Historical Posts
Matthew 07:13-23 Do We All Get to the Same Place? powerpoint – audio
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Text: Matthew 7:13-14, 21-23
I. Introduction
A. The worldview states, “It doesn’t matter what you believe; we’re all trying to get to the same place”
B. The Biblical view shows otherwise.
II. There are ways that are wrong
A. Some ways are foolish – Proverbs 12:15
B. Wrong ways lead unto death – Proverbs 14:12; 16:25
C. Thieves and robbers enter other ways than the right way – John 10:1, 8-10
III. Only one way is right
A. Jesus Christ is THE way – John 14:1-6
B. The right way is not always easy – Matthew 7:13-14
C. In order to get in the right way, we must do what Christ says
1. Matthew 7:21-23
2. Luke 13:24-28;
3. Matthew 25:1-13
4. James 1:21-25
IV. Things really do matter! It matters…
A. …Where we “go to church”
1. Matthew 16:18
2. Acts 20:28
3. Ephesians 4:4; 1:22-23
4. Colossians 1:18
5. Romans 16:16
B. …How we worship – Matthew 15:8-9
1. God did not accept Cain’s offering – Genesis 4:3-5; Hebrews 11:4
2. God did not accept Nadab and Abihu’s sacrifice – Leviticus 10:1; Numbers 3:4; 26:61
3. Jesus gives us instructions on worship today – John 4:23-24; 14:6; 17:3, 17
C. …How we live – Revelation 2:10
V. Conclusion
A. If you’re going the wrong way, make a U-turn!
B. If you’re going the right way, do not stray!
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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1 Peter 1:1 Pilgrims of the Dispersion – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 1:1
Introduction
1. Throughout the New Testament, various phrases are used to describe those people of God who make up the Lord’s church
a. Individually, they are referred to as disciples, saints, believers, priests, Christians, etc.
b. Collectively, they are called the church, the church of God, churches of Christ, the body of Christ, the temple of God, the family of God, etc.
c. Each of these terms describe various relationships maintained by those who are Christians
2. An interesting phrase not commonly used in reference to the people of God is found in 1 Peter 1:1, where Peter addresses the pilgrims of the Dispersion
3. A proper understanding of this phrase can be very beneficial, and give us insight into:
a. What the Christian life is
b. An important responsibility expected of Christians
c. Our true home, and goal in this life
Body
I. DEFINING PILGRIMS OF THE DISPERSION
A. THE WORD TRANSLATED PILGRIM IS INTERESTING
1. Transliterated from Grk., it is parepidemos which is a combination of three words:
a. para – alongside of
b. epi – upon
c. demos – used in Biblical Greek of the people of a heathen city
2. Here, then, is how Thayer defines the word parepidemos:
a. one who comes from a foreign country into a city or land to reside there by the side of the natives
b. a stranger
c. a foreigner
3. Another definition: One who stays in a place as a stranger or visitor
B. THE MEANING OF THE WORD DISPERSION
1. The Greek word means to sow, to scatter seed
2. The term is found in John 7:35, and there it refers to the Jews who were scattered among the Greeks
a. Some as a result of the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities
b. This has caused some to conclude that Peter was writing to Jewish Christians
c. Who were living in the regions of Asia Minor – 1 Peter 1:1
3. But there is good reason to believe that Peter was writing to ALL the Christians, both Jewish and Gentile, who were scattered throughout Asia Minor
a. Comments are made in this epistle that cannot be understood in reference to the original recipients being Jews – 1 Peter 1:14,18, 20-21
b. More likely, Peter employs terms once limited to the Jews, but now applicable to all who are in Christ
1) For example, terms like elect (1 Peter 1:2), holy nation (1 Peter 2:9), people of God (1 Peter 2:10)
2) Just as Paul did: circumcision (Philippians 3:3), Israel of God (Galatians 6:16)
4. If this be so, then Peter implies by using the term pilgrims of the dispersion that all Christians are:
a. Pilgrims living in a world not their own
b. Like scattered seed, spread out among those in the world
II. INSIGHTS FROM BEING CALLED PILGRIMS OF THE DISPERSION
A. THIS PHRASE REVEALS WHAT THE CHRISTIAN LIFE REALLY IS:
1. It is but a JOURNEY, begun when we first became Christians, ending only when we reach our true destination
a. This ought to affect our entire perspective on life
1) It is not an end in itself
2) Only a temporary trip toward our final destination
3) Our homes, our jobs, take on a different meaning when viewed in this light
b. This even ought to affect our perspective on death
1) Not the end of life, but the end of our journey!
2) Not the end of life, but the beginning of eternity in our true home!
2. Embarked on this JOURNEY, we become like our spiritual father, Abraham
a. Notice Hebrews 11:8-10, 13-16
b. If this be our attitude towards this life:
1) Then God is not ashamed to be called our God
2) And we can honestly sing songs like This World Is Not My Home
B. THIS PHRASE REMINDS US OF AN IMPORTANT RESPONSIBILITY
1. Our responsibility as pilgrims is to be SEPARATE – 1 Peter 2:11-12
a. We may be in the world, but we are not to be of the world – John 17:15-16; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
b. Remaining separate may cause some in the world to think we are strange – 1 Peter 4:3-4
c. But Jesus said this would happen, even as it did to Him – John 15:18-19
2. Figuratively speaking, we should be like those foreign refugees now in our country:
a. Who resist giving up their heritage, their language
b. Who resist attempts to Americanize them and destroy their cultural traditions
3. Can it be said of us who are Christians, that we are keeping ourselves SEPARATE from the world?
a. Are we allowing the world to influence our:
1) Speech?
2) Dress?
3) Conduct?
b. If we so, then we are no longer pilgrims, but naturalized citizens of this world!
c. Remember John’s warning in 1 John 2:15-17
C. THIS PHRASE OUGHT TO REMIND US OF OUR TRUE HOME
1. Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly await our Savior – Philippians 3:20-21
2. We are to be looking for a new heavens and a new earth – 2 Peter 3:13-14
3. That is where we will find our true home, the CITY
a. which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God – Hebrews 11:10, 16
b. That is the one to come – Hebrews 13:14
c. That comes down out of heaven from God – Revelation 21:1 – 22:5
d. That is where we, who are now simply strangers and foreigners scattered like seed in this world, will one day be gathered together!
4. Those who are truly pilgrims will think often of their true home
a. When I lived in Vietnam, I thought often of my home in the states
b. And so we will think often of our heavenly home, if we are truly pilgrims of the Dispersion!
Conclusion
1. Are we pilgrims of the Dispersion? We are, if as Christians we:
a. View our life here on earth as a journey in a foreign land!
b. Keep ourselves separate from things in the world that would lead us away from God!
c. View as our true home, the heavenly city God has prepared from those who confess they are strangers and pilgrims on the earth!
2. But you are NOT a pilgrim of the Dispersion if:
a. You have not yet begun your spiritual sojourn by obeying the gospel of Christ!
b. Having done so, you allow the attractions of the world to entice you to settle down into things which would separate you from God!
3. Are YOU a pilgrim of the Dispersion?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 05:12-14 Essentials to Spiritual Maturity – audio
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Text: Hebrews 5:12-14
Introduction
- In II Peter 3:18, we are admonished by the Spirit of God to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord. In 2 Thessalonians 1:3, we have an example of a congregation of the Lord whose faith grew exceedingly
- Regardless of your age, gender, or education, you can become an imitator, follower, and disciple of Jesus Christ – 1 Corinthians 11:1. But you must be willing & determined to let self (I) and the world come to death that Christ might live in you – Galatians 2:20
- Many people claim to be Christians, but how many of them have been truly converted to Jesus Christ? How many of them are imitating Jesus Christ in their lives, how many are following the footstep of Jesus – Luke 14:27, 33; John 8:31-32
It is essential you make a clean break with the world to grow in Christ.
- You cannot expect to live a “half-hearted” worldly lifestyle and grow into spiritual maturity. Have you ever known a new babe in Christ try to serve God while holding on to their former sinful lifestyle? It just cannot work, you need to decide to give up your old sinful lifestyle and live for Christ, it’s either the world or Christ, why not decide on Christ – Matthew 6:24; Revelation 3:14-16; Luke 9:62
- It’s essential to know the world’s value systems that many cling and cleave onto today are only temporal, they can only satisfy the flesh for a short time, but that longing in each & every soul to be satisfied & having fellowship with their Creator can only be found in Jesus Christ – Hebrews 11:24-25; Matthew 16:26; James 4:4
- It is essential to know that there are lines & boundaries from the Word of God that Christians are not to cross. Christians are not to be unequally yoked together with unbelievers – 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. Christians are not to go places and be in communication with those that can compromise their influence in the world as salt – Matthew 5:13; I Thessalonians 5:22; 1 Corinthians 15:33
It is essential to be committed to the conversion process for salvation
- A commitment involving a conscious decision to put aside everything else in life and put God first at the top in everything that you do is required – Matthew 6:33
- It is important to realize in the conversion process that you will make mistakes along the way, but you will need the courage and commitment to ask God to forgive you of your sins and be determined to grow from your mistakes – James 5:16
- In the conversion process it is important that God talks to you, and this will require you to daily read and mediate on the Word of God because God speaks to us through Jesus, the Word of God – 2 Timothy 2:15; Hebrews 1:1-2
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Mark 10:17-22 The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of the Rich Young Ruler
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Text: Mark 10:17-22
Introduction
1. There is an old Clint Eastwood movie that I like very much that came to mind as I read this account in Mark
2. It is easy to only see the good but we need to look at the bad and the ugly
Body
I. The Good of the Rich Young Ruler
1. Came urgently / running – 2 Corinthians 6:2
2. Came reverently / kneeled – Acts 4:12
3. Came comprehending / Good Master – John 3:2
4. Came asking / what to do? – Acts 16:30-34
5. Came seeking / eternal life – John 6:63, 68
II. The Bad of the Rich Young Ruler
1. Went away / lacking one thing – James 2:10
2. Went away / not bearing cross – Luke 14:27
3. Went away / sad at the saying – James 4:17
4. Went away / grieved to give up – 2 Corinthians 8:12
5. Went away / trusting wealth – 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Conclusion
1. The ugly of the rich young ruler
a. We never of him changing his mind or his actions
b. Revelation 3:14-22
2. Are we following the good or the bad example of the rich young ruler
3. Will your end be wonderful or ugly?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:6 Diligence – audio
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Text: Hebrews 11:6
I. WHAT IS DILIGENCE?
A. English definition: diligence – careful and persistent work or effort.
B. Two Greek words:
1. Spoude – “speed”, that is, (By implication) despatch, eagerness, earnestness: – business, (Earnest) care (-fulness), diligence forwardness, haste.
