sacred union a Biblical concept? What did Jesus and His apostles say about it?
II. THE SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE EXPLAINED
A. MARRIAGE WAS INSTITUTED BY GOD
1. From the very beginning, following the Creation – Matthew 19:3-4; Genesis 2:18-24
2. Designed for those created as male and female – Matthew 19:4
3. Whose union becomes one flesh – Matthew 19:5
4. Marriage is not a creation of the state, but of God Himself!
B. MARRIAGE IS REGULATED BY JESUS
1. Jesus has been given all authority, will be our Judge in all things – Matthew 28:18; 2 Corinthians 5:10
2. He taught that man may try to put asunder, but only God puts asunder – Matthew 19:7-9
a. One may legally divorce and remarry, but adultery can still occur – Matthew 5:31-32
b. God allows divorce only for fornication, and remarriage by the innocent – Matthew 19:9
3. He taught some might have to remain celibate (make themselves eunuchs) for the sake of the kingdom of heaven – Matthew 19:11-12
a. Because they had been divorced for adultery or unlawfully married
b. Or because they were single by choice, or never asked to be married
4. His apostle Paul had more to say concerning marriage:
a. Marriage is for life; marrying another while one’s spouse is alive is adultery – Romans 7:1-4
b. Each person is to have his or her own spouse, not shared – 1 Corinthians 7:2
c. Husbands and wives have certain duties toward one another – 1 Corinthians 7:3-5
d. One is not to divorce; if divorced, must remain single or return to spouse – 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
e. If an unbelieving spouse departs, a believer is not obligated to fulfill marital duties (but that does not necessarily imply they are free to remarry) – 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, 12-16
5. Jesus as Lord over all is the final Arbiter regarding marriage!
C. MARRIAGE IS RESERVED FOR INTIMACY
1. The only proper relationship for sexual intimacy (intercourse) is marriage – Hebrews 13:4
a. Not before the wedding, during courtship, but only after the wedding
b. Greatly simplifying the perennial question When is the right time?
2. Sex outside marriage is fornication
a. Fornication includes pre-marital, extra-marital, or same-sex relations
b. Such conduct can keep one out of the kingdom of God – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
3. Pre-marital sex endangers having a successful marriage
a. The national divorce rate in the United States is over 40 percent
b. Couples who wait to have sex until marriage – and remain faithful – have a divorce rate of only 20 percent
c. Couples who have more sexual partners prior to or outside of marriage have a much higher rate of divorce
d. Those who have as many as five partners have only a 30 percent chance that their marriage will not end in divorce
4. A successful marriage requires mutual respect and trust
a. Courtship is the time to build respect and trust which will strengthen your marriage
b. If your potential spouse will sin with you before you marry…
c. …what assurance do you have they will not sin against you after you marry?
5. The sanctity of marriage is preserved when it alone is the realm of sexual intimacy
Conclusion
1. Marriage is not an institution
a. Created and designed by man or the state
b. Subject to alteration by societal whims
2. 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. Marriage is a successful institution
a. When we follow the Biblical injunctions concerning it
b. When members of the family fulfill their proper roles
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 13:01-03 Loving Exhortations – audio
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Text: Hebrews 13:1-3
Introduction:
1. When we began our study, we noted that the epistle to the Hebrews
a. Began like an essay – Hebrews 1:1-2
b. Progressed like a sermon – Hebrews 2:1 – 12:29
c. Ended like a letter – Hebrews 13:1-25
2. As with many epistles in the New Testament, this letter ends with various exhortations
a. The first regarding the objects of their love – Hebrews 13:1-3
b. Here we find the author practicing what he preaches; seeking to stir up love and good works – Hebrews 10:24
Body
I. TOWARD BRETHREN (Hebrews 13:1)
A. THE IMPORTANCE OF BROTHERLY LOVE
1. It is a mark of true discipleship – John 13:35
2. It is an indication of true spiritual life – 1 John 3:14
B. THE HEBREWS HAD MANIFESTED BROTHERLY LOVE
1. Note the text says their love was to continue
2. They had demonstrated brotherly love in the past
a. In their ministry to God and His saints – Hebrews 6:10
b. Even in their compassion to the author – Hebrews 10:32-34
C. THE NEED FOR BROTHERLY LOVE NEVER DIMINISHES
1. Just as Paul wrote:
a. For the Thessalonians to excel in their love – 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10
b. For the Philippians to abound in their love – Philippians 1:9
2. Just as Peter wrote that our love should abound – 2 Peter 1:7-8
3. Even now, the author of Hebrews says Let brotherly love continue!
II. TOWARD STRANGERS (Hebrews 13:2)
A. THIS IS A CALL FOR HOSPITALITY
1. The Greek word is philoxenia {fil-on-ex-ee’-ah}
a. Literally, a love of strangers
b. It involved receiving a stranger (sojourner) into one’s home as an honored guest and to provide the guest with food, shelter, and protection
2. In many ancient cultures, hospitality was a solemn duty
a. It was regarded as a sacred obligation by the ancient Greeks and Romans, one that was approved by Zeus, the god and protector of strangers
b. The Egyptians claimed it as a meritorious deed in life
c. For the Bedouins, it was an expression of righteousness
d. Hospitality is one form of worship (Jewish Proverb)
3. In the early church, it was an important ministry
a. Christians were often displaced by persecution; public inns were scarce, costly, and sometimes dangerous
b. Traveling evangelists were to be supported through hospitality – 3 John 1:5-8
4. Thus hospitality is to be manifested by
a. Those men who would serve as elders (bishops) – 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8
b. Those widows who would be taken into the number – 1 Timothy 5:9-10
c. All Christians – Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9
B. A REASON TO PRACTICE HOSPITALITY
1. for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.
a. The example of Abraham – Genesis 18:1-8
b. The example of Lot – Genesis 19:1-3
2. The point is not that we should expect angels to literally come our way
a. Though some we entertain may serve as His messengers (angel means messenger)
b. The key idea is that you never know what hospitality might bring
1) One often receives unexpected benefits from his or her guests
2) There is always the blessedness of giving – Acts 20:35
III. TOWARD PRISONERS AND THE PERSECUTED (Hebrews 13:3)
A. A CALL TO REMEMBER THEM
1. Christians were often persecuted and imprisoned for their faith
a. Prior to his conversion, Paul often led the assault – Acts 8:3; 26:9-11
b. Later, he himself was a prisoner – Philippians 1:12-18; Colossians 4:18
2. The Hebrews had already shown their love toward such prisoners – Hebrews 10:32-34
3. To remember and visit Christians in prison was an act of devotion to Christ Himself – Matthew 25:35-40
4. They could also remember them in their prayers – Acts 12:5; Ephesians 6:18-20
B. THEIR LOVING REMEMBRANCE WAS TO BE INFLUENCED
1. By their sense of fellowship in their brethren’s suffering:
a. As if chained with them;
b. The Lord intended such connection between the members of His Body (if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it) – 1 Corinthians 12:26
2. By their awareness of their own vulnerability
a. Since you yourselves are in the body also
b. They would not be immune to persecution themselves. Therefore, they should be sensitive to the sufferings of others
Conclusion
1. In providing a new and living way, it is true that Jesus made possible a close relationship between man and God – Hebrews 10:19-22
2. But the purity we experience through obeying the truth
a. Is not just that we may have fellowship with God
b. But also that we may have fellowship with each other in sincerity and love! – 1 Peter 1:22-23
3. Thus it naturally follows that as we draw near to God, we should also draw near to one another; this we do when we show our love
a. Toward brethren (Hebrews 13:1)
b. Toward strangers (Hebrews 13:2)
c. Toward prisoners and the persecuted (Hebrews 13:3)
4. May we all be diligent to heed the exhortation to let brotherly love continue!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 12:18-29 Obey the Voice from the Mountain – audio
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Text: Hebrews 12:18-29
Introduction
1. In encouraging Christians to run the race that is set before them
a. Lay aside things that would hinder them – Hebrews 12:1
b. Run with endurance – Hebrews 12:1
c. Keep their focus on Jesus – Hebrews 12:2-3
d. Remember the value of the Lord’s chastening – Hebrews 12:4-11
e. Run with style – Hebrews 12:12-13
f. Pursue peace and holiness – Hebrews 12:14
g. Look diligently lest one fall short of God’s grace, stumble because of bitterness, or become a fornicator or profane person – Hebrews 12:15-17
2. Further encouragement is now provided in the last half of chapter twelve
a. With a reminder of the mountain to which they have come
b. With a warning to obey Him who speaks
3. As we run the race of faith today, we need this same reminder and warning
a. Do we appreciate the significance of the mountain to which we have come?
b. Are we obeying the voice from the mountain?
c. How we answer such questions can reveal how well we are running the race of faith!
Body
I. THE MOUNTAIN TO WHICH WE HAVE COME (Hebrews 12:18-24)
A. IT IS NOT MOUNT SINAI (Hebrews 12:18-21)
1. The mountain described first is Mount Sinai, to which Israel came following their deliverance from Egyptian bondage where they received the Law – Exodus 19:12-19
a. It seems to have been much like a volcano – Exodus 20:18; Deuteronomy 4:11
b. It frightened the people – Deuteronomy 5:22-26; 18:16
c. Even Moses was afraid – Deuteronomy 9:19
2. We have not come to such a mountain, which forces us to stand afar off
B. IT IS MOUNT ZION (Hebrews 12:22-24)
1. The mountain to which we have come is one that encourages us to draw near
2. We have come to Mount Zion
a. Zion was originally the stronghold of the Jebusites in Jerusalem that became the city of David – 2 Samuel 5:6-10; 1 Chronicles 11:4-9
b. The term Zion came to be used to refer to:
1) The city of Jerusalem – Psalm 48:2; 84:7; Amos 6:1
2) The heavenly Jerusalem where God dwells – Isaiah 28:16; Psalm 2:6; Revelation 14:1
3. In coming to Mount Zion, we have also come to:
a. The city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem
1) The heavenly city longed for by Abraham and the others – Hebrews 11:10, 13-16
2) The heavenly city longed for by Christians today – Hebrews 13:14
3) The heavenly city we will one day experience – Revelation 3:12; 21:1-7; 22:14
b. An innumerable company of angels
1) The heavenly servants of God, of which there is a great number – Revelation 5:11
2) Who also minister to those who will inherit salvation – Hebrews 1:14
c. The general assembly and church of the firstborn registered in heaven
1) The church in the universal sense, made up of all who are saved – Acts 2:47
2) They are the firstborn ones, who enjoy special privileges of their birthright
3) Their names are in the Book of Life – Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5
d. God the Judge of all
1) The Judge of all the earth – cf. Genesis 18:25
2) He is the One to whom we must give obey, as we shall note shortly
e. The spirits of just men made perfect
1) Those who died in faith, such as the Old Testament saints – Hebrews 11:39-40
2) Note: They had not been made perfect apart from us, but now they are made perfect; they were redeemed by the blood of Christ! – Hebrews 9:15
f. Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant
1) As we’ve seen, He is the Mediator of a better covenant – Hebrews 8:6
2) This new covenant is by means of His death – Hebrews 9:15
g. The blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel
1) Abel still speaks through the example of his faith – Hebrews 11:4
2) But in comparison, the blood of Jesus speaks volumes! – Hebrews 10:11-14
II. WHY WE SHOULD OBEY THE VOICE FROM THE MOUNTAIN (Hebrews 12:25-29)
A. THOSE AT MOUNT SINAI DID NOT ESCAPE (Hebrews 12:25)
1. We have seen from our study that:
a. Every transgression and disobedience received a just reward – Hebrews 2:2
b. Those who sinned, their corpses fell in the wilderness – Hebrews 3:17
c. Those who rejected Moses’ law died without mercy – Hebrews 10: 28
2. Thus the argument is again one of comparison, from the lesser to the greater
a. How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation – Hebrews 2:1-4
b. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy – Hebrews 10:26-31
3. As Jesus said in Luke 12:48
a. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required
b. And to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.
