Historical Posts
Divine Signposts
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Introduction
1. In our efforts to lead people to Christ…
a. We understand the importance of the Word of God – Romans 10:17
b. The gospel is the power of God to salvation – Romans 1:16
2. Yet it helps to complement the Word with a demonstration of certain qualities whereby…
a. People can see the truth of the gospel in action
b. People are more likely to believe in Jesus Christ
3. When demonstrated by Christians in a local church, these ‘signposts’ can serve to…
a. Let the nonbeliever know:
1) There is a God Who loves him or her
2) Who has sent Jesus as a manifestation of that love
b. Let the true searcher know:
1) Those who are disciples of Christ
2) Who can thus lead him or her to Christ
[There are at least four such “Divine Signposts”, one being…]
Body
I. THE SIGNPOST OF UNITY
A. THE VALUE OF UNITY OF BELIEVERS…
1. It shows that God has sent Christ – John 17:21,23
2. It shows that God has loved the world – John 17:23
B. SO UNITY IS A SIGNPOST TO THE WORLD…
1. That God loves the world – cf. John 3:16
2. That God sent Christ who produces the unity witnessed by the world – cf. Ephesians 2:13-16
C. THUS THE IMPORTANCE OF UNITY…
1. Led Paul to condemn division and those who cause it – 1 Corinthians 1:10; Romans 16:17-18
2. Led Paul to teach attitudes essential to preserving unity – Ephesians 4:1-3; Philippians 2:2-4
[Let’s be sure that we do nothing to destroy the ‘signpost’ of unity; rather, let’s work toward enhancing its effectiveness. Another ‘signpost’ that points one in the right direction is…]
II. THE SIGNPOST OF LOVE
A. THE VALUE OF LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER…
1. It shows that we have been loved by Christ, whose love we seek to emulate – John 13:34
2. It shows that we are truly His disciples – John 13:35
B. SO LOVE IS A SIGNPOST TO THE WORLD…
1. That Christ has loved His disciples – cf. John 15:12-13
2. That those who emulate His love are His true disciples – cf. Ephesians 5:1-2
C. THUS THE IMPORTANCE OF LOVE…
1. Led Paul to encourage churches to increase in love – 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10
2. Led Paul to consider love as the “bond of perfection” – Colossians 3:14
a. Here we see that love and unity go together
b. By our love for one another, we are more likely to preserve our unity in Christ
[Unity and love also go hand in hand as “Divine Signposts”. The first lets people know God loves them, and the second shows people who are the followers of Christ. Now for a third ‘signpost’ …]
III. THE SIGNPOST OF HOPE
A. THE VALUE OF HOPE…
1. It can prompt people to ask us questions – 1 Peter 3:15
2. It can provide us opportunity to share the reason for our hope – 1 Peter 3:15
B. SO HOPE IS A SIGNPOST TO THE WORLD…
1. Presuming that our hope is something:
a. Noticeable, prompting people to ask “Why?”
b. Based upon reason, i.e., evidences for our faith
2. Especially when our hope is:
a. Accompanied by peace and joy – Romans 5:1-2
b. Steadfast even in tribulation – Romans 5:3-4
c. Based upon the love of God – Romans 5:5
d. Made sure by the resurrection of Jesus – 1 Peter 1:3-4
C. THUS THE IMPORTANCE OF HOPE…
1. Led Peter to command Christians to set their hope fully on the grace to come – 1 Peter 1:13
2. Led Peter to command Christians to always be ready to explain their hope – 1 Peter 3:15
[To unity, love, and hope as “Divine Signposts”, let’s now consider a final ‘signpost’…]
IV. THE SIGNPOST OF GOOD WORKS
A. THE VALUE OF GOOD WORKS…
1. They can lead men to glorify our Father in heaven – Matthew 5:16
2. They can lead men to glorify God in the day of visitation – 1 Peter 2:12
B. SO GOOD WORKS IS A SIGNPOST TO THE WORLD…
1. Directing people to consider the motivation behind such works
2. Opening people up to the gospel message which inspires such works – cf. 1 Peter 3:1-2
C. THUS THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD WORKS…
1. Led Paul to command that we be ready for every good work – Titus 3:1
2. Led Paul to command that we be careful to maintain good works – Titus 3:8,14
Conclusion
1. With such “Divine Signposts”, we can see how people can be led to Christ…
a. Our unity can convince people of God’s love for them in sending Christ
b. Our love can direct them to true disciples of Christ
c. Our hope can prompt them to ask questions as to the reason for our faith
d. Our good works can encourage them to glory God by their own obedience to the gospel
2. This in no way takes away from the power of the gospel to save souls…
a. But the Lord intended for His church to be a city set on a hill
b. Which by demonstrating certain qualities as a group would draw people to Him
3. Without these “Divine Signposts”
a. We make it a lot harder for souls who are searching to find their Savior and His gospel!
b. Are we doing our part in the local congregation to display unity, love, hope and good works…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Lost
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(Are the Lost Really Lost?)
Introduction
1. Seemingly absent in many churches and among Christians today is a strong concern for the lost
a. Manifested by lack of personal evangelism
b. Evidenced by failure to actively support foreign evangelism
2. It is as though many have adopted the doctrine of universalism
a. That many, if not all, people will ultimately be saved
b. That all sincere people, no matter their religion, will go to heaven
3. We must remember that the Lost really are lost
Body
I. AS PROCLAIMED BY JESUS
A. IN HIS SERMON ON THE MOUNT
1. Jesus spoke of the reality of hell — Matthew 5:22, 29-30
2. He warned that few will find the way that leads to life – Matthew 7:13-14
3. Even many religious people who believe in Him will find themselves lost – Matthew 7:21-23
B. IN HIS PARABLES
1. Warning that many in His kingdom will be lost – Matthew 13:41-43
2. Speaking of the separation of the wicked from the just – Matthew 13:49-50
C. IN HIS GREAT COMMISSION
1. Commanding His apostles to preach of salvation and condemnation – Mark 16:15-16
2. Requiring that repentance be preached in His name to all nations – Luke 24:46-47
II. AS PROCLAIMED BY HIS APOSTLES
A. PETER
1. Calling on the need to repent – Acts 3:19
2. Claiming salvation only in the name of Jesus – Acts 4:10-12
3. Who wrote of judgment and the scarcity of salvation – 1 Peter 4:17-18
4. Who described the fiery judgment of the ungodly, thus the need for repentance – 2 Peter 3:7-12
B. PAUL
1. Who also preached of judgment, and the need for all to repent – Acts 17:30-31
2. Who wrote of God’s wrath, the need for mercy, and the judgment to come – 2 Corinthians 5:10
3. Who warned of the end of those who do not obey the gospel – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
C. JOHN
1. Who wrote that eternal life is only in the Son (Jesus) – 1 John 5:11-13
2. Who taught that we must abide in the doctrine of Christ to have God – 2 John 1:9
3. Who foresaw the judgment and the terrible end of the wicked – Revelation 21:8
Conclusion
1. Certainly the gospel of Christ is not all “fire, hell, and damnation”…
a. It is good news of God’s grace, love, and mercy to sinners – 1 Timothy 2:3-6
b. Whatever delay there may seem to be regarding the Lord’s return is due to God’s desire that all be saved – 2 Peter 3:9
2. But neither is the gospel of Christ a doctrine of universal salvation
a. In which a benign God accepts everyone as they are with no need to repent
b. In which there is no compelling need to share the gospel of salvation to others
3. If we are to be properly motivated to save others, we need to be moved not only by the love of Christ, but also by a proper understanding that the lost are lost
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.” – 2 Corinthians 5:10-11
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 01:15-16 Take Time to be Holy
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Text: 1 Peter 1:15-16
Introduction
1. Our songs in worship are designed to instruct as well as praise
a. For in them we teach and admonish one another – Colossians 3:16
b. By them the Word of Christ can dwell in us richly – Colossians 3:16
2. A familiar song with an important message is “Take Time to be Holy”.
a. Words written by W.D. Longstaff
b. Music composed by GeorgeC. Stebbins
3. Certainly the children of God are to be holy
a. We are to be holy in our conduct – 1 Peter 1:15
b. Even as our Father who calls us is holy – 1 Peter 1:15-16
4. Indeed, holiness is to be pursued, for without it one will not see the Lord – Hebrews 12:14
Body
I. THE NEED TO TAKE TIME
A. THE WORLD RUSHES ON
1. As expressed in the beginning of the second verse
2. Our lives are certainly hectic and fast-paced
3. Filled with activities that consume our time
4. And our lives are but a vapor – James 4:13-14
5. Before we know it, time will have slipped by
B. IT TAKES TIME TO BE HOLY
1. The key presumption upon which this song is based
2. Holiness must be pursued – Hebrews 12:14
3. Holiness is the fruit of service to God – Romans 6:22
4. Holiness must be perfected – 2 Corinthians 7:1
5. If we are not careful, time to develop holiness will be gone
II. THE WAY TO TAKE TIME
A. SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD
1. The song encourages us to:
a. “Abide in Him always”
b. “Spend much time in secret with Jesus alone”
2. The means to do so involve:
a. Prayer, as suggested by the song
1) “Speak oft with thy Lord”
2) “Forgetting in nothing His blessings to seek”
b. The Word of God (“Feed on His Word”)
3. Do we take time to be with the Lord?
a. Through prayer, where the Lord is ready to intercede? – Hebrews 4:14-16; 7:25
b. Through the Word, which testifies of our gracious Lord? – John 5:39; 1 Peter 2:2-3
4. I cannot overestimate the importance of finding time to be with the Lord alone through prayer and the Word!
B. SPEND TIME WITH OTHERS
1. This includes fellowship with other Christians (“Make friends of God’s children”)
a. Which the early Christians continued in steadfastly – Acts 2:42
b. Which helps to ensure faithfulness and steadfastness – Hebrews 3:12-14
c. Which includes the idea of frequent assembling – Hebrews 10:24-25
2. This includes service to our fellowman (“Help those who are weak”)
a. A duty enjoined upon Christians – 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15; Acts 20:35
b. Service toward all, but especially our brethren – Galatians 6:10
c. Ministering our abilities to one another – 1 Peter 4:10-11
3. We must not be so busy that we don’t have time to be with brethren and to help others as we have opportunity!
III. THE BENEFITS OF TAKING TIME
A. YOU WILL BE BLESSED
1. With inner peace and happiness (“Be calm in thy soul”)
a. Through frequent prayer – Philippians 4:6-7
b. Through frequent meditation upon the Word – Psalms 1:1-3; 119:165
2. With renewed strength (“Each thought and each motive beneath His control”)
a. Through your relationship with Christ – Philippians 4:13
b. Through the indwelling of the Spirit – Romans 8:12-13 Ephesians 3:16, 20-21
3. With increasing realization of God’s love (“Led by His Spirit to fountains of love”)
a. A manifestation of the Spirit in our lives – Romans 5:5
b. Whose fruit produces love – Galatians 5:22
4. Is this not sufficient motivation to “take time to be holy”?
B. YOU WILL BE MORE CHRIST-LIKE
1. The ultimate goal of discipleship (“Like Him thou shalt be”)
a. As explained by Jesus – Luke 6:40
b. As foreordained by God – Romans 8:29
2. A transformation noticed by others (“Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see”)
a. The result of spending time with Jesus – e.g., Peter and John, Acts 4:13
b. The result of giving yourself to such things as Timothy did, 1 Timothy 4:15
3. Prepared for greater service (“Thou soon shall be fitted for service above”)
a. For we will serve God in heaven, and in the new Jerusalem – Revelation 7:15; 22:3
b. Indeed, we will reign with Christ and God forever! – Revelation 22:5; 2 Timothy 2:12
4. Is this not even more motivation to “take time to be holy”?
Conclusion
1. Remember the need to take time
a. The world rushes on, and would carry us along with it
b. Our time in this life is short, we must have our priorities straight
2. Are you taking time, indeed, making time?
a. To spend time alone with God, in prayer and the Word?
b. To spend time with others, in fellowship and service?
3. We must take time, if we desire to:
a. Experience the blessed life Jesus offers
b. Become more Christ-like in our conduct
4. May this song (“Take Time To Be Holy”) always remind us of the need to slow down, and to do those things so crucial to our spiritual growth and happiness!
5. Have you taken the time to respond to the gospel of Christ…? – Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:26-27 Religion, Pure and Undefiled – audio
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Text: James 1:26-27
Introduction
1. What kind of religion do we have? Is it like a:
a. SPARE TIRE (used only in the case of an emergency)?
b. WHEELBARROW (easily upset and must be pushed)?
c. BUS (ridden only when it goes your way)?
