Historical Posts
Ephesians 04:02-09 What Are You Doing with God’s Grace? – audio
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(Presented at Willowbrook Christian Home on 8/19/2012)
Text: Ephesians 2:4-9
Introduction
Mercy
From God’s Word, we recognize that mercy is the forbearance, compassion, kindness shown by God from inflicting punishment for those who break the law.
In John 8:1-11 the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman to Jesus taken in the act of adultery, and ask Jesus what would he do in light of the law of Moses. He asked a question that convicted them of their own sins and the woman was left uncondemned. Jesus said go and sin no more.
Through God’s mercy we are saved – 1 Peter 1:3-5
Grace
A companion of mercy is grace.
Grace means that which causes joy, pleasure, delight, charm, sweetness, and loveliness. This has come to signify the kindness of God toward man.
God’s unmerited favor saves mankind by providing a sufficient and perfect sacrifice to remit the sins of man, so that he can be reconciled to his God.
The Oracles of God declare we are saved by God’s grace through faith – Ephesians 2:4-8
It (grace) has appeared unto all men – Titus 2:11
The Benefits of God’s Grace are Accessed Through Faith
Through Faith
If you want to enjoy the benefits of the grace of God, such as eternal life with God, love, joy, and peace, you must access them through faith in God – Ephesians 2:8; Romans 5:1-2
Dead or Living?
The question you must ask yourself is your faith dead or alive?
A dead faith merely believes, but does not produce obedience to God. James 2:14-17 describes faith without works as dead. But a living faith is characterized by loving obedient actions towards God – James 1:22-25.
Living Faith
You can only benefit from the grace of God when you decide to be faithful and obedient to Him and live for Him – Hebrews 4:1-2
Plan of Salvation
- Hear the Word of God – Romans 10:17; Hebrews 3:15
- Believe in Jesus Christ – Hebrews 11:6
- Repent of past Sins – Luke 13:3
- Confess Jesus is the Son of God – Romans 10:9-10
- Baptized for the forgiveness of your Sins – Acts 2:38
- Daily Live Faithful for Jesus – Revelation 2:10
What Are You Doing with God’s Grace?
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.
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Luke 13:23-28 Lord, Are There Few That Be Saved? audio
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Reading: Matthew 7:13-14
Text: Luke 13:23-28
Introduction
- QUOTE: John 3:16-17
When you read the message of God, you should get excited, because God has made a way for all in the bondage of sin to be delivered out darkness into the Light by Jesus – Colossians 1:12-14
Therefore, salvation is being delivered from end result of sin (death).
- Almost Everyone Wants to Be Saved
Interestingly, when you converse with people about salvation, almost everybody wants to be saved or wants to go to heaven, but only a few are willing to strive to comply with God’s requirements to be saved – Luke 6:46; Matthew 15:8-9
Today, the sermon is titled LORD, ARE THERE FEW THAT BE SAVED? (Luke 13:23-28)
Jesus Says to Strive (Agonize) to Enter in at the Strait Gate
- Jesus admonishes striving to enter the strait gate – Luke 13:23
The word strait means to be constrained, restricted, or narrow.
Therefore, the strait gate will be difficult and not easy to pass through because it requires faithfulness (obedience) to God.
As a result, few will enter in – John 14:15
- Deception
It’s a deception of our adversary the devil (1 Peter 5:8), to believe entering into the kingdom of God (the strait gate) takes little forethought or effort – Luke 13:23
In Acts 14:22, we learn it will take continued faithfulness, and going through much tribulations to enter into the kingdom of God.
It’s not good enough just to get at good start.
We must continue to the end – John 8:31-32; Matthew 10:22
Entering the strait gate will require faithfulness until death – Revelation 2:10
- Two Ways
There are two ways you can follow, the narrow way (life) and the broad way (destruction) – Matthew 7:13-14
There will be many people whom will follow the broad way, and a few will be faithful to God and follow the narrow way that leads to eternal life.
Jesus, tells us to strive to enter the strait gate because many will seek to enter in and not be able – Luke 13:23
Jesus Says That Many Will Seek to Enter in and Not Be Able
- Many Will Seek
Many will seek to enter in and not be able because they have entered the wide gate of disobedience to God – Matthew 7:21-23
Multitudes in this group will take the path of least resistance, they will do things there way and not God’s way and will find themselves lost – Luke 13:25-29
- A High Price
The cost of becoming a Christian (or entering the strait gate) is too high a price for many people to pay for salvation – Mark 10:17-22; Matthew 16:24-26
For masses of people, obeying the gospel of Christ is not easy task for them. Why? Because it requires one to forsake all things and to love God more than man – Luke 14:26-33
- Biblical History
And finally can anyone ignore the Biblical history on the question Lord, are there few that be saved?
– In Genesis 6:5-8, God sees the wickedness of man but Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.
– In 1 Peter 3:20, we find a few souls were saved from the great flood.
– Shall we not also consider Israel whom God saved from Egyptian bondage but afterward destroyed them because of unbelief – Jude 5.
