Historical Posts
Matthew 06:25-34 – Watch and Pray – audio
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Reading: Mark 13:32-37 (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Text: Matthew 6:25-34
Introduction
Jesus taught Peter, James, John, and Andrew privately upon the Mount of Olives. They were concerned about when the end was going to come.
Instead of giving them an exact day, time, and year, Jesus instead explained that they needed to be ready at all times! By staying ready for His return, they would not worry about what tomorrow might bring (Matthew 6:25-34).
Body
I. No one knows the day and hour when Christ is coming again.
A. Jesus did promise He will come again (John 14:3).
B. He will return as He went into Heaven (Acts 1:9-11), coming in the clouds (Daniel 7:13; Matthew 24:30; 26:64; Mark 14:62; Luke 21:27; Revelation 1:7; 14:14-16).
C. He could come at evening, midnight, crowing of the rooster, or in the morning (Mark 13:35).
D. That day will be as a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:1-4; 2 Peter 3:10).
E. Everything will seem as normal when the Son of Man comes (Matthew 24:36-44).
F. The ten virgins did not know the hour when the bridegroom would come (Matthew 25:1-13).
II. Watch!
A. We must not sleep, but rather watch and remain alert (1 Thessalonians 5:6)!
B. Watch, remaining firm in the faith (1Corinthians 16:13).
C. Be sober and vigilant (1 Peter 5:8)!
D. Be watchful and strengthen the things that remain (Revelation 3:1-3).
E. Blessed is he who watches and keeps his garments (Revelation 16:15).
III. Pray!
A. Watch and pray always that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man (Luke 21:36).
B. Pray always, being watchful to this end with perseverance and supplication (Ephesians 6:18).
C. Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant with thanksgiving (Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18).
Conclusion
Jesus has warned us that He is coming again.
Since we do not know when, we must always be ready for His return.
Let us:
- Be ready by always being on the alert, living faithfully.
- Continue to pray to Him for His guidance and encouragement.
- Be thankful that when He does come again, we will be ready to meet Him and live eternally with Him.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Ephesians 05:08-14 – Walking in the Light – audio
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Text: Ephesians 5:8-14 (reading by Don Treadway)
Introduction
A. Light and darkness are complete opposites.
1) It is impossible to have both at the same time.
2) In fact, just a little light will cancel out a great bit of darkness.
B. Spiritually speaking, sin is often equated with darkness and righteousness with light.
Body
I. We were once walking in darkness.
A. There is no one that does not sin (1 Kings 8:46).
B. All have sinned and have come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
C. Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2).
D. God is light and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5,6).
E. The world was in darkness, and did not receive the Light (John 1:5-13; 3:19-21).
II. We have been called out of darkness.
A. God called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
B. The Lord called Paul to the Gentiles, turning them from darkness to light (Acts 26:15-18).
C. We are called by the power of the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14).
D. By obeying it, we:
1) die to sin [darkness]
2) are buried with Christ in baptism
3) are raised to walk in newness of life [light] (Romans 6:1-7)
III. We must now walk in the light.
A. By becoming sons of God, we are sons of light and day; we are no longer of night nor darkness (1 Thessalonians 5:5).
B. We must walk in the light as God is in the light (1 John 1:7).
C. Jesus commands us to let our lights shine before men (Matthew 5:16).
D. Light has no fellowship with darkness (Ephesians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
Conclusion
A. Are you in the dark?
B. Come to Christ, the true Light!
Content by Richard Dillon
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1 John 03:15-24 – Brotherly Love – What is it and Why do I Want it? audio
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Text: 1 John 3:15-24
Introduction
1. The apostle John has given us two reasons in 1 John 3:10-15 for why it is necessary that we love the brethren:
a. Along with practicing righteousness, it distinguishes the children of God
b. It signifies a passing from death to life
2. But what does it really mean to love the brethren? And what benefits do we receive in return when we possess brotherly love?
3. These two questions are answered by John in 1 John 3:16-24, which serves as the text of this lesson
Body
I. BROTHERLY LOVE IS: (1 John 3:16-18)
A. JESUS EXEMPLIFIES WHAT IT MEANS TO LOVE THE BRETHREN (1 John 3:16)
1. The word for love, has often been described as “active goodwill”
2. In giving His life for our sins, Jesus certainly demonstrated goodwill in an active way
3. Meditating upon His example we are “taught of God to love one another” – 1 Thessalonians 4:9
4. With Jesus’ example, then, we come to understand what brotherly love is all about: sacrificially serving others!
a. Therefore we should be willing to lay down our lives for one another
b. In some cases, it may indeed involve “dying” for our brethren; but it can also be “living” for them through serving
B. BROTHERLY LOVE IS NOT: (1 John 3:17)
1. John uses the example of not helping a brother when it is within your power to do so
2. In view of Christ’s love, how we can claim to have love if we are not willing to sacrifice for a brother in need?
3. This illustrates that brotherly love is not only being willing to “die” for someone, but willing to “live” for them as well, through active service on their behalf
C. THEREFORE, AN ADMONITION TO “TRUE LOVE” (1 John 3:18)
1. An admonition prefaced by John’s favorite term of endearment: “My little children”
2. To love, not just in words, but truly, through deeds!
D. We see, then, that “brotherly love” which:
1) distinguishes the Children of God, and
2) signifies one as having passed from death to life, must go beyond the spoken word or occasional hymn.
E. Patterned after the example of Jesus, “brotherly love” is manifested by what one does, not just by what one says – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
F. The blessedness of such love is not only for the recipient, but also for the giver, as we learn beginning in 1 John 3:19
II. THE VALUE OF BROTHERLY LOVE (1 John 3:19-24)
A. IT GIVES ONE ASSURANCE BEFORE GOD (1 John 3:19-21)
1. Love of the brethren is an indication that one is “of the truth”, just as it as an indication that one had passed from death to life – 1 John 3:14
2. It is certainly not the only indicator (1 John 3:10), but it does help to provide one with assurance of their salvation
3. The importance of such assurance:
a. If our own hearts condemn us…
1) Because we know we do not love the brethren as we ought
2) Certainly God, who is greater and knows all things, will know of our shortcomings in this area, if conscience condemn us in known sin, or the neglect of known duty, God does so too.
b. But if our hearts do NOT condemn us…
1) Because we are loving the brethren as we know we should
2) This will make us able to approach God with joyful confidence!