2. Ekzeteo – to search out, that is, (Figuratively) investigate, crave, demand, (By Hebraism) worship: – en- (Re-) quire, seek after (Carefully, diligently).
C. One Hebrew word: mishmar – a guard (The man, the post, or the prison); figuratively a deposit; also (As observed) a usage (Abstractly), or an example (Concretely): – diligence, guard, office, prison, ward, watch.
D. We demand diligence from…
1. Our doctors.
a) We expect them to have been diligent in their studies.
b) We expect them to be diligent in their treatment of us and our loved ones.
c) I recently heard someone saying that they were changing doctors because their doctor had prescribed a medicine to them and had not even bothered to see what other medicines they were taking. When this person read up on the new medicine he saw that it was never to be used with one of the medicines he was already taking. His doctor had not been careful (Or diligent).
2. Our bankers.
a) Would any of us ever dream of putting up with a sloppy banker?
b) We expect them to be thorough and persistent when they are dealing with our money.
3. Our children’s teachers.
a) We expect our children’s teachers to be careful and persistent.
b) We expect them to give time and attention to making sure that our children are learning what they are supposed to learn.
4. Our mechanics.
a) We pay them to fix problems.
b) We expect them to know how to fix the problems we are having.
5. Basically, we expect (Or at least desire) diligence from everyone with whom we deal on a daily basis.
E. We demonstrate diligence…
1. With our finances.
a) Savings.
b) Taxes.
c) Retirement.
d) Credit, Loans, Mortgages.
2. With our jobs (Hopefully).
a) We train.
b) We go to work daily.
c) We work hard.
3. With our homes and automobiles. (Maintenance and upkeep)
4. With our health. (Hopefully)
5. A lack of diligence in any of these areas can cause severe problems in our lives!
II. DILIGENCE IN OUR SALVATION.
A. Are we diligent in the one area that matters more than any other?
B. Your salvation ought to be the most important thing in your life.
1. Matthew 16:26. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
2. Colossians 3:1-4. If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
C. We are told to be diligent with our salvation.
1. 2 Timothy 2:15. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
a) Part of presenting ourselves approved to God requires us to rightly divide the word.
b) To know it, interpret it correctly.
c) This takes time and effort.
2. 2 Peter 3:14. Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless
a) Listen up!
b) Jesus is coming back some day! He is!!!
c) You be careful. You be persistent in His service.
d) Trust me. You want to be found without spot and blameless when He comes.
3. Romans 12:10-11. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord
a) Where there is no fervency, diligence lags.
b) Fervency – heat, boiling.
c) Are you hot or cold?
4. Hebrews 11:6. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
a) God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
b) Does “diligent” describe how you seek God?
c) If you were on trial for being a seeker of God, would there be sufficient evidence to convict you?
III. DILIGENCE IN GUARDING OUR HEART.
A. Proverbs 4:23. Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.
1. This passage says to guard your heart with the diligence of a prison guard.
2. Prison guards we responsible for their prisoners.
3. If one escaped, they had to take their place.
4. They were very diligent in their duties.
5. The Philippian Jailer was about to kill himself when he thought his prisoners had escaped. Acts 16:27. And the keeper of the prison, awaking from sleep and seeing the prison doors open, supposing the prisoners had fled, drew his sword and was about to kill himself.
B. But what does it mean to guard our heart?
1. The “heart” is not talking about our blood pump.
2. It is referring to our mind.
3. Guarding our heart is talking about controlling our passions and desires.
a) 1 Corinthians 9:27. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
b) Proverbs 25:28. Whoever has no rule over his own spirit Is like a city broken down, without walls.
c) If we never allow sin to reign in our minds, it will not show itself in our actions.
4. Matthew 5:27-28. “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
IV. DILIGENCE IN SPIRITUAL GROWTH.
A. 2 Peter 1:10. Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble;
1. Do what things?
2. 2 Peter 1:5-7. But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
3. We are to add these qualities to our character.
4. This is talking about spiritual growth.
B. We must be diligent in seeking spiritual growth.
1. All of us ought to be advancing to the place where we can teach others. Hebrews 5:12. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.
a) Think about the diligence it requires to be a teacher in a secular school.
b) Those who want to be teachers must go through several years of instruction.
c) They are held accountable for learning the material. TESTS.
d) Do we put forth the same effort to become spiritual teachers?
(1) What if I gave you a test today?
(2) Tell what the Bible teaches in regard to the following: Give Bible references:
(a) The deity of Christ.
(b) The oneness of the church.
(c) Scriptural organization of the church.
(d) Christian worship.
(i) Acts of worship.
(ii) Time of worship.
(e) Sinfulness of denominationalism.
(3) These are not unreasonable questions.
(4) If you don’t have all of the information off the top of your head, do you know where to find it?
2. All of us must sanctify the Lord in our hearts and be ready to give an answer. 1 Peter 3:15. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear
V. DILIGENCE IN PASSING ON KNOWLEDGE TO THOSE WHO FOLLOW.
A. 2 Peter 1:15. Moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a reminder of these things after my decease.
1. Peter was writing because he knew that his life was near it’s end.
2. He wanted to make sure that those who succeeded him would be adequately prepared face whatever life threw at them.
B. I think we all understand that we have an obligation to the next generation to pass on those things that we have learned.
1. Deuteronomy 6:4-9. “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
2. Ephesians 6:4. And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.
3. Are we diligent in this?
a) Do we take an active part in the spiritual education of our children or do we leave that to the Bible class teachers?
b) It is not the church’s responsibility to bring your child up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. It is your responsibility.
(1) One of the tools you can use is Bible Class.
(2) Are you using it?
c) You ought to be involved with the spiritual education of your children.
d) Home devotionals in the evening.
VI. WHAT PRODUCES DILIGENCE?
A. Godly sorrow. 2 Corinthians 7:10-11. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
1. Have you ever messed up and let someone down and then used that to motivate you to do better from that point on?
2. Godly sorrow produced diligence in the Corinthians.
3. Their sorrow over their sin and shortcomings led them to strive to do better.
B. All of us have sinned. Romans 3:23. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
1. Those who are truly sorry (Godly sorrow) use their past failures as a way of motivating their selves for the future.
2. That does not mean that we “beat ourselves up” over these past failures. Philippians 3:13-14. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
VII. DILIGENCE TO THE END.
A. Our diligence must endure to the end.
Hebrews 6:10-12. For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
B. Those who inherit the promises are the ones who have been found diligent at the time of their death.
Ezekiel 18:21-24. “But if a wicked man turns from all his sins which he has committed, keeps all My statutes, and does what is lawful and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die. None of the transgressions which he has committed shall be remembered against him; because of the righteousness which he has done, he shall live. Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die?” says the Lord GOD, “and not that he should turn from his ways and live? “But when a righteous man turns away from his righteousness and commits iniquity, and does according to all the abominations that the wicked man does, shall he live? All the righteousness which he has done shall not be remembered; because of the unfaithfulness of which he is guilty and the sin which he has committed, because of them he shall die.
Delivered on: October 9, 2011. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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1 Peter 03:10 Lies and Deceit – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 3:10
Introduction
1. In honor of the upcoming elections, today we are going to discuss LIES AND DECEIT.
2. James 3:6-8. And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
3. The world is full of liars.
4. From a very young age, we learn that it is wrong to lie and yet of all the sins of the tongue, lying is the most common.
5. In our society, it has gotten to the point that almost never take a person at their word.
6. How does God view lying?
7. What is a lie?
8. Is telling a half-truth a lie?
9. What is the difference between lying and deceiving?
10. Let’s explore these and other questions in regard to LIES AND DECEPTION.
Body
I. DEFINITIONS
A. Lie – An intentionally false statement.
1. This is what we usually think of when we think of a lie.
2. Intentionally making a false statement.
3. Oftentimes, we say things that are not true because we know no better. This is not, by definition, a lie.
a) We need to realize that, especially in things pertaining to God, we are going to be held responsible for knowing the truth so that we don’t say things that are untrue.
b) James 3:1. My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.
c) Ephesians 5:6. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.
d) 1 John 4:1. Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
4. 1 Kings 13:18. He said to him, “I too am a prophet as you are, and an angel spoke to me by the word of the Lord, saying, ‘Bring him back with you to your house, that he may eat bread and drink water.’” (He was lying to him.)
B. Deceive – to cause someone to believe something that is not true.
1. Deceit – The action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth.
2. Deception is a broader term than lying.
a) All lies are deceit but you can deceive without telling a lie.
b) The end result is the same – namely, someone believes something to be true which is not true.
c) It is how you get there that is different.
d) For example:
(1) Cookie thief.
(2) “Is your dad home? …”
3. This is where many (But not all) politicians make their living.
a) They do not tell (Usually) outright lies. If so, they could get into serious trouble.
b) What they often do is misrepresent the truth.
(1) By taking quotes out of context.
(2) By twisting and distorting the truth.
(3) By only telling part of the truth and leaving out inconvenient truths.
4. This is also where many false religious teachers make their living.
a) These people handle the word of God deceitfully. 2 Corinthians 4:2. But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
b) They quote scripture out of context.
(1) Exodus 21:23-25. But if any harm follows, then you shall give life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.
(2) Matthew 5:38-42. “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.
c) They twist and distort the truth. 2 Peter 3:16. As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.
(1) The truth about the second coming of Jesus is distorted to teach the false doctrine of the rapture. 1 Thessalonians 4:17. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.
(2) The truth about the foundation of the church is corrupted by the Catholic church. Matthew 16:18. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.
d) They leave out inconvenient truths.
(1) They affirm the need for faith to be saved. Acts 16:30-31. And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
(2) They don’t mention the need for baptism. Mark 16:16. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.
(3) Psalm 119:160. The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.
II. GOD’S VIEW OF LYING AND DECEIT
A. Note these passages:
1. Exodus 20:16. “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.”
2. Proverbs 6:16-17. These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood
3. Proverbs 12:22. Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
4. Proverbs 13:5. A righteous man hates lying, But a wicked man is loathsome and comes to shame.
5. Proverbs 19:5. A false witness will not go unpunished, And he who speaks lies will not escape.
6. Proverbs 20:17. Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.
7. 1 Peter 2:1. Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking
8. Revelation 21:8. But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”
9. Revelation 21:27. But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
B. Lies and deceit are wrong because:
1. God said they are wrong. (See above)
2. They violate Matthew 7:12. Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
3. They ruin lives.
a) Proverbs 11:9. The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, But through knowledge the righteous will be delivered.
b) Proverbs 26:18-19. Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death, Is the man who deceives his neighbor, And says, “I was only joking!”
4. They destroy relationships.
5. They hurt the church.
III. THE REMEDY FOR LYING
A. The remedy for lying is the same as the remedy for every other sin: REPENT.
B. Ephesians 4:17-25. This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart; who, being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another.