2. Whatever kind of religion we have, it is of no value unless it is pleasing to God in heaven
3. We can find what constitutes pure and undefiled religion before God – James 1:26-27
4. To be sure that our own religion is acceptable before God, let’s notice some attributes of pure and undefiled religion
a. Indicated in this verse
b. It’s immediate context
Body
I. A PRACTICING RELIGION
A. IT INVOLVES DOING SOMETHING ON OUR PART
1. This is clearly implied in the phrase to visit, and to bridle our tongue
2. The context prior to this verse also makes it clear that we must be doers and not hearers only – James 1:22-25
3. This echoes the teachings of Jesus Himself – Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46
B. IF WE ARE NOT DOERS, WE ARE DECEIVING OURSELVES (James 1:22)
1. And usually, it is ONLY ourselves we are deceiving!
2. We are certainly not deceiving God, nor Satan
3. And it unlikely that we fool others, especially our children
II. A PRACTICAL RELIGION
A. GOD DID NOT INTEND FOR OUR RELIGION TO CONSIST SOLELY OF GOING TO CHURCH
1. Extending OUR HEART TO GOD IN WORSHIP is certainly important
2. But so is extending OUR HAND TO MAN IN SERVICE! – James 1:27
B. THROUGHOUT THE N.T., MUCH EMPHASIS IS PLACED UPON DOING GOOD
1. From the writings of Paul – Galatians 6:10; Titus 2:14; 3:8, 14
2. From the author of Hebrews – Hebrews 13:16
3. From the apostle John – 1 John 3:17-18
III. A PERSONAL RELIGION
A. IMPLIED BY THE USE OF SINGULAR PRONOUNS IN THE TEXT
1. anyone – James 1:23
2. he, his – James 1:23
3. himself, he – James 1:24
4. he, this one – James 1:25
5. anyone, he, his, this one’s – James 1:26
6. oneself – James 1:27
B. NOW, THERE IS A PLACE FOR CORPORATE GIVING
1. That is, where we give in conjunction with others to meet a need
2. For example, in helping needy Christians – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
C. BUT IT WAS NEVER INTENDED TO REPLACE OUR INDIVIDUAL AND PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY!
1. Some might think:
a. That their giving on Sunday fulfills their responsibility to the poor, the widows, and the orphans
b. That it fulfills their obligation to preach the gospel
2. God still expects us to fulfill our personal service to the poor, widows, and orphans as we have the ability and opportunity
3. Just as we find in the Old Testament
a. Though the third year tithe was for the widows and orphans – Deuteronomy 26:12
b. They were to always help them whenever they had the opportunity!
IV. A PURE RELIGION
A. THIS SOUNDS REDUNDANT, BUT IN OUR DAY IT MUST BE EMPHASIZED!
1. Our society has become increasingly immoral and materialistic
2. Such is wreaking havoc upon many in the Lord’s church
3. What we hear and see may only be the tip of the iceberg!
B. OUR RELIGION IS FOR NOTHING, UNLESS IT IS
1. PURE – without blemish
2. UNDEFILED – untainted
3. Capable of keeping us UNSPOTTED from (by) the world
C. BUT IF WE ARE SINNERS (as affirmed in 1 John 1:8), HOW CAN WE EVER BE PURE, UNDEFILED, AND UNSPOTTED?
1. It is possible, only BY THE BLOOD OF CHRIST!
a. Which can cleanse us and make us pure if we walk in the light with God – 1 John 1:7
b. This involves keeping the commandments of God – 1 John 2:3
1) For example, experiencing the INITIAL CLEANSING of the blood when we obey the commands to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins – Acts 2:38
2) And, experiencing the CONTINUOUS CLEANSING of the blood when we confess our sins to God – 1 John 1:9
2. It is possible only BY THE HELP OF GOD!
a. Who not only provides the blood of Christ to cleanse us from sin
b. But also a way of escape in times of temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:13
3. Yes, with Christ’s blood and God’s help, it is possible to be pure, undefiled, and unspotted by the world!
4. And this is what makes the religion of Jesus Christ UNIQUE!
a. Other religions may be practicing, practical and personal
b. But only the true religion of Jesus Christ can present one pure in the sight of God! – John 14:6
Conclusion
1. What kind of religion do YOU have?
a. Is it a PRACTICING religion?
1) Does it go beyond the walls of a building?
2) Does it go beyond the printed pages of the Bible?
3) Does it go beyond a superficial hearing of the Word?
b. Is it a PRACTICAL religion?
1) Does it consist of more than JUST going to church, reading, and praying?
2) Does it reach out and manifest itself in compassion to those in need?
c. Is it a PERSONAL religion?
1) Going beyond what we may do in conjunction with others?
2) Including our personal involvement apart from what others may do?
d. And is it a PURE religion?
1) Involving our initial cleansing from sin by the blood of Christ as we in faith repented and were baptized?
2) Involving our continual cleansing by the blood of Christ as we confess our sins and repent of them?
3) Does it include a putting away of sin with the help of God so that we might be unspotted by the world?
2. If not, then whatever religion we have is USELESS and we are simply DECEIVING OURSELVES!
3. Let’s always encourage one another to be sure and have a pure and undefiled religion before God!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Micah 06:06-08 What God Wants From You
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Text: Micah 6:6-8
Introduction
1. People have always needed to know what God wants from them.
2. He has revealed what He wants and expects.
a. But people have attempted life on their own terms
b. What God wants of them gets “lost” in the darkness of human wisdom and striving.
3. Think about this matter of what God wants from us.
Body
I. HE WANTS OUR ATTENTION
A. People forget God!
1. A very human problem, failing! – Deuteronomy 8:11-14, 17
2. “ye that forget God” – Psalm 50:22
3. Perhaps they remember His name, His existence: but in practice in fact they forget Him – Deuteronomy 8:11
B. Listen to God! – Matthew 4:4
1. this verse comes out of great human need … such need as can cause one to “forget” God
2. but Jesus points direct to God at such a time
3. Are we attentive to Him? – Matthew 17:5
II. HE WANTS OUR LOVE
A. That fact has always amazed me
1. Why would omnipotent God want a puny human’s love?
2. I’m not alone in my amazement! – Psalm 8:3-5
B. Here is what He wants – Deuteronomy 6:5 repeated at Matthew 22:37
1. and this love He wants is not a “casual glance”
2. He wants our undivided, unreserved love!
III. HE WANTS OUR OBEDIENCE
A. Certainly, the obedience grows naturally from our love
1. An important point of understanding – Psalm 51:16-19
2. Something undergirds offerings – Mark 12:33
3. did God command sacrifices and offerings?
a. absolutely! but obedience with our heart, willingness, understanding was not the obedience He wanted
b. obedience without conviction, commitment, concurrence is cold “ceremony” – Romans 6:17
B. So, God wants your …
1. Belief in Christ – John 3:16
2. Repentance of sin – 2 Peter 3:9
3. Burial with Christ in baptism – Colossians 2:12
4. Are these “things” expressions of love for God? – 1 John 5:3
IV. HE WANTS YOUR LIFE
A. Note Galatians 2:20 and Colossians 3:1-4
1. in both passages “life” appears – it is His, He created it
2. on again, off again relationship is not what He wants
3. He wants all of you, not a sort of wise warm (nominal) relationship
B. The practical expression of this?
1. He wants our service in His cause – Romans 6:22
2. He wants the practice, the manner of our life conforming to His pattern and will – Ephesians 4:22-24
3. He wants our unswerving commitment – Philippians 3:13-14
V. HE WANTS YOUR “COMPANY”
A. Surrounded by angels, He wants you there with Him
1. once again, I find a certain amazement in this
2. but the testimony of scripture supports
B. There is a place there for you – John 14:1-3
1. This is “homecoming” – Psalm 116:15
2. This homecoming is for people who have responded to what God wants from them! – Revelation 14:12-13
Conclusion
1. The thoughts are simple enough for all of us to understand.
2. Will we grasp these thoughts as ours?
3. And act on them?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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High Cost of a Free Gift
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Introduction
1. Perhaps you have heard it said: “The best things in life are free!”
2. This is especially true when you consider that the “best” thing in life is a gift
a. I am speaking of that which God offers to all who will accept it: eternal life
b. It is truly a “gift from God”! – Romans 6:23
3. And yet, though eternal life is a gift
a. A high cost was paid to offer the gift
b. And a high cost must be paid to receive it!
4. A high cost for a free gift? How can that be?
a. This “paradox” can sometimes be difficult to comprehend
b. However, teachings of Jesus are often found in the form of a “paradox” (the Beatitudes – Matthew 5:3-6)
c. Upon closer examination, such “paradoxes” are not really contradictions, but expressions of very important spiritual truths!
Body
I. THE FREE GIFT OF SALVATION
A. MANY HAVE A WRONG CONCEPT ABOUT HOW SALVATION IS OBTAINED
1. They think that salvation is earned by the “good works” they do
2. Many professing Christians have the concept of attaining heaven, that their reward is received because of:
a. Their good life
b. Their generous giving of their money
c. Their faithful attendance at church
B. BUT SALVATION IS GOD’S GIFT TO UNDESERVING MEN
1. Offered while we were still sinners, ungodly, and enemies – Romans 5:6-8
2. Not because we love God, but because He loved us! – 1 John 4:9-10
3. And it is offered to all who will receive it! – Revelation 21:6; 22:17
II. THE HIGH COST OF PROVIDING THE GIFT
A. WHAT IT COST THE FATHER – John 3:16; Romans 8:32
1. It cost Him the sacrifice of His only begotten Son!
2. He did not spare His Son in an effort to save us from our sins!
B. WHAT IT COST THE SON – Philippians 2:5-8
1. It cost Him the renunciation of glory and majesty, which He had with the Father before coming to this world
2. It cost Him the humiliation of servitude, even to the point suffering and finally dying by crucifixion for our sins
C. WHAT IT COST THE HOLY SPIRIT – 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Ephesians 4:30
1. A ministry through the ages of patiently wooing the stubborn hearts of sinful men through the call of the gospel
2. Suffering long with men who treat Him ill, being grieved when they resist Him
III. THE HIGH COST OF ACCEPTING THE GIFT
A. IT COSTS THE DENIAL OF SELF, AND THE RENUNCIATION OF MUCH THAT MEN HOLD DEAR
1. Paul, who gladly paid the cost, expressed it vividly in several passages – Galatians 2:20; Philippians 3:7-8
2. One cannot accept Christ and His salvation on lesser terms than the complete surrender of self to Him!
B. THIS IS WHAT MAKES THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST “A HARD GOSPEL” FOR MANY TO ACCEPT
1. They want to accept Jesus as Savior, but not as Lord of their lives
a. Some even suggest that accepting Jesus as Savior and as Lord are two entirely separate acts
b. But the two are inseparable – Luke 2:11; Acts 2:36; 10:36
c. Even religious leaders who have led people to think otherwise are beginning to see the error of their ways:
“The church today is paralyzed at the moment of its supreme opportunity because we have committed the blasphemy of insisting that what is so costly for God shall come easy to us. We haven’t dared face our congregations with a hard gospel.” — Dr. Paul Calvin Payne, General Secretary, the Board of Christian Education, Presbyterian Church
2. No man can accept Jesus as “Savior of his soul” without accepting Him as “Lord of his life”!
a. Jesus Himself made this clear when He warned His hearers that the cost of discipleship is high – Luke 14:25-33
b. The lordship of Jesus over self, life, and possessions must be acknowledged if we are to know Him as Savior!
3. People must realize that Jesus commission His disciples to preach repentance and remission of sins in His name – Luke 24:47
a. There is no remission apart from repentance!
b. And repentance involves the whole life! – 2 Corinthians 7:10-11
1) Not only sorrow for the past, that leads to repentance
2) But zeal and fervor for the future, that affects how we will live
c. Repentance is therefore the abandoning of our own selfish way, to go God’s way in obedience and fellowship with Him
C. “JUST ACCEPT CHRIST AND BE SAVED” IS THE APPEAL OF MANY
1. And many people assume that it is a matter of “just accepting” Him, “with no strings attached”
2. However, consider the words of Jesus Himself – John 14:21,23
3. To “receive Jesus”, then, requires a full surrender to the lordship of Christ, a sincere acceptance of His commandments – John 15:10
Conclusion
1. That is why the “gift” of salvation, while offered freely, still comes a with high cost
a. Salvation cannot be earned, nor merited, by any amount of good deeds
b. For even after a lifetime of diligent obedience we are still “unworthy servants” – Luke 17:10
c. But the Lordship of Jesus rightly demands a full surrender to His authority – Matthew 28:18-20
2. Yes, the gift of salvation is costly
a. It cost God more than heaven can declare
b. It cost Jesus the agony and shame of the cross
c. Even today it costs the Holy Spirit who seeks to woo you through the gospel
d. And it costs everyone who truly receives it the total submission of self to the rightful claims of Jesus on the lives and souls of all who would be His for time and eternity!