B. IT LEADS TO POSITIVE ANSWERS TO PRAYER (1 John 3:22-23)
1. Our prayers are more likely to be answered according to our requests
2. Because we are keeping the commandments of God (of which loving the brethren is one), and thereby pleasing Him
3. “Commandment-keeping” is a condition upon which God hears prayer, just as it is a condition upon which Christ promises His abiding love – John 15:10
C. IT ENSURES THAT ONE ABIDES IN CHRIST (1 John 3:24)
1. Abiding in Christ is contingent upon keeping His commandments (and loving the brethren is certainly one of His commandments) – John 14:23
2. And how do we know that Christ truly abides in those who keeps His commandments?
a. By the Spirit whom Christ has given
b. He (the Spirit) is the one Who reminded the apostles of the key to abiding in Christ – John 14:19-26
Conclusion
1. Aren’t these three blessings what every true Christian desires…?
a. Abiding in Christ, and He in us?
b. God answering our prayers?
c. Confidence concerning our standing before God?
2. For these blessings to be ours…
a. We must allow Christ to teach us by His example what it really means to have “brotherly love”
b. And then manifest such sacrificial service in our lives! “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”
3. Does the love of God abide in you?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 John 03:10-15 – Children of God vs Children of the Devil – audio
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Text: 1 John 3:10-15 KJV (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction
1. In our previous study, we saw where John described two different kinds of people:
a. One who continuously practices sin, and is therefore of the devil – 1 John 3:8a
b. One born of God, who does not continuously practice sin – 1 John 3:9
2. John continues to illustrate the contrast between the children of God and the children of the devil in 1 John 3:10, presenting two criteria which distinguishes them:
a. Practicing righteousness
b. Brotherly love
3. Both of these criteria have already been introduced earlier in this epistle:
a. John enjoined brotherly love as necessary to abiding in the light – 1 John 2:9-11
b. He connected practicing righteousness to being born of Him – 1 John 2:29; 3:7
4. It is primarily the subject of brotherly love that John expounds upon throughout the rest of this epistle, including that which serves as our text for this study – 1 John 3:10-15
Body
I. LOVE DISTINGUISHES THE CHILDREN OF GOD (1 John 3:10-13)
A. TWO THINGS MANIFEST THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOD’S CHILDREN AND THE DEVIL’S CHILDREN (1 John 3:10)
1. The word manifest means:
a. To show or demonstrate plainly; reveal
b. To be evidence of; prove
2. That which clearly demonstrates the children of God are:
a. The practice of righteousness
b. The love of the brethren
3. Whereas those who are the children of the devil are clearly revealed when they:
a. Do not practice righteousness
b. Do not have brotherly love
B. THE COMMAND TO LOVE IS FROM THE BEGINNING (1 John 3:11)
1. In other words, from the beginning of the gospel, spoken by Jesus – John 13:34-35
2. Note that Jesus also stressed how loving one another would make the children of God (His disciples) manifest to the world: by this all will know – John 13:35
C. EXPECT SOME CONFLICT BETWEEN THESE TWO CHILDREN (1 John 3:12-13)
1. Just as Cain killed his brother Abel
a. He who was of the wicked one killed his brother
b. The murder was sparked by the contrast between the works of the two
2. So don’t be surprised if the world hates you as well – John 15:18-20
D. When we follow the teachings of Jesus, especially His command to love one another, it soon becomes evident (manifest) that we are different from those of the world. But that difference sometimes leads to jealousy and its unpleasant consequences.
E. Why do we have to heed a command that makes us stand out so?
II. LOVE SIGNIFIES A PASSING FROM DEATH TO LIFE (1 John 3:14-15)
A. IT IS A MARK OF TRUE CONVERSION (1 John 3:14a)
1. Certainly brotherly love is not the ONLY indicator
2. Remember that we must also practice righteousness – Galatians 5:22-23
3. But love for the brethren is a positive sign that true conversion has occurred
B. WHEREAS LACK OF LOVE IS AN OMINOUS SIGN (1 John 3:14b-15)
1. That one abides in death
2. As we saw earlier, one who hates his brother is in darkness until now – 1 John 2:9, 11
3. Indeed, hating one’s brother makes one a murderer! (just like Cain)
4. And it should be self-evident that a murderer does not possess eternal life!
C. WHY DO CHRISTIANS NOT LOVE THEIR BRETHREN?
1. It MAY be an indication that true conversion never occurred, and that they are Christians in name only
2. It MAY be that there was true conversion:
a. But the Christian is still a babe in Christ – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
b. Or that what the writer of Hebrews feared has occurred – Hebrews 3:12-14
3. In ANY circumstance, it is not what God desires for us!
Conclusion
1. Two compelling reasons are therefore given by John for why we should love one another:
a. It distinguishes the children of God
b. It signifies a passing from death to life
2. John will have more to say about love and its value, but may these two reasons compel us to examine our hearts and our attitudes toward our brethren!
3. Let brotherly love continue – Hebrews 13:1
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 John 03:04-09 – Sin and the Child of God
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Text: 1 John 3:4-9
Introduction
1. This morning, we saw that the true child of God purifies himself because of the hope of being like Jesus one day – 1 John 3:2-3
2. In discussing purity, the subject of sin naturally arises
a. Which may be why John moves right into a discussion of sin and the child of God – 1 John 3:4-9
b. It also fits into John’s overall theme of combating the teaching that sinning did not affect one’s relationship with God
3. How shall the true child of God regard sin? Is it something to be taken lightly? Not if the apostle John has anything to say about it!
Body
I. THE DEFINITION OF SIN
A. AS UNDERSTOOD BY SOME
1. Sin is nothing more than a violation of human relationships
2. Which can be easily resolved by correcting relationship problems
3. While SOME sins may be a violation of human relationships, the true meaning of sin goes much further than that
B. THE LITERAL MEANING OF THE WORD SIN
1. The Greek word for sin literally means to miss the mark
2. For example, as when an archer fails to hit the center of the target
3. So sin is some kind of action (or lack of it) in which one fails to meet the goal intended by God – Romans 3:23
C. AS DEFINED BY JOHN
1. Sin is lawlessness (NKJV), or transgression of the law (KJV)
2. The word for lawlessness means illegality, i.e. violation of law
a. For example, to break or violate a law, such as the law of God
b. In other words, to steal when the law says Thou shalt not steal
3. So sin occurs when you DO WHAT IS FORBIDDEN (commonly called a sin of commission)
D. AS DEFINED BY JAMES
1. James describes another kind of sin – James 4:17
2. So sin is also committed when you FAIL TO DO WHAT IS GOOD OR COMMANDED (often called a sin of omission)
a. For example, failing to love your brother
b. While you may not do wrong toward your brother, failure to do good is just as much a sin!