Conclusion
1. “It’s just a little white lie…”
2. There is no such thing.
3. Lies and deceit will cause us to be lost if we don’t repent.
4. 1 Peter 3:10. For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.”
Delivered on: November 4, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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James 05:19-20 Restoring Straying Saints – audio
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Text: James 5:19-20
Introduction
1. As James comes to the close of his epistle, he stresses the importance of restoring those who wander from the truth:
2. Restoring straying saints is a responsibility given to ALL who are truly the children of God – Galatians 6:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:14
3. Yet, it is a responsibility that is so easy to neglect, and in most cases IS neglected!
4. The purpose of this lesson is two-fold:
a. To impress upon our minds the importance of engaging in this work of restoring straying saints
b. To tell us how we should carry out this important work
Body
I. THE CONDITION OF SAINTS WHO HAVE STRAYED FROM THE TRUTH
A. AS DEFINED BY JAMES IN OUR TEXT
1. They are in danger of DEATH! – James 5:20
2. One who has wandered from the truth has also wandered from the from the source of forgiveness – 1 John 1:6-7
3. Separated from the blood of Christ to cleanse him of his sins, he is in danger of suffering the consequences of sin: DEATH! – Romans 6:23
B. AS DEPICTED BY PETER
1. “The latter end is worse for them than the beginning” – 2 Peter 2:20-22
2. That such a person is in danger of more serious punishment is stressed by Jesus – Luke 12:47-48
C. AS DESCRIBED IN THE EPISTLE TO THE HEBREWS – Hebrews 10:26-31
1. “There no longer remains a sacrifice for sins” — the blood of Christ is no longer available for him in this state!
2. “but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation” — all that remains is to be eternally lost in hell!
3. “much worse punishment…will he be thought worthy” — because such a person is trampling underfoot the Son of God, counting the blood of Jesus which had sanctified him a common thing, and is insulting the Spirit of grace!
4. “the LORD will judge His people” — for those who despise His mercy, they will face His righteous indignation!
D. AS DECLARED BY JESUS HIMSELF
1. Such will be removed from His presence! – Revelation 2:4-5
2. He will expel such from His presence! – Revelation 3:15-16
E. When we truly understand the spiritual condition of our friends and loved ones who have strayed from the truth, it should move us to do something!
II. RESTORING STRAYING SAINTS
A. IT REQUIRES SPECIAL ATTRIBUTES
1. PEOPLE WHO ARE SPIRITUAL – Galatians 6:1
a. Those who are producing the fruit of the Spirit in their own lives – Galatians 5:22-23
b. Unqualified personnel need not apply for this work
1) They might best work on themselves first – Matthew 7:3-4
2) Then they can help others – Matthew 7:5
2. A SPIRIT OF GENTLENESS – Galatians 6:1
a. We are engaged in delicate “soul surgery”
b. This is not the time to misuse the “sword of the Spirit”!
3. A CONSTANT SENSE OF SELF-EXAMINATION – Galatians 6:1
a. If we are not careful, we can easily fall into the same fault!
b. As many do when they counsel those with marital problems without proper supervision
4. A WILLINGNESS TO BEAR ONE ANOTHER’S BURDENS – Galatians 6:2
a. Which involves an expense of time and energy to help the weak to overcome their faults
b. Our responsibility is not fulfilled by simply pointing out our brother’s faults!
5. HUMILITY
a. This is implied in Galatians 6:3
b. It is stated outright – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
c. People will not accept correction or advice coming from an arrogant person!
d. In many cases, we may need to confess our own sin of negligence first! (For not coming sooner)
6. AMPLE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD’S WORD – 2 Timothy 2:24
a. We must be able to teach and apply God’s Word to the situation
b. For it is important that they respond to GOD’S word, and not just to OUR views or opinions!
7. PATIENCE (Longsuffering) – 2 Timothy 2:24
a. The same kind that we receive from God for our faults
b. The same kind that Paul showed towards the church at <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Corinth”>Corinth</a> – 2 Corinthians 1:23-2:3
c. Of course, if repentance is not forthcoming, we can wait for only so long – 2 Corinthians 13:1-2
8. A SINCERE DEMONSTRATION OF LOVE
a. Both at the time of rebuke – 2 Corinthians 2:4
b. And at the time of repentance – 2 Corinthians 2:6-8
B. IT REQUIRES THE PROPER PROCEDURE
1. The wrong procedures:
a. Running around and talking to everyone but the person who needs to be corrected and restored!
b. Preaching about these people from the pulpit at the very outset!
c. Bringing it up at congregational business meetings at the very first!
2. The proper procedure is outlined by Jesus – Matthew 18:15-17
a. Even though the sin may not be against you personally
1) This is still a good way to avoid misunderstanding
2) This is still more likely to succeed
b. Therefore:
1) Go to the person first
2) Then take others, if necessary
3) Then tell it to the church, if necessary
4) If he won’t hear the church, withdraw any association that might appear to give approval to their behavior – 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15; Romans 16:17
Conclusion
1. The work of restoring or correcting saints may be unpleasant at times, but it has the potential for great joy!
a. Both in heaven: “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” – Luke 15:7
b. And in our hearts: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” – 3 John 1:4
2. It comes down to this:
a. Do we really love God?
b. Do we really love our straying brethren?
c. Read 1 John 3:16-19, and substitute “spiritual goods” for “world’s goods” to answer our question
3. Brethren, let us love one another!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 05:13-18 A Call to Prayer and Praise – audio
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Text: James 5:13-18
Introduction
(Note on Bible Correspondence Course from Pakistan)
1. As is common in many of the New Testament epistles, we find various commands and exhortations as we draw near to the end of the epistle of James
2. In James 5:13-18, we find a call to pray and sing praises, with guidance as to what to do and when
Body
I. IN TIMES OF SUFFERING, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:13
A. WHAT KIND OF SUFFERING DOES JAMES REFER TO?
1. The word used refers to suffering of any kind
2. Such as sickness, bereavement, disappointment, persecutions, loss of health or property
3. Later, James will deal specifically with sickness
B. FOR WHAT SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. For the REMOVAL of the suffering, if it be the Lord’s will – 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
2. For STRENGTH to endure suffering, if it be the Lord’s will that we bear it – 1 Corinthians 10:13
a. God may not always remove the source of our suffering, for it may be for our ultimate good – Psalms 119:67, 71
b. But He promises to help us endure it!
C. FOR WHOM SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. Certainly for ourselves, as implied above
2. But also for those who may be the source of our suffering
a. As Jesus taught in Luke 6:28
b. Doing this can help greatly to endure the suffering
II. IN TIMES OF CHEER, LET US “SING PRAISES” – James 5:13
A. THE WORD “CHEERFUL”
1. Denotes pleasantness, agreeableness
2. It suggests a state of mind free from trouble, the opposite of affliction, happy!
B. IN SUCH A STATE OF HAPPINESS, ONE SHOULD SING PRAISES!
1. For singing praises is what God’s people have always done
a. Consider the attitude of David, the sweet singer of Israel – Psalms 92:1-2; 96:1-2; 101:1; 111:1; 113:1-3; 146:1-2; 147:1; 149:1
b. David was a man after God’s own heart, shouldn’t we be also?
2. For singing praises has the power to make a good situation even better – Ephesians 5:18-19; Colossians 3:16
C. WHY DON’T SOME CHRISTIANS SING PRAISES MORE OFTEN, MORE FERVENTLY?
1. Are they that “afflicted”?
2. Hasn’t God done enough in our lives to prompt us to praise Him fervently in song?
3. What excuse can we possibly give for refusing to praise God for His glory and goodness?
a. We cannot use the excuse that we cannot sing
b. God “commands” all to sing, and unless we are “mute” the command applies to us
c. Fortunately, God is not concerned with how it sounds, but that it is coming from the heart, therefore all who can speak can and should sing!
4. Heaven is described by John in the Book of Revelation as a place where singing praises to God and Christ is an on-going activity – Revelation 15:3
a. If we don’t sing praises to God on earth, though able:
b. Can we really expect to be allowed to praise God in heaven?
III. IN TIMES OF SICKNESS, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:14-18
A. ADMITTEDLY, THIS PASSAGE IS DIFFICULT
1. Questions abound concerning it
a. Is the sickness physical or spiritual?
b. Is the anointing with oil medicinal or symbolic?
c. Is the healing through providential means or miraculous?
d. Is the healing spiritual or physical?
2. First, I believe the sickness and healing in this passage is physical, though spiritual needs are taken into consideration
a. This is in view of the phrase “and IF he has committed sins, he will be forgiven”
b. This implies the sickness is physical, though it MAY be accompanied with spiritual sickness as well
c. But the conditional “IF” makes it clear that the illness may not be accompanied by sin, which if true, would mean the illness is not spiritual, but physical
3. With the assumption that physical illness is being discussed, then there are two feasible alternatives
a. This passage refers to MIRACULOUS HEALING
1) The elders were called because they possessed the gift of healing
2) The anointing with oil was symbolic, representing the influences of the Holy Spirit – Mark 6:13
b. This passage refers to PROVIDENTIAL HEALING
1) The elders were called because they were likely the most righteous in a congregation – James 5:16
2) The anointing with oil was medicinal, as was commonly practiced in those days – Luke 10:34
4. I lean toward the latter explanation
a. The first explanation must assume that the elders in every church possessed the gift of healing, which is not likely for two reasons:
1) We have no record of such in the New Testament
2) The qualifications for elders did not require this gift -1Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9
b. In illustrating the efficacy of prayer, James uses an example of God providentially answering prayer – 1 Kings 18:41-45
1) God was indeed answering Elijah’s prayer
2) But God did so, providentially, working through natural means
B. WITH THIS UNDERSTANDING, LETS MAKE THE APPLICATION
1. In times of physical sickness, call for the elders of the church
a. You want the prayers of the “righteous” working in your behalf, don’t you?
b. Notice: You are to call for them, not wait for them to call on you!
c. Have the elders pray with you
1) In faith (Trusting in the Lord’s power to heal, if it be His will)
2) Fervently (“the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”)
2. Elders should not only pray, but see that appropriate medical aids are provided
a. In a century where hospitals were non-existent, and physicians were rare, anointing with oil was a common treatment – Luke 10:34
b. In our present century, this would involve the elders making sure that the sick receive the treatment needed
3. The sick should also confess their sins, if they have any
a. Verse 15 makes it clear that sickness is not always the consequence of sin
b. But verse 16 and others (Like 1 Corinthians 11:29-32) suggests that illnesses may be God’s loving chastisement for sin, in an effort to direct us back to Him
c. In any case, sins need to be confessed and forgiveness sought if we hope to have God hear our prayers
Conclusion
1. However one interprets James 5:14-16, there is no dispute over the main thrust in this passage
a. Prayer and praise are very special privileges for the Christian
b. There is not a time in our life when we shouldn’t be doing one or the other
c. We must be careful not to underestimate:
1) The importance of praise
2) The power of prayer
2. But to truly benefit from these two spiritual exercises, we need to be in a right relationship with God
a. Which involves being open to God’s Word, “One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination” – Proverbs 28:9
b. And being a doer of God’s will, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” – Matthew 7:21
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Galatians 06:01-05 Burden Bearing – audio
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Text: Galatians 6:1-5
Introduction
A. Isaiah 53
B. This is the ultimate example of bearing burden.
1) Christ was rejected, despised, acquainted with grief, etc.