3. Jesus has paid the high cost to offer you the gift of salvation…have you paid the high cost of accepting it? – Acts 2:36-39
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Why We Need The Holy Spirit – John 07:37-39
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Text: John 7:37-39
Introduction
1. In this series we have briefly discussed why we need
a. God
b. The Bible
c. Jesus Christ
2. Let’s now turn our attention to why we need the Holy Spirit
a. The subject of much confusion and error
b. Prompting some Christians to avoid the subject altogether
3. Yet the Holy Spirit plays a prominent role in the life of the Christian, and error should not discourage us from seeking truth.
Body
I. BECAUSE OF THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. PROMISED BY JESUS
1. To all who believe in Him – John 7:37-39
2. A special dispensation of the Spirit unlike any before; different from:
a. The miraculous workings of the Spirit
b. The normal influences through the Word
3. Jesus promised the Spirit to all who believe
B. PROMISED BY PETER
1. To all who repent and are baptized – Acts 2:38-39
a. The “gift” could be that which the Spirit gives (e.g., salvation)
b. But I understand it to be the Spirit Himself
2. To those who obey God – Acts 5:32
3. Peter promised the Spirit to all who obey
C. PROMISED BY PAUL
1. To those who become children of God – Galatians 4:6; Romans 8:14-16
2. Indeed, one cannot be Christ’s unless they have the Spirit dwelling in them – Romans 8:9
3. Paul proclaimed that those who are in Christ have the Spirit in them
D. The promise of the Spirit described above mostly relates to His indwelling and the accompanying blessings (which we will summarize shortly).
II. BECAUSE OF THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. CONVICTING THE WORLD
1. Of sin, righteousness, and judgment – John 16:7-11
2. Done through the gospel of Christ
a. The instrument designed to produce faith – Romans 10:17
b. Which is God’s power to save – Romans 1:16-17
c. And determines who will be judged (condemned) – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
3. Through the Word, the Spirit convicts the world of sin
B. REGENERATING THE SINNER
1. Saving those who respond through the washing of regeneration – Titus 3:4-6
a. Being born again of water and the Spirit – John 3:5
b. In which one’s sins are washed away by the blood of Christ – Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7
2. Causing them to be reborn, in conjunction with the Word – 1 Peter 1:22-23,25
3. When one obeys the Word, the Spirit regenerates the sinner
C. SANCTIFYING THE SAVED
1. A process that begins when washed and justified – 1 Corinthians 6:11
2. A process that continues with the aid of the Word
a. We are sanctified by God’s Word – John 17:17
b. Which is the sword of the Spirit – Ephesians 6:17
3. When one abides in the Word, the Spirit sanctifies the believer – Romans 15:16
D. The work of the Holy Spirit is necessary for both salvation and sanctification.
III. BECAUSE OF THE BLESSINGS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. THE INDWELLING OF THE SPIRIT
1. Indwelling the Christian – Romans 8:9-11; cf. 1 Corinthians 6:19
2. Enabling us to put to death the deeds of the body – Romans 8:12-13
3. Strengthening us in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16,20; cf. Philippians 2:12-13
4. The Spirit is the Father’s instrument to empower the Christian
B. THE SEAL OF THE SPIRIT
1. A seal marking us as belonging to God – Ephesians 1:13
2. Looking forward to the day of our redemption – Ephesians 4:30
3. The Spirit is the Father’s identifier that we belong to Him
C. THE EARNEST OF THE SPIRIT
1. A guarantee or down payment of our inheritance – Ephesians 1:13-14
2. Given in our hearts as a guarantee of our redemption- 2 Corinthians 1:22; 5:5
3. The Spirit is the Father’s insurance that He will deliver as promised
D. THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
1. Developing graces of Christ-like conduct – Galatians 5:22-26
2. Engendering a deepening love for God as Father – Galatians 4:6; Romans 8:15-16
3. Filling us with hope – Romans 15:13
4. The Spirit is the Father’s instrument to bless the Christian
E. THE INTERCESSION OF THE SPIRIT
1. Helping us in our weakness, even in our prayers – Romans 8:26
2. Making intercession for with groanings that cannot be uttered – Romans 8:26-27
3. The Spirit is the Father’s interpreter to hear the Christian
Conclusion
1. Why do we need the Holy Spirit? Simply because
a. He was promised to us!
b. He has much work to do in us!
c. He is the source of wonderful blessings for us!
2. We may not always understand how the Holy Spirit works
a. We must beware of false doctrines regarding Him
b. Studying the truth concerning the Spirit is the best antidote to error
3. But we must also beware of
a. Quenching the Spirit in our lives – 1 Thessalonians 5:19
b. Grieving the Holy Spirit of God – Ephesians 4:30
4. Receive the Spirit initially through obedience to the gospel
a. Which involves faith, repentance and baptism – Acts 2:38; 5:32; Ep1:13
b. Whereby we become children of God, and thereby receive the Spirit in our hearts – Galatians 4:6
5. Be filled with the blessings of the Spirit by…
a. Feeding on His Word (the things of the Spirit) – Romans 8:5-6; Ephesians 6:17
b. Praying for God to strengthen you by His Spirit in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16,20
c. Singing with melody in your hearts to the Lord – Ephesians 5:18-19
6. Do we truly appreciate the need for the Holy Spirit in our lives as Christians…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Why We Need Jesus Christ
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Introduction
1. Previous lessons have discussed why we need God and the Bible
a. God is our Creator, Redeemer and Provider
b. The Bible is our guide to salvation, and source of great comfort
2. In this study, we will review why need Jesus Christ
a. As our Mediator
b. As our Mentor
Body
I. HE IS OUR MEDIATOR
A. WHO RECONCILES US TO GOD
1. There is but one mediator between God and man – 1 Timothy 2:5
2. God sent Christ to reconcile sinful man back to Him – 2 Corinthians 5:18-20
3. This God did by offering Christ as the propitiation for our sins – 1 John 4:9-10
4. We now have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins – Ephesians 1:7
5. Thus Jesus is the only way to God – John 14:6; cf. 14:21-23
— We need Jesus, for He is the only way a sinner can be reconciled to God
B. WHO INTERCEDES FOR US TO GOD
1. Now at God’s right hand, Jesus makes intercession for us – Romans 8:34
2. He serves as our “Advocate” with the Father – 1 John 2:1
3. By coming to earth, He has become our perfect High Priest – Hebrews 2:17-18; 4:14-15
4. He enables us to come boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and help – Hebrews 4:16
5. He now “always lives” to intercede on our behalf – Hebrews 7:25
— We need Jesus, for He is the only way a sinful Christian can remain in fellowship with God – 1 John 1:6-10
C. As we walk with God with Jesus as our Mediator, we also need Jesus because:
II. HE IS OUR MENTOR
A. WHO OFFERS US A BETTER LIFE
1. A more abundant life – John 10:10b
2. Peace that surpasses understanding – John 14:27; 16:23; Philippians 4:6-7
3. Love that passes knowledge – John 15:9; Ephesians 3:19
4. Joy that is inexpressible – John 15:11; 1 Peter 1:8
5. Hope that sustains in the face of death – John 11:25; Revelation 14:13
— We need Jesus, for He provides the way to a truly better life
B. WHO GUIDES US BY WORD AND DEED
1. His words provide a solid foundation upon which to build our lives
a. Such as those spoken in His sermon on the mount – Matthew 7:24-27
b. Such as those later revealed through His apostles – John 16:2-13
2. His example provides both direction and inspiration
a. The example of His humility and service – Philippians 2:3-8; e.g., Romans 15:1-3
b. The example of His perseverance – Hebrews 12:1-3
c. The example of His suffering – 1 Peter 2:21-25
— We need Jesus, for by word and deed He will guide us to life eternal
Conclusion
1. As we go through this life
a. We need to be in fellowship with God
b. We need guidance to make the most of this life and prepare for the one to come
2. That is why we need Jesus Christ
a. As Mediator He will maintain our relationship with God
b. As Mentor He will guide us through this life and on to life eternal
3. Certainly there are many other reasons why we need Jesus. But let these two remind us of why we cannot risk going through life and facing eternity without Jesus Christ…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Why We Need God
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Introduction
1. When we first come into this world, we are extremely dependent on others
a. We need parents or other providers to feed and clean up after ourselves
b. Even as small children, we sense our need for parental care and protection
2. As we get older, it is common to believe that we no longer need anyone or anything
a. Starting in adolescence, where many think they no longer need their parents
b. Often continuing throughout adulthood, where many think they can take care of themselves
3. Mankind is not as self-sufficient as many would like to believe
a. We are extremely dependent on many things despite our denials
b. Which I intend to illustrate in this series of lessons of why we need God, Jesus, The Bible and the Holy Spirit
4. Assuming that one believes in God, let’s begin with three simple yet significant reasons why we need God in our lives.
Body
I. HE IS OUR CREATOR
A. GOD IS THE CREATOR
1. Of the heavens and the earth – Genesis 1:1; Exodus 20:11; Hebrews 11:3
2. Of mankind, both male and female – Genesis 1:27; 5:2
3. Even in the womb, God has a role in giving us life – Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:5
4. He made us, not we ourselves – cf. Psalm 100:3
B. GOD AS OUR CREATOR
1. Knows us better than we ourselves
2. Even as the manufacturer knows his product better than anyone else
3. Knows our weaknesses and our strengths
4. Is the best source to find the answers to such questions as:
a. Where did I come from?
b. Why am I here?
c. Where am I going?
d. How should I live?
5. We need God because as our Creator He is the only reliable “tech support” to help us make sense and use of our lives!
II. HE IS OUR REDEEMER
A. GOD IS THE REDEEMER
1. Unfortunately, all have made a mess of their lives – Romans 3:23
2. Some more than others, but all are in need of major correction – Romans 3:9
3. But God offers Himself as our Redeemer – Psalm 34:22
B. GOD AS OUR REDEEMER
1. Makes it possible for us to start anew – cf. Psalm 103:1-5
2. This He did by sending His Son, Jesus – Galatians 4:4-5; Titus 2:11-14
3. He offered His Son’s blood to redeem from our sins – 1 Peter 1:17-19
C. We need God because as our Redeemer we have the opportunity to be forgiven of sins and to start our lives anew!
III. HE IS OUR PROVIDER
A. GOD IS THE PROVIDER
1. Of physical life itself – Acts 17:28; cf. Psalm 66:8-9
2. Of that which sustains our physical life – Acts 14:17; Matthew 5:45
3. Of spiritual strength that we need – Ephesians 3:16,20; 6:10
B. GOD AS OUR PROVIDER
1. Has promised to meet our physical needs – Matthew 6:25-32
2. If we will put Him and His righteousness first in our lives – Matthew 6:33-34
3. Has promised to meet our spiritual needs – Philippians 2:12-13
4. If we will put on His armor – Ephesians 6:11-18
Conclusion
1. More things could be said to illustrate our need for God, but for now let these suffice
a. God is our Creator
b. God is our Redeemer
c. God is our Provider
2. Those who reject any need for God
a. Go through life with no true knowledge of self or purpose in life
b. Have no way to atone for or to truly correct the many mistakes they make
c. Have lives devoid of the fullness of God’s providential care
3. How much better to confess our need for God, and look to Him
a. For wisdom and guidance in making the best of our time here on earth
b. For forgiveness and renewal when we mess up our lives through sin
c. For providential care and spiritual strength to live the truly “abundant life”
4. Yes, dear friends and brethren, that is why we need God…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Christian – Consecrated to God
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Introduction
1. We have begun to see that there is much significance to being a Christian
a. A Christian is “a person reborn“, a new creation that leads to a new life
b. He now “belongs to the Lord“, God’s special child that lives as a pilgrim
c. Who sojourns in this world “living by faith”, trusting in the Lord and being a trustworthy servant
2. Another significant fact about being a Christian involves the concept of sanctification
a. The words “sanctify” and “sanctification” are translated from the Greek “hagiazo“
b. It means to make holy, to set apart for a special purpose; related words include holiness, consecration, saint
3. As we shall see, this pertains to both our standing before God and our conduct before God
Body
I. THE PROGRESS OF SANCTIFICATION
A. ALL CHRISTIANS ARE SANCTIFIED
1. Some understand sanctification as “all at once” or “in two stages”
a. E.g., the Wesleyan concept of “entire sanctification”
b. Some even suggesting that once “sanctified”, one can no longer sin
2. The Biblical evidence suggests otherwise:
a. The church at Corinth was made of people…
1) Who were “sanctified in Christ Jesus” – 1 Corinthians 1:2
2) Who had been “sanctified” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
3) Note the past tense
b. Yet many of these people were still “babes in Christ” and “carnal” – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
1) They were filled with envy, strife and divisions
2) They were acting carnally, as mere men
3. Thus, while Christians may not be perfect, they are still called “saints”
a. Note the use of the word “saint” in addressing all Christians – Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:2
b. Because they had been “set apart” to be “God’s holy people”, it was appropriate to be called “saints” – cf. 1 Peter 2:9
4. This pertains to our standing before God; we are blessed to be considered His holy people
B. CHRISTIANS ARE ALSO “BEING SANCTIFIED”
1. Sanctification is an ongoing process
a. Those in Christ are “being sanctified” – Hebrews 2:11
b. It begins at conversion, and continues as we grow in the faith
c. As Paul prayed for the Thessalonians: “may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23
2. Thus Christians are to pursue sanctification (holiness)
a. As the Hebrews were admonished – Hebrews 12:14
b. As Paul commanded the Corinthians – 2 Corinthians 7:1
3. Because God is holy, so we are to be holy in our conduct – 1 Peter 1:15-16
4. This pertains to our conduct before God, our responsibility to live holy lives
5. God has therefore called Christians to be holy, set apart, sanctified. In obeying the gospel we have been sanctified; but if we are truly consecrated to God, then we will pursue and perfect our holiness.