E. IN BOTH OF THESE DEFINITIONS OF SIN
1. One has failed to meet a certain standard (they have missed the mark)
2. In this case, the standard is the law of God
a. Which, when carefully noted, is designed to help us in our relationships with:
1) God
2) Other people
3) Even self
b. Every command of God, both negative and positive, affect these relationships in one way or the other
F. Failure to understand the true nature of sin is one reason why there is so much apathy toward it today. But every time we sin, we adversely affect our relationship with either God, others, or our own selves!
II. THE ORIGIN OF SIN – 1 John 3:8a
A. SIN IS OF THE DEVIL!
1. He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning.
2. This statement of John is reminiscent of one made by Jesus – John 8:44
3. From the beginning the devil has been the father or origin of sin (he is a liar and the father of it)
B. THOSE WHO SIN ARE OF THE DEVIL!
1. Since he is the father of sin, those who practice sin are his children
2. You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do – John 8:44a
3. So when we miss the mark by either:
a. Doing what is forbidden
b. Failing to do what is commanded
c. We demonstrate the influences of the devil in our lives!
C. If sin can make one to be the children of the devil, than that ought to tell us something about the terribleness of sin!
III. THE DEFEAT OF SIN – 1 John 3:5a, 8b
A. THIS WAS THE PURPOSE OF CHRIST’S COMING
1. He was manifested to take away our sins – 1 John 3:5a
2. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil – 1 John 3:8b
3. As John the Baptist declared: Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! – John 1:29
4. To continue to walk in sin, therefore, is to undermine the purpose of our Lord’s coming!
B. CONSIDER WHAT IT COST JESUS TO ACCOMPLISH THIS PURPOSE
1. Nothing less than His own death! – 1 Corinthians 15:3
2. Nothing less than His precious blood! – Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 1:18-19
3. Does not this tell us something about the terribleness of sin?
C. When we properly understand what sin is, and how terrible it must be in God’s sight, then for the child of God there can only be one goal: what John describes as not abiding in sin
IV. NOT ABIDING IN SIN – 1 John 3:6-7, 9
A. WHOEVER ABIDES IN HIM DOES NOT SIN… – 1 JN 3:6
1. The phrase does not sin is present tense in the Greek, suggesting a practice of not CONTINUING IN SIN
a. John has already affirmed that Christians sin – John 1:8, 10
b. To say we have no sin is to lie, and to make God a liar
c. So John is talking about one who does not continuously practice sin
2. Such is true of those who abide in Him
a. Those who abide in Jesus do not continuously engage in sin
b. That is because they:
1) Let that which they have heard from the beginning abide in them – 1 John 2:24
2) Strive to walk even as Jesus walked – 1 John 2:6-7
3. But the one who continuously practices sin has neither seen Jesus nor known him (despite any claims to the contrary!) – 1 John 3:6
B. WHOEVER HAS BEEN BORN OF GOD DOES NOT SIN… 1 John 3:9
1. Again, John uses the present tense when he says does not sin
a. He is not suggesting that one born of God never sins
b. But that one truly born of God does not continuously practice sin
2. And why is that? Because His seed remains in Him
a. The seed is that life-giving principle that makes one a child of God
b. Which clearly involves the Word of God – 1 Peter 1:22-23
3. As long as one allows the seed (the Word of God) to remain in him, he is born of God
a. As such he does not continuously practice sin
b. Nor can he continuously practice sin, if the seed is remaining in him
c. Instead, he continuously practices righteousness! – 1 John 3:7
Conclusion
1. Again, it helpful to remember that John is dealing with the idea that one can claim to be born of God and not be concerned about sin in their life
2. But when we are aware of:
a. The definition of sin
b. The origin of sin
c. The defeat of sin
d. The abandonment of sin
3. Our attitude toward sin will certainly be different than those John was having to combat!
4. What is your attitude toward sin?
a. Have you been born again through obedience to the Word of God?
b. Are you letting that seed remain in you so that you do not continuously practice sin?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 01:03-09 – Peter’s Comfort and Encouragement
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Text: 1 Peter 1:3-9
Introduction
A. Over the past week or so, several members of our congregation have experienced the death of a loved one.
B. A passage is often read at the funeral to give us words of comfort and encouragement. Today, we will let the apostle Peter speak inspired words of God to us.
C. Let us reflect on the promises that we have in Christ Jesus (1 Peter 1:3-9).
Body
I. Christians have a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
A. Christ is risen from the dead, and is thus the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20-23).
B. If Christ had not risen, our faith would be futile and we would only have a limited hope (1 Corinthians 15:17-19).
C. We can comfort one another with the words of hope in Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
II. Christians have an inheritance.
A. By becoming children of God, we become His heirs and are joint heirs with Christ (Galatians 3:29-4:7).
B. Our inheritance is:
1) incorruptible (immortal, imperishable, and lasting).
2) undefiled (pure and unstained).
3) not fading away (permanent).
4) reserved in heaven (Colossians 1:3-6; John 14:1-4).
III. Christians are kept by the power of God.
A. Jesus tells us that we are very secure in the grasp of God’s hand (John 10:27-29).
B. Christ lives by the power of God, and so can we (2 Corinthians 13:4).
C. God’s power is effective through faith for salvation (Hebrews 11:1,6; Romans 10:17; James 2:17,20; Ephesians 2:8; Romans 4:16).
D. God’s power is ready to be revealed in the last time (Revelation 12:10-12; 19:1; Matthew 24:29-31; Luke 21:25-28).
IV. Christians rejoice, eagerly awaiting the reward in heaven.
A. Paul told Christians to rejoice always (Philippians 4:4).
B. Jesus said to “rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven (Matthew 5:12).”
C. Paul told the Corinthians that the eternal benefits outweigh the temporary affliction (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).
D. James says to rejoice in various trials, knowing that the testing of faith produces patience (James 1:2-4).
E. Jesus said that if we are faithful until death, we will receive the crown of life (Revelation 2:10).
V. Christians will receive the end of their faith, the salvation of their souls.
A. Paul said that now abide faith, hope, and love; the greatest of these is love (1 Corinthians 13:13).
B. The end of all things is at hand (1 Peter 4:7).
C. We must redeem the time, for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed (Romans 13:11).
Conclusion
A. It is great to be a Christian!
B. It is also great to know and love fellow Christians.
C. Let us remain faithful to God so that we may receive the many blessings He has promised us.
D. Brethren, comfort one another with these words.
Content by Richard Dillon
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1 John 03:01-03 – The Children of God – audio
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Text: 1 John 3:1-3
Introduction
1. In 1 John 2:29, for the first time John speaks of Christians as those who are born of God
a. It is an expression that will be used time and again throughout the remainder of this epistle – 1 John 3:9; 4:7; 5:1, 4, 18
b. It is a figurative expression, emphasizing that the Christian’s spiritual life is a result of the redemptive work of God – Colossians 2:12-13
c. As a result of this working of God in our lives, we have been born again, and can therefore be properly called God’s children
2. That we can be called children of God was amazing to John, and in our text (1 John 3:1-3) he desires that we consider:
a. The significance of being called the children of God
b. The news of what we shall be
c. The transformation that is to take place in our lives
Body
I. WHAT WE ARE AS CHILDREN OF GOD
A. WE ARE RECIPIENTS OF GOD’S LOVE – 1 John 3:1a
1. Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!