– Only two men entered Canaan land that left Egypt Joshua & Caleb – Numbers 26:63-65
Therefore, let us strive to enter in the strait gate, since few will be saved! When Jesus comes back again, do you want to be on the outside looking in? – Luke 13:28
HEAR BELIEVE REPENT CONFESS BAPTISM LIVE FAITHFULLY
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Genesis 04:01-27 Cain and Abel – powerpoint – audio
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Genesis-04-01-27-Cain-and-Abel PDF
Genesis-04-01-27-Cain-and-Abel PPTX
Text: Genesis 4:1-27 ESV
Why did God “have regard” for Abel’s offering and not Cain’s? – Genesis 4:4 ESV
“By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks.” – Hebrews 11:4 ESV
Content by Andrew Perkins
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The Husband’s Duties – Ephesians 05:25-29
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Text: Ephesians 5:25-29
Introduction
1. Our previous lesson argued that marriage is not an institution
a. Created and designed by man or the state
b. Subject to alteration by societal whims
2. But rather, that marriage is a sacred institution
a. Instituted by God in the beginning
b. Regulated by Jesus and His apostles in the Word of God
c. Reserved for sexual intimacy between a man and a women
3. Indeed, marriage is a successful institution
a. When we follow the Biblical injunctions concerning it
b. When members of the family fulfill their proper roles
c. Preventing marriage and family from becoming an emotional and psychological straitjacket, the proverbial ball and chain, and source of much strife and hurt in one’s life
4. What are those Biblical injunctions concerning the proper roles?
Body
I. LOVE YOUR WIVES!
A. HUSBANDS ARE TO LOVE THEIR WIVES
1. As Christ loved the church – Ephesians 5:25-27
a. He gave Himself for the church!
b. He nourishes and cherishes the church!
2. As they love their own bodies – Ephesians 5:28-29
a. Which they nourish and cherish
b. Which they handle with care
3. Free from bitterness – Colossians 3:19
a. That is, resentment or hate
b. Often accompanied with wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking – Ephesians 4:31
B. HUSBANDS ARE TO LOVE THEIR WIVES
1. With “agape” love (active good will)
a. Which is commanded – Ephesians 5:25
b. Which is defined – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
c. The same sort of love we are to have toward God and all men
2. With “phileo” love (sentimental, affectionate)
a. As one would have for his own body – Ephesians 5:29
b. As parents would have for their children – Ephesians 6:4; 1 Thessalonians 2:7
3. With “eros” love (sexual)
a. Joining together as one flesh – Ephesians 5:31
b. Providing physical attention and affection due the wife – 1 Corinthians 7:2-5
4. Husbands have a duty to love their wives in every way!
II. RESPECT YOUR WIVES!
A. BY HOW YOU TREAT THEM
1. With understanding – 1 Peter 3:7
a. In an understanding way – 1 Peter 3:7 ESV
b. Be considerate – 1 Peter 3:7 NIV
c. Learn what makes her “tick”, and treat her accordingly
2. With honor – 1 Peter 3:7
a. Praise her in the gates – Proverbs 31:28
b. Put her on a pedestal
c. Do not ridicule her publicly
3. As to the weaker vessel – 1 Peter 3:7
a. Not that your wife may actually be the weaker vessel
b. Many wives are spiritually stronger, some physically stronger
c. But treat her “as” a weaker vessel (treat her like china, not steel)
B. BY HOW YOU VIEW THEM
1. As a fellow heir of the grace of life – 1 Peter 3:7
a. For whom Christ died
b. A beloved sister in Christ, worthy of respect
c. With whom you hope to spend eternity
2. As one who affects the efficacy of your prayers! – 1 Peter 3:7
a. How we treat others has a bearing on our prayers – Mark 11:26; Proverbs 21:13
b. God will not heed our prayers if we mistreat our wives! – Malachi 2:13-16
III. SUPPORT YOUR WIVES!
A. BY PROVIDING FOR THE FAMILY
1. The husband (and father) has the duty to provide for his family – 1 Timothy 5:8
2. Failure to do so is to deny the faith (the doctrine of Christ!) – ibid.
3. Unbelievers (and most creatures) provide for their own
4. A man should not take a wife unless he is willing and able to support her financially
B. BY LETTING HER CONTRIBUTE
1. The virtuous woman contributed much to the support of the family – Proverbs 31:16-19,24
2. A wise husband lets her contribute, and to be praised for it! – Proverbs 31:31
3. Of course, not to the neglect of her familial duties – Proverbs 31:21,27; 1 Timothy 5:14; Titus 2:4-5
Conclusion
1. The Christian husband is a man who
a. Loves his wife in every way
b. Respects his wife by how he treats her and views her
c. Supports his wife financially, emotionally, and spiritually
2. This is because the Christian husband is a man who
a. Is a Christian first, and a husband second
b. Gladly accepts the Biblical injunctions given to him as a husband
c. Looks to the Word of God and prayer for the strength he needs to fulfill his duty
3. When a man is a Christian husband
a. He is more likely loved and respected by his wife
b. She is more likely the sort of wife she should be
c. The children are more likely as they should be
4. In our next lesson, we shall consider the duties of wives.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Abortion – Proverbs 06:17
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(Abortion Sermons presented in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2012, 2013)
Text: Proverbs 6:17
Introduction
1. Illustration
A Florida man was fined $108,800.00 for poaching 1088 turtle eggs froma Florida State Park. The public defender argued that a turtle isn’t a turtle until it hatches. The prosecutor affirmed that though they had not hatched, they were still turtles. The judge agreed with the prosecutor.