2) Christ bore our burdens of iniquity.
3) Christ demonstrated true burden bearing.
Body
I. Burdens we must bear alone – Galatians 6:5
A. Choosing right or wrong – Joshua 24:15
B. Consequences of sin – 2 Samuel 12:19-23
C. Eternal judgment – 2 Timothy 4:6-8
II. Burdens others can bear or we bear for others – Galatians 6:2
A. Physical needs – Galatians 6:10
B. Need for prayer – James 5:15-16
C. Work of the church – 1 Corinthians 3:5-9
III. Burdens to cast on the Lord – 1 Peter 5:6-7
A. Sin debt – 1 Peter 1:17-19
B. Anxiety – Philippians 4:6-7
C. Physical needs – Matthew 6:25-34
Conclusion:
A. Burden is defined as “anything carried or endured; a load”.
B. Some burdens we do have to endure on our own, but let others carry those that can be shared.
C. God is waiting with open arms to help you with the burdens He can carry, “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” – Matthew 11:28
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 05:07-12 Handling Oppression – audio
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Text: James 5:7-12
Introduction
1. Do you feel like someone is out to get you? That they are trying to take advantage of you? That you are being oppressed?
2. What should you do when you are oppressed? What should you NOT do?
3. In James 5, we find James giving instructions to those who are being oppressed
a The rich had been holding back their wages – James 5:4
b. The rich had been oppressing the righteous – James 5:6
c. What were the oppressed Christians to do?
4. In James 5:7-12 (And surrounding verses), we find principles and instructions which help us to see what Christians should do when they are oppressed
Body
I. DON’T RESIST
A. SUCH WAS THE BEHAVIOR OF THOSE BEING OPPRESSED IN JAMES’ DAY
1. Notice James 5:4-6
2. Though treated unjustly, they did not resist
B. NOT RESISTING IS CONSISTENT WITH THE TEACHING OF CHRIST AND HIS APOSTLES
1. Consider Luke 6:27-30
2. Also Romans 12:19-21
3. And 1 Peter 2:18-23
C. ADMITTEDLY, NOT RESISTING IS CONTRARY TO HUMAN NATURE AND WISDOM
1. Human nature moves one to react in “justifiable anger”
2. Human wisdom calls for “standing up for one’s rights”
D. BUT NOT RESISTING IS BASED UPON TWO THINGS
1. AN AWARENESS that the Lord is coming to judge – James 5:8-9
a. But it may also refer to the Lord’s final coming on the Day of Judgment which has yet to occur
b. Likewise, we can look for the coming of the Lord in judgment at our death
2. A WILLINGNESS to let Him be our avenger – Luke 18:7-8
II. BE PATIENT
A. THE WORD FOUND HERE IS SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT THAN THAT FOUND EARLIER IN THIS EPISTLE
1. In James 1:3, the word is “hupomone“
a. Which means to bear up under trials
b. Which normally means to be patient in reference to THINGS or CIRCUMSTANCES
2. In James 5:7-8, 10, the word is “makrothumia“
a. Which means to suffer long
b. Which normally means to be patient in reference to PEOPLE
B. THREE EXAMPLES ARE GIVEN TO ENCOURAGE US TO BE PATIENT
1. The FARMER – James 5:7
2. The PROPHETS – James 5:10
3. JOB – James 5:11
C. EACH OF THESE EXAMPLES TEACHES US:
1. To place our trust in the Lord, that He will eventually reward us for our trust in Him
2. To be steadfast, in the meantime, in our service to Him
III. ESTABLISH YOUR HEARTS
A. THE WORD “ESTABLISH”
1. Means “to fix, make fast, to set” – James 5:8
2. Is translated “strengthen” in other places
3. To establish one’s heart, then
a. Involves strengthening our heart in a certain way
b. Here, it means to strengthen our heart so as to be patient and not resist the evil being done
B. THE “KEY” TO ESTABLISHING OUR HEARTS
1. Is the Word of God – 2 Peter 1:12
2. Through constant and careful study of God’s Word
a. Our faith in God and His eventual justice is made stronger
b. Patience and strength to not resist is developed – Romans 15:4
IV. DON’T GRUMBLE
A. ESPECIALLY AGAINST ONE ANOTHER (9)
1. When others oppress us, we are likely to vent our frustrations as those closest and dearest to us
2. For example, a man after a bad day at work often takes it out on his wife and family
3. So brethren are likely to direct their frustration towards each other when being oppressed from outside
B. WE HAVE GOOD REASON NOT TO GRUMBLE
1. “lest you be condemned”
2. The sin of grumbling is a serious one – 1 Corinthians 10:5-11
3. The same Lord who will judge those who oppress others will judge those who murmer and grumble!
V. DON’T SWEAR
A. THIS IS SOMETHING ELSE ONE IS LIKELY TO DO WHEN IN TROUBLE
1. In other words, make rash promises
2. Promises which God will hold you to, even if not serious – Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
B. THIS PROHIBITION APPLIES ESPECIALLY TO “FLIPPANT OATHS”
1. In Jesus’ day, many Jews were prone to swear in this fashion
2. Where they made a distinction between oaths using God’s name and other oaths (Those using His name were considered binding, while the others were not)
3. Both Jesus and James condemn this distinction between different kinds of oaths – Matthew 5:33-37; 23:16-22
VI. PRAY
A. THIS IS THE KEY THING TO DO WHEN OPPRESSED
1. As we learn from James 5:13
2. This is what the Christians of James’ day were doing – James 5:4
B. WHEN WE PRAY, GOD HEARS!
1. As seen in James 5:4
2. As promised by both Jesus and James, the Lord will avenge His righteous ones – Luke 18:7-8; James 5:7-8
3. It may not come when we want it, and the Lord may “bear long with us” – Revelation 6:9-11
4. But when the time is ripe, the oppressed will be avenged!
Conclusion
1. Therefore, when we are being oppressed
a. Don’t resist
b. Be patient
c. Establish your hearts
d. Don’t grumble
e. Don’t swear
f. PRAY!
2. When we react this way to oppression
a. We follow the example of Christ and the early disciples
b. Who committed themselves to God who judges righteously
1) Christ – 1 Peter 2:23
2) The disciples – 1 Peter 4:19
3. With such a righteous God on our side, it should be a lot easier to endure those who oppress us!
4. Is the righteous God on your side? Or rather, are you on His side?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Timothy 4:1-5 The Great Departure – audio
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Text: 1 Timothy 4:1-5
I. THE DEPARTURE PREDICTED.
1 Timothy 4:1-2. Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron
A. The first word of verse 1, “Now” tells us that this thought is connected to the previous thought.
1. Paul had just finished discussing the “mystery of godliness.”
2. The mystery of godliness is just another term for God’s scheme of redemption.
B. Now Paul says that the Spirit has predicted that some would depart from the faith.
1. “The Spirit expressly says…”
a) This was a revelation from God Himself.
b) John 16:13. However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
c) Galatians 1:11-12. But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.
d) 1 Thessalonians 2:13. For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.
2. “In the latter times…“
a) At some point in the future.
b) As we are going to see, this departure has already occurred.
3. “Some will depart from the faith…“
a) By implication, we see that it is POSSIBLE to depart from the faith.
b) We have numerous examples of individuals departing from the faith. 1 Timothy 1:19-20. Having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck, of whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.
c) This prediction of “some” departing from the faith has to be referring to more than just some individuals.
d) It is talking about a “movement” or a “Great departure” from the faith.
C. The cause of the departure…
1. Some would give heed to deceiving spirits.
a) Not talking about literal spirits.
b) These “spirits” … “forbid” and “command” – we are talking about religious leaders.
c) They speak lies in hypocrisy.
(1) Some religious leaders would (And still do) speak lies.
(2) Acts 20:29-30. For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.
d) They have their conscience seared.
(1) Just as scar tissue from a burn loses it’s feeling, their conscience no longer functions as a reliable guide for them.
(2) Their wickedness would not bother them.
(3) We still have people like this in the world today.
2. The teachings of these deceiving spirits are called “doctrines of demons.”
a) Doctrine – teaching.
b) Some teaching is good and healthy. 1 Timothy 4:6. If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
c) Some will cause you to lose your salvation.
II. THE DEPARTURE DEPICTED.
1 Timothy 4:3a. Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods…
A. The Spirit gives two identifying characteristics of this great departure.
1. From these two identifying characteristics, we can pinpoint when this departure took place.
2. Quite frankly, the answer was shocking when I first learned it.
B. These deceiving spirits would forbid to marry.
1. Some have come to the conclusion that to remain unmarried is a holier life.
2. In part, this is from a misapplication of Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7.
a) 1 Corinthians 7:1. Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.
b) 1 Corinthians 7:8. But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am
c) 1 Corinthians 7:32-33. But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord—how he may please the Lord. But he who is married cares about the things of the world—how he may please his wife.
3. As a result, for example, the Catholic church has, for hundreds of years, forbidden priests to marry.
a) Council of Elvira (C. 305) (Canon 33): It is decided that marriage be altogether prohibited to bishops, priests, and deacons, or to all clerics placed in the ministry, and that they keep away from their wives and not beget children; whoever does this, shall be deprived of the honor of the clerical office.
b) Council of Carthage (390) (Canon 3): It is fitting that the holy bishops and priests of God as well as the Levites, i.e. those who are in the service of the divine sacraments, observe perfect continence, so that they may obtain in all simplicity what they are asking from God; what the Apostles taught and what antiquity itself observed, let us also endeavour to keep… It pleases us all that bishop, priest and deacon, guardians of purity, abstain from conjugal intercourse with their wives, so that those who serve at the altar may keep a perfect chastity.