2. It is through the love of God that we can even become His children – John 3:16, 1 John 4:9-10
3. It is an honor for God to even take notice of us, how much love God must have to allow us to become His children!
B. WE ARE UNKNOWN BY THE WORLD – 1 John 3:1b
1. …the world does not know us…
2. That is, they do not truly recognize, appreciate or understand what we have become in Christ
3. They may even deem us as religious fanatics, fools – 1 Corinthians 4:9-13
4. But this is understandable:
a. For the world did not (and still does not) really know Jesus – John 1:11
b. And for now, our lives are hidden in Jesus – Colossians 3:3-4
5. Loved and honored by God, unknown and sometimes despised by the world; that is what we are today as the children of God.
II. WHAT WE SHALL BE AS CHILDREN OF GOD
A. IT HAS NOT YET BEEN FULLY REVEALED
1. Exactly what we shall be like has not yet been revealed
2. Which may be that due to our finite capability to comprehend
3. In general terms we have been promised a spiritual body and immortality – 1 Corinthians 15:42-44; 50-53
4. But there is something else, hinted at by both Paul and John
B. WE SHALL BE LIKE JESUS!
1. …we know that we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
2. Paul also says that we will be like Jesus when He comes…
a. We shall bear the image of the heavenly Man – 1 Corinthians 15:49
b. Our lowly bodies will undergo a wonderful transformation to become like Jesus – Philippians 3:20-21
III. WHAT WE SHOULD BE AS CHILDREN OF GOD (3)
A. OUGHT TO BE MOTIVATED BY OUR HOPE
1. “everyone who has this hope…”
2. The hope of which John writes, of course, is the earnest expectation that we will be like Jesus when He comes
B. DILIGENTLY INVOLVED IN PURIFYING ONE’S SELF
1. This involves the idea of being set apart for a holy purpose, which Christians are taught to pursue – Hebrews 12:14
2. How can Christians purify themselves?
a. First and foremost by appropriating the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus! – 1 John 1:9
b. Only then can we hope to be truly holy and without blemish – Ephesians 5:25-27
c. But we also have an obligation to remove ourselves from things that would defile us – 2 Corinthians 6:16-7:1
Conclusion
1. By virtue of God’s love for us, and His working in us, we can truly be called the children of God!
2. However, to become a child of God, and truly remain such, we must be willing to cooperate with God
a. When our faith joins with the working of God, we can become His children! – Colossians 2:12-13; Galatians 3:26-27
b. As long as our faith remains strong, we have the assurance of receiving the promises God has made – Hebrews 3:12-14; 4:1-2; Revelation 2:10
3. Is the love our heavenly Father has shown in making us His children, serving to motivate us to remain faithful to Him!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Corinthians 06:01-02 – Do Not Receive the Grace of God in Vain – audio
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Text: 2 Corinthians 6:1-2
Introduction
A. There are many things in life that can be beneficial if used properly;
1) On the other hand, they may not help at all
2) Or even can be harmful if misused.
B. There are many food choices available to us;
1) Some are healthy
2) Others are not.
3) Some good foods, if taken too much, can be harmful.
C. Prescriptions are the same way.
1) A doctor gives a patient a certain kind of medicine and a certain dosage.
2) If the wrong medicine is taken, or if the right medicine is taken the wrong way, it will not do as good a job as it was intended.
3) There can be dire consequences.
D. Spiritually, God gave us His grace and we must not use it in vain!
Body
I. Grace is essential for salvation.
A. God is full of grace and truth, and we receive them through Jesus Christ (John 1:14-17).
B. We are justified by the grace of God (Titus 3:4-7).
C. God saves us by His grace in Christ through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:8-10).
D. The grace of God brings salvation (Titus 2:11).
E. We are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:5-8).
F. God’s promise is of faith that it might be according to grace (Romans 4:16).
II. Grace is not always guaranteed.
A. We can fall from the grace of God (Galatians 5:4).
B. We can fall short of the grace of God (Hebrews 12:14-15).
III. Grace must be used properly.
A. God gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; Proverbs 3:34).
B. We must grow in grace (2 Peter 3:18).
C. We must be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 2:1).
D. By the grace we receive, we must serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear (Hebrews 12:28).
IV. Grace must not be misused.
A. Some have turned the grace of God into lewdness and denied God and Christ (Jude 4).
B. We must not sin in order that grace may abound (Romans 6:1-2).
Conclusion
A. The grace of God can save us, but our faith must accompany it.
B. If we serve God properly, grow in His grace, and strive not to sin, it will not be in vain! He will help us in the day of salvation!
C. That is today!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Luke 06:46-49 – Lord, Lord – audio
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Text: Luke 6:46-49
Introduction
A. Who is Lord of your life?
1) Do you call all the shots?
2) Do your parents always tell you what to do?
3) Is there someone else that rules your life?
B. Only Jesus should be Lord of your life!
Body
I. Jesus Christ is Lord!
A. There is one Lord (Ephesians 4:5).
B. God made Jesus both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36).
C. Jesus is Lord of:
1) lords (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; 19:16).
2) Jews and Gentiles (Romans 10:12).
3) dead and living (Romans 14:9).
4) all (Acts 10:36).
D. Saul of Tarsus did not know the Lord (Acts 9:4-6).
E. Everyone will know the Lord (Hebrews 8:11).
F. We can only serve one Lord (Luke 16:13).
G. If Jesus Christ is our Lord, we must do to others as He did for us (John 13:13-17).
II. We must do what the Lord says!
A. As a servant honors his mater, we owe honor and reverence to the Lord (Malachi 1:6).
B. Simply saying, “Lord, Lord” will not give us access into the kingdom of heaven; rather, we must do His will (Matthew 7:21-23).