Too bad babies don’t hatch! Swipe 1000 turtle eggs and get fined $1,000 for each egg. Kill 1000 babies and be rewarded with tax money and be lauded as a champion of reproductive freedom!
2. Abortion is one of the most controversial moral dilemmas of our day.
3. Abortion affect millions of Americans. Social scientists today estimate that abortion is the most frequently performed surgery on adults in America.
4. In fact, one out of three babies conceived in the United States is deliberately aborted, and since 1973, 40 million babies have been aborted in the U.S.
5. However, the question that should concern us most about this issue is whether or not this action is moral. Does God approve or disapprove of abortion?
Body
I. A Brief History Of Abortion
A. Contrary to what many may believe, the debate over abortion is not a recent phenomenon.
B. Many cultures (Assyrian, Babylonian, Sumerian, Hittite) considered abortion a serious crime.
C. A portion of the Hippocratic Oath stated, “I will not give a woman a pessary to produce an abortion.”
D. However, Plato and Aristotle thought that deformed children should be exposed and left to die.
E. Closer to the time of Christ, Josephus wrote against abortion saying, “The Law commanded to raise all children and prohibited women from aborting or destroying seed; a woman who does so shall be judged a murderess of children”
F. The Didache said, “Do not murder a child by abortion or kill a newborn infant.”
G. Athenagoras, a second century Christian, wrote to the emperor, Marcus Aurelius, saying, “We say that women who induce abortions are murderers, and will have to give an account of it to God…The fetus in the womb is a living being and therefore the object of God’s care.”
H. Augustine, a 4th century “Church Father” criticized husbands and wives for “preferring that their offspring die before it lives, or if it was already alive in the womb, to kill it before it was born.”
I. In the U.S., laws against abortion were in effect until 1967, when a few states began to liberalize their laws. By the end of 1970, 18 states had passed laws that allowed abortion in “exceptional circumstances.” However, on January 22, 1973, the Supreme Court handed down its Roe-v-Wade decision, which permitted abortion on demand.
II. Abortion Methods
A. Below is a listing of the methods used by doctors to perform abortions. I won’t spend time discussing these methods, but wanted to present them to you so that you can read and better understand what is involved in an abortion.
B. Dilation and Curettage or “D&C.”
C. Suction Aspiration – used in 80% of abortions.
D. Saline Injection or salt poisoning.
E. Prostagandin.
F. Hysterotomy.
G. Dilation and Extraction or “Partial Birth Abortion.”
III. What Does The Word Of God Say About Abortion?
A. The Bible, in principle addresses all our needs and answers all our moral questions.
B. (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
C. First of all, life is valuable.
1. (Genesis 1:26-31).
2. (Exodus 20:13; Matthew 5:21-22).
D. Second, life begins at conception.
1. Doctors testify to this fact:
a. Ashley Montague, Professor at Harvard & Rutgers (who is not at all sympathetic to the pro-life cause) – “The basic fact is simple: life begins not at birth, but conception.”
b. Dr. Bernard Nathanson, who has performed over 60,000 abortions -“Modern technologies have convinced us that beyond question, the unborn child is simply another human being, another member of the human community, indistinguishable in every way from any of us.”
2. The Scriptures testify to this fact:
a. (Jeremiah 1:5).
b. (Psalm 139:13-16).
c. (Luke 1:41,44).
d. (Job 3:11).
e. (Exodus 21:22-23).
f. (Proverbs 6:17).
IV. Pro-Abortion Rhetoric
A. “Every woman has a right to control her own body.”
1. “Every woman” – half the babies aborted are female.
2. “Has a right” – society does not recognize absolute right over one’s body (e.g. public nudity, drunkenness, etc.).
3. “To control” – control could have prevented the pregnancy.
4. “Her own body” – pregnancy involves two bodies.
B. “Abortion is every woman’s legal right.”
1. Legal rights and moral/biblical rights are not always the same (Acts 5:29).
C. “The fetus is mere tissue and not a person.”
D. “Abortion is the best solution to a crisis pregnancy.”
1. What if Mary, the mother of Jesus, had embraced such a view?
2. Abortions involving rape and incest comprise only 1% of all abortions performed, and while I do not wish to minimize the trauma of such situations, harming an innocent person is not the proper response.
V. What Can We Do About The Moral Problem Of Abortion?
A. Show compassion.
1. It’s not a sin to have a baby outside of marriage, it is a sin to have sex outside of marriage.
2. We must condemn sin but lovingly help and support those who have committed sin and help them to bear up under the consequences.
B. We need to speak out what God’s word says.
1. We can’t expect people to live godly lives who do not know what godliness entails.
C. Social involvement and support of pro-life organizations.
D. Vote.
E. Pray (James 5:16).
Conclusion:
1. People may and probably will continue to argue about this issue.
2. Nevertheless, God has shown us that life is precious and he is highly offended when we harm his little ones (Proverbs 6:17; Matthew 18:3-5; 19:14).