II. THE PROCESS OF SANCTIFICATION
A. SANCTIFICATION IS THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
1. Note how sanctification is tied in with the work of the Holy Spirit:
a. “sanctified by the Holy Spirit” – Romans 15:16
b. “sanctified…by the Spirit of our God” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
c. “sanctification by the Spirit” – 2 Thessalonians 2:13
d. “the sanctifying work of the Spirit” – 1 Peter 1:2 NASB
2. The Holy Spirit naturally has an important role in our ongoing sanctification
a. Because He was instrumental in our spiritual regeneration when we become Christians- Titus 3:5-6
b. Our bodies serve as the temple of the Holy Spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
c. The Spirit is the instrumental agent by which God strengthens the inner man – Ephesians 3:16
3. How does the Spirit accomplishes His work of ongoing sanctification?
B. SANCTIFICATION IS ALSO THE WORK OF THE WORD OF GOD
1. Note that sanctification is also said to be tied in with the Word of God:
a. “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” – John 17:17
b. “that He might sanctify…by the word” – Ephesians 5:26
2. Since the Word of God is said to be “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17), the Word is evidently the instrument used by the Spirit to help bring about our sanctification
a. One who sets their mind on things the Spirit has revealed through the Word is setting their mind on “the things of the Spirit”
b. When we set our minds on “the things of the Spirit” (the Word of God), we are then able to “live according to the Spirit” – cf. Romans 8:5
c. Led by the Spirit through the Word of God, we will then produce the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, instead of the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:16-22
3. If we wish to live holy, sanctified lives, we must allow the Spirit to do His work through the Word of God!
Conclusion
1. When a Christian understands that he or she…
a. Is “a person reborn”
b. Who now “belongs to the Lord”
c. And is “living by faith”
…they should have no trouble accepting the idea that they are also “consecrated to God”
2. Do we appreciate the privilege of being “Consecrated To God”?
a. That God has blessed us to be part of “a holy nation”?
b. That God has called us to holiness, because He is holy?
c. That having sanctified us, He desires to sanctify us completely?
— That He does this because He desires to dwell among us? – cf. 2 Corinthians 6:17-18
3. If we do, then we will take to heart the admonition of Paul: “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1)
4. Are we perfecting holiness in the fear of God?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Christian – Belonging to the Lord – 1 Corinthians 06:19-20
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Text: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Introduction
1. In our previous lesson, we began this series
a. Asking what is the significance of being a Christian
b. Starting with the idea that a Christian is “A Person Reborn“
2. We noted that a Christian is a person reborn because in Christ
a. They are a new creation – 2 Corinthians 5:17
b. They have been born again – 1 Peter 1:22-23
c. They now have a new loyalty: to serve Jesus Christ – Galatians 2:20
3. We begin this lesson by noting Paul’s comments to the Corinthians
a. As recorded in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
b. In which he challenged their thinking by asking “Do you not know…you are not your own?”
c. The Christian needs to understand that he or she has been “bought at a price” and consequently is a person “Belonging To The Lord”
4. Belonging to the Lord” has many connotations attached to it. One is that a Christian is:
Body
I. GOD’S SPECIAL PERSON
A. CHRISTIANS ARE NOW GOD’S OWN SPECIAL PEOPLE
1. Note how Peter describes them in 1 Peter 2:9-10
a. “a chosen generation”
b. “a royal priesthood”
c. “a holy nation”
d. “His own special people”
2. These are terms that were once reserved for the physical nation of Israel
a. The Lord had chosen them – Deuteronomy 10:15
b. He made them a kingdom of priests and a holy nation – Exodus 19:5
c. Thus they had become a special people above all other nations – Deuteronomy 7:6
d. What had once been limited to physical Israel, is now possible to all people who are in Christ, as promised to Abraham – Galatians 3:8-9,28-29
B. A SPECIAL PEOPLE, WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
1. To proclaim the praises of God – 1 Peter 2:9-10
a. Because He called us out of darkness into His marvelous light
b. Because He showed mercy, and made us the people of God
2. To grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 1:8-11
a. To make our calling and election (as God’s people) sure
b. To have an abundance entrance into the everlasting kingdom
3. From the example of physical Israel, let us beware of becoming hardened and not lose faith, or we may not enter the heavenly rest that awaits us! – Hebrews 3:12-4:2,11
C. A Christian is truly “a special person” because he belongs to the Lord.
a. He can rejoice in knowing that he is one of God’s “beloved” – Romans 1:7
[God’s love for the Christian is made even more evident when we note that he is also:]
II. GOD’S BELOVED CHILD
A. CHRISTIANS ARE BLESSED TO BE CHILDREN OF GOD
1. In one sense, all people are God’s children – Acts 17:26-29
2. In another sense, many do not have God as their Father – John 8:42-44
3. Yet Christians are the children of God in a very special way
a. Because of their faith, and having put on Christ in baptism – Galatians 3:26-27
b. Redeemed and adopted by God, they have received His Spirit into their hearts – Galatians 4:4-6
c. Because we do the Father’s will, Jesus considers us His family – Matthew 12:48-50
d. Christians should be touched by this expression of God’s love – 1 John 3:1-2
B. AS GOD’S CHILDREN, WE HAVE BLESSINGS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. We are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ – Galatians 4:7
a. For we are heirs according to the promise of God – Galatians 3:29
b. It is an inheritance that is incorruptible, undefiled, that does not fade, and is reserved for us in heaven – 1 Peter 1:4
2. As heirs, we have many responsibilities, including:
a. Being thankful for the inheritance we have – Colossians 1:12
b. Abstaining from the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:19-21
c. Perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord – 2 Corinthians 6:17-7:1
d. If we wish to receive the promised blessings, we need to patiently carry out our responsibilities with an enduring faith – Hebrews 10:35-39
C. Besides being God’s special person and God’s child, a Christian who “belongs to the Lord” also has a special relationship to the world in which he or she lives:
III. GOD’S HEAVENLY PILGRIM
A. CHRISTIANS ARE IN THE WORLD, BUT NOT OF THE WORLD
1. As Jesus mentioned in His prayer for His disciples – John 17:15-16
2. Like Abraham, a Christian is a sojourner, a pilgrim – Hebrews 11:13; 13:14; 1 Peter 1:1
3. We are fellow citizens with members of God’s family – Ephesians 2:19
4. As such, our true citizenship lies in heaven, not here on earth – Philippians 3:20
B. AS GOD’S PILGRIMS, WE HAVE SEVERAL OBLIGATIONS
1. To conduct our sojourn on earth with fear – 1 Peter 1:17
2. To abstain from worldly lusts – 1 Peter 2:11; 1 John 2:15-17
3. To keep our conduct honorable, filled with good works – 1 Peter 2:12
4. To obey the laws, and respect the leaders, of the countries in which we sojourn – 1 Peter 2:13-17
Conclusion
1. We have seen that a Christian is a person who “belongs to the Lord”, one who is:
a. God’s special person
b. God’s child
c. God’s pilgrim
2. The more we understand the significance of such privileges
a. We ought to be filled with gratitude and humility
b. We ought to be moved to be the kind of people God intended
3. Are we living and conducting ourselves as those who “belong to the Lord”?
a. Are we acting like a special people?
b. Do we live like a child of God should?
c. Is our life truly a sojourn, or are we living like we want to make this earth our permanent home?
d. As we saw in our beginning text: “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
4. May the significance of belonging to God prompt us to always glorify God in our bodies and our spirits!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Christian – A Person Reborn
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Introduction
1. It is always exciting to see someone become a Christian
a. Even when an observer doesn’t understand all that is involved, they often sense something meaningful is going on
b. Especially as time goes on, and changes begin to occur in the person’s life
2. But often the significance of becoming a Christian appears to be lost
a. Sometimes even Christians fail to appreciate the significance of being a Christian
b. When this happens, Christians often fail to grow as they should
3. It never hurts for a Christian to reflect, and ask such questions as
a. What did I do?
b. What have I received?
c. What are the implications and consequences of what I’ve done?
d. What has happened to me?
e. What have I become?
f. What is different about me?
4. To summarize these questions
a. What is the meaning, importance, and value of becoming a Christian?
b. What am I now to do?
Body
I. A NEW CREATION
A. A CHRISTIAN IS A “NEW CREATION”
1. A Christian rises out of the watery grave of baptism to newness of life – Romans 6:4-5
2. Old things have passed away, and new things have come – 2 Corinthians 5:17
B. A NEW CREATION MADE POSSIBLE BY VIRTUE OF A NEW BIRTH
1. A new birth produced by responding to the Word of God – James 1:18
2. A new birth produced by the working of the Spirit of God – John 3:3-5
C. THIS NEW CREATION EMBARKS ON A LIFE OF RENEWAL
1. The inner man is to be renewed daily – 2 Corinthians 4:16
2. This renewal is ongoing, involving the renewal of one’s mind – Romans 12:2
II. A NEW LIFE
A. HAVING PASSED FROM DEATH TO LIFE
1. As Jesus promised to those who hear His words – John 5:24-25
2. Once dead in sin, we are now made alive to God – Ephesians 2:1-5; Colossians 2:12-13
3. We now have the promise and prospect of life eternal, given through God’s Son – 1 John 5:11-13
B. HAVING PASSED FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT
1. Such is the objective of gospel preaching: to turn people from darkness to light
a. So Jesus told Paul – Acts 26:18
b. So Peter wrote to Christians – 1 Peter 2:9-10
2. Though we once walked in darkness, we can now walk in the light
a. As children of light – Ephesians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:5
b. The metaphor of light representing goodness, righteousness, and truth – Ephesians 5:9
3. For which we should ever be thankful – cf. Colossians 1:12-13
4. What makes such a new creation and a new life a reality? It is more than a mere obedience to some new doctrine. It is possible only when such obedience is the result of:
III. A NEW LOYALTY
A. A CHRISTIAN IS A “CONVERTED” PERSON
1. As exemplified by the Thessalonians – 1 Thessalonians 1:9
2. Conversion inherently involves change, particularly a change of loyalties
a. From serving sin to serving God – Romans 6:16-18
b. From serving idols to serving God – e.g., 1 Thessalonians 1:9
B. A CHRISTIAN IS CONVERTED TO JESUS CHRIST
1. He or she acknowledges the Lordship of Jesus Christ – Acts 2:36; 1 Peter 3:15
2. Above family, life, and self, the Christian chooses to follow Jesus – Matthew 10:37-39
3. When one makes that choice, Christ will become the focus of that person’s life – Galatians 2:20
C. SUCH LOYALTY TO CHRIST RESULTS IN A NEW LIFE
1. In which God blesses the individual through Jesus Christ – e.g., Philippians 4:6-7
2. In which one finds strength to live the new life – e.g., Philippians 4:13
Conclusion
1. A significant thing about a Christian, then, is that he or she:
a. Experiences a new creation
b. Enjoys a new life
c. Entertains a new loyalty
d. Such an individual is truly “A Person Reborn”
2. But not all professing Christians show evidence of this rebirth…why is that?
a. They may have not yet truly experienced the new creation
1) Obedience not rendered in faith will not produce the new birth – Mark 16:16
2) For God’s power to be at work, we must submit in faith – Colossians 2:12-13
3. Though they may have been reborn and entered the new life, they may have gone back into sin
a. Hardened by sin’s deceitfulness, they have departed from God – cf. Hebrews 3:12-13