4. In Christ we enjoy so much more; dare we refuse to obey Him who speaks, not from Mount Sinai, but from Mount Zion (heaven itself)!
B. THE ONE WHO SPEAKS WILL SHAKE HEAVEN AND EARTH (Hebrews 12:26-27)
1. When God spoke at Mount Sinai, the earth trembled – Exodus 19:18
2. The day is coming when both heaven and earth will be shaken, even removed!
a. As promised in Hag 2:6
b. Which refers to the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made – 2 Peter 3:10-12
3. Dare we refuse to obey Him who speaks with such impact?
C. WE ARE RECEIVING A KINGDOM WHICH CANNOT BE SHAKEN (Hebrews 12:28)
1. While everything made will one day perish, we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken!
a. Note the present tense (are receiving)
b. Thus we are in the process of receiving this kingdom
2. It is a kingdom both present and future:
a. In one sense, we are now in the kingdom – Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9
b. In another sense, we have yet to enter the kingdom – 2 Peter 1:10-11
3. It is a kingdom:
a. Inaugurated when Jesus ascended to sit at God’s right hand on David’s throne – Acts 2:30-36
b. To be culminated when Jesus returns to deliver the kingdom to God – 1 Corinthians 15:23-26
4. Thus it is a kingdom:
a. which shall never be destroyedit shall stand forever – Daniel 2:44
b. Of which there will be no end – Luke 1:33
5. Receiving such a kingdom, dare we refuse to obey Him who speaks?
D. THE ONE WHO SPEAKS IS A CONSUMING FIRE (29)
1. We’ve read of a fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries – Hebrews 10:27
2. We’ve seen it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God – Hebrews 10:31
3. Even Jesus taught us to fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell – Matthew 10:28
4. Dare we refuse to obey such an awesome God?
Conclusion
1. God has indeed spoken
a. He has spoken through His Son – Hebrews 1:1-2
b. He has spoken from Mount Zion, that heavenly city, the New Jerusalem:
1) To which we have come through an obedient faith in Jesus – Hebrews 5:9
2) Where we can enjoy the fellowship of angels, the redeemed in heaven and on earth, and of Jesus and God Himself!
3) Where we can enjoy a New and better covenant, based upon the better sacrifice of Jesus’ blood!
2. But with such wonderful blessings come the responsibility of giving obedience:
a. Not to neglect our great salvation
b. Not to refuse Him who speaks from the heavenly mountain
3. Therefore our goal should be that as expressed by the author himself: let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. – Hebrews 12:28b
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 12:12-17 Pursuit of Peace and Holiness – audio
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Text: Hebrews 12:12-17
Introduction (Mother’s Day)
1. Hebrews 12:1-3: we saw the need to run a race:
a. Lay aside things that would hinder us, especially the sin of unbelief
b. Have endurance, even as Jesus endured hostility and the cross
c. Focus our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, whose own example should encourage us not to become weary and discouraged
2. After reminding us of the value of the Lord’s chastening in verses Hebrews 12:4-11, the author of Hebrews in Hebrews 12:12 returns to the metaphor of running:
a. With a call to run with style – Hebrews 12:12-13
b. With instructions to pursue peace and holiness – Hebrews 12:14
c. With a word of caution, appealing to the example of Esau – Hebrews 12:15-17
3. One way to describe the Christian race, then, is the pursuit of peace and holiness
a. How well are we doing in our pursuit?
b. Do we know what it is we are to be running after?
c. Are we aware of the possible pitfalls that can hinder us?
Body
I. MAKING PREPARATION FOR OUR PURSUIT (Hebrews 12:12-13)
A. A CALL TO RUN WITH STYLE
1. We are to strengthen
a. the hands which hang down
b. the feeble knees
c. A common figure of speech (Job 4:3-4; Isaiah 35:3), calling us to shake off all weariness, to be firm and strong
2. We are to make straight paths for our feet, so that:
a. what is lame may not be dislocated
b. but rather be healed
c. Another common expression (Isa 40:3-4: Proverbs 4:23-27), encouraging us to remove all that would hinder our progress (especially if we are weak)
B. THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS CALL
1. First, we must respond to this call to action
a. This is something we are being called to do
b. We can’t expect God to do it all!
c. While God will certainly help us, we must make the effort – Philippians 2:12-13
2. This call to action is not limited to strengthening just oneself
a. Certainly there is the personal application
b. But as concerned Christians, we should seek to:
1) Strengthen the hands and feeble knees of others
2) make straight paths for others – 1 Thessalonians 5:14
c. Just as those who are spiritual should be concerned for others – Galatians 6:1
C. Shall we heed the call to be strong and very courageous?
II. THE GOAL OF OUR PURSUIT (Hebrews 12:14)
A. PEACE WITH ALL MEN
1. We should not be surprised to read that we are to pursue peace
a. Jesus is The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6
b. He died to make peace possible: with God, and with man – Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:13-17
c. He taught that peacemakers will be called the children of God – Matthew 5:9
d. A key element of the kingdom of God is peace – Romans 14:17-18
e. Therefore, we are to pursue peace with all men – Romans 14:19; 12:18
2. How does one pursue peace with all men?
a. By seeking peace with God first – Proverbs 16:7
1) We must first make our relationship with God what it ought to be
2) Through Jesus, we can be at peace with God – Romans 5:1
b. Letting the peace of God rule in our hearts – Colossians 3:15
1) The Lord is able to give you peace always in every way – 2 Thessalonians 3:16
2) How the Lord imparts peace:
a) Through His Word – Psalm 119:165
b) Through prayer – Philippians 4:6-7
3) If one is not at peace with himself, it is unlikely he can be at peace with others
c. By doing things that make for peace – Romans 14:19
1) Such as being considerate of their conscience – Romans 14:13-21
2) Seeking unity with compassion, love, tenderness, and courtesy; willing to respond to evil or reviling with a blessing – 1 Peter 3:8-11
B. HOLINESS, WITHOUT WHICH NO ONE WILL SEE THE LORD
1. As God is holy, so His children must be holy – 1 Peter 1:14-16; 1 Thessalonians 4:7
2. How can we pursue holiness?
a. True holiness (sanctification) comes through:
1) Faith in Jesus – Acts 26:18; cf. Hebrews 10:10-14
2) The work of the Holy Spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; Titus 3:5
3) The Word of God – John 17:17-19
b. We cooperate with God in pursuing holiness by:
1) Offering ourselves as slaves of righteousness – Romans 6:19-22
2) Perfecting holiness in the fear of God – 2 Corinthians 7:1
a) Which includes cleansing ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh – 2 Corinthians 7:1
b) Also putting on the new man in true righteousness and holiness – Ephesians 4:24
3. In many respects, this is what the Christian life is all about pursuing peace and holiness! How successful we are will depend on how diligently we avoid the pitfalls
III. PITFALLS THAT HINDER OUR PURSUIT (Hebrews 12:15-17)
A. FALLING SHORT OF THE GRACE OF GOD
1. Without God’s grace, none can be saved, pursue peace, or have the holiness necessary to see God!
2. But do Christians need to concern themselves with falling from grace? Consider:
a. The warning not to neglect our great salvation – Hebrews 2:1-3
b. The warning not to be hardened by sin – Hebrews 3:12-14
c. The warning to be diligent – Hebrews 4:1, 11; 2 Peter 1:10
d. The warning against willful sin – Hebrews 10:26-31
e. The warning not receive God’s grace in vain – 2 Corinthians 6:1
f. The warning not to fall from grace – Galatians 5:4
g. The warning to look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for – 2 John 8
3. For the Christian, however, God’s grace can be just a prayer away! – Hebrews 4:16
B. LETTING A ROOT OF BITTERNESS TO SPRING UP
1. Bitterness can be a stumbling block in our pursuit of peace
a. It destroys the peace within the person who harbors it (modern medicine has shown that emotions like bitterness and anger can cause problems such as headaches, backaches, allergic disorders, ulcers, high blood pressure, and heart attacks, etc.)
b. It can destroy the peace in the congregation where it becomes manifest
2. It also becomes a stumbling block in our pursuit of holiness, for the problems it creates cause many to become defiled (unholy)
3. If we are going to make straight paths for your feet, then we need to clip any root of bitterness in the bud!
C. BECOMING A FORNICATOR OR PROFANE PERSON
1. Fornication is certainly a pitfall to avoid
a. Fornication is a generic term for any sort of sexual immorality (including pre-marital sex, adultery, homosexuality, etc.)
Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:26, 27; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; 1 Timothy 1:8-10
b. It is contrary to God’s will regarding our sanctification – 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8
1) Later, we will read in Hebrews where God will judge fornicators – Hebrews 13:4
2) It will keep one out of the kingdom of heaven – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21
c. Therefore, let us flee fornication! – 1 Corinthians 6:18
2. We must also not become a profane person
a. A worldly person who profanes holy privileges by placing on them a worldly estimate.
b. One does not have to overtly wicked; they can displease God by simply devaluing that which is important to Him with contempt, mockery, or scorn!
c. Such was the case with Esau – Genesis 25:29-34
1) There is no indication that he was a fornicator
2) But he was a profane person because he did not proper estimate the value of his birthright
3) Though he later wanted the blessings of the birthright, it was too late; despite his tears, it was too late to change his father’s mind he found no place for repentance
d. We can become profane by devaluing our spiritual blessings
1) In Christ, we have a spiritual birthright (redemption, fellowship with God, the hope of eternal life)
2) But we can let careers, hobbies, friends, even families, come between us and the things of God
3) Are we willing to sell our birthright for one morsel of food?