3. Friends, make yourself a voice for the voiceless, and defend the innocent and helpless. You know your Lord would.
What Was I Supposed To Be?
As Jesus walked upon the earth, on the shores of Galilee, He’d say to his disciples, “Let the little children come to me.”
I wonder if up in heaven, do you suppose you’ll see, Little children asking, “What was I supposed to be?” “What was I supposed to be?”
“What were my eyes supposed to see?” “Why did I taste of death, Before I even drew a breath, Or lay my head on my mother’s breast to sleep?”
“Oh, Jesus, what was I supposed to be?” “Was I to be a prophet used in the ministry?”
“A doctor who would find a cure, for some terrible disease?”
“Even if I had been born imperfect why couldn’t my parents see ‘d have been made perfect, when you came back for me?”
“Oh Jesus, what was I supposed to be?” “Jesus, What was I supposed to be?”
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Acts 08:14-25 God’s Second Law of Pardon
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Text: Acts 8:14-25
Introduction
1. The Scriptures reveal different instructions on how to obtain forgiveness
a. To alien sinners outside of Christ
1) Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38)
2) And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’ (Acts 22:16)
b. To erring Christians guilty of sin
1) Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. (Acts 8:22)
2) If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. The difference has been described by some as God’s Two Laws Of Pardon
a. For the alien sinner, there is God’s first law of pardon
1) Hear the gospel
2) Believe that Jesus is the Christ, who died for our sins
3) Repent of sins
4) Confess faith in Christ
5) Be baptized for the remission of sins
b. For the erring Christian, there is God’s second law of pardon
1) Repent of sins
2) Pray to God
3) Confess sins to God
3. As we evangelize, we often spend much time explaining the first law. As Christians seeking to maintain our relationship with God, we should be equally concerned with the second law. So let’s take a closer look at God’s second law of pardon
Body
I. WHAT CHRISTIANS MUST DO
A. WE MUST REPENT OF SINS
1. Note that repentance is required in both laws of pardon
2. What does it mean to repent? Literally, it means “a change of mind”
a. “signifies to change one’s mind or purpose” – Vine
b. a change of mind involves both a turning from sin and a turning to God
3. Thus it involves making a decision to stop sinning
a. Just as the alien sinner is called to do so in becoming a Christian
b. So the erring Christian must do to return to the Lord
4. Repentance is produced by “godly sorrow”
Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. (2 Corinthians 7:9-10)
a. A sorrow for having sinned against God
Against You, You only, have I sinned, And done this evil in Your sight That You may be found just when You speak, And blameless when You judge. (Psalms 51:4)
b. As opposed to worldly sorrow for getting caught or being exposed
5. Repentance is also prompted by God’s goodness
Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? (Romans 2:4)
a. Awareness of God’s grace and kindness should lead us to repent
b. Frequent meditation on the Word of God will help in this regard
6. Repentance will be manifested by a remarkable change
For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter. (2 Corinthians 7:11)
a. Such as diligence and zeal to do right
b. Such as indignation for our sins and a desire to make right
7. So the first step for erring Christians is to repent of their sins!
B. WE MUST PRAY
1. So Peter told Simon when he sinned after having believed and was baptized
Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. (Acts 8:22)
2. Compare this to God’s first law of pardon
a. Baptism is an act of faith, in which we make an appeal
There is also an antitype which now saves us baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 3:21)
b. Prayer is also an act of faith, as we appeal for forgiveness
c. Yet alien sinners are commanded to repent and be baptized
Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38)
d. While erring Christians are commanded to repent and pray
3. The difference is understandable
a. Before baptism, one is not a child of God
For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Galatians 3:26-27)
Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. (John 3:3-5)
b. After baptism, prayer is a privilege for those who are God’s children
And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Galatians 4:6-7)
4. Praying is effective for the Christian because of our two intercessors
a. Jesus, who understands our feelings
Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted. (Hebrews 2:17-18)
Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:14-16)
But He, because He continues forever, has an unchangeable priesthood. Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:24-25)
b. The Holy Spirit, who communicates our feelings
Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. (Romans 8:26-27)
5. As we pray, we must do so with humility
a. Compare the difference between the Pharisee and the publican
Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other menextortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:9-14)
b. God favors the humble and contrite in spirit
The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. (Psalms 34:18)
Thus says the LORD: “Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest? For all those things My hand has made, And all those things exist,” Says the LORD. “But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word. (Isaiah 66:1-2)
6. Having repented, the erring Christian humbly needs to pray!
C. WE MUST CONFESS
1. So John wrote to Christians, to experience God’s forgiveness
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. Compare this to God’s first law of pardon
a. Where confession is commanded, but not confession of sins
b. Instead, confession is made concerning Jesus Christ
that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Romans 10:9-10)
Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” (Acts 8:37)
3. Understanding the word “confess”
a. Comes from the Greek word homologeo
b. “lit., to speak the same thing; to agree with, admit” – Vine
c. In regards to sin, it means to openly and honestly admit sin without hiding it or offering excuses for it
And I prayed to the LORD my God, and made confession, and said, “O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who love Him, and with those who keep His commandments, we have sinned and committed iniquity, we have done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgments. Neither have we heeded Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your name to our kings and our princes, to our fathers and all the people of the land. (Daniel 9:4-6)
4. Confession of sins should be made
a. Continuously – for John literally wrote “If we keep confessing our sins…”
b. For both known and unknown sins
Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults. (Psalms 19:12)
c. Always to God, sometimes to each other
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (James 5:16)