C. The doers of the Lord’s will, not the hearers, will be blessed (James 1:22-25).
Conclusion
A. We must give the more earnest heed to what the Lord has to say (Hebrews 2:1-3).
B. We must confess Jesus is Lord in order to be saved (Romans 10:9ff.).
C. There will be a time in which everyone shall confess Jesus as Lord; for some, it will be too late (Philippians 2:9-11).
D. Christ is Lord of our lives when we put on Christ in baptism and live for Him, and Him alone (Galatians 3:27).
Content by Richard Dillon
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Luke 13:22-30 – Lord, Are There Few Who Are Saved?
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Text: Luke 13:22-30
Introduction
A. One individual asked Jesus a question that a lot of people want to know: “Lord, are there few who are saved (Luke 13:23)?”
B. Everybody would like to be saved; in fact, many believe they are saved.
1) Some believe that God saves them no matter what
2) Others believe they cannot do anything to be saved.
C. Jesus’ answer is very eye opening. He said, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able (Luke 13:24).”
D. Jesus encourages this individual to be saved, but then admits the reality is that not everyone will.
Body
I. Many have the ability to enter into everlasting life.
A. The gospel of Christ is the power unto salvation for everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).
B. Every creature must hear, believe, and obey the gospel in order to be saved (Mark 16:15-16).
C. From the beginning, God chose us for salvation through sanctification by the Holy Spirit and belief in the truth, to which He called us by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14).
II. Few will be saved.
A. Many are called, but only few are chosen (Matthew 20:16; 22:14).
B. Some will die in sin, and cannot be where Christ is (John 8:21-24).
C. Jesus taught a parable in which not everyone the bridegroom invited were prepared to meet him (Matthew 25:1-13).
D. Jesus also taught that only those serving Him, the righteous, will inherit eternal life (Matthew 25:33-46).
III. We must commit ourselves to God, in order that we might be saved.
A. We make a commitment to do good (1 Peter 4:17-19).
B. We must strive to enter the narrow gate and the difficult way (Matthew 7:13-14).
C. We must do the Father’s will (Matthew 7:21-23).
D. We must life a faithful life, and endure to the end to be saved (Revelation 2:10; Matthew 10:22; 24:13; Mark 13:13).
Conclusion
A. Are there few who are saved?
1) Absolutely! God has called us all to have eternal life
2) But only has chosen those that are obedient to His will.
B. You can be one of the chosen few!
1) Choose to hear the gospel, believe it, and obey it.
2) Live faithfully to God until the very end.
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 11:20-27 – I Am the Resurrection and the Life – audio
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Text: John 11:20-27
Introduction
A. Jesus has the power to raise us all from the dead.
B. Here in John 11, Lazarus was sick and later died.
1) Jesus was not there at that exact time.
2) He explained that the Son of God would be glorified through it (John 11:4).
3) That those present would believe (John 11:15).
C. He had a very important discussion with Martha.
1) Like her, we must believe His words.
Body
I. Jesus is the resurrection.
A. Jesus claimed to be the resurrection (John 11:25), and proved it by raising Lazarus (John 11:42-44).
B. Jesus later arose from the grave.
1) Those that came to the tomb learned “He is risen (Matthew 28:5-7; Mark 16:6,9; Luke 24:6; John 20:9)!”
2) The apostles affirmed His resurrection.
i. Paul declared the gospel of which he also received (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
ii. Paul reminded Timothy that Jesus was raised from the dead according to the gospel (2 timothy 2:8).
iii. Paul declared that Christ is risen from the dead, and all shall be made alive in Him (1 Corinthians 15:20-22).
iv. Peter preached the resurrection of Christ, beginning on Pentecost (Acts 2:24,32; 3:15,26; 4:10; 5:30; 10:40). It is through the resurrection of Christ that we have a living hope (1 Peter 1:3).
3) God raised up Christ (see iii above), and thus Christ gives life to whom He wills (John 5:21). As He raise up Jesus, so will we be raised (1 Corinthians 6:14; 2 Corinthians 4:14).
C. Jesus said there would be a resurrection of life to those who have done good, and a resurrection of condemnation to those who have done evil (John 5:28-29).
II. Jesus is the life.
A. In Christ, we live (Acts 17:28).
B. In Christ was life (John 1:4).
C. Eternal life is in Christ (1 John 5:11-12).
D. Jesus, whom God raised from the dead, delivers us from the wrath to come (1 Thessalonians 1:10).
III. We must believe in Christ.
A. Jesus said that though we may die, if we believe in Him, we shall live (John 11:25-26).
B. We all must die (Hebrews 9:27).
C. At the last day, Jesus will raise up those who believe in Him unto everlasting life (John 6:39-40,44).
D. Paul taught the Ephesians of God’s exceedingly great power towards the believers of Christ’s resurrection (Ephesians 1:19-20).
E. Our faith and hope are in God, who raised Christ from the dead (1 Peter 1:21).
F. Christ was raised from the dead for our justification (Romans 4:24-25).
G. We must believe Christ in order to be saved (Romans 10:9-10).
H. The Spirit of God must dwell in us, in order to receive eternal life (Romans 8:9-11,13; Ephesians 3:16-17). The body is the temple of God, where His Spirit dwells (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19).
Conclusion
A. God raised Christ from the dead, and will raise us up if we believe in Him.
B. Eternal life is in Christ, and if we want to live forever we must be in Christ.
C. We do so by being baptized into Christ, and rise to walk a new life as Christ was raised from the dead (Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:3-5, 8-9).
Content by Richard Dillon
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2 Timothy 04:17-18 – The Lord is on my Side – audio
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Text: 2 Timothy 4:17-18 (Reading by Richard Dillon)
Introduction
A. The words “I will never leave you nor forsake you” often ring throughout the Bible.
1) God took care of the Israelites in the Old Testament
2) He took care of Jesus’ disciples in the New Testament
3) He takes care of us today.
B. He is someone you can depend on, for He is always there, day or night.
Body
I. Paul encourages Timothy that he is never alone (2 Timothy 4:17-18).
A. As he encouraged Timothy to come to him quickly (2 Timothy 4:9), he also reminded him that someone else is with him.
B. Yes, even though Paul was not with him at this time, God was!
II. The Lord stood with Paul.
A. Paul had Him always there, and always on his side.
B. On another occasion, the Lord stood by Paul, telling him that he would bear witness again of Him in Rome (Acts 23:11).
C. The Lord strengthened Paul.
1) Paul needed strength to continue to preach the gospel of Christ.
2) Many things happened during his life (2 Corinthians 11:23-29).
3) He could do all things through Christ who strengthens him (Philippians 4:13).