Conclusion
1. As we run the race of faith, our goal should be peace and holiness before God
2. To run the race, we need to:
a. Get in the proper form (lift the hands, strengthen the knees)
b. Watch out for the pitfalls that can hinder us in our pursuit, such as:
1) Not utilizing God’s grace to help you in our race
2) Allowing bitterness to become a stumbling block
3) Becoming a fornicator or profane person
3. As we run this race, the words of the apostle Paul are appropriate:
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. – 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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An Introduction to Matthew
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Text: Matthew
Introduction
1. The book of Matthew has always occupied a position of high esteem in the faith and life of the church:
“When we turn to Matthew, we turn to the book which may well be called the most important single document of the Christian faith, for in it we have the fullest and the most systematic account of the life and the teachings of Jesus.” (William Barclay)
2. The writings of the early church fathers reveal that it was…
a. The most frequently quoted
b. Perhaps the most widely read gospel during the first two centuries of the church’s history
[Why was this book so popular? Perhaps we can understand why as we consider some background information pertaining to it…]
Body
I. AUTHOR AND DATE OF THE GOSPEL
A. MATTHEW (LEVI)…
1. The apostolic origin and canonical rank of the gospel of Matthew were accepted without a doubt by the early church (ISBE)
2. Matthew, surnamed Levi, had been a tax-collector…
a. He was one of Jesus’ earliest disciples – Matthew 9:9; Mark 2:14
b. He was chosen to be one of the twelve apostles – Matthew 10:2-3
3. Being a close associate of Jesus during His ministry…
a. Matthew’s gospel is a first hand account
b. Unlike Luke who depended upon other eyewitnesses – Luke 1:1-4
B. BEFORE 70 A.D….
1. Irenaeus says it was written when Peter and Paul were preaching in Rome
2. Eusebius states that this was done when Matthew left Palestine and went to preach to others (Historia Ecclesiastica, III, 24)
3. Clement of Alexandria said that the presbyters who succeeded each other from the beginning declared that “the gospels containing the genealogies (Matthew and Luke) were written first” (Eusebius, Historia Ecclesiastica, VI, 14)
4. A date before 70 A.D. is considered by many to be the most feasible
II. THEME AND OUTLINE OF THE GOSPEL
A. ITS THEME OR PURPOSE…
1. Written to Jews, designed to prove that Jesus is the Messiah of OT prophecy
2. Evidenced by his frequent appeal to OT Messianic prophecies
a. He quotes from almost every book in the OT
b. Twelve times he identifies O.T. prophecies as fulfilled in the life of Jesus – Matthew 1:22; 2:15,23; 4:14; 5:17; 8:17; 12:17; 13:14,35; 21:4; 27:9
— One could say that the theme is: “Jesus, King of the Jews”
B. A DETAILED OUTLINE…
(adapted from The Wycliffe Bible Commentary)
1. The birth and childhood of Jesus Christ – Matthew 1:1-2:23
a. Genealogy of Christ – Matthew 1:1-17
b. Birth of Christ – Matthew 1:18-25
c. Visit of the Magi – Matthew 2:1-12
d. Flight into Egypt and massacre of the infants – Matthew 2:13-18
e. Residence at Nazareth – Matthew 2:19-23
2. The preparation for the ministry of Jesus Christ – Matthew 3:1-4:11
a. The forerunner of Christ – Matthew 3:1-12
b. Baptism of Christ – Matthew 3:13-17
c. Temptation of Christ – Matthew 4:1-11
3. The ministry of Jesus Christ – Matthew 4:12-25:46
a. His ministry in Galilee – Matthew 4:12-18:35
1) Residence at Capernaum – Matthew 4:12-17
2) Call of four disciples – Matthew 4:18-22
3) General survey of the Galilean ministry – Matthew 4:23-25
4) Sermon on the mount – Matthew 5:1-7:29
5) Ten miracles and related events – Matthew 8:1-9:38
6) Mission of the twelve – Matthew 10:1-42
7) Christ’s answer to John, and related discourse – Matthew 11:1-30
8) Opposition from the Pharisees – Matthew 12:1-50
9) A series of parables on the kingdom – Matthew 13:1-58
10) Withdrawal of Jesus following John’s beheading – Matthew 14:1-36
11) Conflict with the Pharisees over tradition – Matthew 15:1-20
12) Withdrawal to Phoenecia and healing of a Canaanitish woman’s daughter – Matthew 15:21-28
13) Return to the Sea of Galilee and performing of miracles – Matthew 15:29-38
14) Renewed conflict with the Pharisees and Sadducees – Matthew 15:39-16:4
15) Withdrawal to the region of Caesarea Philippi – Matthew 16:5-17:23
16) Instruction of the twelve at Capernaum – Matthew 17:24-18:35
b. His ministry in Perea – Matthew 19:1-20:16
1) Teaching on divorce – Matthew 19:1-12
2) Blessing of the children – Matthew 19:13-15
3) Interview with the rich young man – Matthew 19:16-30
4) Parable of the laborers in the vineyard – Matthew 20:1-16
c. His ministry in Judea – Matthew 20:17-34
1) Another prediction of Christ’s death and resurrection – Matthew 20:17-19
2) Ambitious request of Zebedee’s sons – Matthew 20:20-28
3) Healing of two blind men – Matthew 20:29-34
d. His ministry in Jerusalem – Matthew 21:1-25:46
1) Triumphal entry – Matthew 21:1-11
2) Cleansing the Temple – Matthew 21:12-17
3) Cursing of the barren fig tree – Matthew 21:18-22
4) Questioning of Jesus’ authority and his parabolic answer – Matthew 21:23-22:14
5) Questioning of Jesus by various groups – Matthew 22:15-46
6) Jesus’ public denunciation of the Pharisees – Matthew 23:1-39
7) Olivet Discourse – Matthew 24:1-25:46
4. The suffering of Jesus Christ – Matthew 26:1-27:66
a. Plot against Jesus – Matthew 26:1-16
b. The final meal – Matthew 26:17-30
c. Prediction of Peter’s denial – Matthew 26:31-35
d. Events in Gethsemane – Matthew 26:36-56
e. Events at the Jewish trials – Matthew 26:57-27:2
f. Remorse of Judas – Matthew 27:3-10
g. Events at the Roman trials – Matthew 27:11-31
h. The Crucifixion – Matthew 27:32-56
i. Burial – Matthew 27:32-56
5. The resurrection of Jesus Christ – Matthew 28:1-20
a. Discovery of the empty tomb – Matthew 28:1-8
b. Appearance of Jesus Christ – Matthew 28:9-10
c. Report of the soldiers – Matthew 28:11-15
d. The great commission – Matthew 28:16-20
III. SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE GOSPEL
A. A JEWISH GOSPEL…
1. We’ve noted its frequent appeal to OT prophecies
2. It’s organization is mostly topical, as opposed to strictly chronological (a common style in Jewish literature)
— It appears to have been written with a Jewish audience in mind
B. AN ECCLESIASTICAL GOSPEL…
1. It is the only gospel which mentions the word “church”
a. It foretells its beginning – Matthew 16:18
b. It describes some of the life in the church – Matthew 18:15-17
2. It contains lengthy discourses especially beneficial to those in the church
a. Such as the sermon on the mount – Matthew 5 – Matthew 7
b. Such as the many parables – Matthew 13
c. Such as the Olivet discourse – Matthew 24 – Matthew 25
3. It contains admonitions important to disciples of Christ
a. Such as the importance of doing the Father’s will – Matthew 7:21-23
b. Such as observing all that Jesus commanded – Matthew 28:20
— In other words, this was a gospel designed for use by those in the early church
C. AN EVANGELISTIC GOSPEL…
1. It is a preaching gospel
a. Especially when compared with the apostles’ preaching found in Acts
b. For it expands upon the basic elements and point made in their sermons
2. Consider these themes in apostolic preaching:
a. God’s promises in the OT have been fulfilled – Acts 3:18,24
b. The long-awaited Messiah, born of David’s line, has come – Acts 13:23
c. He is Jesus of Nazareth – Acts 13:23
d. He went about preaching and doing good through mighty works – Acts 10:38
e. He was crucified according to the promise and will of God – Acts 2:22,23
f. He was raised from the dead, and exalted at God’s right hand – Acts 2:24,32-33
h. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead – Acts 3:20-21; 17:30-31
i. Therefore, all should heed His message, repent, and be baptized – Acts 2:36-38
— All of these points are expanded in the gospel of Matthew
Conclusion
1. The purpose which Matthew’s gospel served in the first century was simple…
a. To confirm faith in Jesus as God’s Anointed One (the Messiah)
b. To instructing disciples on living the Christian life
2. It can serve a similar purpose for us today…
a. Increase our faith in Jesus as the Christ
b. Instruct us in the righteousness expected of those in His kingdom
c. The last three verses present the climax of this amazing gospel:
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20
3. Have you submitted to the authority and command of Jesus as it pertains to becoming His disciple and observing what He taught? If so, then you have the precious promise of His abiding presence in your life!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:12-18 The Christian and Temptation – powerpoint
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James-01-12-18-The-Christian-and-Temptations.pdf
James-01-12-18-The-Christian-and-Temptations.pptx
Text: James 1:12-18
Introduction:
1. One of the greatest challenges of living the Christian life is dealing with temptations
a. For it can be frustrating to know that your sins have been forgiven
b. …only to find yourself bombarded by temptations to continue in your sins
2. James 1:12-18: we find helpful words for the Christian in the form of:
a. A PROMISE to those who endure temptations
b. A CAUTION not to wrongfully blame God
c. AN UNDERSTANDING of how sin develops
Body
I. THE PROMISE – James 1:12
A. THE MAN WHO ENDURES TEMPTATION WILL BE BLESSED
1. The Greek word for blessed is makarios
2. Which means happy, blessed
3. The nature of the happiness enjoyed is described as the verse continues
B. FOR AFTER HE HAS BEEN PROVED HE WILL RECEIVE THE CROWN OF LIFE
1. The promise is that of eternal life
2. The promise is given by Him Who cannot lie – Titus 1:2
3. The promise is given to those who demonstrate their love for God by their endurance of the temptations – James 1:3
II. THE CAUTION – James 1:13, James 1:16-18
A. LET NO ONE SAY THEY ARE TEMPTED BY GOD! – James 1:13
1. That is, to blame God for their temptations
2. For God is so HOLY:
a. He cannot be tempted by evil
b. Nor does He tempt anyone to do evil
B. SO DON’T BE DECEIVED INTO SUCH THINKING – James 1:16-18
1. God is the source of GOOD, not evil!
2. Every good and perfect gift comes from Him!
3. As an example, it was of His Own Will that He brought us forth
a. Which He did by the word of truth – 1 Peter 1:22-23
b. So we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures
III. THE UNDERSTANDING – James 1:14-15
A. HOW SIN DEVELOPS
1. The first stage is TEMPTATION – James 1:14
a. This stage involves two things:
1) DESIRES – a strong desire for something
2) ENTICEMENT – an opportunity and encouragement to satisfy the desire
b. Put into a mathematical formula: Temptation = Desire + Opportunity
c. For example: a small boy is TEMPTED to steal some cookies when he WANTS them and has a good chance to get them and not be seen
d. But remember, it is NOT a sin to be TEMPTED – Hebrews 4:15
2. The second stage in the development of sin is SIN ITSELF – James 1:15
a. Temptation leads to sin only when you yield and ACT upon it
b. Sin therefore requires the added step of ACTION
c. Putting it again in mathematical terms: Sin = Desire + Opportunity + Action
3. The final stage is the consequence of unforgiven sin: DEATH – James 1:15
a. This refers to spiritual separation from God, which is the wages of sin – Romans 6:23
b. Ultimately such death involves eternal punishment – Revelation 21:8
c. Putting it once more in the form of an equation: Desire + Opportunity + Action + No Forgiveness = Punishment!