5. So as the erring Christian prays, confession of sins should be made!
[Simple is God’s second law of pardon: to repent and pray, confessing our sins! To encourage us to be diligent in taking advantage of this wonderful grace, consider now…]
II. WHAT GOD WILL DO
A. GOD WILL BE FAITHFUL
1. As John promised in encouraging us to confess our sins
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. This means He will be true to His promise
3. What promise? The promise found in the prophecy of the New Covenant!
a. Found in Jeremiah, repeated in Hebrews
“Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the LORD. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the LORD: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know the LORD,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.” (Jeremiah 31:31-34)
For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second. Because finding fault with them, He says: “BEHOLD, THE DAYS ARE COMING, SAYS THE LORD, WHEN I WILL MAKE A NEW COVENANT WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL AND WITH THE HOUSE OF JUDAH NOT ACCORDING TO THE COVENANT THAT I MADE WITH THEIR FATHERS IN THE DAY WHEN I TOOK THEM BY THE HAND TO LEAD THEM OUT OF THE LAND OF EGYPT; BECAUSE THEY DID NOT CONTINUE IN MY COVENANT, AND I DISREGARDED THEM, SAYS THE LORD. FOR THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS IN THEIR MIND AND WRITE THEM ON THEIR HEARTS; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. NONE OF THEM SHALL TEACH HIS NEIGHBOR, AND NONE HIS BROTHER, SAYING, ‘KNOW THE LORD,’ FOR ALL SHALL KNOW ME, FROM THE LEAST OF THEM TO THE GREATEST OF THEM. FOR I WILL BE MERCIFUL TO THEIR UNRIGHTEOUSNESS, AND THEIR SINS AND THEIR LAWLESS DEEDS I WILL REMEMBER NO MORE.” In that He says, “A NEW COVENANT,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away. (Hebrews 8:7-13)
b. Thus we have the assurance of God’s response!
B. GOD WILL BE JUST
1. As John promised in encouraging us to confess our sins
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
2. This means He will be righteous in forgiving our sins
3. How can this be? By virtue of the cleansing blood of Jesus!
a. A cleansing alluded to earlier
But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. (1 John 1:7)
b. So God can be both just and justifier of those who have faith in Christ
being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:24-26)
c. Thus we have the basis for God’s response!
C. GOD WILL FORGIVE AND CLEANSE
1. He will “forgive us our sins”
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
a. The word ‘forgive’ describes the act of canceling a debt and the restoration of the debtor
b. No longer will the guilt of our sins be held against us!
2. He will “cleanse us from all unrighteousness” – 1 John 1:9
a. “The word ‘cleanse’ refers to making the forgiven sinner holy so that he is able to have fellowship with God”
b. The word “all” is reassuring; no sin is beyond God’s ability to forgive the penitent Christian who confesses their sin!
3. Thus we have blessedness of God’s response!
Conclusion
1. With God’s second law of pardon, the Christian who repents, prays, and confesses will
a. Experience the continual cleansing of the blood of Christ!
b. Enjoy the blessedness of knowing your sins are forgiven!
2. Why would any Christian hesitate to obey God’s second law of pardon…?
a. You can have the same joy of salvation as when you were baptized into Christ!
b. For you rise from prayer as cleansed from sin as when you arose from the watery grave!
If you want to have the same joy, the same assurance of salvation, as that new babe in Christ who comes forth to a new life, then take advantage of “God’s Second Law Of Pardon”…!
Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. (Isaiah 55:6-7)
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Spiritual Growth is a Choice
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Introduction
1. The blessings enjoyed in Christ include not only redemption, but renewal
a. We undergo a “washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit” in baptism – Titus 3:5
b. From baptism, we rise to “walk in newness of life” – Romans 6:4
2. The renewal we find in Christ involves the concept of spiritual growth
a. Just as a healthy physical life is one of growth
b. So a healthy spiritual life is a process of growth
3. Sadly, not all Christians grow spiritually
a. Many have been Christians for years, with little change or improvement
b. They are no more, often less; useful to the Lord than when they first became Christians
c. Failing to grow, they become stagnant, like a pool of water
4. That is because Spiritual Growth Is A Choice
a. It doesn’t happen by default (unlike physical growth)
b. Spiritual growth (like emotional maturity) occurs only when we choose to grow
5. If we do not make that choice, and stick to it, there will be no spiritual growth!
Body
I. COMMANDED BY GOD
A. IMPLICITLY STATED IN THE GREAT COMMISSION
1. The Great Commission is found in Matthew 28:18-20
2. Jesus commanded His apostles to make disciples
a. Baptizing them
b. Teaching them to observe all things He commanded
c. Implicit in the command to teach, is that disciples would be obedient learners
B. EXPLICITLY STATED IN THE APOSTOLIC EPISTLES
1. Peter ends his second epistle with a command to grow – 2 Peter 3:18
a. We are to grow in grace
b. We are to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ
2. Peter begins his second epistle describing how we are to grow – 2 Peter 1:5-8
a. Adding to your faith such graces as virtue, knowledge, self-control, etc.