b. Entangled once again by the pollutions of the world – cf. 2 Peter 2:20
4. In either case, their loyalty is certainly not where it ought to be!
5. May the promise of a new creation and a new life in Christ remind us of the significance of being a Christian, and challenge us to examine our loyalties if we do not see in our lives the evidence of a person reborn.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Angels, Who Are They? – Hebrews 01:13-14
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Text: Hebrews 1:13-14
Introduction
1. The subject of angels has certainly become a popular one
a. Bookstores are filled with books dealing with angels
b. Popular TV shows and movies depict angels working in our lives
2. Angels were an important part of the Jewish religion
a. Angels assisted with the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai – Deuteronomy 33:2; Psalm 68:17; Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19
b. They appear throughout the history of Israel, coming to Abraham, Daniel, and others
3. Angels also serve an important role in the Christian faith
a. They are described as “ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation” – Hebrews 1:13-14
b. They have certainly ministered in the past – cf. Luke 1:11-38
c. They will certainly minister at the time of Christ’s return – cf. Matthew 13:36-43
4. But to what extent do they minister in the present?
a. This is a subject that is prone to much speculation
b. It is easy to get caught up in idle myths and fables
c. About which we are warned to avoid – cf. 1 Timothy 1:3-4; 4:7; 6:20; 2 Timothy 2:16; 4:3-4
5. Yet angels are a Biblical subject, therefore worthy of careful consideration
[With a desire to be content with what the Bible reveals on the subject of angels, we begin this study with a look at some terms and descriptions regarding angels…]
Body
I. TERMS USED IN CONNECTION WITH ANGELS
A. THE WORD ‘ANGEL’
1. The Hebrew word malak (found 103 times in the OT) simply means “messenger”
a. It can refer to a human messenger – 1 Kings 19:2
1) It is applied to the prophet Haggai – Hag 1:13
2) It is applied to a priest – Mal 2:7
3) It is applied to both John the Baptist and Jesus in prophecy – Malachi 3:1
4) The name of the prophet Malachi comes from the same word
b. It can refer to a divine messenger – Genesis 28:12
1) Supernatural or heavenly beings sent as messengers to men
2) Agents who carry out the will of God – ISBE
2. The Greek word angelos likewise means “messenger”
a. The word occurs 175 times in the NT
b. Of men, it is used only 6 times in the NT
B. OTHER TERMS APPLIED TO ‘ANGELS’…
1. Sons of God – God’s sons by virtue of His creation – cf. Job 1:6; 38:7
2. Holy ones – suggesting they belong to God, ‘set apart’ for His purposes – Psalm 89:5,7
3. Watcher, watchers – likely referring to angels – cf. Daniel 4:13,17,23
4. Host – denoting the armies of heaven, which likely included angels -1 Sam 17:45
5. Archangel – used twice, once in connection with Michael – 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Jude 9
6. Prince, chief princes, great prince – used in the book of Daniel – Daniel 10:13,21; 12:1
7. Paul used terms that may refer to angels – cf. Colossians 1:16; Ephesians 1:21; 3:10
a. Principalities (archai)
b. Powers (exousiai)
c. Thrones (thronoi)
d. Dominions (kyriotetes)
e. Powers (dynamesis)
8. Yet these are sometimes distinguished from angels (Romans 8:38; 1 Peter 3:22), and at times described as negative forces (Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 6:12)
[It quickly becomes apparent that the Bible has a lot to say about angels. More about angels can be gleaned from the Bible as we consider…]
II. DESCRIPTIONS OF ANGELS
A. THEIR NATURE AND ATTRIBUTES
1. They are spirit beings
a. Called “spirits”, suggesting they do not have corporeal bodies – Hebrews 1:14
b. Though they did reveal themselves at times in the form of human bodies – Genesis 18:3
c. They do not function as human beings in such things as marriage – Mark 12:25
d. They are not subject to death – Luke 20:36
2. They are created beings
a. They are part of the creation that is to praise Jehovah – Psalm 148:1-5
b. They were created by Christ, among all other things – Colossians 1:16
3. They are innumerable
a. An innumerable company – Hebrews 12:22
b. John’s descriptions suggests their number is countless – Revelation 5:11
4. They are a higher order than man
a. Man was created lower than the angels – Hebrews 2:6-7
b. Angels are not capable of death – Luke 20:36
c. They have greater wisdom, though limited – 2 Samuel 14:20; Matthew 24:36
d. They have greater power, though it too is limited – Matthew 28:2; Daniel 10:13
5. They always appeared as men
a. Never as women or children, always clothed
b. Other than Cherubim and Seraphim (whose classification as angels is suspect), they never have wings – though cf. Revelation 8:13; 14:6
c. Many times they were so disguised as men they were not first identified as angels – Gen18:1-2; 19:1; Hebrews 13:2
B. THEIR CLASSIFICATIONS
1. The archangel, the “great prince”
a. Michael is called the archangel – Jude 1:9; cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:16
b. Michael is called the “great prince”, who watched over Israel – Daniel 12:1; cf. 10:21
c. Michael is mentioned in Revelation 12:7
d. Some (JWs and others) believe Michael was the pre-incarnate Christ
2. The chief princes
a. Of whom Michael was one – Daniel 10:13
b. Some would include Gabriel in this classification
1) The angel sent to explain visions to Daniel – Daniel 8:16; 9:21
2) Who also made announcements to Zacharias and Mary – Luke 1:19, 26
3. The princes
a. The term applied to angels in the book of Daniel – e.g., Daniel 10:13, 21
b. Also to what appear to be evil angelic forces – cf. Daniel 10:13, 20-21
4. The Angel of the Lord
a. An angel who seems to speak as the Lord Himself – e.g., Judges 2:1; Genesis 16:10-13
b. Leading some to wonder if this was the pre-incarnate Christ
5. Cherubim?
a. Thought by some to be an order or class of angels, though others hold them to be a higher class of heavenly beings than angels
b. Whose purpose was to be “proclaimers and protectors of God’s glorious presence, His sovereignty, and His Holiness” -C. Fred Dickason
c. In the Bible
1) They stood guard at the Garden of Eden – Genesis 3:24
2) Their golden figures covered the mercy seat above the ark in the tabernacle – Exodus 25:17-22
3) Their designs graced the walls and veils of the tabernacle, and later in the temple – Exodus 26:1,31; 1 Kings 6:23-35; 7:29, 36
4) They attended the glory of God in Ezekiel’s vision – Ezekiel 1:1- 28; cf. 10:1-20
d. Their description fits those of the four living creatures in Revelation rather than angels – cf. Revelation 4:4-6
6. Seraphim?
a. Six winged creatures attending the Lord in Isaiah’s vision – Isaiah 6:1-13
b. Whose name literally means “burning one”, also considered by many as a higher class than angels
c. Their work was to “praise and proclaim the perfect holiness of God”
d. Their description is also akin to those of the four living creatures in Revelation rather than angels – cf. Revelation 4:8-9
7. Satan and his angels
a. Many believe that Satan is a fallen angel
1) That he is “Lucifer”, a name applied to the king of Babylon – Isaiah 14:1-12
2) That he was among the highest of God’s creation, a cherub whose fall and judgment is applied figuratively to the king of Tyre – cf. Ezekiel 28:11-19
b. Satan does has his angels, for whom condemnation awaits – cf. Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10
c. The doctrine of Satan and his angels (along with demons) will hopefully be examined in another study
Conclusion
1. With this brief introduction it should be apparent that
a. The Bible has much to say about angels
b. It is easy to speculate about angels
2. My hope and prayer is that our future studies will
a. Focus on what the Bible actually reveals
b. Avoid the vain speculation that is condemned
3. In the course of our study, we should never forget the One who deserves our greatest attention:
“For to which of the angels did He ever say: ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You’? And again: ‘I will be to Him a Father, And He shall be to Me a Son’? But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: ‘Let all the angels of God worship Him.'” (Hebrews 1:5-6)
4. Have we joined the angels in worshipping the Son, through our own faith and obedience…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Believe in Jesus Christ – John 3:13-18
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(Why I Believe in Jesus Christ)
Text: John 3:13-18
Introduction
1. The greatest story ever told is that of Jesus Christ
a. The Son of God becoming flesh, dwelling among men
b. His life, His miracles, His teachings, His death, His resurrection and ascension to heaven
c. How He shed His blood to provide atonement for the sins of the world!
2. It is a story that calls for faith
a. For those willing to believe, eternal life is possible – John 3:16
b. For those choosing not to believe, there is condemnation – John 3:18
3. Why do I believe in Jesus Christ? There are two reasons, both of which were stressed in the reaching of the apostles of Christ.
Body
I. FULFILLED PROPHECY
A. EXPLANATION
1. The apostles appealed to Messianic prophecies to produce faith in Jesus
a. Peter in his second sermon at Jerusalem – Acts 3:18
b. Paul in Thessalonica, as was his custom – Acts 17:1-3
2. Some examples of Messianic prophecies
a. The conflict between the serpent and the seed of woman – Genesis 3:15
b. The blessing upon all nations through the seed of Abraham – Genesis 12:3; 22:18
c. The prophet to come who would be like Moses – Deuteronomy 18:15, 17-19
d. Who would be born of a virgin – Isaiah 7:14
e. The forerunner who would prepare the way of the Lord – Isaiah 40:3
f. The suffering Servant who would bear our iniquities – Isaiah 53:4-12
g. His resurrection from the dead – Psalm 16:8-11
h. His ascension into heaven – Daniel 7:13-14
B. SIGNIFICANCE
1. They help to identify the One who is truly the Messiah, God’s “Anointed One”
a. The Old Testament has approximately 330 prophecies concerning the Messiah
b. Jesus of Nazareth fulfilled every one!
2. The mathematical probability of it being a coincidence is astounding!
a. The probability of any man who has lived fulfilling just eight prophecies has been calculated as 1 in 10 to 17th power (100,000,000,000,000,000)! – Peter Stoner
b. To illustrate how large this number is, Stoner gave this illustration:
Suppose that we take that many silver dollars and lay them on the face of Texas. They will cover all of the state two feet deep. Now mark one of these silver dollars and stir the whole mass thoroughly, all over the state. Blindfold a man and tell him that he can travel as far as he wishes, but he must pick up one silver dollar and say that this is the right one. What chance would he have of getting the right one? Just the same chance that the prophets would have had of writing these eight prophecies and having them all come true in any one man, from their day to the present time, providing they wrote them in their own wisdom.
c. The probability of fulfilling just 48 prophecies is one in 10 to 157th power!
1) Counting at the rate of 250 units per minute
2) …it would take 19 million x 19 million x 19 millions years to count to 10 to the 157th power!
3. Jesus fulfilled not 8, not 48, but over 300 prophecies! It is easy to see why the apostles appealed to Messianic prophecies to prove that Jesus was the Christ. But they also appealed to their own
II. APOSTOLIC TESTIMONY
A. EXPLANATION
1. The apostles claimed to be eyewitnesses
a. As professed by Peter – Acts 10:39-42; 2 Peter 1:16-18
b. As professed by John – 1 John 1:1-3
2. The apostles by their testimony force us to make a decision
a. Were they truly eyewitnesses, or false witnesses? – 1 Corinthians 15:14-15
b. Was their testimony based on truth, or cunningly devised fables? – 2 Peter 1:16-18
3. We cannot say they were sincerely deceived or mistaken
a. Especially in reference to the resurrection of Jesus
1) They claim they ate and drank with Him afterwards – Acts 10:39-41
2) They claim they saw and touched Him – 1 John 1:1-3
b. They leave no room for saying they were mistaken or deceived
1) Some skeptics have tried to offer this as an alternative
2) That perhaps in their grief and loss over the crucifixion they hallucinated or saw grief-inspired visions
3) But hallucinations and visions are highly individualistic experiences
4) The resurrection appearances of Jesus were often witnessed by many at the same time (over 500 on one occasion) – 1 Corinthians 15:4-8
B. SIGNIFICANCE
1. If the apostolic testimony is false
a. The New Testament is a carefully orchestrated lie!
b. The apostles suffered extreme hardship for what they knew was a lie! – 1 Corinthians 4:9-13
c. Those martyred (all but one) knew they were dying for a lie!
d. They went against everything Jesus and they themselves taught! – 1 Peter 2:1
e. The greatest book ever written (as per Charles Dickens) with its high standards and lofty goals was composed by liars, frauds and deceivers!
2. But if the apostolic testimony is true
a. Then Jesus is everything they taught He claimed to be!
1) He is the Son of God – Romans 1:4
2) He truly has all authority in heaven and earth – Matthew 28:18; Acts 2:36
b. Then everything they testified concerning what He taught is true!
1) He was from the Father above, and spoke the words of the Father – John 8:28-29
2) No one can come to the Father but through Him – John 14:6
3) His blood was shed for the remission of sins – Matthew 26:28
4) He came to offer abundant life – John 10:10
5) He went to prepare a place for us – John 14:2
6) He shall come again – John 14:3
7) There will be a resurrection of the dead and ensuing judgment – John 5:28-29; 12:48
Conclusion
1. We have good reason to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
a. The testimony of Scripture, in the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies
b. The testimony of eyewitnesses, in the credible account of the apostles
2. For those willing to obey Jesus, there is yet another reason to believe
a. In keeping His word, they will come to know He has spoken from God – John 7:16-17
b. “He shall have evidence, in the very attempt to do the will of God, of the truth of the doctrine.”
c. “He who in his heart says, ‘Thy will be done, give me light and I will walk in it,’ will find that Christ is just the teacher demanded by his soul, and that the gospel meets his soul’s want. Jesus will so meet the wants of his soul that he will be satisfied and will know the doctrine, that it comes from him who made the soul.”