B. HOW TO OVERCOME SIN
1. CHANGE OUR DESIRES
a. Since this is where the process of sin begins, it is the best place for us to begin
b. Bear in mind that it is a part of Christian growth to change our desires – Romans 12:1-2
c. How do we change our desires?
1) Notice that the WORD OF GOD has always been instrumental in helping people overcome sin – Psalm 119:11; Matthew 4:3-10
2) To see how the Word of God can change our desires0
a) As we read of God’s love, longsuffering and mercy, we desire to serve Him – Psalm 116:12-14
b) As we read of sin and its damnable consequences, we come to hate it! – Psalm 119:104
d. So the more we study God’s Word, the less likely we will have the DESIRE to sin, thereby beginning to overcome sin by nipping it in the bud!
e. But changing our desires takes time; while engaged in the process of changing our desires, what else can we do?
2. LIMIT OUR OPPORTUNITIES
a. Remember, we are tempted only when there is BOTH desire and opportunity
b. So while we work on changing our desires, we should limit the opportunities to fulfill wrongful desires
c. This can be done by ASKING FOR GOD’S PROVIDENTIAL HELP, as Jesus taught – Matthew 6:13; Matthew 26:41
d. We can cooperate with God by:
1) Purposely avoiding situations that might excite wrongful desires
a) Following the example of David – Psalm 101:3-4
b) And the example of Job – Job 31:1
2) Avoiding those whose evil behavior encourages us to sin with them
a) Again, David sets a good example – Psalm 101:6-7
b) Paul also adds his warning – 1 Corinthians 15:33
e. But we will unlikely remove EVERY desire and opportunity to sin in this life, what then?
3. EXERCISE SELF-CONTROL
a. Remember, it becomes sin when we yield to ACTION in fulfilling our sinful desires
b. If we can control ourselves so as to not yield, then we can overcome sin!
c. How does the Christian exercise self-control?
1) Self-control is but one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23
2) Strengthened by the Spirit, we are able to put to death the deeds of the body – Romans 8:12-13
3) As Paul said: I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. – Philippians 4:13
d. It is through faith in God’s Word that the Christian believes that he has this divine help – Ephesians 3:20
1) It is certainly proper to pray for it, as Paul did in behalf of the Ephesians – Ephesians 3:16
2) But equally important, to act upon it, trusting that you are not alone as you try to do God’s will – Philippians 2:12-13
3) As an exercise commercial once said: JUST DO IT!
e. The Christian, then, has no excuse for yielding to a temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:13
f. But there may be times when we don’t take advantage of the strength God provides through His Spirit, and we sin; what then?
4. OBTAIN FORGIVENESS
a. Remember that sin is victorious when it results in punishment
b. But if we obtain forgiveness through the blood of Christ, we can avoid that punishment and thereby still overcome sin! – 1 John 2:1-2
c. Yes, Christ is truly the propitiation for our sins!
1) By His blood, we were forgiven of past sins when united with Him in BAPTISM – Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Revelation 1:5
2) By His blood, we can be forgiven of present sins when we REPENT, PRAY, and CONFESS our sins to God – Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:9
d. At any time the Christian can overcome sins that were committed, by repenting and confessing them to God!
Conclusion
1. Indeed, we can overcome sin by stopping its development at ANY one of the four stages leading to the final punishment!
2. If you noticed carefully, you should have seen that at each of the four points in the development of sin, God is able and willing to help us overcome sin!
a. God helps us to control our desires by providing His WORD to renew our minds
b. God helps us to limit the opportunities through His PROVIDENCE as we pray for such
c. God helps us to exercise self-control over our actions through His SPIRIT strengthening the inner man
d. God helps us to obtain forgiveness through the blood of his son as we repent and pray
3. So how could anyone say that God would tempt us to sin?
a. Certainly He is the giver of every good and perfect gift! – James 1:17
b. Even as Paul wrote, in 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 1 Corinthians 10:13
4. Have you taken advantage of God’s way of escape for the sins you have committed?
5. If not, why not do so by obeying the gospel, the Word of Truth, and become one of the firstfruits of His creatures?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 12:03-11 Avoiding Discouragement – audio
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Text: Hebrews 12:3-11
Introduction:
A. Notice the key word in the text discouraged in Hebrews 12:3
1. It is the greek word ekluw
2. It means to faint, become discouraged, to give up
B. How easy that is in the fast paced lives we live today with everything crowding in on us
Body
I. CONSIDER THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS (Hebrews 12:3-4)
A. Consider the sufferings of Christ.
1. Garden – Hebrews 5:7
2. Beating
3. Cross
B. Compare your suffering to his.
II. LOOK FOR LESSONS IN THE CORRECTION OF THE LORD (Hebrews 12:5-11)
A. Remember the principles of the Lord’s correction – Hebrews 12:5-6
1. Ephesians 6:4, 2 Timothy 3:16
2. His correction is not to be despised. (disregard)
3. His correction is not aimed at discouraging you. (reclaiming or strengthing)
4. His correction is proof of his love. (not neglect)
5. His correction is only given to God’s children. (let’s be thankful)
B. Recognize the correction of the Lord as confirmation of your relationship with Him – Hebrews 12:7
1. His correction is positive proof that you have a relationship with God.(if corrected)
2. All children are chastened at some time. (our parents)
C. Release your pride and submit to the Lord – Hebrews 12:8-10a
1. Human – respect
2. Divine – subjection
D. Receive the benefits of the Lord’s correction – Hebrews 12:10b-11
1. Partakers of His holiness
2. Peaceable fruit of righteousness
Conclusion
1. 1 Peter 5:10-11
2. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 12:01-03 Running the Race of Faith – audio
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Text: Hebrews 12:1-3
Introduction:
1. Throughout our study, we have noted the emphasis on being steadfast in our faith
a. The warning against developing unbelief – Hebrews 3:12-15
b. The need for a faith that endures – Hebrews 6:11-12; Hebrews 10:36-39
c. In chapter eleven, we were reminded of many who had this kind of faith
2. This emphasis continues, with our own life of faith described as a race
a. In which we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses – Hebrews 12:1
1) The cloud of witnesses refers to those mentioned in the previous chapter
2) Those Old Testament saints like Abraham, Moses, etc.
b. In what way are they witnesses?
1) While the word can mean spectator, it is not likely so used here
a) That would suggest they are now looking down on us from heaven
b) But there is no indication the dead know what is going on earth
c) While they may have memory of what happened (Luke 16:28), their attention is focused
upon their present condition – Revelation 7:9-17
2) The word can also refer to those who bear witness
a) By their lives, they have borne witness to the value of faith – Hebrews 11:1-40
b) By their exemplary lives, they encourage us in running the race of faith!
c. As we seek to follow in the footsteps of others who have successfully run the race of faith, there are three things necessary as presented in our text.
Body
I. WE NEED TO LAY SOME THINGS ASIDE (Hebrews 12:1)
A. NOTE THE COMPARISON TO RUNNING
1. The runner who seeks to win:
a. Loses as much weight as possible without hurting performance
b. Wears clothing that is light and allows freedom of movement
2. Excess weight, chafing clothing, etc., can be the difference between victory and defeat!
B. WE TOO MUST LAY SOME THINGS ASIDE
1. Every weight
a. I.e., things which slow down our spiritual progress
1) Such as carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life – Luke 21:34-36
2) Also, anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language – Colossians 3:8; 1 Peter 2:1-2
b. Such things make running the race of faith difficult, if not impossible!
2. The sin which so easily ensnares us
a. Any and all sins should be laid aside
b. From the context, I understand the sin to be the sin of unbelief
1) The epistle was written to encourage faithfulness to Christ and His covenant
2) We’ve seen warnings against unbelief – Hebrews 3:12-13
3) When one no longer believes, the race is lost! – Hebrews 10:26-39
3. With a full assurance of faith, and with every hindrance laid aside, we can run the race of faith as God intended. But as we comprehend the true nature of the course set before us, we can appreciate the need for the element of endurance
II. WE NEED TO HAVE ENDURANCE (Hebrews 12:1)
A. THE RACE OF FAITH IS A MARATHON, NOT A SPRINT
1. It does not require one quick burst of energy, in which the race is soon over
2. This race requires a sustained effort over a long period of time
B. ENDURANCE IS A NECESSARY QUALITY
1. Jesus often taught His disciples concerning the need for endurance (i.e., patience)
a. In the parable of The Sower – Luke 8:13
b. In preparing the disciples for the Limited Commission – Matthew 10:22
c. In His discourse on the Mount of Olives – Matthew 24:13
2. The writer to the Hebrews had stressed this virtue earlier
a. In which he appealed to the example of Abraham – Hebrews 6:11-15
b. In which he quoted from Habakkuk – Hebrews 10:36-39
3. We can develop such patience with the help of the Scriptures – Romans 15:4
a. As we read of the faithfulness of God Who fulfills His promises
b. As we read of the ultimate end of those persevered in faithfulness
4. Paul wrote that eternal life would be given to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality (Ro 2:7). Therefore, endurance is required for successfully running this race of faith!