C. The deceiving spirits would command to abstain from certain foods.
1. Again, the Catholic church has done this throughout much of its history.
2. The new Code of Canon Law brought out in 1983 says about the matter: Canon 1251 Abstinence from meat, or from some other food as determined by the Episcopal Conference, is to be observed on all Fridays, unless a solemnity should fall on a Friday. Abstinence and fasting are to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. http://www.catholic-pages.com/life/fridaymeat.asp
3. The current regulations concerning Lenten fasting and abstinence for Roman Catholics in the United States generally are as follows.
a) Abstinence from all meat is to be observed by all Roman Catholics 14 years old and older on Ash Wednesday, on all Fridays of Lent, and on Good Friday (Which is not part of Lent, but rather part of the three day Paschal Triduum).
b) Fasting is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday by all Roman Catholics who are 18 years of age but not yet 59. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fasting_and_abstinence_in_the_Roman_Catholic_Church
III. THE DEPARTURE CONTRADICTED.
1 Timothy 4:3b-5. …which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
A. First of all, the scriptures teach that marriage is a good thing.
1. It was instituted by God Himself. Genesis 2:24. Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
2. Hebrews 13:4. Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.
3. Furthermore, the Scriptures not only say that marriage is a good thing but they say that marriage is a requirement for one who would serve as a bishop. 1 Timothy 3:2. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach
4. What about 1 Corinthians 7?
a) Paul was giving specific instructions to Christians in Corinth who were undergoing some kind of distress. 1 Corinthians 7:26. I suppose therefore that this is good because of the present distress—that it is good for a man to remain as he is:
b) His instructions were not meant for all Christians of all times.
c) Notice that, even in these instructions, he made it clear that getting married would not be a sin.
(1) 1 Corinthians 7:2. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.
(2) 1 Corinthians 7:8-9. But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am; but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
(3) 1 Corinthians 7:28. But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you.
d) The Catholic church takes these passages and argues that “clergy” must not marry; whereas, Paul was not writing to “clergy” but to all the saints in Corinth.
e) In a nutshell, he is saying, “It is better not to marry because of this present distress. However, if you marry you have not sinned; but be aware that your life will be more difficult as a married Christian.”
f) To take these passages and use them to enforce mandatory celibacy is a horrible distortion of the meaning of Paul’s words.
B. Second, as to the commanding to abstain from eating certain foods…
1. Paul says that every creature is good and is to be received with thanksgiving.
2. Any type of food is sanctified with God’s word and prayer.
3. Fasting, in the Scriptures, is always a voluntary and very personal thing.
4. Nowhere in Scriptures is anyone ever commanded to fast.
5. To command such of anyone is sin.
Delivered on: October 14, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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Acts 18:24-28 Criticism, Give and Take – audio
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Text: Acts 18:24-28
Introduction
1. Criticize – To consider the merits and demerits of and judge accordingly; To find fault with; to point out the faults of.
2. I think that if we are honest, we will admit that none of us like to be criticized.
3. If someone criticizes us, it means that they have found, or at least think they have found, a fault in us.
4. None of us like to admit that we have faults.
5. However, regardless of whether we like it or not, we will all face criticism at some point in our lives.
6. Also, at some point, we will find ourselves being the ones who have to do the criticizing.
7. Much heartache and strife has resulted from people either not receiving criticism properly or not giving it properly.
8. Today, let’s think about Criticism – Give and Take.
Body
I. GIVE.
Acts 18:24-26. Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John. So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.
A. In order to give criticism in a godly manner, we must have the right attitude.
1. Remember our purpose: To help people to draw closer to God so that they will ultimately be saved.
2. Offer constructive criticism only.
3. Constructive – Serving a useful purpose; tending to build up.
a) If it is not going to help the person in some way, keep your mouth shut.
b) Simply telling someone how bad they are without offering them advice or help in some way, will do them no good.
4. Put yourself in the shoes of the one you are about to criticize and ask, “If I were in his shoes, how would I want to hear this?” Matthew 7:12. Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
B. We must offer criticism in the right way.
1. Aquila and Priscilla took Apollos aside to talk to him.
a) When someone is confronted in front of others he often feels the need to stubbornly defend himself even if he knows that he is wrong, for pride’s sake.
b) By taking Apollos aside, Aquila and Priscilla were able to talk to him in a much more effective way.
2. Point out the good as well as the bad.
a) Acts 17:22. Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious”
b) Jesus did it in His letters to the seven churches:
(1) Ephesus: Revelation 2:4. “Nevertheless, I have this against you…“
(2) Pergamos: Revelation 2:14. “But I have a few things against you…“
(3) Thyatira: Revelation 2:20. “Nevertheless, I have a few things against you…“
(4) Sardis: Revelation 3:1. “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.”
3. Do it with tears. 2 Corinthians 2:3-4. And I wrote this very thing to you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow over those from whom I ought to have joy, having confidence in you all that my joy is the joy of you all. For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you, with many tears, not that you should be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have so abundantly for you.
II. TAKE.
A. People respond to criticism in different ways.
1. Anger.
a) This is often the first reaction.
b) Sometimes we react with anger before we really stop to think.
c) Give your first thought a second look.
d) Anger usually comes about from pride. We feel insulted when we are criticized.
2. Feel sorry for themselves.
a) Some view criticism as an attack. (Sometimes it may be.)
b) Rather than using the criticism to better themselves, they throw a pity party.
3. Criticize the critic.
a) People often try to rationalize the criticism away by saying, “Well, that person is always criticizing…”
b) This is obviously not a good response.
c) Regardless of who does the criticism, we must look at the criticism for what it is.
4. Become blind to our own self. Harden our hearts.
a) People will often make excuses in order to justify their selves.
b) They often just brush off criticism and simply do not care.
c) Matthew 13:15. For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.
5. Receive it gracefully. Acts 18:26-28. So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.
a) Don’t get angry.
b) Don’t feel sorry for yourself.
c) Don’t criticize the critic.
d) Don’t brush it off.
e) Thank the critic (Whether their criticism is valid or not).
f) If the criticism is valid, swallow your pride and use it to improve yourself.
g) If the criticism is invalid it may be necessary to arrange a time in private to talk to the individual who made the criticism and explain the matter to them.
B. Jesus and Criticism.
1. Jesus is the only Person who ever lived who can truthfully say that He deserved no criticism.
a) Yet His enemies criticized Him.
b) His friends sometimes criticized Him. Matthew 26:8-9. But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.”
c) He was criticized by His siblings. John 7:3-5. His brothers therefore said to Him, “Depart from here and go into Judea, that Your disciples also may see the works that You are doing. For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” For even His brothers did not believe in Him.
d) He was criticized by people who were ignorant. John 7:41-42. Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Will the Christ come out of Galilee? Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the seed of David and from the town of Bethlehem, where David was?”
e) He was criticized by people who should have known better. John 9:28-29. Then they reviled him and said, “You are His disciple, but we are Moses’ disciples. We know that God spoke to Moses; as for this fellow, we do not know where He is from.”
2. Sometimes He addressed criticism with truth. John 8:48-49. Then the Jews answered and said to Him, “Do we not say rightly that You are a Samaritan and have a demon?” Jesus answered, “I do not have a demon; but I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me.
3. Sometimes He remains silent. (Hard to know when to keep our mouth shut.)
(1) Jesus knew the heart of the individual speaking; so He knew whether an answer would serve any good purpose.
(2) Matthew 26:62-64. And the high priest arose and said to Him, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest answered and said to Him, “I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!” 64 Jesus said to him, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
(3) Proverbs 26:4-5. Do not answer a fool according to his folly, Lest you also be like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, Lest he be wise in his own eyes.
(4) We must know the critic. Sometimes an answer will be necessary and sometimes not.
C. Remember what is really important.
1. Am I so interested in being right that I am not worried about doing right?
2. My objective is to bring people closer to Christ. My example and how I handle criticism will have an effect on them.
3. Many times we can win the argument but lose the soul.
Conclusion.
1. At some point, all of us will have to give and take criticism.
2. How are we going to give it?
3. How are we going to take it?
4. The answer to those two questions will tell a lot about your character.
Delivered on: May 1, 2011. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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James 05:01-06 Why Does God Get Angry at the Rich? audio
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Text: James 5:1-6
Introduction
1. Compared to many people in the world, we are indeed blessed; in fact, in comparison with most people who live now and who have lived in the past, we are VERY RICH!
2. Now, it is important to stress that God does not condemn the rich for being rich
a. Some of the godliest people in the Bible were rich
b. For example, Job, Abraham, Joseph, David, Solomon, Barnabas, Philemon, Lydia
3. However, Christ does speak of the difficulty of the rich being saved – Matthew 19:23-26
4. And there are times when God is very angry at the rich, as in our text:
5. As we consider this passage more carefully, we shall do so by trying to answer four questions:
a. Who is James addressing in this passage?
b. What is in store for these rich people?
c. Why is God so angry at them?
d. What applications can we draw from this passage?
Body
I. WHO IS JAMES ADDRESSING IN THIS PASSAGE?
A. ARE THEY CHRISTIANS?
1. Are these rich Christians who had been guilty of oppressing their brethren?
2. Possibly, but unlikely for several reasons
a. They are not addressed as “brethren” as is often done in this epistle – James 1:2, 19; 2:1, 14; 3:1, 10; 4:11
b. There is no call to repentance in this passage
1) As there is throughout this epistle in those passages in which it is clear brethren are being addressed
2) Here there is only condemnation!
c. The brethren are not addressed until James 5:7, in which THEY are told to be patient in light of what has just been said
B. MORE LIKELY, THOSE ADDRESSED ARE RICH UNBELIEVERS
1. Who had been oppressing the Christians – James 2:6
2. This tirade of judgment upon them appears to serve the purpose of comforting the brethren who were being oppressed by them – James 5:7
a. The Lord has heard their cries – James 5:4b
b. Judgment is coming upon these rich oppressors
c. Therefore the Christians are told to be patient
II. WHAT IS IN STORE FOR THESE RICH OPPRESSORS?
A. MISERIES THAT WILL CAUSE THEM TO “WEEP AND HOWL”! – James 5:3a
1. So certain are these miseries to come, that James speaks of them already occuring!
a. Riches are corrupted
b. Garments are moth-eaten
c. Gold and silver are corroded
2. When this “corrosion” of their riches occurs
a. It will serve as a witness against them
b. It will eat their flesh like fire
1) The anguish and misery of poverty usually affects the hardest those who were once rich!
2) Thus, when poverty strikes, it will make them “weep and howl” as though they were on fire!
B. THE MISERIES SPOKEN HERE MAY HAVE REFERENCE TO WHAT LATER OCCURRED IN THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM IN 70 A.D.
1. Not long after this epistle was written Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans
2. Many of the rich Jews who had oppressed their Christian brethren literally “weeped and howled”
3. What they had failed to realize was that they had heaped up treasure “in the last days” – James 5:3b
a. Like the man in the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21), they thought they were laying up riches for their latter days
b. When in fact, it was the “last days” of the Jewish economy when they were so busy storing up wealth!
c. Like some today, who store up for retirement and then die before they retire!