3. Yes, I believe in Jesus Christ, not only because of the Messianic prophecies He fulfilled and the eyewitness testimony of His apostles, but because I have tried Him and not found Him wanting…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Believe in God – Hebrews 11:01-06
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(Why I Believe in God)
Text: Hebrews 11:1-6
Introduction
1. I am happy to profess that I believe in God
a. Such faith is a source of great comfort – cf. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
b. And according to the Bible, necessary to pleasing God – Hebrews 11:6
2. Why do I believe in God?
a. I cannot see Him
b. I have never heard His voice
c. Yet I believe it is more reasonable to believe in God than to not believe
3. What reasons are there for believing in God? While not exhaustive, there are several reasons, the first commonly referred to as the teleological argument for God
Body
I. THE EVIDENCE OF DESIGN IN THE UNIVERSE
A. EXPLANATION
1. Orderly movement of heavenly bodies, making space travel possible
2. Animal instinct, such as the migration patterns of birds, eels, and salmon
3. The human body itself, e.g., the eye
B. IMPLICATION
1. Design suggests a “designer”
2. Design suggests a Being with intelligence possessing purposea.
a. A watch shows design, and implies a watchmaker
b. To credit such intricate and precise workmanship to blind chance is unreasonable
3. Contemplating on the universe and the human body rightfully produces awe, and points man to his Creator – cf. Psalm 19:1-2;139:14; Romans 1:19-20
C. Another reason to believe in God is called the moral or anthropological argument for God, or
II. THE UNIVERSAL SENSE OF OUGHT
A. EXPLANATION
1. Everywhere people have a sense of ought
2. That in certain circumstances, certain things should be done
3. People are concerned
a. That people should act a certain way
b. That people do not often act the way they should
4. Even atheists and agnostics have a sense of justice, and are angered when it is violated (as in the case of rape and murder)
B. IMPLICATION
1. This moral nature in man suggests a Moral Being as the Original Cause
2. If there is no God, there is no right or wrong, good or evil
3. If there is no God, no atheist can object on moral grounds if I want to kill them
C. A similar reason to believe in God is called the general argument
III. THE UNIVERSAL RELIGIOUS INSTINCT AND BELIEF IN GOD
A. EXPLANATION
1. Men in all the world, and throughout all time, not only believe in deity, but also engage in acts of worship and devotion.
2. The religious principle is extremely potent in all nations, dominating their thought and history.
3. Everywhere the human heart has a craving for God. There will be exceptions as individuals, but the exceptions do not invalidate the rule. The atheist is an exception in every society!
B. IMPLICATION
1. For every deepest longing of man, there is something that satisfies it
a. E.g., food satisfies man’s hunger
b. E.g., water satisfies man’s thirst
2. There must be a reality (i.e., God) that complements and meets the universal craving for a Supreme Being
3. Paul says this longing for God was placed in man by God Himself – Acts 17:26-27
C. Then there is the cosmological argument for believing in God
IV. THAT EVERY EFFECT MUST HAVE A CAUSE
A. EXPLANATION
1. This is also called the argument from first cause
2. It is based upon the premise that every effect must have a cause
B. IMPLICATION
1. The cosmos (universe) is an effect that has adequate cause
2. The Bible reveals that adequate cause: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1
3. A common objection is often raised: “Who created God?”
a. The law which states every effect has a cause applies to things that are “physical”
b. God by definition is not physical, and therefore not bound by laws which we may discern to apply to physical things
1) God is a spiritual being – cf. John 4:24
2) His omnipresence is an example of how He defies laws of nature – cf. Jeremiah 23:23-24
c. So the argument does not apply to Him; Hebrews is the Uncaused Cause of all things!
C. There is also the esthetical argument for believing in God
V. THE PRESENCE OF BEAUTY AND SUBLIMITY
A. EXPLANATION
1. This argument is based upon the presence of beauty and sublimity in the universe
2. It observes that you have both
a. The presence of beauty in nature itself, and in art produced by man
b. The response of man to such beauty (appreciation and awe)
B. IMPLICATION
1. How did this “beauty”, and the “ability to appreciate” it, develop?
2. Were both the result of blind chance?
3. Or did it come from a Supreme Being, who is:
a. Intelligent (an argument from design)
b. Moral (an argument from our sense of ought)
c. Artistic (an argument from beauty and our sense of it) – cf. Psalm 96:4-6
Conclusion
1. These arguments are philosophical arguments, but they are based upon what the Bible itself says can be learned about God from nature – Psalm 19:1-2; Romans 1:20
2. Other arguments can be offered to support the existence of God
a. Fulfilled prophecies in the Scriptures
b. Scientific foreknowledge of the Scriptures
c. Uniformity of the Scriptures
d. Evidences for the resurrection of Jesus from the dead
— We shall examine these when we talk about believing in the Bible, Jesus, etc.
3. Do you believe in God?
a. Faith in God is a choice that we make between two alternatives.
1) The river of evidence for God’s reality runs strong and deep, but its current is not irresistible.
2) Many people do swim against it, at least for awhile.
b. Choosing to believe that God exists is a voluntary act of trust.
1) We believe not because we think the reality of God is absolutely unequivocal, but because we judge the evidence to be greatly in its favor.
2) After careful thought, faith puts its trust and confidence in a premise that is seen to be supported by the weight of the evidence.
3) Faced with the ultimate fork in the road, faith understands that a decision must be made, and it responsibly chooses one alternative.
c. But the decision to believe isn’t merely the adoption of an intellectual position.
1) It’s the courageous taking of a stand. Like all ideas, the idea of God has consequences, and faith dares to accept those consequences.
2) It says: “I have considered the matter and am prepared to make my choice.
3) What I have seen has taught me to trust this thing which I can’t see, the reality of God.
4) I not only believe, I am prepared to follow my faith wherever it leads. – Diligently Seeking God
4. Are you willing to make the decision to believe in God?
a. The time is coming, however, when the reality of God will no longer be a matter of faith.
b. It will be an overwhelming fact, impossible to deny and terrifying in its implications for those who have tried to deny it.
c. “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” – Romans 14:11
5. Only a fool would suppress the evidence for the existence of God that is out there
“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,” – Romans 1:20
“The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.'” – Psalm 14:1
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Jude 01:01-02 Called, Sanctified and Preserved
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Text: Jude 1:1-2
Introduction
1. In several passages throughout the New Testament, we find serious warnings about impending apostasy
a. Jesus warned that false prophets would arise, the love of many would grow cold, and only those who endure to the end would be saved – Matthew 24:11-13
b. Paul foretold of many disciples being drawn away – Acts 20:29-30
c. Peter warned about the rise of false teachers, and how many would follow their destructive ways – 2 Peter 2:1-3
2. But by the time the epistles of John and Jude were written, the danger was no longer impending, it was very much in existence
a. Antichrists were present, and false prophets were in the world – 1 John 2:18; 4:1; 2 John 7
b. Jude was forced to change his original purpose to deal with the crisis – Ju 3-4
3. If the danger of apostasy was already present in the First Century A.D
a. We should not be surprised that the dangers exists in the twentieth century!
b. We would do well to pay close heed to those epistles written to tell us how to deal with it
4. That makes The Epistle Of Jude especially relevant, and with this lesson we begin a series of expository sermons based upon its contents
5. In verses 1-2, Jude begins his letter in typical fashion:
a. He identifies himself
1) As “a servant of Jesus Christ” and “brother of James”
2) It is considered very likely that James was the brother of the Lord who had become prominent in the church at Jerusalem – cf. Galatians 1:16; 2:9
3) This would mean Jude was also a brother to the Lord Jesus – Matthew 13:54-56
4) That Judas would describe himself as a servant of the Lord and not His brother is typical of the modesty shown by James as well – James 1:1
b. He then addresses his original readers
1) No particular church or individuals are named
2) They are simply “those who are called, sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ:”
3) For this reason, the epistle of Jude has been categorized as a catholic, or general, epistle (like James, 1st & 2nd Peter, and 1st John)
c. He concludes his salutation with a three-fold benediction: “Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you”
6. Before we go any further, the manner in which Jude addressed his readers is worthy of careful notice
a. Jude’s purpose is to warn of those “ungodly men” who have crept in
b. That a warning is necessary suggests a danger that is real: being led away from the faith
c. Yet Jude uses terms in his address that some would say teaches the impossibility of apostasy (especially the phrase: “preserved in Jesus Christ”)
[Therefore I would like for us to focus on the concepts suggested by the three words in the title of our study: “Called! Sanctified! And Preserved!”
Body
I. THOSE WHO ARE “CALLED”
A. THOSE IN CHRIST HAVE BEEN “CALLED”
1. We have been called with “a holy calling” – 2 Timothy 1:9
2. This calling was not according to our meritorious works
3. It was according to God’s own purpose and grace before time began
B. THIS “CALL” CAME THROUGH THE GOSPEL
1. We became God’s chosen and called by the gospel – 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14
2. By having the gospel preached to “every creature”, the call is made available to all – cf. Mark 16:15-16
a. This is consistent with God’s desire that “all men be saved” – 1 Timothy 2:3-4
b. This is consistent with God’s offer of His Son as “a ransom for all” – 1 Timothy 2:5-6
c. This is consistent with the Lord’s unwillingness that “any should perish”, but that “all should come to repentance” – 2 Peter 3:9
C. OUR RESPONSIBILITY, HAVING ACCEPTED THE “CALL”, IS TO MAKE OUR “CALLING AND ELECTION SURE”
1. This requires much diligence on our part – 2 Peter 1:10-11
2. Otherwise, we will be like the Israelites in the wilderness – Hebrews 3:12-19; 4:1-2, 4:11
a. All were called by God to enter the Promised Land of rest
b. But most were unable to enter because of unbelief that led to lack of diligence!
[It is the need for faithful diligence that explains the many warnings against apostasy found in the Scriptures. It also helps to understand why Jude felt it necessary to write his epistle!]
II. “SANCTIFIED” BY GOD THE FATHER
A. THE WORDS “SANCTIFY”, “SANCTIFICATION”
1. Are translated from the Greek word “hagiazo” {hag-ee-ad’-zo}
2. Which means to make holy, to set apart for a special purpose
3. Therefore, God has set apart those who have been called – Ju 1
B. THE PROCESS OF SANCTIFICATION
1. Is said to be the work of the Holy Spirit
a. “sanctified by the Holy Spirit” – Romans 15:16
b. “sanctified…by the Spirit of our God” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
c. “sanctification by the Spirit” – 2 Thessalonians 2:13
d. “the sanctifying work of the Spirit” (NASV) – 1 Peter 1:2
2. Is also said to be the work of the Word of God
a. “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” – John 17:17
b. “that He might sanctify…by the word” – Ephesians 5:26
3. Since the Word of God is said to be the “sword of the Spirit” (Ep 6:17), the Word is evidently the instrument used by the Spirit to help bring about our sanctification
C. THE PROGRESS OF SANCTIFICATION
1. Some people understand “sanctification” as “all at once” or “in two stages” (e.g., the Wesleyan concept of entire sanctification)
2. The Biblical evidence suggests otherwise:
a. The church at Corinth was made up of members
1) Who were “sanctified in Christ Jesus” – 1 Corinthians 1:2
2) Who had been “sanctified” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
b. Yet, many of these members were “babes in Christ” and “carnal” – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
3. As written to the Hebrews, those in Christ are “being sanctified” – Hebrews 2:11
a. I.e., sanctification is an on-going process
b. It begins at conversion, and continues as we grow in the faith
4. As Paul prayed for the Thessalonians: “may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23
[Whether God does indeed complete the process of sanctification for those who are called will be determined by whether or not we remain”preserved in Christ Jesus”. (Jude 1:1)]
III. “PRESERVED” IN JESUS CHRIST
A. THE MEANING OF THE WORD “PRESERVED”
1. It comes from the Greek word “tereo” {tay-reh’-o}
2. Which means “to guard (from loss or injury)”
3. It is used to describe that which is closely watched and guarded
a. Such as those disobedient angels who are awaiting the Judgment Day – Ju 6
b. Such as the punishment awaiting “ungodly men” – Ju 13
B. THIS WORD SPEAKS OF OUR WONDERFUL ASSURANCE IN CHRIST
1. We are being carefully “guarded” in Christ!
2. Peter uses a different word (phroureo, froo-reh’-o) to express a similar idea – 1 Peter 1:5
3. Paul used yet another word (sozo, sode’-zo) to express his own confidence in God’s preservation – 2 Timothy 4:18
4. Indeed, Jesus reassured his disciples that no one could “snatch” them out of His hand – cf. John 10:27-29
5. But does this mean that it is impossible to fall away? Do we have no personal responsibility to remain “preserved in Jesus Christ”?