III. WE NEED TO FOCUS ON JESUS (Hebrews 12:2-3)
A. WE MUST LOOK UNTO JESUS
1. Our focus must be upon the Lord as we run the race
a. We might glance at others (Hebrews 11)
b. But we are to look upon the Lord Savior
c. As suggested by this formula for spiritual success:
1) If you want to be distressed — look within
2) If you want to be defeated — look back
3) If you want to be distracted — look around
4) If you want to be dismayed — look ahead
5) If you want to be delivered — look up! – Colossians 3:1-2
2. For Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith – Hebrews 2:10
a. He is the beginning and the end, the Alpha and the Omega – Revelation 1:8-11
b. He has blazed the trail for us
1) By having run the race Himself
a) As a forerunner He has entered the heavenly sanctuary – Hebrews 6:19-20
b) He has opened a new and living way for us – Hebrews 10:20
2) And now He helps us to finish it ourselves – Hebrews 7:25
3. He succeeded in running the race by looking at the joy set before Him
a. The joy that inspired Him was likely that privilege of being seated at God’s right hand – Psalm 16:9-11; Acts 2:25-31
b. With the anticipation of such joy, Jesus
1) endured the cross (the physical pain)
2) despised the shame (the emotional and spiritual agony)
4. Just as Jesus looked at the joy set before Him, so we must look to Jesus!
B. WE MUST CONSIDER HIM
1. We must consider how He endured, not only on the cross, but even before!
a. How He endured such hostility from sinners against himself
b. This hostility is something He experienced frequently – Luke 4:28-29; Luke 11:15-16, Luke 11:53-54
2. Meditating upon our Lord will prevent us from becoming weary and discouraged
a. We cannot run with endurance if we become weary and discouraged
b. But as we consider the Lord and His example (in itself a form of waiting upon the Lord), we shall not grow weary nor faint – Isaiah 40:31
Conclusion
1. Running The Race Of Faith requires both negative and positive elements
a. Negatively, we must lay aside things which would hinder us
b. Positively, we must keep our focus on Jesus who has made our salvation possible
2. In both cases, the Word of God (the Bible) is crucial
a. For in it we learn what sort of things we must lay aside
b. For in it we learn about our Lord, what He endured, how His example should inspire us
3. Have you lost your endurance? Have you grown weary in running the race of faith?
a. Let the Bible help you examine what baggage should be left aside!
b. Let the Bible help you learn about Jesus whose own example can encourage you to continue on with perseverance!
4. Remember what we read earlier: “For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the Promise” – Hebrews 10:36
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:06 What Does it Mean to Seek God? audio
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Text: Hebrews 11:6
Introduction
A. A right relationship with God does not happen by accident — it requires deliberate action We need to make more careful decisions about God
B. In the last lesson, we saw that we must BELIEVE that God is
C. In this lesson, we will focus on the word SEEK — God is “a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him”
1. “Seeking” God has become somewhat of a fad in recent years
2. Unfortunately, much that is called “seeking God” is little more than an exercise in self-gratification
D. What does it mean to seek God?
Body
I. WHAT SEEKING GOD IS
A. First, let’s consider some things that seeking God is not (These things will certainly accompany seeking God, and if things like these weren’t present in a person’s life, that would indicate a deficiency in that person’s seeking But by themselves these things don’t necessarily mean that a person is seeking God)
1. Church membership, attendance
2. Bible study, prayer
3. Helping others
4. Doctrinal soundness
5. Personal evangelism – Matthew 23:15
6. Spiritual feelings – Romans 10:2
B. What seeking God is:
1. Growth in OBEDIENCE
2. With a desire to LOVE and HONOR God MORE each day
C. A deep longing to be closer to God — closer to Him than our sins have allowed us to be in the past!
D. A conscious, deliberate goal that we reach for – Philippians 3:13-14
E. Some similar expressions in the Scriptures
1. Desiring God: A fervent longing – Psalm 27:4
2. Loving God with all our hearts: A wholehearted affection – Matthew 22:37-38
3. Calling upon the Lord: An earnest appeal – Isaiah 55:6
II. WHY SEEKING GOD IS SO IMPORTANT
A. God desires fellowship only with those who deeply desire such fellowship – John 4:23
B. Seeking God is a “first-principles” issue
1. Having to do with the heart, this is surely among the “weightier matters” – Matthew 23:23
2. Some “first-principles” passages – Micah 6:8; Matthew 22:37-40; Acts 24:25
3. Much more fundamental than many of the “basics” that we emphasize
C. God’s promises to the seeker:
1. “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you and you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” – Jeremiah 29:12-13
2. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened” – Matthew 7:7-8
III. ARE WE SEEKING GOD OR NOT? A SELF-TEST
A. Our need for an honest self-inventory – 2 Corinthians 13:5
1. Are we seeking to fill our minds more and more with the KNOWLEDGE of God?
2. Are we seeking to bring our thoughts, words, and deeds more into line with the WILL of God?
3. Are we seeking more and more to engage in WORSHIP unto God?
4. Are we seeking more and more to be with the PEOPLE of God?
B. God is seeking those who are seeking Him – John 4:23
Conclusion
A. Many of us have grown up in sound, faithful congregations and never learned a real desire for God Himself
B. Religion is not only about serving God — it is also about desiring Him
C. “One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple” – Psalm 27:4
D. Having a DEEPER DESIRE FOR GOD every day is what this life is all about!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:23-40 Faith that Overcomes the World
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Text: Hebrews 11:23-40
Introduction
1. What kind of faith leads “to the saving of the soul” (Hebrews 10:39)?
a. It is “Faith That Pleases God” – Hebrews 11:1-7
1) That has confidence and conviction in things hoped for, in things unseen
2) That believes God is, and that He rewards those who seek Him
3) That worships like Abel, walks like Enoch, and works like Noah
b. It is “Faith That Embraces The Promises” – Hebrews 11:8-22
1) Obeying God when He calls, even it means sojourning as a pilgrim, or sacrificing that which is most precious to you (Abraham)
2) Receiving strength from God to do His will (Sarah)
3) Declaring the promises of God from generation to generation (Isaac, Jacob, Joseph)
2. Saving faith is also “Faith That Overcomes The World”, concerning which:
a. The apostle John wrote in 1 John 5:4-5
b. We have many examples in He 11:23-40
Body
I. FAITH IN THE GENERATION OF THE EXODUS (Hebrews 11:23-31)
A. THE FAITH OF MOSES’ PARENTS (Hebrews 11:23)
1. They hid Moses for three months – Exodus 2:1-3; Acts 7:20
a. They saw he was a “beautiful” (“good”, “proper”, “not ordinary”) child
b. They were not afraid of Pharaoh’s command – Exodus 1:22
2. It was their faith that gave them courage to withstand the king’s edict with such a small beginning, by faith they “overcame the world” of Egypt
B. THE FAITH OF MOSES (Hebrews 11:24-28)
1. He refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter – Hebrews 11:24-26
a. He chose to suffer affliction with God’s people rather than enjoy sin’s temporary pleasures
b. He esteemed the reproaches of Christ more valuable than the treasures of Egypt
c. Through faith “he looked to the reward” (he had confidence in “things hoped for”, that heavenly reward)
2. He forsook Egypt – Hebrews 11:27
a. It was not the wrath of the king that he feared
b. It was the invisible God he feared – Matthew 10:28
c. Through faith “he endured” (he had conviction in “things unseen”, God)
3. He kept the Passover and sprinkling of blood – Hebrews 11:28
a. He believed in God’s warning regarding the death of the firstborn – Exodus 12:1-30
b. He had Israel sprinkle the blood of the lamb on the lintels and door posts
4. By faith, Moses “overcame the world” of Egyptian bondage!
C. THE FAITH OF THE NATION OF ISRAEL (Hebrews 11:29-30)
1. They passed through the Red Sea – Hebrews 11:29
a. They walked through it on dry land – Exodus 14:21-22
b. The Egyptians who followed them perished in the sea – Exodus 14:23-28
2. They destroyed the city of Jericho – Hebrews 11:30
a. They walked around the city for seven days – Josh 6:1-20
b. Thirteen times they encircled the city, showing their faith in God rather than in their own military might
3. By faith, Israel “overcame the world” of Egypt and Palestine!
D. THE FAITH OF RAHAB THE HARLOT (Hebrews 11:31)
1. She had received the two spies from Israel with peace – Joshua 2:1-24
2. Therefore she did not perish with the unbelievers – Joshua 6:22-25
3. By faith, Rahab “overcame the world” of sin and doubt!
II. FAITH IN THE LAND OF PROMISE (Hebrews 11:32-40)
A. A SAMPLE LIST OF HEROES OF FAITH (Hebrews 11:32)
1. There is not enough time for the author to describe the faith of others in detail
2. Such as:
a. Judges like Gideon, Barak, Samson, and Jephthah
b. A king like David
c. A prophet like Samuel, and the rest of the prophets
B. A SUMMARY LIST OF WHAT FAITH ACCOMPLISHED (Hebrews 11:33-37)
1. Through faith, people such as these:
a. “Subdued kingdoms”
1) Joshua, in conquering Palestine – Joshua 12:7-24
2) David, in conquering neighboring nations – 2 Samuel 5:4-25; 2 Samuel 8:1-14
b. “Worked righteousness” (administered justice)
1) Samuel, as judge – 1 Samuel 12:4
2) David, as king – 2 Samuel 8:15
3) Solomon, as king – 1 Kings 3:28
c. “Obtained promises”
1) The nation of Israel, receiving the promised land – Joshua 21:43-45; Joshua 23:14
d. “Stopped the mouths of lions”
1) Samson – Judges 14:6
2) David, protecting sheep – 1 Samuel 17:34-37
3) Daniel, in the lions’ den – Daniel 6:21-22
e. “Quenched the violence of fire”
1) Shadrach, Meshach, Abed-nego, in the fiery furnace – Daniel 3:23-25
f. “Escaped the edge of the sword”
1) David, fleeing King Saul – 1 Samuel 23:19-29
2) Elijah, fleeing Jezebel – 1 Kings 19:8-10
3) Elisha, whom the King of Israel wanted murdered – 2 Kings 6:31-32
g. “Out of weakness were made strong”
1) Samson, after his hair was cut – Judges 16:29-30
2) Hezekiah, who was given fifteen years of life – Isaiah 38:1-8
h. “Became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of aliens”
1) David, in defeating Goliath – 1 Samuel 17:50
2) Jehoshaphat, in defeating Edom – 2 Chronicles 20:1-30
3) Hezekiah, whose faith led to the slaughter of 185,000 Assyrian soldiers – 2 Kings 19:1-36
2. Also through faith
a. “Women received their dead raised to life again”
1) The widow of Zarephath, via Elijah – 1 Kings 17:17-24
2) The Shunamite woman, via Elisha – 2 Kings 4:8-37
b. “Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, to obtain a better resurrection”
1) Eleazar, in the Maccabean period between the Testaments – 2 Macc 6:30
2) Seven brothers and their mother tortured by Antiochus Epiphanes – 2 Macc 7:9-36
3) Such events would have been well known by the Hebrew readers
c. “Others had trials of mockings, scourgings, chains and imprisonment”
1) Micaiah, the prophet – 1 Kings 22:24-28
2) Jeremiah, the prophet – Jeremiah 20:1-3; Jeremiah 37:11-21; Jeremiah 38:1-13
d. Some were:
1) “Stoned” – Zechariah, son of Jehoida the priest – 2 Chronicles 24:20-22
2) “Sawn in two” – the prophet Isaiah, according to tradition
3) “Tempted” – Daniel, as a youth – Daniel 1:8-21
4) “Slain with the sword” – Urijah the prophet – Jeremiah 26:20-23
e. Some wandered about:
1) “In sheepskins and goatskins” – Elijah – 2 Kings 1:8
2) “Being destitute, afflicted, tormented” – Elijah – 1 Kings 17:2-6; 1 Kings 18:9-10
C. WHAT THESE PEOPLE RECEIVED BY THEIR FAITH (Hebrews 11:38-40)
1. Certainly not the praise of the world! – Hebrews 11:38
a. Many had to wander in deserts and mountains, live in dens and caves (Elijah)
b. But in truth, the world is not worthy of them!