III. WHY IS GOD SO ANGRY AT THESE RICH PEOPLE?
A. BECAUSE OF HOW THEY USED THEIR WEALTH
1. They hoarded their wealth – James 5:3b
2. They spent it on themselves with pleasures and luxury – James 5:5
3. They used the power that comes with wealth to oppress “the just” – James 5:6
a. Possibly a reference to Christ
b. Or the Christian whom they also oppressed
B. BECAUSE OF HOW THEY GOT THEIR WEALTH
1. It was through wicked means – James 5:4
2. Specifically, by withholding wages from those who had worked for them
3. Just as some people today get rich through dishonest schemes or unjust labor practices!
IV. WHAT APPLICATIONS CAN WE DRAW?
A. WE NEED TO BE CAREFUL HOW WE USE OUR WEALTH
1. To spend it on luxurious living when others are suffering
a. Is exactly what James has described in this passage
b. Is an indication of the lack of the love of God – 1 John 3:17
2. According to the New Testament, the purpose of working is not to obtain wealth for our own gratification, but to help those less fortunate!
a. As commanded by Paul – Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 6:17-19
b. As exemplified by Paul – Acts 20:34-35
B. WE NEED TO BE CAREFUL HOW WE OBTAIN OUR WEALTH
1. To do so at the expense of others will bring God’s wrath upon us! – Deuteronomy 24:14-15
2. It is wrong to think that success can only come by stepping on others
3. This might be an appropriate place to add what we learn from Paul in 1 Timothy 6:9-10
a. It is not riches that are wrong, but the DESIRE TO BE RICH that is wrought with many dangers!
b. Riches are not wrong if they are the BY-PRODUCT of our endeavors, not the GOAL of those endeavors!
1) For example, one may desire to be a doctor to help the sick, or a plumber because of one’s skill or interest in such matters, and receive riches as a by-product because of the value society might place on such services
2) But to enter such professions solely because one’s goal is to get rich thereby, then we are ensnared by the love of money!
4. So how do we obtain our wealth?
a. If we do it honestly and in compensation for a job well done, then God is pleased
b. But if we do it by hurting others and by making wealth our primary object, then we are in danger of God’s wrath!
Conclusion
1. Living in the country and society in which we do, we have much for which to be thankful
2. But we also have much of which we need to beware:
a. We live in a society where it is quite possible to become wealthy
b. We live in a society where covetousness or the desire to be rich are not considered sins
c. We live in a society where heaping up treasures for our own gratification is considered an inalienable right!
d. It is easy to be influenced by these values!
3. Perhaps we need to ask ourselves constantly: Are we laying up treasure in heaven, or on earth?
a. Those who lay up treasure in heaven are those who use their wealth to do good and help the poor and less fortunate – Matthew 19:21; 1 Timothy 6:18-19
b. Those who lay up treasure on earth are actually storing up for themselves miseries and wrath!
1) Miseries…when their wealth fails them in their time of true need
2) Wrath…from God in the Day of wrath that is yet to come
4. These are sobering thoughts worthy of our careful consideration…Have you even begun to lay up treasure in heaven by obeying the gospel of Christ?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Galatians 01:13-14 Traditionalism – audio
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Text: Galatians 1:13-14
Introduction
1. A challenge the church faces today that has a long history is traditionalism
a. Jesus often conflicted with traditions in His day
b. Traditions have often been a major factor in causing division among churches
2. What are traditions?
3. Are traditions always wrong? If not, when does a tradition become wrong?
4. How can we be guilty of traditionalism?
Body
I. THE MEANING OF TRADITION
A. TRADITION
1. The Greek word is paradosis, which means giving over or handing down
2. It refers to teaching that is handed down either by word or in writing
B. AS UNDERSTOOD BY THE JEWS
1. It applied to the oral teachings of the elders (Distinguished elders from Moses on down)
2. These traditions were often divided into three classes
a. Oral laws supposedly given by Moses in addition to the written laws
b. Decisions of various judges which became precedents in judicial matters
c. Interpretations of highly respected rabbis held in reverence along with the OT scriptures
3. Prior to his conversion, Paul was a staunch supporter of Jewish tradition – Galatians 1:13-14
C. AS UNDERSTOOD BY ROMAN AND GREEK CATHOLICS
1. Their views appear to be parallel to that of the Jews
2. What they consider Tradition is what they believe to be the teachings:
a. Of Jesus or His apostles, persevered orally rather than through writing
b. Of various church councils which have left various decrees
c. Of various church leaders (Such as the pope) considered to be inspired with later revelations from God
3. One is expected to take their word for it that these traditions were truly from God and have been faithfully transmitted
D. AS FOUND IN THE SCRIPTURES
1. The word tradition as such is not found in the Old Testament
2. It is found thirteen (13) times in New Testament
a. Three times referring to apostolic teaching – 1 Corinthians 11:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:6
b. Ten times referring to the tradition of the elders or the traditions of men in a dangerous way – Mark 7:3-13; Matthew 15:2-6; Colossians 2:8; 1Peter 1:18; Galatians 1:14
3. Jesus did not feel bound to abide by the traditions of the elders
a. Some traditions He had no problem with keeping
1) Such as going to a wedding feast – John 2:1-2
2) Or attending the Feast Of Dedication – John 10:22-23
b. He just as easily had no problem with violating other traditions
1) Plucking grain on the Sabbath – Mark 2:23-28
2) Eating with unwashed hands – Mark 7:1-5
4. Jesus evidently did not subscribe to the view of traditions handed down orally
a. He never appealed to the traditions of the elders
b. He either appealed to the authority of the written Word (The Law of Moses), or to His own authority as the Son of God
5. Note well: We have seen that not all traditions are wrong
a. If they are handed down by inspired men, they are to be heeded – 2 Thessalonians 2:15
b. If they are doctrines or interpretations handed down by uninspired men (Like the traditions of the Jews) they are suspect
c. But in some cases uninspired traditions of men might be observed
6. So traditions of men can be dangerous, or they can be harmless. How can we distinguish between those that are dangerous and those that are harmless?
II. THE DANGER OF TRADITIONS OF MEN – Mark 7:1-13
A. THEY CAN LEAD TO HYPOCRITICAL WORSHIP
1. Traditions of men tend toward ritualism (Just look at the rituals found in many religions that have no scriptural basis)
2. Such ritualism is often done repeatedly, with little thought as to its origin and purpose
3. It is easy to go through such rituals, with the heart and mind on other things
4. Worship without the heart (Or mind) of man is hypocritical worship! – Mark 7:6
B. THEY CAN LEAD TO VAIN WORSHIP
1. When traditions of men are taught on the same level as the commands of God, it leads to vain worship – Mark 7:7
2. Such worship may appear to be impressive, but it in actually empty, worthless
a. First, because God did not command it
b. Second, because it does not accomplish the good we really need – Colossians 2:18-23
C. THEY CAN MAKE THE WORD OF GOD VOID
1. Jesus gave the example of honoring one’s parents – Mark 7:10-12
a. The elders’ tradition taught giving to the temple freed one from giving to one’s parents
b. Thus rendering the command of God of no effect
2. There are traditions of men today with similar affect
a. Such as the practice of sprinkling for baptism, a tradition of man
b. When one keeps the tradition of sprinkling, they make the command of God to be baptized of no effect!
3. Such traditions are actually rejecting the command of God! – Mark 7:8-9, 13
III. TRADITIONS AND TRADITIONALISM: A SUMMARY
A. TRADITIONS
1. Traditions of God, handed down by Christ and His apostles through the Written Word, are necessary for our salvation!
2. Traditions of men, handed down by uninspired men, are dangerous and sinful, when they:
a. Lead to hypocritical worship
b. Lead to vain worship
c. Make the Word of God void
3. Traditions of men can be harmless, but they become sinful if they:
a. Are taught as doctrines – Mark 7:7
b. Make the commandments of God of no effect – Mark 7:9,13
B. TRADITIONALISM
1. Defined: the systematic emphasis on the value of tradition
2. Exemplified by Jewish, Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Protestant religions
3. But can also be manifested in churches of Christ
a. Doing things a certain way, just because that is how it has always been done
b. Binding practices without scriptural basis, because we’ve always done it that way
Conclusion
1. Traditionalism can be viewed as the abuse of tradition
a. Where traditions of men are bound, made equivalent to the traditions of God
b. Where traditions of men are kept, even if it makes the commands of God of no effect
2. To avoid traditionalism, we need to be well grounded in the Word of God
a. By which we can examine any tradition being proposed as necessary
b. Asking as Jesus did, From heaven, or from men? – Matthew 21:25
c. Careful not to bind where God has not bound
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 04:13-17 How Do You Make Plans? – audio
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Text: James 4:13-17
Introduction
1. In the text for this study, James discusses the subject of making plans:
2. This subject is very relevant for us today, for we all make plans of one sort or another
a. Plans for college, jobs
b. Plans for marriage, family
c. Plans for vacation, retirement
3. Making a plan, in and of itself, is not wrong
a. Paul often made plans in regard to his travels – Acts 18:20-21; 1 Corinthians 16:5-9
b. In fact, making plans (Or setting goals) is a key to success in any venture we may undertake in life
4. But there is a right way to plan, and a wrong way; and James discusses both!
Body
I. WE CAN SUBMIT TO GOD’S WILL
A. IN OTHER WORDS SUBMIT OUR PLANS TO THE WILL OF GOD
1. We can make our plans, but we should make them contingent to God’s approval – James 4:15
2. This is what Paul did
a. God willing – Acts 18:21
b. if the Lord permits – 1 Corinthians 16:7
3. Saying if the Lord wills assumes our faith in two things:
a. That God does have a will for us (Even in mundane matters)
b. That God can intervene (Via providence) to carry out His will
4. The wisdom of making our plans contingent upon the will of God will become evident later, when we consider the wrong way to plan
B. FOR OUR PLANS TO SUCCEED, SEEK FIRST TO DISCERN GOD’S WILL, AND PLAN ACCORDINGLY
1. To a great degree, this is possible, for God wants us to:
a. Understand His Will – Ephesians 5:17
b. Be filled with the knowledge of His Will – Colossians 1:9
2. Of course, this relates especially to His revealed will
a. Which pertains to matters right and wrong
b. Which is found in the pages of the Bible
c. When we know God’s revealed will, then we can act or plan accordingly
d. Until then, the right way to plan is to show our submission to God by leaving our plans subject to His will
3. There is also God’s permissive will
a. Which pertains to matters not right or wrong, but good and better
b. Even so, we should still show our trust and dependence upon God in such matters by committing our plans to His Will
II. WE CAN IGNORE GOD’S WILL
A. TO PLAN THIS WAY IS FOLLY – James 4:13-15
1. Because life is COMPLEX – James 4:13
a. There are the complexities of TIME (Today, tomorrow, when?)
b. There are the complexities of ACTIVITIES (Buy, sell?)
c. So many decisions to make, so many mistakes might be made
d. If it’s possible to know God’s will on any matter, that would increase the likelihood that our decisions and plans will be correct
2. Because life is UNCERTAIN – James 4:14a
a. No one has a guarantee of tomorrow
1) Whether there will even be one
2) Or what will happen
b. Only God can bring about what He wills for the future without fail
c. Since this is true, we should certainly desire to make plans that are in keeping with His plans!