C. THERE IS SOME PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
1. Jude uses the same word for “preserved” in Ju 21: “keep yourselves…”
2. This indicates that we must cooperate with God
a. As Peter indicated, we are “kept by the power of God through faith” – 1 Peter 1:5
1) God provides the power to keep us safe
2) But we must provide the faith
b. Jesus’ teaching on security is for those who are “believers”
1) No one can “snatch” us away from God against our will
2) But what if “believers” become “unbelievers”?
a) Does the promise still apply if the conditions have changed?
b) What if we choose to leave or jump out of God’s protective hand?
c. That “believers” can become “unbelievers”, and thereby in danger of losing one’s salvation, is clearly taught in He 3:12-19; 4:1-2,11
3. Thus we are “preserved in Jesus Christ”
a. But remaining “preserved” involves personal responsibility!
b. It requires that we “keep ourselves” in the love of God!
Conclusion
1. We who are in Christ are indeed richly blessed:
a. We have been “called” by the gospel of Christ, to which call we responded when we obeyed the conditions of the gospel (faith, repentance, confession, and baptism)
b. We have been “sanctified” or set apart for a holy purpose by God the Father, as He works upon us through His Holy Spirit in conjunction with His Holy Word
c. On the basis of our faith, we are “preserved” in Jesus Christ unto eternal life
2. But dear brethren, forces of Satan are very much at work
a. They seek to undermine our faith in Christ
b. They seek to harden our hearts, and to develop an evil heart of unbelief
c. They seek to make us spiritually lazy, and not to maintain the diligence necessary to keep ourselves in the love of God
3. Yet God in His grace has preserved His Word to give us ample warning; shall we not heed the warnings found throughout His Word, such as those found in The Epistle of Jude?
4. And as we speak of giving heed…have you given heed to the call of the gospel of Christ? – Acts 2:36-38
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Discipline of Giving
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Introduction
1. Summarizing what we have covered so far, “Disciplines For The Disciple” include:
a. Prayer – especially the value of secret, simple, and steadfast prayer
b. Meditation – contemplating God, His works, His words, and things worthy
c. Fasting – a means of humbling one’s self before God when joined with prayer
d. Singing – which edifies the singer as well as praises God
e. Fellowship – communing with other Christians as we engage in spiritual activities
2. I also think of giving as a spiritual discipline
a. Not just in the sense of giving money to someone in need
b. But in giving of one’s time, energy, or abilities, especially where it involves sacrifice
3. Such giving is certainly demonstrated in the New Testament
a. By the example of the churches of <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Macedonia”>Macedonia</a> – 2 Corinthians 8:1-5
b. By the example of Christ Himself – 2 Corinthians 8:9
4. To become more like Christ, which is the goal of spiritual discipline, we must exercise giving.
Body
I. GIVING PAR EXCELLENCE
A. THEY GAVE SACRIFICIALLY
1. The Macedonians were in the midst of great affliction – 2 Corinthians 8:2
2. They were experiencing poverty themselves – 2 Corinthians 8:2
3. Yet they gave ‘beyond their ability’ – 2 Corinthians 8:3a
4. This they were not expected to do – cf. 2 Corinthians 8:12-13
5. The best giving comes from those who cannot afford it (cf. Luke 21:1-4)
B. THEY GAVE JOYFULLY
1. Somehow they had discovered the joy of giving – 2 Corinthians 8:2
2. Perhaps they took to heart the teaching of:
a. The Lord relating to the blessedness of giving – Acts 20:35
b. James to the value of persecution – James 1:2-4
3. In any case, this is the kind of giving that God loves – 2 Corinthians 9:7
4. The best giving comes from those who give cheerfully
C. THEY GAVE VOLUNTARILY
1. They were ‘freely willing’ – 2 Corinthians 8:3
2. This is the kind of giving God requires today
a. We can not command people to give against their will – 2 Corinthians 8:8
3. Giving must come from ‘a willing mind’ – 2 Corinthians 8:12
4. Giving must never be done ‘begrudgingly’ or because you ‘have to’ – 2 Corinthians 9:7
5. Otherwise, you might as well not give at all
6. The best giving comes from those who give freely
D. THEY GAVE PERSISTENTLY
1. As Paul says, ‘imploring us with much urgency’ – 2 Corinthians 8:4
2. They wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer (or for an easy way out!)
3. With the Philippians, their giving to Paul persisted throughout his life – Philippians 4:10-18
4. The best giving comes from those who persist
E. THEY GAVE THEMSELVES
1. Perhaps this explains how they were able to give as they did!
2. They gave themselves ‘first to the Lord’ – 2 Corinthians 8:5
a. When a person does this, they do not worry about ‘the cost of giving’
b. For they have the promise of Jesus in Matthew 6:25-34
3. Giving themselves first to the Lord, it is natural they would give ‘then to us (others)’
a. For such is a mark of true discipleship – cf. John 13:34-35
b. And it is a mark of true love for God – cf. 1 John 4:20-21
4. The best giving comes from those who give themselves to God
II. REASONS FOR GIVING
A. GOD BLESSES THE GIVER
1. It is more blessed to give than to receive – Acts 20:35
2. The Lord blesses those who give – Psalm 41:1-3; Proverbs 19:17
3. The grace of God is at work in those who give – 2 Corinthians 8:1-2,6-7; 9:8,14
4. Giving blesses the giver more than the recipient!
B. GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER
1. As Paul reminded the Corinthians – 2 Corinthians 9:7
2. A cheerful giver therefore need not worry – Matthew 6:30-33
3. For God watches over those whom He loves – cf. Luke 12:6-7
4. Giving cheerfully makes one a recipient of God’s care and love!
C. GOD PROVIDES SEED FOR THE SOWER
1. Those who sow bountifully will reap bountifully – 2 Corinthians 9:6
2. Not for personal consumption – 2 Corinthians 9:8-9
a. But to have ‘all sufficiency in all things’
b. But to have ‘an abundance for every good work’
c. As confirmed by a quote from Psalms – cf. Psalm 112:5-9
3. To multiply the seed for even more good – 2 Corinthians 9:10-11a
a. To ‘increase the fruits of your righteousness’
b. To be ‘enriched for all liberality’
4. Giving liberally will be blessed to give even more liberally!
D. GOD IS PRAISED BY GIVING
1. Thanksgiving is offered by those whose needs are supplied – 2 Corinthians 9:11b-12
2. Glory is given to God for His grace in the lives of the givers – 2 Corinthians 9:13-15
3. Giving liberally will lead to God being praised liberally!
E. BROTHERLY LOVE IS INCREASED BY GIVING
1. By brethren who witness God’s grace in the givers – 2 Corinthians 9:14
2. Causing them to love and long for their brethren – e.g., Philippians 1:3-8
3. Giving liberally will strengthen the bonds of brotherly love!
III. THE EXERCISE OF GIVING
A. THERE ARE DIFFERENT WAYS TO GIVE
1. Giving is not limited to money
2. God may empower us to give in other ways – 1 Peter 4:10-11
a. Our talents to teach or serve
b. Our time can be a great gift
3. Whatever our abilities and opportunities…
a. We are stewards of the manifold grace of God
b. We should minister our gifts to one another
c. We should do so with the ability God supplies
4. However you give, let it truly reflect God’s grace in you!
B. PLANNED GIVING LEADS TO CHEERFUL GIVING
1. Purposeful giving is the key to giving cheerfully – cf. 2 Corinthians 9:7
2. One is less likely to give ‘grudgingly or of necessity’
a. Because they have already set aside what they want to give
b They are not caught off guard when someone asks them to give
3. This is how Paul instructed the Corinthians in their giving
a. To lay by in store on the first day of the week – cf. 1 Corinthians 16:1-4
b. To prepare their gift beforehand, so the resources were ready – 2 Corinthians 9:5
4. An early Christian apologist, Aristides, wrote of how even slaves were able to give cheerfully through purposeful planning: “And if there is any that is a slave or a poor man, they fast two or three days and what they were going to set before themselves they send to them (Christians in prison), considering themselves to give good cheer even as they were called to give good cheer.” – Apology 15
5. So plan your giving if you wish to give cheerfully!
Conclusion
1. Remember that the purpose of any spiritual discipline is to:
a. Help us grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ
b. Become more like Christ as we grow in godliness
2. The discipline of giving certainly helps to fulfill such a goal:
a. For God gave His only begotten Son – John 3:16
b. And Jesus gave Himself – Matthew 20:28
3. Likewise the Macedonians gave themselves to the Lord first, and then to others
4. As we exercise ourselves to godliness through prayer, meditation, fasting, singing, and fellowship, may we also be sure to add the grace of giving – 2 Corinthians 8:5
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Discipline of Fellowship
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Introduction
1. Thus far in our series of study of spiritual disciplines we have looked at
a. Prayer – especially the value of secret, simple, and steadfast prayer
b. Meditation – contemplating God, His works, His words, and things worthy of virtue
c. Fasting – a means of humbling one’s self before God when joined with sincere prayer
d. Singing – which edifies the singer as well as praises God
2. Let’s now take a look at the spiritual discipline of fellowship
a. The Greek is koinonia and means “to share in, fellowship with, participation”
b. The early church continued “steadfastly in…fellowship” – Acts 2:42
3. The idea is that Christians did things together
a. They assembled together for worship
b. They spent time together in such activities as prayer, singing, etc.
c. They valued the time together as something beneficial
4. To grow spiritually, we need to exercise ourselves unto godliness (1 Timothy 4:7), and fellowship with other Christians is an important spiritual exercise.
Body
I. THE NEED FOR FELLOWSHIP
A. THE PROBLEM OF SELF-CENTEREDNESS
1. Many Christians do not value their time with other Christians
2. As evidenced by their:
a. Sporadic attendance of regular worship opportunities
b. Failure to visit and support gospel meetings elsewhere
c. Lack of interest in home Bible studies
d. Unwillingness to extend or accept offers of hospitality
3. The main reason is the problem of self-centeredness
a. Interested only in things pertaining to themselves
b. With little concern for the needs of others
B. THE REASON FOR SELF-CENTEREDNESS
1. Many of us lived through the “Me Decade”
a. The 1970’s, distinguished by self-centered attitudes and self-indulgent behavior
b. A time in which there was
1) A rapid rise of crime against others – rape, theft, assault, murder
2) An increased use of drugs and alcohol as a way of escape
3) A turn to philosophies and religions which involve preoccupation with self:
a) “Looking Out For #1”
b) Transcendental Meditation (TM) and Yoga
4) An emphasis on consumerism and materialistic gain
c. A decade followed by the “Greed Decade” (the 1980’s)
2. Cultural trends today have produced many self-centered people
a. We live in a highly mobile society
1) New families move in, and others move away
2) Many live great distances from the place of worship and from each other
b. Technology designed to bring us closer together, can easily move us apart
1) Phones, email, etc., greatly increase our ability to communicate
2) But we can become stretched out so thin through such technology that we do not develop meaningful relationships
3. The problems of self-centeredness and isolation can be greatly reduced through the spiritual discipline of fellowship.
II. THE PRACTICE OF FELLOWSHIP
A. THROUGH ASSEMBLIES OF THE CHURCH
1. We assemble regularly to exhort one another – Hebrews 10:24-25
2. This we do through worship services and Bible classes
3. Each time we assemble, we have fellowship with one another
4. A main goal in such assemblies is mutual edification – 1 Corinthians 14:26
B. THROUGH VISITING OTHER BRETHREN
1. Area churches often have special events like gospel meetings
2. This provides the opportunity for fellowship with brethren in other places – Philippians 1:5
III. THE BENEFIT OF FELLOWSHIP
A. TO FULFILL OUR DUTIES TO ONE ANOTHER
1. To have a care for one another – 1 Corinthians 12:26
2. To teach and admonish one another – Colossians 3:16
3. To serve one another in love – Galatians 5:13
4. To pray for one another – James 5:16
5. To restore one another – James 5:19-20
6. To be hospitable to one another – 1 Peter 4:9
B. TO RECEIVE HELP FROM ONE ANOTHER
1. We need encouragement to remain faithful – Hebrews 3:12-14
2. We need comfort in times of tribulation – 2 Corinthians 1:3-5; 1 Thessalonians 5:11
a. Note that comfort comes from two sources: from God and each another
b. Thus God comforts both directly and indirectly
Conclusion
1. As we think of the various “Disciplines For The Disciple”
a. Let us not limit such spiritual exercises that can be done alone
b. Let us also value spiritual exercises that we can do together
2. In our desire to exercise ourselves unto godliness
a. Beware of the danger of self-centeredness and isolation
b. Be aware of the value of assembling together in our churches and in our homes
3. Through such fellowship with other Christians, along with private prayer, meditation, fasting, and singing, we will grow in grace and godliness as disciples of Christ.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Discipline of Singing
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Introduction
1. Our study of spiritual disciplines have so far examined such spiritual exercises as
a. Prayer – especially the value of secret, simple, and steadfast prayer
b. Meditation – contemplating God, His works, His words, and things worthy of virtue
c. Fasting – as a means of humbling one’s self before God, especially when joined with prayer
2. Another discipline in which we engage regularly is singing
a. We spend nearly a third of our assemblies engaged in this activity
b. Rightly so, for it has the potential of reaping great spiritual benefits
3. But I wonder if some do not appreciate the value of singing
a. Many Christians sing with virtually no emotion, some do not sing at all!
b. I have known Christians, who
1) Complained because time available for classes was taken up by singing a few hymns
2) Will not attend a worship service if they know it will be devoted to singing
4. Singing as a spiritual discipline is of great value, and should be a habit engaged by those who desire to grow in godliness.