2. They did obtain a good testimony – Hebrews 11:39a
a. As stated regarding the elders – Hebrews 11:2
b. As stated regarding Enoch – Hebrews 11:5
3. Yet they did not obtain “the promise” during their lifetime – Hebrews 11:39b-40
a. They did receive some of the promises, such as the promised land – Hebrews 11:33
b. But they did not receive “the” promise
1) They did not live to see the coming of the promised Deliverer (Christ)
2) Nor did they experience the “perfection” which Christ now offers
a) The Law could not make them “perfect” – Hebrews 9:9-10; Hebrews 10:1-4
b) But Christ can! – Hebrews 9:11-14; Hebrews 10:11-14
4. What they did not receive during their lifetime, they did with the coming of Christ!
a. For Christ died to redeem them as well as us! – Hebrews 9:15
b. They are now made “perfect” just as we are – Hebrews 11:40; Hebrews 10:14; Hebrews 12:22-24
1) Note the phrase “the spirits of just men made perfect” – Hebrews 12:23
2) Those who in the past “should not be made perfect apart from us” are in Christ “made perfect”!
Conclusion
1. Through faith, they truly overcame the world
a. Sometimes their victory was miraculous; often it was not
c. Their ultimate victory was that they “died in faith” – Hebrews 11:13-16
d. And now, they enjoy the fruit of faith: joy in the presence of the Lamb! – Revelation 7:9-17
2. Through faith, we can also overcome the world
a. Faith in Jesus as the Son of God will give us the victory! – 1 John 5:4-5
1) Victory over the world’s temptations
2) Victory over the world’s persecutions
b. The victories we win may not be as impressive as those listed in this chapter, but if we are “faithful until death”, the reward will be the same! – Revelation 2:10
3. May this great chapter with its heroes of faith, serve to motivate us to grow in the faith which:
* Pleases God!
* Embraces The Promises!
* Overcomes The World!
4. We may not win the praise the world, but we will receive the praise of God, for such is the faith which leads “to the saving of the soul”!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:08-22 Faith that Embraces the Promises
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Text: Hebrews 11:8-22
Introduction
1. In the first seven verses of the eleventh chapter, we saw:
a. Faith explained
1) As confidence of things hoped for
2) As conviction of things not seen
b. Faith exemplified
1) In Abel (faith worshipping)
2) In Enoch (faith walking)
3) In Noah (faith working)
c. Faith emphasized
1) Without which it is impossible to please God
2) We must believe He exists, and rewards those who diligently seek Him
2. Another aspect of our faith pertains to the promises in which we hope:
a. We are warned not to fall short of what’s been promised – Hebrews 4:1
b. Faith (along with patience) is necessary to inherit the promises – Hebrews 6:11-12
3. The faith which pleases God, then, is one that embraces God’s promises – Hebrews 11:13
a. In Hebrews 11:8-22, we learn of the faith of those who embraced the promises
b. Because of their faith, God is not ashamed to be called their God
4. Do we have the sort of faith that makes God unashamed to be called our God?
Body
I. THE FAITH OF THE PATRIARCHS (Hebrews 11:8-12, Hebrews 11:17-22)
A. THE FAITH OF ABRAHAM
1. By faith he obeyed – Hebrews 11:8
a. When God called him to leave his country, he obeyed the voice of the Lord
1) Even though at first he did not know where he was going
2) This is an example of conviction in things not seen!
b. Here we see that faith and obedience are not contradictory terms
1) Indeed, Jesus is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him – Hebrews 5:9
2) Is our faith an obedient faith like Abraham’s? – Luke 6:46
2. By faith he sojourned – Hebrews 11:9-10 KJV
a. His faith required him to live as in a foreign country
1) Even though it was the land of promise, he and his descendants could not have it for four hundred years – Genesis 13:14-17; 15:13-21
2) He therefore patiently waited for the city whose builder and maker is God
a) This suggests that the promises he embraced were more than just those pertaining to the land of Canaan
b) Later, we will see he had a heavenly hope as well!
b. Our faith requires us to live as in a foreign country
1) For we too are sojourners and pilgrims – 1 Peter 2:11
2) Is our faith a sojourning faith like Abraham’s? – Hebrews 13:14
3. By faith he offered up Isaac – Hebrews 11:17-19
a. His faith required him to be willing to offer that which was closest to him
1) His son, Isaac – Genesis 22:1-19
a) Through whom the promises he embraced were to be fulfilled
b) He was sure that God would raise Isaac from the dead, if need be, in order to keep His promises
2) Thus he illustrated that confidence in things hoped for!
b. Our faith often requires forsaking things closest to us
1) Our loved ones, even our own life! – Luke 14:26-33
2) Is our faith an offering faith like Abraham’s? – Romans 12:1-2
B. THE FAITH OF SARAH
1. By faith she received strength – Hebrews 11:11-12
a. Though beyond the normal age of child-bearing – Genesis 18:1-3; Genesis 21:1-7
b. Though she laughed when she first heard of God’s promise, she later judged Him faithful who had promised
c. Through her faith, the promises of a great nation were fulfilled!
2. Our faith requires looking to God for strength, and trusting He will provide
a. We must look to God to find grace to help in time of need – Hebrews 4:16
b. Is our faith a receiving faith like Sarah’s? – Philippians 4:13
C. THE FAITH OF ISAAC
1. He blessed Jacob and Esau regarding things to come – Hebrews 11:20; Genesis 27:1-40
2. This illustrates how Isaac by faith embraced the promises
D. THE FAITH OF JACOB
1. Jacob blessed the sons of Joseph when he was dying – Hebrews 11:21; Genesis 48:14-20
2. His blessing involved the promises of God, showing how he embraced them also
E. THE FAITH OF JOSEPH
1. When he was dying, Joseph:
a. Made mention of the departure of Israel out of Egypt
b. Gave instructions concerning his bones – Hebrews 11:22; Genesis 50:24-26
2. In so doing, he demonstrated that he had embraced the promises!
F. Such was the faith of the patriarchs. I purposely skipped Hebrews 11:13-16, for what is said there not only applies to Abraham and Sarah, but to Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph also.
II. HOW THEIR FAITH PLEASED GOD (Hebrews 11:13-16)
A. THEY EMBRACED THE PROMISES – Hebrews 11:13-16a
1. They did not receive the promises during their lifetime
a. Yet with faith they could see them afar off
b. They freely confessed to be strangers and pilgrims on the earth
1) This implies that they sought a homeland, they could have returned to the old one
2) But what they desired was a better one, indeed a heavenly country
2. They died in faith (i.e., holding fast to the promises)
B. THEREFORE GOD IS NOT ASHAMED OF THEM – Hebrews 11:16b
1. He is not ashamed to be called their God
a. He is well pleased with them
b. It was their faith embracing the promises that pleased Him
2. He has prepared a city for them
a. What they waited for, He has prepared – Hebrews 11:10
b. That which He has prepared for them is what we look for, too – Hebrews 13:14
1) The new heavens and new earth – 2 Peter 3:13
2) In which will be the New Jerusalem, that great city descending out of heaven – Revelation 21:1-3, Re 21:10ff
3) Indeed, even now in a sense we have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem – Hebrews 12:22-24
Conclusion
1. What kind of faith pleases God?
a. Worshiping faith like that of Abel
b. Walking faith like that of Enoch
c. Working faith like that of Noah
d. But also a waiting faith seen in the patriarchs (Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph)!
2. The faith that pleases God is one that embraces the promises made by God
a. Patiently waiting for their ultimate fulfillment, even if it doesn’t happen in one’s lifetime
b. But with conviction and confidence of things hoped for and things of unseen
1) We will obey His calling
2) We will sojourn here on earth
3) We will offer up whatever He asks of us
4) We will receive strength to do whatever He bids us
5) And we will make mention of His promises from generation to generation!
3. This is the kind of faith
a. In those who believe to the saving of the soul – Hebrews 10:39
b. In those of whom God is not ashamed to be called their God – Hebrews 11:16
c. May the Lord grant us grace and mercy to develop this kind of saving faith!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:02-08 Turning Trials into Triumphs – audio
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Text: James 1:2-8
Introduction
1. Perhaps you have seen the bumper sticker: “When life hands you a lemon, make lemonade!”
2. It is easier to smile at that statement than to practice it, but the basic philosophy is sound
a. In fact, it is Biblical
b. Throughout the Bible are people who turned defeat into victory and trials into triumph
c. Instead of being VICTIMS, they became VICTORS
3. The Epistle of James tells us that we can have this same experience today!
a. Whether we are dealing with trials on the outside
b. Or temptations on the inside
c. Through faith in God and Jesus Christ we CAN experience victory!