3. Because life is FRAIL – James 4:14b
a. It is like a vapor – Psalms 39:5-6, 11
b. How substantial is a vapor or shadow?
c. How quickly we can succumb to sickness or an accident illustrates how frail we really are
d. It is foolish, then, to think we have the strength within ourselves to make our plans happen – James 1:10-11
4. Because life is BRIEF – James 4:14c
a. appears for a little time
b. This is something Job observed – Job 9:25-26; 14:1
c. Since life is so short, it is important that we do God’s will and not our own – 1 John 2:17
B. TO PLAN THIS WAY IS BOASTFUL ARROGANCE – James 4:16a
1. To plan without taking into consideration God’s will is to set ourselves up above God Himself!
2. How could one be more arrogant than that?
C. TO PLAN THIS WAY IS SIN – James 4:16-17
1. It is sin because it involves arrogance and boasting which is evil – James 4:16
2. It is sin because we who are Christians know better – James 4:17
a. We know what is good: to plan with God’s will in mind
b. To do otherwise is sin!
Conclusion
1. How do we make our plans?
a. If we plan without considering the will of God, then we are foolish, arrogant, and sinful!
b. If we make our plans subject to the approval of God, then we are wise, submissive, and righteous in God’s sight!
c. If we endeavor to plan as much as we can within the framework of God’s revealed will, then we increase the likelihood of success!
2. What about your plans for eternity?
a. There is no doubt what the Lord’s will is on this subject – Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; Romans 10:9-10; 2 Peter 1:5-11; Revelation 2:10
b. We can be certain of success if we submit to God’s will in the matters of faith, repentance, confession, baptism, and living a faithful Christian life
c. But to ignore it is folly in view of life’s UNCERTAINTY, FRAILTY, and BREVITY!
3. Have you done as the Lord wills?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:6 Does It Make a Difference? audio
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Text: Hebrews 11:6
Introduction
A. Religious world is divided
1. Different beliefs
2. Different doctrines
3. Different practices
4. Different churches
B. Does it make any difference about any of that?
C. Does it make any difference what one believes?
Body
I. IT DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE WHAT ONE BELIEVES
A. That popular concept will not work in other areas:
1. Business – If you invest in a business, believe it to be a good investment, you may easily lose all your money!
2. Health – If you drink a glass liquid, believe it to be water, you may die if it is really poison!
B. If one must believe anything, then it makes a difference
1. God – Hebrews 11:6
2. Christ – John 8:24
3. Truth – John 8:32; Galatians 1:6-9
C. An objective standard, a fixed standard makes a difference what we believe
1. What is written – 2 Corinthians 4:13
2. Oracles of God – 1 Peter 4:11
3. Commandments – 1 Corinthians 14:37
4. Word of God – 1 Thessalonians 2:13
5. Inspired Scriptures – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
D. The difference it makes – John 8:24
1. Believes in Christ = Sins forgiven = Heaven
2. Does not believe in Christ = Die in sin = Cannot go to Heaven
E. Not loving the truth – 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12
1. Lie = Deceived – 2 Thessalonians 2:10
2. Not love truth – 2 Thessalonians 2:10
3. Deluded – 2 Thessalonians 2:11
4. Believe lie – 2 Thessalonians 2: 11
5. Not believe truth – 2 Thessalonians 2:12
6. Pleasure in unrighteousness (v 12) = Condemned (v 12)
F. Believing a lie – 1 Kings 13:7-10; 19-26
1. Do not drink water; Do not return the same way
2. Lie: Bring him back to your house, that he may eat bread and drink water
II. IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE WHAT ONE PRACTICES
A. If not – Can do anything!
1. Handle snakes as worship
2. Immoral acts as worship
B. Our practice must be authorized in the Word of God
1. According to the pattern – Hebrews 8:5
2. In the name of the Lord – Colossians 3:17
3. Within the doctrine of Christ – 2 John 9
C. The difference it makes our practice affects our:
1. Fellowship with God – 2 John 9
2. Eternal salvation – Matthew 7:22-23
Conclusion
A. If it does not make any difference
1. Does not matter whether one believes or not
2. Does not make any difference whether one believes the Bible
3. What Bible says – unimportant
4. What God says – unimportant
B. If it does make a difference
1. I need to know the truth – John 8:32
2. I need to study and examine what I am taught – Acts 17:11
3. I need to obey the truth – 1 Peter 1:22
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 04:01-12 How to End Wars – audio
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Text: James 4:1-12
Introduction
1. Have you ever heard of:
b. The War of the Oaken Bucket?
d. These were actual wars fought between nations, and you can read about them in many history books
2. War is too often a fact of life in spite of treaties, world peace organizations, and even the threat of nuclear weapons
a. Not only wars between nations
b. But there are wars of one kind or another on almost every level of life – even gas wars between gas stations!
3. In our text, we find James discussing this important theme of War
a. He describes three types of wars going on in the world
b. He also tells how these wars can be stopped
Body
I. WAR WITH EACH OTHER – James 4:1, 11-12
A. EVEN AMONG CHRISTIANS! – James 4:1
1. Surely brethren ought to live together in love and harmony – Psalms 133:1
2. Yet often they do not
a. Lot quarreled with Abraham
b. Absalom created a war with his father David
c. The disciples of Jesus argued over who would be greatest
d. Paul and Barnabas had great contention over John Mark
3. Even churches in the New Testament often had problems
a. At Corinth
1) Brethren were suing each other
2) They were competing in the public assemblies
b. In Galatia – brethren were biting and devouring one another
c. Even at Philippi – two women were having trouble getting along with each other
B. IN HIS EPISTLE, JAMES IMPLIES SEVERAL DIFFERENT KINDS OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS AMONG BRETHREN:
1. Class wars – James 2:1-9
2. Economic wars – James 5:1-6
3. Church fights – James 1:19-20; 3:13-18
4. Personal wars
a. Notice James 4:11-12
b. Where we are admonished not to speak evil of one another, nor to judge one another
II. WAR WITHIN OURSELVES – James 4:1-3
A. THIS IS THE REASON WE WAR WITH ONE ANOTHER! – James 4:1
1. It is the war in the heart that causes the wars in the church and elsewhere!
2. Our desire for things to satisfy our pleasures (Like power, possessions, etc.) is what makes us fight with others
3. Putting it simply, the key problem is SELFISHNESS
B. SUCH SELFISH DESIRES LEAD TO:
1. Wrong Actions – James 4:2
a. you murder and covet…you fight and war
b. Perhaps not literally, but certainly so in God’s sight – 1John 3:15
2. Wrong Praying -James 4:3
a. The kind of praying that goes unanswered
b. Because the prayers are for selfish motives
III. WAR WITH GOD – James 4:4-10
A. HERE IS THE ROOT CAUSE OF EVERY WAR, INTERNAL OR EXTERNAL
1. Rebellion against God!
2. In some way:
a. …those at war with others…
b. …are also at war within themselves…
c. …because they are first at war with God!
B. HOW DOES A BELIEVER DECLARE WAR AGAINST GOD?
1. By being friendly with God’s enemies!
2. James mentions three enemies we must not be friends with if we want to be at peace with God:
a. The World – James 4:4
1) That is, human society that is contrary to God
a) Any conduct, belief, thought…
b) …which is anti-God, anti-Christ
2) To be a friend of such…
a) Makes one an enemy of God!
b) Makes one a spiritual adulterer or adulteress!
b. The Flesh – James 4:1,5
1) The unlawful desires that would lead us away from God
2) These desires wage war within us, but we must not give in to them – 1Peter 2:11
3) Such desires are in direct conflict to what the Spirit of God would have us to be and do – James 4:5; Galatians 5:16-26
4) To submit to these unlawful desires (Works) of the flesh sets one contrary to God and His Spirit!
c. The Devil – James 4:6-7
1) Pride is Satan’s greatest temptation
2) When we give into pride, we become friends of the devil and enemies of God – James 4:6
C. HOW TO ENJOY PEACE WITH GOD
1. Submit To God – James 4:7
a. Literally, get into your proper rank
b. When a buck private acts like the general, there is going to be trouble!
c. Unconditional surrender to God is the only way to victory!
d. Submission is saying: Not my will, but Thine be done
2. Resist The Devil – James 4:7
a. He is behind every war that we have
b. But if we just resist, then he will flee!
3. Draw Near To God – James 4:8
a. And He will draw near to us!
b. How do we do this?
1) Cleanse your hands – Get your sins forgiven!
2) Purify your hearts – Be single-minded in your devotion to God! (Not double-minded, like a spiritual adulterer)
4. Humble Yourselves In The Sight Of God – James 4:9-10
a. It’s possible to submit outwardly and not be humble inwardly
b. True mourning for our sins is how we can humble ourselves before God – James 4:9
c. The end result of such humility? God will lift you up – James 4:10
Conclusion
1. If we obey these four instructions, then God will draw near to us, cleanse us, and forgive us!
2. ONLY THEN WILL THE WARS CEASE!
a. For we will not be at war with God
b. So we will not be at war within ourselves
c. And we will not be at war with others!
3. As Solomon wrote in the Book of Proverbs: When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. – Proverbs 16:7
4. Are we making sure our ways are pleasing to the Lord?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 03:13-18 Wisdom: Heavenly vs. Earthly – audio
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Text: James 3:13-18
Introduction
1. In the book of Proverbs, we are encouraged to seek after wisdom – Proverbs 3:13-18; 4:7-9
2. Likewise, in the New Testament we are exhorted to walk with wisdom – Ephesians 5:15-17
3. But in James 3:13-18, we learn that there is more than just one kind of wisdom
4. In this lesson, we will take a look at what James describes as two different kinds of wisdom: heavenly wisdom vs. earthly wisdom
Body
I. A CONTRAST IN THEIR ORIGIN
A. EARTHLY WISDOM IS NOT FROM ABOVE
1. It is EARTHLY
a. It is worldly
b. Wisdom that is according to the world’s standards
c. But this wisdom is foolishness to God – 1 Corinthians 1:20
2. It is SENSUAL
a. Appealing to the senses, the emotions, the passions
b. Wisdom according to what FEELS right (But that doesn’t make it right)
3. It is DEMONIC
a. The kind of wisdom possessed by the devil and his angels
b. A wisdom that often finds its origin in the influences of Satan!