D. Paul was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. He was not alone;
E. The Lord stands with His people
1) David was delivered from the paw of the lion (1 Samuel 17:37)
2) Daniel was saved in the lions’ den as an angel of God shut the lions’ mouths (Daniel 6:22).
3) . The Lord would deliver him from every evil work. The Psalmist wrote, “the LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul (Psalm 121:7).”
F. The Lord preserved him for His heavenly kingdom. He already has it prepared (John 14:1-6), and all Paul has to do is go the right way!
Conclusion
A. The Lord is clearly on Paul’s side
B. He wants to be on your side!
C. Are you on His side? You can decide to follow Him right here, right now.
Content by Richard Dillon
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1 John 04:07-11 – Let All You Do be Done with Love – audio
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Text: 1 John 4:7-11 (Reading by Richard Dillon)
Introduction
A. Every single one of us has something to do every day of our lives.
1) Wake up
2) Go to school or work
3) Do things about the home
4) Do things about town
B. We need to keep Paul’s words in mind: “Let all that you do be done with love (1 Corinthians 16:14).”
Body
I. John gives us the “why” of our love (1 John 4:7-11).
A. He reminds us that love comes from God!
B. As God loves us, so we should return His love and love each other.
C. Peter, on the other hand, gives us the “how.” He brings together what God did for us, and what we need to do for Him and each other (James 4:7-11).
D. James commands Christians to have “fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins (James 4:8).”
1) He then begins to explain how Christians are to treat each other (James 4:9-11).
2) Love is seen as an action, and not merely a feeling (1 John 3:18).
3) In this text we are to pattern our love after God’s love.
II. God did all with love.
A. God created man in His image and blessed him (Genesis 1:26-28).
B. God corrects man when he sins (Proverbs 3:11-12).
C. God provided a way that man could remove his sins (John 3:16-17; 1 John 2:2; John 1:29; Proverbs 10:12).
D. Jesus, God in the flesh (John 1:1-2,14), loved us by laying down His life for us (John 15:9-17; 1 John 3:16).
III. We must do all with love.
A. Paul said, “But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection (Colossians 3:14).”
B. Of faith, hope, and love, the greatest is love (1 Corinthians 13:13).
C. Love covers a multitude of sins, and Christians can share that love by spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ (Proverbs 10:12; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; James 5:19-20).
D. We must love our enemies (Matthew 5:44-46).
E. While speaking, we must speak with love (Ephesians 4:29; James 3:6,8-10).
F. We must keep the commands of Christ to show we love Him (John 14:15).
G. Families are to love each other.
1) Husbands and wives must love each other (Ephesians 5:22-33).
2) Parents are to love their children, and children to love their parents (Ephesians 6:1-4).
Conclusion
A. Everything God did, He did out of love for us.
B. Everything we do, we must do out of love for Him.
C. We love Him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
D. We love one another as He loved us (John 15:12).
E. We say we love our families, friends, and neighbors.
1) Do our actions show it?
2) Do our attitudes express that love?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Romans 15:04 – Follow the Pattern – audio
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Text: Romans 15:4
Introduction
A. Patterns are very useful. By following them, one can achieve a desired result.
1) If you want to make a quilt with a certain style and color, you follow the pattern exactly to get yours to look exactly like the one you want.
2) Puzzles are fun to work, and the picture on the box shows what the end result ought to be. When all of the pieces are put together in the proper place, the ideal photo is revealed.
B. From the very beginning, God has a pattern for man to follow.
1) By following His directions, one can achieve the intended result.
2) By not following it, an undesirable consequence ensues.
I. Old Testament examples.
A. Paul taught the Romans “for whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4).”
B. Noah followed God’s pattern to build an ark, and saved himself, 7 other humans, and animals (Genesis 6:14-22).
C. The children of Israel assisted Moses in building the tabernacle, according to the pattern that God gave him (Exodus 25:9,40). As a result, God had a place to dwell.
D. Aaron made the lampstand according to the pattern God gave him (Numbers 8:4).
E. David gave Solomon the instructions on how to build the temple (1 Chronicles 28:9ff.), since he could not build it himself.
F. Nadab and Abihu did not follow God’s pattern, offering strange fire before Him. As a result, they died before Him (Leviticus 10:1-3; Numbers 3:4; 26:61).
G. Through Ezekiel, the LORD gave Israel a chance to go back to the pattern of the temple (Ezekiel 43:10-12).
II. New Testament examples.
A. Jesus Christ lived the perfect life, and we must follow His example (1 Peter 2:21-24).
B. Paul said Jesus wanted him to be a pattern for others (1 Timothy 1:16).
C. The church at Philippi were encouraged by Paul to follow his example as they have a pattern (Philippians 3:17).
D. Timothy was told to “be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity (1 Timothy 4:12).”
E. Young men are exhorted to be a pattern of good works in all things (Titus 2:6-7).
Conclusion
A. We need to follow God’s pattern to be a good example to the world and lead lost souls to Christ.
B. God gave us His Word as a blueprint.
1) Christ to follow after
2) The gospel to save us
3) He built His church that we can be a part of.
C. The directions are easy to follow.
D. Let us follow that pattern, and be the examples for others!
Content by Richard Dillon
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James 02:14-20 – Jesus Finds Great Faith
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Text: James 2:14-20
Introduction
A. Do you have the kind of faith that Jesus would be impressed with?
B. How would He know your level of faith?
1) James tells us that even demons believe…and tremble!
2) Demons do not act upon their faith as we should.
C. Our faith, however, must work.
Body
I. Faith is essential.
A. Faith is described as the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
B. Faith comes from hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17).
C. Faith pleases God, when we come to Him (Hebrews 11:6).
II. Jesus commended some for their great faith.
A. A centurion asked Jesus to just speak the word, and his servant would be healed; Jesus said He has not found such great faith in Israel (Matthew 8:5-10; Luke 7:2-9).
B. Faith of the blind led Jesus to heal them.
1) Blind men came to Jesus, and He healed them according to their faith (Matthew 9:27-30).
2) A blind beggar named Bartimaeus sat near Jericho and cried out to Jesus, and his faith made him well (Luke 18:35-43).
C. Jesus saw the faith of those that brought a paralytic to Him (Matthew 9:1-2; Mark 2:1-5; Luke 5:17-20).
D. Jesus described the faith of the Canaanite woman as great (Matthew 15:22-28).
E. A woman with an issue of blood was made well because of her faith (Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34; Luke 8:43-48).
F. A renown sinner was saved because of her faith (Luke 7:37-50).
G. Jesus told the thankful leper that his faith made him well (Luke 17:12-19).
III. Jesus wants us to have as great a faith.
A. Jesus told the disciples if they have faith as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for them (Matthew 17:20; Luke 17:5-6).