4. The KEY to turning trials into triumph is to obey four imperatives:
a. COUNT – James 1:2
b. KNOW – James 1:3
c. LET – James 1:4
d. ASK – James 1:5-8
Body
I. “COUNT IT ALL JOY WHEN YOU FALL INTO VARIOUS TRIALS” (James 1:2)
A. NOTICE THAT JAMES ASSUMES THAT WE WILL EXPERIENCE TRIALS
1. He doesn’t say “if” but “when”
2. This is because Christians must expect trials
a. So said Jesus – John 16:33
b. Paul also – Acts 14:22
3. The nature of these trials are “various”
a. Some trials come simply because we are human
1) Sickness, accidents
2) Disappointments, death
b. Other trials come because we are Christians – 1 Peter 4:12; 2 Timothy 3:12
4. But because Satan fights us, and the world opposes us, we can expect trials!
B. WHAT IS TO BE THE CHRISTIAN’S RESPONSE? – “COUNT IT ALL JOY!”
1. This was the attitude of:
a. The apostles – Acts 5:41
b. Paul – Romans 5:3; Philippians 2:17-18
c. The Christians – 1 Peter 1:6-8; 4:12-14
2. So the first step to turning trials into triumph is to: immediately thank God and adopt a joyful attitude!
C. HOW???
II. “KNOWING THAT THE TESTING OF YOUR FAITH PRODUCES PATIENCE” (James 1:3)
A. THE RIGHT KNOWLEDGE CONCERNING THE VALUE OF TRIALS MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO HAVE A JOYFUL ATTITUDE
1. We are to understand that:
a. Trials test our faith
b. Faith tested can bring out the best in us!
1) Just as fire purifies gold – 1 Peter 1:7
2) Just as training makes the athlete stronger
2. With this understanding, we can have joy in trials because we know that:
a. Testing works FOR us, not AGAINST us – cf. 2 Corinthians 4:17
b. Trials rightly used help us to mature
B. SPECIFICALLY, FAITH TESTED PRODUCES “PATIENCE”…
1. Notice Romans 5:3-4
2. In the BIBLE…
a. “Patience” is NOT a passive acceptance of circumstances
b. The GREEK word is HUPOMONE
1) From the preposition HUPO (under), and MENO (to remain, to abide)
2) It denotes the ability to exhibit stedfastness and constancy in the face of the most formidable difficulty!
c. It is a courageous perseverance in the face of suffering!
d. It is the continuing on even when it is rough, despite the circumstances
3. Such a quality of stedfastness can come only through experiencing trials
4. The value of developing PATIENCE will be seen shortly
5. Having this understanding about what trials can accomplish enables us to have a joyful attitude
III. “LET PATIENCE HAVE ITS PERFECT WORK” (James 1:4)
A. TO TRULY TURN TRIALS INTO TRIUMPH, WE MUST LET “PATIENCE” DO IT’S WORK
1. Too often, we want to get our trials or difficulties over with quickly
2. But there are times when the best course is to bear up under the trial patiently
a. Instead of grumbling and complaining
b. …patiently endure the trial, doing good despite the trial
B. FOR WHEN PATIENCE HAS HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO WORK, IT PRODUCES MATURITY
1. The word PERFECT does not mean sinlessness, but completeness, wholeness, maturity
2. In the New Testament, it is used of those who:
a. Have attained to spiritual manhood in Christ
b. Have reached full maturity and understanding in spiritual matters
c. Are no longer “babes” and immature persons in Christ
3. Such maturity comes only when patience has had time to work!
a. Consider, for example, an endurance runner in his training
1) To be a mature runner requires letting patience do its work
2) That is, patiently running mile after mile in training
b. If we wish to run the race well spiritually speaking, we need to develop patience
1) Which comes only through a form of spiritual “resistance training”
2) That is, trials in which our faith is put to the test!
c. Letting patience have its perfect work is not easy. It certainly requires wisdom which enables us to see the value of our trials.
IV. “LET HIM ASK OF GOD” (1:5-8)
A. IF WE LACK WISDOM, ASK FOR IT FROM GOD!
1. He has promised to give it liberally
2. And He will not reproach us for making such a request
3. Even as Solomon’s request for wisdom was well-pleasing to God – 1 Kings 3:7-12
B. WHAT EXACTLY IS THIS “WISDOM”?
1. We should be careful to distinguish “wisdom” from “knowledge”
a. Knowledge involves information, facts, etc.
b. Wisdom is the ability or insight to properly use those facts in the most expeditious way
2. Failure to understand this distinction has led many into error!
a. Many believe that this passage (Jm 1:5-8) teaches that God will give knowledge concerning His Will in answer to prayer
b. But knowledge comes only through His Word; we must carefully study it if we would know the Will of God!
c. However, the WISDOM to properly use His Word can be received through prayer
C. THE WISDOM TO PROPERLY USE TRIALS AND TURN THEM INTO TRIUMPH CAN LIKEWISE COME THROUGH “PROPER” PRAYER
1. Proper prayer is that asked in faith and with no doubt
2. Otherwise, the prayer will not be answered by God
Conclusion
1. So here is the key to turning trials into triumph:
a. Having the knowledge and perspective that adversity can accomplish much good
b. Letting the patient enduring of adversity accomplish its work
c. All the while using the wisdom God gives in answer to prayer to help put it all together
2. When this is done, even trials can be a source of joy for the Christian!
3. Have we learned to make lemonade out of our lemons in life?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:09-11 Trials of Poverty and Wealth – audio
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Text: James 1:9-11
Introduction
1. James has already discussed how we can turn trials into triumph, dealing with trials in general – James 1:2-8
2. In James 1:9-11, he discusses specifically the trials of being poor and being rich, and the attitudes we should have
3. In this lesson, we shall concentrate our attention on verses 9-11 and passages elsewhere which deal with the subject of poverty and wealth
4. Let’s begin by noticing that both wealth and poverty can be a problem
Body
I. THE TRIALS OF POVERTY AND WEALTH (Proverbs 30:8-9)
A. IN “POVERTY”, WE MAY BE TEMPTED TO CURSE GOD
1. Like Job’s wife wanted her husband to do, when they had lost everything – Job 2:9
2. And as many do today when things don’t go well
B. IN “WEALTH”, WE MAY BE TEMPTED TO FORGET GOD
1. As God warned Israel that it might happen to them – Deuteronomy 8:10-14, 17
2. And as it did in fact happen to them – Hosea 13:5-6
II. THE REASONS FOR JOY IN POVERTY OR WEALTH (James 1:9-11)
A. IF WE ARE “POOR”, THEN WE CAN REJOICE THAT WE HAVE BEEN “EXALTED”!
1. God has chosen the “poor” to be rich in faith – James 2:5
a. It is the poor who first had the gospel preached to them – Luke 4:18
b. It is the poor slave who becomes Christ’s “freedman” – 1 Corinthians 7:21-22
2. So even if poor, we can still be “spiritually rich” and on equal par with all Christians – Revelation 2:8-9
B. IF WE ARE “RICH”, THEN WE CAN REJOICE THAT WE HAVE BEEN “HUMBLED”!
1. The rich are “humbled” by their:
a. Becoming Christ’s “slave” – 1 Corinthians 7:21-22
b. Being placed on an equal par with all Christians…in which riches mean nothing – Revelation 3:14-19
2. Why it is good that the rich be so “humbled”
a. Riches are temporary – James 1:10-11
b. Riches are unable to redeem our souls – Psalm 49:6-9, Psalm 49:13-20
c. The love of money is a quagmire and a source of self- inflicted injuries – 1 Timothy 6:9-10
3. In other words, it is good that in coming to Jesus Christ we find these things out
a. Or we might have made the same mistake many make today
b. Thinking that money provides true security (remember the rich fool? – Luke 12:13-21)
Conclusion
1. Even in the trials of poverty or wealth, there can be a cause for rejoicing!
2. For Jesus is “The Great Equalizer”
a. Exalting the poor who are rich in faith
b. Humbling the wealthy by basing their salvation not on wealth, but on that which cannot be bought: the blood of Jesus and the obedience of a humble and contrite spirit
3. Keeping these thoughts in mind will help us learn to be content in whatever financial conditions we may find ourselves; as Paul wrote:
Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me – Philippians 4:11-13
4. The important question is not “How rich are you?” but “How rich IN FAITH are you?”
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:01 A Servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ – audio
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Text: James 1:1
Introduction
1. In our introductory study, we concluded that James, the Lord’s brother, was most likely the author
2. If this is so, then it is interesting that James does not identify himself as such, but rather as simply a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ – James 1:1
3. Perhaps it was a case of humility; yet, calling himself a servant was not peculiar to James
a. Paul described himself as such as well – Romans 1:1
b. So did Peter (2 Peter 1:1) and Jude (Jude 1)
4. Why did these men refer to themselves as servants?
a. The Greek term (DOULOS) literally means a slave
b. Why use such a term to describe themselves?
c. Maybe we should think of ourselves as servants?
Body
I. BEING A SERVANT IS WHAT A DISCIPLE OF JESUS IS CALLED TO BE
A. JESUS STRESSED THIS TRUTH ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS
1. While pointing out the faults of the scribes and Pharisees – Matthew 23:8-12
2. During the Last Supper, with a vivid demonstration of servitude – John 13:12-17
3. Even by His own example, as He came to serve – Matthew 20:25-28
B. SPECIFICALLY, WE ARE CALLED TO SERVE
1. God – Hebrews 9:14
2. Jesus Christ – 1 Corinthians 4:1
3. Each other – 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
4. The early Christians called themselves servants, because that is what they were!
II. BEING A SERVANT IS A MARK OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
A. AN IMMATURE PERSON IS USUALLY VERY SELFISH
1. For example, newborn babies are very ego-centrical
2. Normally, as people grow older, they begin to concern themselves with the needs of others
a. If they do, they are becoming mature
b. If they remain selfish, it is an indication of immaturity
B. A PERSON WHO SERVES OTHERS
1. Is certainly not selfish, but concerned with the needs of others
2. And thereby demonstrates mature behavior
C. JAMES’ DESCRIPTION OF HIMSELF FITS IN VERY WELL WITH THE THEME OF HIS EPISTLE
1. Remember, the theme is: MARKS OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
2. By being a servant, James is demonstrating his own spiritual maturity
3. And we can make the point that one of the marks of spiritual maturity is truly being a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ!
4. Are we trying to be servants of God, and of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ? If so, then we are on the road to spiritual maturity!
III. BEING A SERVANT HAS SEVERAL IMPLICATIONS
A. IT IMPLIES ABSOLUTE OBEDIENCE
1. In a slave-master relationship…
a. The slave knows no law but his master’s word
b. He has no rights of his own
c. He is the absolute possession of his master
d. He is bound to give his master unquestioning obedience
2. Does this describe our relationship to Christ?
a. It should, especially in light of 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
b. We have to come to Jesus on HIS terms, not our own – Luke 6:46
B. IT IMPLIES ABSOLUTE HUMILITY
1. Otherwise, absolute obedience is not possible
a. When we have a humble opinion of ourselves, we are receptive to the idea of complete obedience
b. For example, consider Paul’s self-estimation – 1 Corinthians 15:9-10; Ephesians 3:8; 1 Timothy 1:15
2. Does this describe our relationship to Christ and His Will?
a. Jesus said it should! – Luke 17:10
b. But if we murmur or complain about what Jesus tells us to do, can we really be considered servants?