b. Abounding in these graces, being fruitful, this implies growth
3. Christians who did not grow, were sternly rebuked – Hebrews 5:12-6:1
4. Spiritual growth is a not an option, reserved for a few select Christians. The Word of God commands us to grow
II. REQUIRES DILIGENT EFFORT
A. UNLIKE PHYSICAL GROWTH
1. People grow physically by default (unless there is some disorder)
2. No effort is required on our part; we mature physically whether we want to or not
3. Don’t think that just because you grow older, you are growing spiritually!
B. SPIRITUAL GROWTH REQUIRES CONCENTRATED EFFORT
1. Jesus said it requires labor – cf. John 6:27
2. Paul wrote that it requires work, pressing on – Philippians 2:12; 3:13-14
3. Peter wrote that it requires diligence – cf. 2 Peter 1:5, 10
4. Like physical health, spiritual growth requires regular exercise – 1 Timothy 4:7-8
5. Spiritual growth is not easy. We must work at it. Today. Tomorrow. Always.
III. ASSISTED BY GOD
A. WE ARE NOT ALONE IN OUR EFFORTS
1. While we work out our salvation, God is at work in us – Philippians 2:12-13
2. Just as He was with us in producing our new birth – Titus 3:5
3. God desires to complete the work He started when He saved us – Philippians 1:6
B. WE ARE STRENGTHENED BY GOD IN OUR EFFORTS
1. He strengthens us by His Spirit in our inner man – Ephesians 3:16
2. He empowers us with unimaginable power that is in us – Ephesians 3:20
3. He provides the armor to stand strong in the power of His might – Ephesians 6:10-11
4. There is no excuse not to grow, for Christ strengthens us! – Philippians 4:13
5. With God as our aid, spiritual growth is possible. And not mediocre growth, but spiritual growth beyond what limits we might think hinder us!
IV. BLESSED BY GOD
A. THE BLESSINGS BEGIN IN THIS LIFE
1. As we grow in grace – cf. 2 Peter 3:18
a. We experience the blessings of the grace in which we stand
b. Such as peace with God, rejoicing in hope – cf. Romans 5:1-2
2. As we grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – cf. 2 Peter 3:18
a. We experience the blessings of adding virtue, knowledge, self-control, etc. to our faith
b. Such as a victorious life, in which we do not stumble so as to fall – 2 Peter 1:10
3. Indeed, it is spiritual growth that ensures the “abundant life” now that Jesus promised! – cf. John 10:10
B. THE BLESSINGS CONTINUE INTO THE LIFE TO COME
1. We will experience an “abundant entrance” into the everlasting kingdom – 2 Peter 1:11
2. In some way, our works do follow us – cf. Revelation 14:13
3. At the very least, we know that our labors will not be in vain! – 1 Corinthians 15:58
Conclusion
1. We have been talking about growth; but not just any growth, for not all growth is good
a. The hearts of some grow dull – cf. Matthew 13:15
b. The love of many grow cold – cf. Matthew 24:12
c. There is the danger of growing weary in doing good – cf. Galatians 6:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:13
d. There is possibility of growing corrupt according to deceitful lusts – Ephesians 4:22
e. There is danger of growing wanton against Christ – cf. 1 Timothy 5:11
f. There are those who grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived – 2 Timothy 3:13
g. Like the growth of cancerous cells, the wrong growth can be deadly!
2. We have been talking about spiritual growth, the kind of growth that is:
a. Commanded by God
b. Requires diligent effort
c. Assisted by God
d. Blessed by God
e. It is this kind of growth that Peter enjoined as he closed his epistle – 2 Peter 3:18
3. What kind of growth is taking place in our spiritual lives?
a. Is it a deadly kind of growth, creating dull hearts, love that is cold, weariness in doing good, even moral corruption?
b. Or is it a vibrant kind of growth in which we are abounding in love, joy, and peace, being faithful and fruitful in our service to Jesus Christ?
4. The one kind of growth is often the result of neglect, the other kind of growth comes only when we make the right choice! If we desire to experience the blessings of the right kind of growth, then never forget that “Spiritual Growth Is A Choice”! Are we making the right choice today and every day…?
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Peter 02:20-22 Anatomy of a Backslider
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Text: 2 Peter 2:20-22
(Learning From One Who Knows By Experience)
Introduction
1. We read of the real possibility and serious consequences of backsliding in 2 Peter 2:20-22
2. It is interesting that we find this passage coming from the inspired pen of Peter
a. For if anyone knew “firsthand” the reality and dangers of backsliding, it was Peter!
b. As he discovered the night he denied Jesus!
3. The process of backsliding is a gradual one, often overtaking a person by surprise; and lest we fall from our own steadfastness
a. We shall carefully examine the process that led to Peter’s denial of Christ
b. Followed by noticing how Peter’s own words in his epistles are designed to prevent the same from happening to us!