B. HEAVENLY WISDOM IS FROM ABOVE
1. It Comes from GOD – James 3:17
2. It Comes via PRAYER – James 1:5-8
II. A CONTRAST IN THEIR NATURE
A. EARTHLY WISDOM
1. Full of BITTER ENVY
2. Possessing SELF-SEEKING IN THE HEART
3. This wisdom extols as virtues such qualities as:
a. Power
b. Position
c. Privilege
d. Prestige
4. It was this kind of wisdom
a. That prompted Satan and his angels to rebel against God
b. That prompted the disciples to argue over who would be the greatest in the kingdom
B. HEAVENLY WISDOM
1. It is first PURE – James 3:17
a. Above all else, it is true to God’s Will
b. Not one to compromise truth for the sake of peace
2. Then it is PEACEABLE
a. Holding firm to the truth, it makes every effort to be at peace – Romans 12:18
b. For example, speaking the truth in an attitude of love – Ephesians 4:15
3. GENTLE
a. That is, kind in one’s dealings with others
b. Not harsh, even when right and dealing with those who differ – 2 Timothy 2:24-25
4. WILLING TO YIELD
a. Not in matters of truth
b. But in matters of opinion – Romans 14:1
c. In matters of liberty – Romans 14:19-21
5. FULL OF MERCY
a. Quick to forgive the offenses of others
b. Wisely understanding one’s own need of mercy – James 2:13
6. Producing GOOD FRUITS
a. Notice James 3:13, where it says we are to show by our conduct our true wisdom and understanding
b. This wisdom takes one beyond being a HEARER to being a DOER – James 1:22
c. Understanding that faith without works is dead – James 2:26
7. WITHOUT PARTIALITY
a. Showing no respect of persons – James 2:1-13
b. Rather, treating all fairly, on the same basis
8. WITHOUT HYPOCRISY
a. Indicating that all of the above is not an act, a show
b. But that it comes from a heart desiring to please God, not man
III. A CONTRAST IN THEIR FRUITS
A. EARTHLY WISDOM
1. Causes CONFUSION
2. And EVERY EVIL THING
3. Makes you wonder what kind of wisdom
a. Is behind denominationalism
b. Is often manifested in politics
B. HEAVENLY WISDOM – James 3:18
1. Produces PEACE, instead of confusion
2. Bears the fruit of RIGHTEOUSNESS, instead of every evil thing
Conclusion
1. Certainly when we compare their ORIGIN, NATURE and FRUITS, the wisdom to be preferred is HEAVENLY WISDOM
2. What kind of wisdom do we have?
a. Those who have EARTHLY WISDOM boast of theirs
b. While those who have HEAVENLY WISDOM show theirs by their good conduct done in meekness
3. What kind of wisdom do we want?
a. If EARTHLY, then no effort is necessary
1) Just do what the world tells you
2) Just do what feels right
b. But if HEAVENLY, then we must be diligent
1) To seek such wisdom from God
2) To demonstrate such wisdom by our conduct
4. What kind of wisdom do you have in regards to the gospel of Christ?
a. EARTHLY WISDOM makes no response to the gospel, or if any, only that which is convenient
b. HEAVENLY WISDOM receives the commands of the gospel joyfully and obediently – Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38
5. Have you demonstrated HEAVENLY WISDOM?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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John 17:20-21 Causes of Denominationalism – audio
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Text: John 17:20-21.
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Introduction
1. “Denominate” – to name.
2. “Denomination” – a name or designation, especially one serving to classify a set of things. A recognized autonomous branch of the Christian church.
3. There are about 20-30 major denominations in existence today.
4. Among those major groupings, there are countless sub-divisions.
5. For example: Read list of Baptist Subdivision in the United States.
6. That God is displeased with this situation is beyond doubt.
7. How did we get to this current state of affairs?
8. Some would look back to the Reformation movement of the 1500’s with Martin Luther as the start of Denominationalism.
9. While it is true that most of the modern denominations had their origins in the Reformation; it is also true that the underlying causes of denominationalism were present long before even the establishment of the church.
Body
I. Jesus’ Disciples. Mark 9:33-38.
A. Even before the church was established there were certain “red flags” that warned of division to come.
B. Jesus’ disciples were concerned with who would be the greatest among them.
C. Pride is one of the major causes of denominationalism.
D. There always have been and always will be people who desire to have a following.
1. Paul warned the Ephesian elders of this. Acts 20:29-30.
2. Diotrephes is another example. 3 John 9.
E. Also we see in Mark 9:33-38, that the disciples demonstrated an elitist attitude.
1. There was a man casting out demons in the name of Jesus.
2. Thus, he was a true follower of Jesus or else he would not be able to do such.
3. Yet the disciples forbade him because he was not part of their little group.
4. This is much like the attitude that Diotrephes demonstrated.
5. This type of divisive attitude is also one of the causes of denominationalism.
F. Jesus’ answer?
1. Don’t seek to be great.
2. Seek to be a servant.
3. Greatness in the kingdom of Christ comes from serving others!
II. The church at Corinth. 1 Corinthians 1:11-12.
A. Spiritual immaturity is another cause of denominationalism.
B. Just like there will always be certain men who want to have followers, there will always be people who are more interested in the preacher than what is being preached.
C. Sometimes these people will denominate them selves even when their leader does not desire it.
For example, Martin Luther said, “I pray you leave my name alone and not to call yourselves Lutherans, but Christians. Who is Luther? My doctrine is not mine: I have not been crucified for any one…How does it then benefit me, a miserable bag of dust and ashes, to give my name to the children of Christ? Cease, my dear friends, to cling to these party names and distinctions; away with all of them; and let us call ourselves only Christians, after Him from whom our doctrine comes.”
1. I disagree with Luther on a lot of things but he had it exactly right in this statement!
2. Yet, his followers still call themselves Lutherans.
D. What were Paul’s instructions?
1. 1 Corinthians 1:10.
2. 1 Corinthians 1:13.
3. 1 Corinthians 3:3-4.
III. The Pharisees.
A. Mark 7:1-9.
1. The Pharisees had no respect for the authority of the Scriptures.
2. They had placed the traditions of men above the Scriptures. (v.9)
3. Jesus says that those who do this are far from God. (v.6)
4. Furthermore, He says that their worship is vain. (v.7)
B. The Bible alone will make Christians only.
1. We don’t read of Methodists, Lutherans, Baptists, Episcopalians, etc… in the Bible.
2. These names and different doctrines are the result of man’s lack of respect for the authority of the Scriptures.
3. Sometimes it is not a lack of respect for Biblical authority but is rather an incorrect view of it.
a) Some feel that anything not expressly forbidden by Scripture is authorized.
b) Time and time again we are shown that God’s silence does not authorize.
(1) Leviticus 10:1-2.
(2) 2 Samuel 7:1-7.
IV. The Galatians.
A. Galatians 1:6-9.
1. The Galatians were allowing their selves to be led astray by certain people who were perverting the Gospel of Christ.
2. Paul marveled (was amazed) that they were turning away so soon.
3. The Galatians, evidently, were either ignorant of the truth or simply didn’t care that the truth was being perverted.
a) How could they not know the truth? Weren’t they Christians?
b) The answer is yes, but even Christians, if they do not continue to study and grow, can forget the very fundamental truths upon which their salvation was built.
c) Hebrews 5:12.
d) Hence the reason Peter felt the need to constantly remind the brethren of basic, fundamental truths. 2 Peter 1:12-15.
B. Lack of knowledge, will all too often, lead to denominationalism.
1. Hosea 4:6.
2. It amazes me how many people do not even know the basic tenets of their denomination.
a) I have yet to meet a member of any denomination who tells me that they believe a little baby is born sinful.
b) But a common tenet of most denominations is the doctrine of Original Sin which teaches that very thing!
3. Many have never taken the time to find out what their church teaches much less what the Bible teaches on a given topic.
4. 1 John 4:1.
Conclusion
1. Denominationalism is wrong.
2. However, denominationalism is just a symptom of deeper problems which have been a constant danger to man.
a. Pride and an elitist attitude.
b. Spiritual Immaturity.
c. No respect for Biblical authority or a perverted view of such.
d. Ignorance of the truth and apathy.
3. All of these things will lead to religious division.
4. What is the answer?
5. Repent and go back to the authority – The Bible!
Delivered on: January 15, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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1 Peter 05:08 Satan’s Work in the World
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Text: 1 Peter 5:8
Introduction
- The Bible describes Satan as the enemy, adversary, murderer, tempter, and the wicked one – 1 Peter 5:8; Luke 22:31-32. Because Satan and those angels that followed him rebelled against God, they were cast out of their heavenly habitation – Luke 10:18; Jude 6.
- The devil and his angels have no hope of redemption. The blood that was shed in Jesus death, that washes away our sins when we believe in Jesus Christ (John 3:16), cannot save Satan and his angels. The devil and his angels have a place reserved for them – Matthew 25:41; 2 Peter 2:4.
- Since Satan, and his host of angels that followed him, will never enjoy the beauties and splendor of heaven again, Satan is determined to destroy man, doing his best to make sure heaven is not man’s eternal home.
Satan Uses Deceit and Lies to Eternally Destroy the Souls of Men and Women
- If Satan and his angels are able to convince you to believe and live a lie, instead of obeying the living truth of God’s Word, he has you captured and placed you in the bondage of sin. This will lead to your eternal damnation if you don’t turn from error to the truth – Genesis 3:1-7.
- Satan has an arsenal of weapons to deceive you with. These include covetousness (Matthew 19:16-22), lust of the flesh (2 Samuel 11, David & Bathsheba), and an unforgiving heart (Matthew 6:14-15), to just name a few. Therefore, you must take heed and become aware of the deceiving power of Satan, so that you don’t fall into sin and death – 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12.
- Satan also uses lack of Bible knowledge (Hosea 4:6) to deceive, and ultimately damn, souls. A number of people today believe aborting an unborn child, taking an innocent life, is acceptable behavior. Others contend that there is nothing wrong with fornication, or sodomy. Satan has greatly deceived many – 2 Timothy 3:13.
Satan’s Work is to Accuse Christ, and His Servants, to Turn Many from Saving Truth
- A proper name for Satan is the devil which denotes, “an accuser, a slander.” In Matthew 4:4, 7, 10, the devil tempts Jesus to sin by challenging Jesus Divinity. After each temptation Jesus directs the devil to the written Word of God.
- There will be people, led by the spirit of Satan, who will falsely accuse the character and faith of Christians. This is because it is the work of Satan to turn people from the truth – Galatians 1:6-8; Acts 13:6-10. For example, many believe the lie that the devil has espoused in the religious world, that water baptism is not necessary for your salvation – Mark 16:16.
- God loved us and sent His Son to die for the sins of the world. God raised Him from the dead, giving victory to those that obey Him, rejecting Satan, sin, and death. Why not come and be free today – John 8:36.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page