C. IT IMPLIES ABSOLUTE LOYALTY
1. Since we become servants FREELY, it should be expected that we:
a. Are to be loyal to Him first – Galatians 1:10
b. Do not consider our own profit or pleasure important, but that of the One we freely serve!
2. But it is amazing how anyone can claim to be servants of the Lord Jesus Christ, while:
a. Complaining about having to do the will of God, OR
b. Being negligent or slothful in carrying out His will
3. But some act as though they are being forced against their own will!
a. They don’t have to serve the Lord Jesus
1) Of course, the alternative is not very inviting
2) If we don’t serve Jesus, by default we serve Satan, and are destined for hell!
b. But God by His grace has offered salvation, and how dare we ever grumble or complain that He calls us to life of service in grateful appreciation!
c. These are some of the implications of being called a servant. It is costly in terms of service, pride, and allegiance.
IV. BEING A SERVANT IS A GREAT HONOR
A. FAR FROM BEING A TITLE OF DISHONOR, IT WAS THE TITLE BY WHICH THE GREATEST MEN OF THE OLD TESTAMENT WERE KNOWN
1. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob – Deuteronomy 9:27 (your servants)
2. Moses – 1Kings 8:53 (your servant)
3. Joshua – Josh 24:29 (Servant of the Lord)
4. Caleb – Numbers 14:24 (My servant)
5. Job – Job 1:8 (My servant)
6. Isaiah – Isaiah 20:3 (My servant)
7. The prophets – Jeremiah 7:25 (My servants)
B. HOW WONDERFUL IT WOULD BE IF GOD LOOKED UPON US AS COMPANIONS OF THESE GREAT MEN
1. Who found freedom, peace, and glory!
2. Who found it in perfect submission to the Will of God!
Conclusion
1. God will, IF we are willing to accept the call to serve Him and His Son Jesus Christ with:
a. Absolute obedience
b. Absolute humility
c. Absolute loyalty
2. And when we are serving God, His Son Jesus Christ, and even each other in this manner, we are making great strides towards SPIRITUAL MATURITY!
3. A servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ – can this be said of us?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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An Introduction to James – James 01:01-04
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Text: James 1:1-4
Introduction
1. Not everybody who grows old, grows up; there is a vast difference between AGE and MATURITY
2. Ideally, the older we are, the more mature we should be; but too often the IDEAL does not become the REAL!
3. The result is problems. Problems in personal lives, in homes, and in churches.
a. Problems in these areas are caused by immaturity more than by anything else
b. If Christians would just grow up, they would become VICTORS instead of VICTIMS
4. The Epistle of James was written to help us understand and attain spiritual maturity:
a. “…that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” (James 1:4)
b. Or as translated by J. B. Phillips: “…any you find you have become men of mature character, men of integrity with no weak spots.”
5. With this lesson, we shall begin a series of expository lessons based upon The Epistle of James, which I hope will help us all to reach this goal of spiritual maturity!
6. Beginning a study of a book of the Bible is something like preparing for a trip…you like to know ahead of time:
a. Where you are going
b. What you can expect to see
c. So perhaps the best way to launch a study of The Epistle of James is to answer some important questions
Body
I. WHO WAS JAMES?
A. SEVERAL MEN BORE THIS NAME IN NEW TESTAMENT HISTORY
1. James, son of Zebedee and brother of John
a. A fisherman, he was called by Christ – Matthew 4:17-22
b. Together with John, they were nicknamed “Sons of Thunder” because of their impulsiveness – Mark 3:17 with Luke 9:51-56
c. Killed by Herod in 44 A.D. – Acts 12:1-2
2. James, son of Alphaeus
a. Another of the apostles – Matthew 10:3; Acts 1:12
b. Very little is known about him
c. There is no indication that this James wrote the epistle
3. James, father of Judas the apostle
a. He is even more obscure
b. One of the few references to him is found in Luke 6:16
4. James, the brother of our Lord
a. He is the most likely candidate for the author of this epistle
b. Even though he humbly identifies himself only as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” – James 1:1
c. That Jesus had a brother named James is evident – Matthew 13:55
1) Who at first did not believe in Jesus – John 7:5
2) But after the resurrection of Jesus and an appearance by Jesus to him, he became a disciple – 1 Corinthians 15:7; Acts 1:14
3) Eventually becoming a leader of the church in Jerusalem – Galatians 2:9
a) When Peter was delivered from prison, he sent a special message to James – Acts 12:17
b) He played an important role in the conference at Jerusalem – Acts 15:13-33
c) When Paul visited Jerusalem, it was to James that he brought greetings – Acts 21:18-19
B. WHAT KIND OF MAN WAS JAMES?
1. He must have been a deeply spiritual man to gain such prominence in the church at Jerusalem.
2. Tradition tells us that he was a man of prayer
a. This may explain the emphasis on prayer in his letter
b. It was said that he prayed so much, his knees were as hard as a camel’s!
3. Again, tradition tells us that James was martyred in 62 A.D.
a. That he was cast down from the temple, and then beaten to death with clubs
b. That as he died, he likewise prayed “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
II. TO WHOM DID JAMES WRITE THIS EPISTLE?
A. “TO THE TWELVE TRIBES WHICH ARE SCATTERED ABROAD” (James 1:1)
1. James wrote to Jews living outside the land of Palestine
a. “Twelve tribes” most probably refers to people of Israel, the Jewish nation – Acts 26:6-7
b. Since the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities, many of the Jews were scattered throughout different nations – Acts 2:5-11
2. James wrote his letter to Christian Jews
a. At least nineteen times he addresses them as “brethren”
b. That these were brethren “in the Lord” and not just brethren “in the flesh” is evident from James 2:1
B. IT IS LIKELY THAT MANY OF THESE CHRISTIAN JEWS WERE POOR AND OPPRESSED
1. Being Jews, they would often be rejected by Gentiles
2. Being Christian Jews, they would also be rejected by many of their own countrymen
3. The letter indicates that most of these believers were poor, and some were being oppressed by the rich – James 2:6-7
III. WHY DID JAMES WRITE THIS EPISTLE?
A. THE EPISTLE SUGGESTS THAT PEOPLE WERE HAVING PROBLEMS IN THEIR PERSONAL LIVES AND IN THE CHURCH
1. They were going through difficult trials
2. They were facing temptations to sin
3. They were hearers, but not necessarily doers
4. Some were catering to the rich, others were oppressed by the rich
5. Some were competing for positions in the church
6. Improper use of the tongue was a problem, as was worldliness
7. Some were straying from the faith
B. THESE PROBLEMS ARE NOT MUCH DIFFERENT FROM THOSE OFTEN BESETTING CONGREGATIONS TODAY!
1. Are there not in churches people who are suffering for one reason or another?
2. Are there not members who talk one way, but walk another?
3. Is not worldliness a serious problem?
4. Are there not Christians who cannot control their tongues?
5. It appears that James is dealing with very “up-to-date” problems!
C. BUT JAMES WAS NOT DISCUSSING AN ARRAY OF UNRELATED PROBLEMS
1. All of these problems had a common cause: SPIRITUAL IMMATURITY
a. These Christians were in need of “growing up”
b. Look again at some the problems dealt with and you can see that each one of them is characteristic of little children:
1) Impatience in difficulties – James 1:1-4
2) Talking but not living the truth – James 2:14ff
3) Lack of control over the tongue – James 3:1ff
4) Fighting and coveting – James 4:1ff
5) Collecting material “toys” – James 5:1ff
2. This gives us a strong hint as to the basic theme of this epistle: MATURITY IN CHRISTIAN LIFE
a. In fact, James uses the word “perfect” several times, a word that means “mature, complete”
b. By the expression “a perfect man” (3:2), James did not mean a sinless man, but rather one who is mature, balanced, one who is “grown-up”
D. AND SO JAMES WRITES TO FULFILL A GREAT NEED: THAT OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
1. Spiritual maturity is one of the greatest needs in churches today
a. God is looking for mature men and women to carry on His work, and sometimes all He can find are little children who cannot even get along with each other!
b. As one person said, “Too many churches are playpens for babies instead of workshops for adults.”
2. James wrote to meet this need, so his epistle is very RELEVANT today!
IV. HOW CAN WE GET THE MOST OUT OF THIS EPISTLE?
A. FIRST, WE MUST BE “BORN AGAIN”
1. Apart from spiritual birth there can be no spiritual maturity
2. James writes with assumption his readers have been born again – James 1:18
3. This “rebirth” is brought about by obedience to the Word of God – 1 Peter 1:22-23
4. It involves being “born again of water and Spirit” (John 3:5), traditionally understood to refer to baptism – Mark 16:16; Titus 3:5
5. So to benefit the most of this study, we must have been born again through obedience to the truth – Acts 2:38-39
B. SECOND, WE MUST HONESTLY EXAMINE OURSELVES IN THE LIGHT OF GOD’S WORD
1. James compares the Word of God to a mirror – James 1:22ff
2. As we study the Word…
a. We are looking into the divine mirror
b. And seeing ourselves as we really are
3. We must be honest about what we see and not merely glance at the image and walk away
C. THIRD, WE MUST “OBEY” WHAT GOD TEACHES, NO MATTER THE COST
1. We must be “doers” of the Word, and not “hearers” only
2. The “blessing” does not come in STUDYING the Word, but in DOING the Word – James 1:25
D. FOURTH, WE MUST BE PREPARED FOR SOME EXTRA TRIALS AND TESTING
1. Whenever we are serious about spiritual growth, the ENEMY gets serious about opposing us!
2. But if you wish to develop patience, you should expect some trials – James 1:3
3. However, in the end it will be worth it! – James 1:12
E. FINALLY, WE MUST MEASURE OUR SPIRITUAL GROWTH BY THE WORD OF GOD
1. We should not measure ourselves by comparing ourselves to other Christians -2Co 10:12
2. But by the WORD OF GOD, and by the SON OF GOD!
Conclusion
1. Remember, not everyone who grows old, grows up
a. There is often a vast difference between age and maturity
b. Just because a Christian has been saved 10, 20, or 60 years does not guarantee that he or she is mature in the Lord
2. Mature Christians are:
a. Happy Christians, despite the trials they face
b. Useful Christians, overcoming the temptations that cross their path
c. Christians who help encourage others and build their local churches
3. As we study James together, may we with God’s help grow and mature together
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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