B. Paul taught the Romans that through Christ he received the apostleship for obedience to the faith (Romans 1:5-6).
C. Paul commanded Timothy to pursue faith with those that call on the Lord with a pure heart (2 Timothy 2:22).
D. Paul sent to know the faith of the Thessalonians, and was encouraged by Timothy’s good report of it (1 Thessalonians 3:5-10).
Conclusion
A. Would Jesus say of you, “Great is your faith”?
B. Are you coming to Him, doing His will?
C. Are your works evidence of your faith?
D. Is there a good report of your faith?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Colossians 02:06-10 – Complete in Christ – audio
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Text: Colossians 2:6-10
Introduction
A. Do you ever have an empty feeling? Does it seem as if something is missing in your life?
B. Well, that may be because you do not have Jesus Christ.
C. Paul expresses our dependency upon Him, and that we are “complete in Him (Colossians 2:10)…”
D. We are complete in Him because we can accomplish anything through Him:
1) He fulfills or fills all
2) He has fully come
3) He has completed His task
4) He satisfies our every need
5) He abounds in us
Body
I. We need Christ physically.
A. Paul acknowledges that “in Him we live and move and have our being…For we are also His offspring (Acts 17:28).”
B. It is God that made us, and not we ourselves (Psalm 100:3; 139:13-14).
C. Christ was in the beginning with God, creating us (John 1:1-3,14; Genesis 1:26-27; Ephesians 4:24).
D. God supplies all our needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).
E. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
II. We need Christ spiritually.
A. Christ completed His Father’s will (Hebrews 10:8-10):
1) Taking away the first covenant
2) Establishing the second
3) It is through that will we are sanctified!
B. Our belief in God and Christ will fill us with joy, peace, hope, goodness, and knowledge (Romans 15:13-14).
C. The love of Christ fills us with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:14-19; 4:10).
D. Christ fills us with the fruits of righteousness (Philippians 1:11).
E. As individuals are filled with Christ, so is the church (Ephesians 1:17-23; Colossians 1:9-18).
III. Christ needs us!
A. We received the Lord’s ministry, and must fulfill it (Colossians 4:17).
B. Christ has created good works for us to do (Ephesians 2:10; Revelation 3:1-2).
Conclusion
A. Just as we are incomplete without Christ, He is incomplete without us!
B. As the church, we are His body.
C. He has called us to work for Him.
D. Are you a member of His church?
1) He did a lot for us
2) Won’t you be willing to do something for Him?
Content by Richard Dillon
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2 Corinthians 13:07-10 – Stand for Truth – audio
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Text: 2 Corinthians 13:7-10
Introduction
A. There is a lot of confusion in the world today.
1) Many people disagree on matters of religion.
2) Amid the confusion and disagreements, there is destruction.
B. Christians should not strive to destroy one another, but rather edify one another. Consider the text of 2 Corinthians 13:7-10. During that text, Paul says “we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth (verse 8).”
C. God’s truth will always prevail, even when man tries to contradict it.
Body
I. What is truth?
A. Much confusion arises simply because people do not know what truth is.
1) As Jesus was put on trial, Pilate asked him, “What is truth (John 18:38)?”
2) This is a question we all need to ask.
3) Jesus is the one to give the answer.
B. Jesus said we can know the truth, and it will make us free (John 8:32).
1) The truth will make us free from the law of sin and death (Romans 6:14,18,22; 8:2).
C. There are three sources of truth.
1) Jesus Christ Himself (John 14:6).
2) God is true (John 17:3).
3) God’s Word is truth (John 17:17).
II. Christians must stand for the truth.
A. Christians must use the Bible as a guide, the source of truth inspired of God (2 Peter 1:20-21; John 16:13).
B. Christians put on Christ, who is full of grace and truth (John 1:14,17).
C. Christians wear the whole armor of God, including being girded about with truth (Ephesians 6:14).
D. Christians are a part of the Lord’s church, the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15).
1) The church’s mission should be to preach the truth!
E. Christians share the truth, because it will allow many souls to be saved (2 Thessalonians 2:9-14).
F. It is God’s desire that all men will be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:3-4).
III. Paul is a good example of a Christian standing for truth.
A. After Paul became a Christian, the truth abode in him (2 Corinthians 11:10; Romans 9:1 et. al.).
B. Paul spoke words of truth and reason (Acts 26:25).
C. Paul did not even yield to false brethren, in order that the truth of the gospel would continue (Galatians 2:4-5).
IV. Sinners do not let the truth work for them, and may try to hinder it from helping others.
A. Some people simply refuse to listen to the truth (2 Timothy 4:3-4).
B. Some resist the truth, and do not want to come to the knowledge of it (2 Timothy 3:1-9).
C. Paul observed Jews who were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel (Galatians 2:13-14).
D. Paul called the Galatians foolish because they were hindered from obeying the truth (Galatians 3:1; 5:7).
E. James warns Christians not to boast or lie against the truth (James 3:14).
Conclusion
A. We pray that today the truth has been proclaimed.
1) It is a foolish thing to try to hinder it.
2) It is a blessing to allow it to work in your life.
B. What is hindering you from obeying the truth?
1) As Paul said, “we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.”
2) Won’t you obey the truth right now?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Mark 12:28-34 – You are Not Far from the Kingdom of God – audio
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Text: Mark 12:28-34 (Reading by Clark Perkins)
Introduction
A. A scribe was very impressed with the answers that Jesus had given to the Pharisees and Sadducees concerning the paying of taxes and the issue of resurrection.
B. As a result, he wanted to ask Jesus a question.
C. This was a very important question, and the answer would encourage him to be a part of the kingdom of God.
Body
I. What is the first commandment of all?
A. There are many commandments that come from God.
1) Perhaps the ones that are most familiar are those given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 20:1-17; Deuteronomy 5:1-22).
2) In addition to these, the book of Leviticus is filled with specific instructions that God had given to the Levites for the priestly duties.
3) Knowing the challenge of learning all commands, the scribe wanted to know which was most important.
B. Jesus says that first one must know God, and love Him.
1) He reminds the scribe of what God told Moses to tell the Israelites (Deuteronomy 6:1-9) about the ONE and ONLY GOD!
2) Later, the Israelites learned what God required of them: to fear Him, walk in all His ways, love Him, serve Him with all their heart and soul, and keep His commandments and statutes (Deuteronomy 10:12-13).
3) Even Solomon said the conclusion of the whole matter is to fear God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
4) We show God we love Him by keeping His commandments (John 14:15; 1 John 5:3).