Body
I. THE ANATOMY OF A BACKSLIDER
A. PRIDE – Mark 14:27-31
1. In a boastful manner, Peter claims he will not fall away or deny Christ!
2. In doing so, Peter takes the first step in backsliding: “pride”! – Proverbs 16:18
3. Why is this the “first” step?
a. Because the first step in entering the kingdom is humility – Matthew 18:3-4
b. So if we lose “humility”, we take that first step backward
4. Paul’s advice to the Corinthians is very apropos in this regard – 1 Corinthians 10:11
B. LAZINESS – Mark 14:32-42
1. Told to keep watch, Peter kept falling asleep
2. It was therefore lack of diligent preparation which caused him to be caught off guard for what was to follow
3. The same thing can happen to us!
a. Without diligence, we too can be found unprepared – Luke 21:34-36
b. More often than not, it is a “gradual drifting” that catches us off guard – Hebrews 2:1-3
c. But when we are proud of ourselves, we become lazy, and that easily leads to the next step
C. COWARDICE – Mark 14:54
1. Note that it says “…Peter followed Him at a distance”
2. Now that Jesus had become unpopular…
a. Peter stays far enough away so as not to be identified with Him
b. Peter was unprepared for the challenge of facing ridicule and persecution
3. Without diligent preparation, we too can become guilty of cowardice!
a. Ashamed to be seen carrying a Bible
b. Ashamed to be seen giving thanks
c. Ashamed to be seen with other Christians
d. Perhaps even ashamed to let others know that we are Christians!
4. And yet, Jesus has made it clear what He thinks of “cowardice” – Mark 8:38; Revelation 21:8
5. When we are ashamed of Christ, it is natural for to fall into the next step of backsliding
D. WORLDLINESS – Mark 14:54
1. We now find Peter sitting with the servants of the High Priest and warming himself by the fire
2. Ashamed to be seen with Christ, it becomes easy to mingle with those of the world and enjoy their comforts
3. But one cannot be “comforted by the fire” of the world, and not be “burned”!
a. Close contact with that which can harm has its effects! – Proverbs 6:27-29
b. So it is we cannot “flirt with the world” and walk away untouched! – 1 Corinthians 15:33
4. By the time we become “friends with the world”, it is only a short time before we take the next and final step of backsliding
E. DENIAL – Mark 14:66-71
1. Away from Christ, at comfort with those in the world, Peter finds himself denying His Lord and Savior!
2. In so doing, he has put himself in grave danger – Mark 10:32-33
3. Though we may never actually deny Jesus in “words”, we can easily backslide to the point of denying Him in “action”
a. We are called to worship Him…but make excuses why we cannot
b. We are called to serve Him…but render little or no service
c. We are called to stand by His side and suffer for His name …but stand afar off in the safety of the world’s comfort
[When we deny the Lord, our backsliding is complete; unless we repent, the only thing left is to one day face the Lord, where we will fully realize the error of our ways! For Peter, he fully realized his sin when the Lord turned and looked at him there in the courtyard (cf. Luke 22:60-62). Imagine the feeling in Peter’s heart as those eyes of His Savior pierced his soul! Like Judas, Peter wept bitterly over his sin. Unlike Judas, Peter had “godly sorrow” that results in true repentance (cf. 2 Corinthians 7:10-11). And years later, we find Peter writing the sort of things that would prevent us from making the same mistake he did…]
II. ADVICE FROM ONE WHO LEARNED THE HARD WAY
A. TO GUARD AGAINST “PRIDE”
1. Peter enjoins “humility” – 1 Peter 5:5-6
2. Indeed, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble”
B. TO WARD AGAINST “LAZINESS”.
1. Peter commands “diligence” – 1 Peter 5:8-9
2. Note especially his words in his second epistle – 2 Peter 1:5,10; 3:14
C. INSTEAD OF “COWARDICE”.
1. Peter charges us to “glorify God” – 1 Peter 4:16
2. Think not of what it means to you, but what it means to God!
D. INSTEAD OF “WORLDLINESS”
1. Peter tells us to “abstain” – 1 Peter 2:11-12
2. Remember that we are “sojourners and pilgrims”, destined for a better place than the things of this world have to offer!
E. INSTEAD OF “DENIAL”
1. Peter exhorts us to ever be ready to “give a defense” – 1 Peter 3:15
2. By careful preparation, we will “defend” Christ, and not “deny” Christ!
Conclusion
1. From one who learned by the hard road of experience, let’s heed his advice lest we one day backslide ourselves, and in so doing deny the Lord! – 2 Peter 3:17-18
2. Remember too that when Peter saw the eyes of his Lord, he realized the error of his way
a. Fortunately for him, there was still time to repent
b. But for us, when we see Jesus “face to face”, the time to repent will be gone…it will be the time for judgment!