Body
I. THE PURPOSE OF SINGING
A. TO PRAISE THE LORD (UPWARD)
1. This is the most common concept of the purpose of singing
a. Indeed, this is certainly the idea inherent in the word ‘hymn’
b. Which comes from the Greek word humnos, “a song in praise of”
2. The Psalms call upon us to praise God in song
a. “Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.” – Psalm 30:4
b. “Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises! For God is the King of all the earth; Sing praises with understanding.” – Psalm 47:6-7
c. “Oh come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.” – Psalm 95:1
d. “Oh, sing to the LORD a new song! Sing to the LORD, all the earth.” – Psalm 96:1
e. “Sing to the LORD, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day.” – Psalm 96:2
3. Praising God in song should be a natural for Christians!
a. David reacted this way to the blessings of God – Psalm 28:6-7; 59:16-17
b. Christians are taught to sing praises when joyful – James 5:13
c. Paul and Silas even reacted to persecution by singing praises – Acts 16:25
B. TO TEACH AND ADMONISH ONE ANOTHER (OUTWARD)
1. Singing is not always directed toward God
a. Certainly, many songs are
b. But songs are often directed to each other – cf. Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19
2. That’s because many songs are designed to teach one another
a. Teaching and admonishing us to live properly, to enjoy the blessings of the Christian life
b. It might even be said that ‘congregational singing’ is actually ‘congregational teaching’!
C. TO BE FILLED AND ENRICHED (INWARD)
1. David wrote of the personal benefit of singing praises
a. It made his lips and soul to greatly rejoice – Psalm 71:23
b. He found it to be pleasant and beautiful – Psalm 147:1
2. Singing can be a means to being filled with the Spirit
a. Paul charged the Ephesians to be filled with the Spirit – Ephesians 5:18
b. He explained how: by singing and making melody in one’s heart to the Lord – Ephesians 5:19
3. Singing can be a means to being enriched by the Word of Christ
a. Paul charged the Colossians to let the Word of Christ dwell in them richly – Colossians 3:16a
b. Again he explains: by singing with grace in one’s heart to the Lord – Co 3:16b
D. Singing is a wonderful spiritual discipline that blesses God, those who hear us and even us as we sing. How can we get more out this spiritual discipline?
II. THE PRACTICE OF SINGING
A. ENGAGE THE MIND AS YOU SING
1. Remember, singing is teaching and admonishing one another
2. This assumes that we understand what we sing – cf. 1 Corinthians 14:15
3. We must be careful that our enjoyment of singing is not like how many people enjoy their popular music (i.e., liking the music without necessarily understanding the words)
B. ENGAGE THE HEART AS YOU SING
1. When we sing, we must do so
a. “with grace in your hearts” – Colossians 3:16
b. “making melody in your heart” – Ephesians 5:19
2. This assumes that we involve our ‘heart strings’ (emotions) as we sing!
3. To sing without emotion (without grace in our hearts)
a. Is hypocritical, and condemned by Jesus! – Matthew 15:7-8
b. Will be evident in our countenances! – cf. Proverbs 15:13
C. EXPAND THE SPHERE OF YOUR SINGING
1. Is your singing limited just to the public assemblies, on the first day of the week?
2. Singing, like prayer, ought to be spontaneous, arising whenever the circumstances call for it – cf. Acts 16:25; Psalm 34:1-3
3. Take advantage of special opportunities to sing, such as monthly and annual singings
4. As a spiritual exercise, it should be done in private devotions as well as in public worship
a. Sing while you work, travel, or alone in your private meditations
b. Make use of hymns on tapes or CDs when traveling or meditating
Conclusion
1. David exemplifies the attitude of one who exercises himself through the discipline of singing
a. “I will sing to the LORD, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.” – Psalm 13:6
b. “I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing to You among the nations.” – Psalm 57:9
c. “I will sing to the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.” – Psalm 104:33
2. He likewise calls upon us to sing praises both in public and in private
a. “Praise the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song, And His praise in the assembly of saints.” – Psalm 149:1
b. “Let the saints be joyful in glory; Let them sing aloud on their beds.” – Psalm 149:5
3. As we seek to exercise ourselves unto godliness (2 Timothy 4:7), consider the discipline of singing as an appropriate complement to other spiritual activities such as prayer, meditation, and fasting
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Discipline of Fasting
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Introduction
1. For this series we have defined spiritual disciplines as:
a. Spiritual exercises that bring one closer to God, to become more godly in character and behavior
b. Spiritual activities such as prayer, meditation, fasting, singing, giving, etc.
2. Previous studies examined the disciplines of
a. Prayer – especially the value of secret, simple, and steadfast prayer
b. Meditation – contemplating on God, His works, His words, and things worthy of virtue
3. A discipline closely tied to prayer in the Scriptures is that of fasting
a. Practiced by men of God – Ezra 8:21; Nehemiah 1:4; Daniel 9:3; Matthew 4:2
b. Observed by the early church – Acts 13:1-3; 14:23; 2 Corinthians 6:5; 11:27
4. But some questions may come to mind
a. What exactly is fasting?
b. Why would Christians fast?
c. When would Christians fast?
d. How should Christians fast?
Body
I. FASTING IN THE BIBLE
A. IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
1. Only one fast was commanded in the Law of Moses – Leviticus 16:29
a. The phrase “afflict your soul” refers to fasting – cf. Psalm 69:10
b. Note also Acts 27:9 (where the Fast refers to the Day of Atonement)
2. But the Israelites (and others) fasted on many other occasions
a. In war, or at the threat of it – Judges 20:26; 1 Samuel 7:6
b. When loved ones were sick – 2 Samuel 12:16-23; Psalm 35:11-13
c. When loved ones died – 1 Samuel 31:13; 1 Chronicles 10:12; 2 Samuel 1:12
d. When they sought God’s forgiveness – Jon 3:4-10; Daniel 9:3-5;
e. When faced with impending danger – Ezra 8:21; Nehemiah 1:4; Esther 4:3,16
f. To commemorate certain calamities – cf. Zecariah 7:3; 8:19
3. The purpose of fasting
a. Some fasting was a natural reaction to grief over the loss of a loved one
b. More often, fasting was done purposely to afflict the soul – Leviticus 23:27-29
c. The purpose was to “humble” or “chasten” the soul – Psalm 35:13; 69:10
d. By humbling themselves, they hoped to incur God’s favor – Ezra 8:21-23
e. Because they sought God’s favor, fasting usually was accompanied with prayer
4. The nature of fasting
a. Fasting generally involved abstaining from food but not water
b. Sometimes the fast was partial – a restriction of diet, not total abstention – Daniel 10:2-3
c. On rare occasions there was the absolute fast – Esther 4:16; Acts 9:9
d. The absolute fasts of Moses and Elijah must have been miraculous – Deuteronomy 9:9; 1 Kings 19:8
5. The length of fasting
a. A fast was often for one day, from sunrise to sunset, and after sundown food would be taken – Judges 20:26; 2 Samuel 1:12; 3:35
b. A fast might be for one night (hence the term, “breakfast”) – Daniel 6:18
c. The fast of Esther continued for three days, day and night, which seems to have been a special case – Esther 4:16
d. At Saul’s burial, the fast by Jabesh-Gilead was seven days – 1 Samuel 31:13e. David fasted seven days when his child was ill – 2 Samuel 12:16-18
f. The longest fasts were the forty day fasts by Moses, Elijah, and Jesus – Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 9:9; 1 Kin 19:8; Matthew 4:2; Luke 4:2
6. Warnings regarding fasting
a. Fasting can easily turn into an external show and ceremonial ritualism
b. When it did, God and His prophets spoke out against it – Isaiah 58:1-9
— Though subject to abuse, fasting played an important role in the life of Israel
B. FASTING IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
1. In the life of Jesus
a. He fasted forty days in the wilderness – Matthew 4:1-2; Luke 4:1-2
b. He taught concerning fasting in His sermon on the mount – Matthew 6:16-18
c. He implied His disciples would fast after His death – Mark 2:18-20; Luke 5:33
d. He spoke of the combined power of fasting and prayer – Matthew 17:14-21
2. In the life of the early church
a. Members of the church at Antioch served the Lord with fasting-Ac 13:1-2
b. Elders were appointed in the churches of Galatia with fasting-Acts 14:21f
3. In the life of Paul
a. He fasted prior to his baptism – Acts 9:9
b. He fasted as part of his ministry – 2 Corinthians 6:4-10; 11:23-28
c. He described how fasting might be appropriate for others – 1 Corinthians 7:5
4. In the lives of others
a. Anna – Luke 2:36-37
b. Cornelius – Acts 10:30-31
— Through both precept and example, the New Testament has much to say about fasting. Both Jews and Gentiles, Christians and non-Christians, practiced the spiritual discipline of fasting in Bible times. Should Christians fast today? I believe there is a place for fasting today
II. WHY WOULD CHRISTIANS FAST?
A. PEOPLE FAST TODAY FOR VARIOUS REASONS
1. Some purposefully, for health reasons
2. Some without thinking, in times of grief and sorrow
3. Others, in an effort to gain some kind of self-control
— But these are not reasons Christian should fast in their service to God – Colossians 2:20-23
B. CHRISTIANS SHOULD FAST TO SEEK GOD’S HELP
1. This is consistent with the majority of fasting in the OT
a. In times of war or at the threat of it (Israel)
b. When loved ones were sick (David)
c. When seeking God’s forgiveness (Ahab, Daniel)
d. When seeking God’s protection (Ezra)
2. This is consistent with the examples of fasting in the NT
a. When dealing with temptations (Jesus)
b. When serving the Lord (Antioch)
c. When beginning a work for the Lord (Antioch)
d. When selecting and appointing elders (Galatia)
— There is certainly apostolic example for Christians to fast today
III. WHEN WOULD CHRISTIANS FAST?
A. WHENEVER CIRCUMSTANCES REQUIRE GOD’S HELP
1. These may be occasions on an individual level
a. When faced with difficult temptations
b. When faced with the serious illness of a loved one
2. These occasions might be on a congregational level
a. As when appointing elders
b. As when sending out missionaries
— Not as some ceremonious ritual, but when appropriate for the occasion
B. WHENEVER CIRCUMSTANCES CALL FOR MUCH PRAYER
1. Is not God more likely to answer our prayers if we are persistent? – Luke 18:1-8
2. Is not God more likely to respond if we fast in the proper manner? – Matthew 6:17-18
— This may be why fasting is frequently joined with prayer in the Scriptures. Whenever there are matters requiring much prayer, fasting along with prayer is appropriate.
IV. HOW SHOULD CHRISTIANS FAST?
A. SOME BIBLICAL WARNINGS
1. Not to be seen of men – Matthew 6:16-18
2. Not as some regular ritual – cf. Matthew 9:14-17
3. Not without true repentance – cf. Isaiah 58:3-9
— To be effective, fasting must take such warnings seriously
B. SOME PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS
1. Don’t fast just because it sounds like a neat thing to do
a. Take the subject seriously
b. Fast only when the occasion is a serious one
c. One in which you deeply desire God’s help
2. If you have never fasted before
a. Start slow, fasting only for brief periods of time
b. End slow, gradually breaking your fast with fresh fruits and vegetables in small amounts
3. Fast when you have time to spend in prayerful meditation
a. Remember the purpose for fasting
1) To humble oneself in God’s sight
2) To seek favorable answer for some important plea
b. Thus fast when you have time
1) To pray
2) To meditate
c. Remember fasting can be:
1) Partial abstention from food, not necessarily complete
2) Just for one day or night, not necessarily for days and nights
— Fasting is not an end, but a means to an end; a way to humble oneself before God
Conclusion
1. Views about fasting have often been extreme
a. “Some have exalted religious fasting beyond all Scripture and reason, and others have utterly disregarded it.” – John Wesley
b. Some consider fasting unnecessary, therefore to be ignored; others think fasting is to be bound as a matter of faith (like baptism)
c. For the Christian, fasting is left primarily to individual discretion
2. When properly understood, fasting can be a valuable spiritual discipline
a. A way to humble oneself before God
b. When joined with prayer, a way to solicit God’s help
c. As we seek to exercise ourselves unto godliness (2 Timothy 4:7), consider the practice of fasting as an appropriate complement to prayer and meditation
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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