5) We love Him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
C. Jesus even went further to answer the scribe.
1) As He Himself taught to go two miles with one that asked to go one (Matthew 5:41), Jesus gave a second commandment in addition to the first commandment.
2) The second commandment, like the first, was to love his neighbor as himself.
3) Again this commandment was given to the Israelites (Leviticus 19:18), as no doubt both were very familiar.
4) Even the apostle Paul commands Christians to keep many old laws, but all are summed up in this one: loving your neighbor (Romans 13:8-10).
5) On another occasion, Jesus was asked what to do to inherit eternal life. After reminding this person of the same two commandments, He was asked who his neighbor was. Jesus then went on to teach about the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25ff.).
II. There is only ONE God!
A. Again, the scribe insisted Jesus answered well and true. He then confessed that there is ONE God, and no other!
B. This is often confirmed in the Scriptures (Deuteronomy 4:39; Malachi 2:10; Ephesians 4:6).
III. Sacrifice is not the most important thing to God.
A. Again, the scribe points out that God requires so much more than just an offering or sacrifice.
1) Hosea prophesied, “For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings (Hosea 6:6).”
2) Samuel, too, said: “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams (1 Samuel 15:22).”
IV. The scribe was not far from the kingdom of God.
A. Jesus knew the scribe had answered wisely.
1) As a result, Jesus knew he was not very far from the kingdom of God.
2) However, we are never told whether this person did enter the kingdom of God.
3) God does, however, teach us what to do to be a part of His kingdom.
B. The reality is that not everyone will be in the kingdom of God (Luke 13:23-29).
C. Jesus taught the Pharisees that the kingdom of God is within them (Luke 17:20-21).
E. Jesus taught Nicodemus he must be born again, of water and the Spirit, to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3ff.).
E. The apostle Paul taught that the kingdom of God is “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).”
F. Paul praised the Thessalonian church for their faithfulness, and therefore they were worthy of the kingdom of God (2 Thessalonians 1:3-5).
Conclusion
A. The scribe was very close to the kingdom of God, but one can only guess as to whether he entered or not.
B. What about you? Are you in the kingdom of God?
C. You know how to enter, so will you do what God requires of you?
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 09:01-07 – Jesus and the Blind Man – audio
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Text: John 9:1-7 KJV (Reading by Andy Anderson)
Introduction
A. Jesus encounters a blind man who, we are later told, was blind from birth (John 9:19-20).
B. The disciples asked Jesus about his blindness, and Jesus answers them by words and example.
C. By doing this, Jesus teaches not only the disciples, but also the blind man, Pharisees, and Jews.
Body
I. The disciples assumed sin caused the man’s blindness (John 9:1-3).
A. The disciples asked who sinned (John 9:1).
B. The Jews accused this man born in sins, and cast him out of the synagogue (John 9:34).
C. The Pharisees and Jews accused Jesus of being a sinner, but the formerly blind man refused to admit this (John 9:16,24-25).
D. The natives of Malta thought Paul was a sinner and was going to die when a viper fastened on his hand (Acts 28:3-6).
E. Jesus answered that sin was not to blame for the man’s blindness, but for another reason (John 9:3).
1) This does not mean that the man did not sin.
2) We all sin (Romans 3:23).
II. Jesus used the man’s blindness to do the work of God (John 9:4-7).
A. Jesus used these good works to prove that He came from God, His Father (John 5:17-23,36; 10:25,37-38).
B. By believing in Christ, we shall see the glory of God (John 11:4,40). Remember recently we studied about seeing the salvation of the LORD!
III. Christ is the light of the world for as long as He was in the world (John 9:5).
A. John identified Jesus as the Light of the world (John 1:1-9).
B. Jesus explained to Nicodemus why light is rejected (John 3:19).
C. We must believe the true Light (John 12:44-50).
D. By following Christ, we can have the light of life (John 8:12).
IV. We must walk in the light, doing the works of God.
A. Jesus says to follow the light, believe the light, and become sons of light (John 12:35-36).
B. We walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7).
C. Seeing the light will not cause us to stumble (John 11:8-10).
D. Whatever we do, like Christ, we do to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Conclusion
A. After the formerly blind man was cast out of the synagogue, Jesus found Him.
B. This man wanted to believe in the Son of God, and Jesus claimed that identity.
C. He confessed his faith, and worshiped Him.
D. Some of the Pharisees questioned if they, too, were blind (John 9:35-41).
E. Based on Jesus’ answer, are we blind also (John 15:22-24)?
1) Let us see Christ, the true Light.
2) Let us believe He is the Son of God, and do His work!
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 4:25-42 The Samaritan Woman’s Mission – audio
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Text: John 4:25-30, 39-42
Introduction
We have a mission in this world: come to know Christ, and help others come to know Him!
There was one woman who did this very well. She is the Samaritan recorded in the gospel of John (John 4:25-30, 39-42).
Body
I. Jesus revealed Himself to the Samaritan woman.
A. It was foretold that a Prophet would arise out of Israel (Deuteronomy 18:15), and she had earlier perceived that Jesus was a prophet (John 4:19).
B. Daniel prophesied of the Messiah (Daniel 9:24-27), and the Samaritan woman knew that He was coming (John 4:25). Even Andrew pointed out to Peter that he had found the Messiah (John 1:41). These all quickly learned that Jesus, in fact, was the Messiah and Christ.
II. She went and told others about Him.
A. Jesus commanded a man who was healed from demons to go and tell others what the Lord had done for him (Mark 5:19-20).
B. Jesus commanded John’s disciples to go and tell him what they had seen and heard (Luke 7:22-23).
C. The Samaritan woman went on her own and told others (John 4:28-30).
III. People came to learn about Jesus.
A. They were brought to Christ by the Samaritan woman (John 4:39-40).
B. Many believed because of Christ’s own words (John 4:41).
1. Christ’s words are with authority (Matthew 7:29; Mark 1:22; Luke 4:32).
2. The words Christ speaks are spirit and life (John 6:63,68).
3. His words are with us today (John 17:8; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 Peter 1:23-25).
C. Many believed for themselves, and not to appease the Samaritan woman (John 4:42).
1. We must have our own faith (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6).
2. We must all give account of ourselves to God (Romans 14:12; 1 Peter 4:5-6).
Conclusion
The Samaritan woman is a good example of leading others to Christ.
It is our duty to share the good news of Christ with others.
It is God’s duty to help the church grow (Acts 2:47; 1 Corinthians 3:6-7; Ephesians 4:16; Colossians 2:19).
Content by Richard Dillon
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