3. If we realize that we are guilty of backsliding
a. Repent now; do not wait until you stand before Jesus
b. Do it now, so that your “face to face” encounter with Jesus will be terrific, not terrifying!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Genesis 15:06 Faith of Abraham
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Text: Genesis 15:6
Introduction
1. One of the greatest men in history has to be the patriarch Abraham…
a. Three religions look to him as their spiritual progenitor (Judaism, Christianity, Islam)
b. Christians view him as “the father of all them that believe” – Romans 4:11
2. What is most noteworthy about Abraham was his faith…
a. Paul made reference to his faith time and again – Romans 4:3,9, 11,16-22; Galatians 3:7-9
b. James used his example to illustrate saving faith – James 2:21-23
3. Both Paul and James make reference to the following OT statement about Abraham’s faith: “And he believed in the LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness.” (Gen 15:6; cf. Romans 4:3; James 2:23)
[What was it about Abraham’s faith that so pleased God? Do we have the same kind of faith? Let’s take a closer look at “The Faith Of Abraham”…]
Body
I. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS BASED ON REVELATION
A. GOD REVEALED HIMSELF TO ABRAHAM…
1. In Ur of the Chaldees – Genesis 15:7
2. At Haran of Mesopotamia – Genesis 12:1-4
3. At Shechem in Canaan – Genesis 12:6-7
4. After Lot moved to Sodom – Genesis 13:14-17
5. And many times more – cf. Genesis 15:1-17; 17:1-27; 18:1-33; 22:1-19
— By revealing Himself to Abraham, God provided Abraham ample evidence for him to place his faith and trust in God
B. OUR FAITH MUST BE BASED UPON REVELATION
1. Not that God reveals Himself to us as He did to Abraham
2. But faith comes through the Word of God – cf. Romans 10:17
a. It contains evidence that we might believe – John 20:30-31
b. The more we read, the more God is revealed to us, especially in the person of His Son Jesus Christ!
— If we desire to have “The Faith Of Abraham”, we must be receptive to God’s revelation of Himself through His Word!
II. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS AN OBEDIENT FAITH
A. BY FAITH, ABRAHAM OBEYED GOD
1. He left his country – Hebrews 11:8
2. He sojourned in a foreign land – Hebrews 11:9-10
3. He offered his son Isaac – Hebrews 11:17
— Abraham’s faith was not a dead faith (cf. Ja 2:20,26), but a dynamic faith expressing itself in obedience!
B. BY FAITH, WE MUST OBEY GOD
1. For the gospel calls for “obedience to the faith” – cf. Romans 1:5;16:25-26
2. We must “obey from the heart” the doctrine of Christ – cf. Romans 6:17
3. Woe to those who do not “obey the gospel” – cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; 1 Peter 4:17
— If we desire to have “The Faith Of Abraham”, we must have a faith that “works through love” (Galatians 5:6)
[While works are an essential element of a saving faith, it is crucial to note that it is the faith behind the works that pleases God (and not the works per se)! Therefore we point out that…]
III. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS A TRUSTING FAITH
A. ABRAHAM TRUSTED IN GOD, NOT HIS WORKS
1. Return to our text, and note what is said – cf. Genesis 15:6
a. Abraham believed in the Lord
b. “It” (his faith) was reckoned or considered for righteousness
c. It was Abraham’s faith in God that greatly pleased God
2. Paul stresses this point in his epistle to the Romans – cf. Romans 4:1-3
a. Abraham was not justified because of his works
b. Abraham was justified (declared blameless) because of his faith!
— Though he had a faith that works, he did not trust in his works; rather in God who justifies the ungodly (cf. Romans 4:5-8)
B. WE MUST TRUST IN JESUS, NOT OUR WORKS
1. As noted before, we must obey God which involves certain “works”
a. Such as faith, which is a “work” – cf. John 6:28,29
b. Even baptism, which is more a work of God than a work of man – Colossians 2:12-13
2. But when all is done, we must not put our trust in our obedience
a. As though we somehow earned our salvation
b. For Christ taught us to realize we are still unworthy – cf. Luke 17:10
— It is the faith or trust in Jesus prompting us to obey that pleases God, not some meritorious value of the work done to receive God’s grace!
[So “The Faith Of Abraham” was an obedient faith that placed its trust in God who justifies the ungodly. To be “the sons of Abraham”, we must have the same kind of faith. Finally, observe that…]
IV. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS A GROWING FAITH
A. ABRAHAM GREW IN FAITH
1. There were times when his faith was weak
a. He had Sarah his wife tell a half-truth to save his life – Genesis 12:11-20; 20:1-18
b. He questioned God when he and Sarah did not have children – Genesis 15:2-3
c. He showed weak faith in the case of Hagar – Genesis 16:1-4
d. He offered an alternative to God when he thought it would be impossible for he and Sarah to have children – Genesis 17:17-18
2. But God was patient with Abraham, and his faith grew
a. He had faith, even against hope, and was able to conceive – Romans 4:18-22
b. He had faith that God could raise Isaac from the dead, and so was willing to offer him as commanded – Hebrews 11:17-19
— “The Faith Of Abraham” was not a static faith, but an ever-growing faith that came through being “a friend of God” (cf. Ja 2:23)
B. WE MUST GROW IN FAITH
1. Just as the apostles of Christ did
a. From men with little faith and easily afraid – Matthew 8:25-26; 14:31
b. To men of great boldness – Acts 4:13
2. Like the Thessalonians – 2 Thessalonians 1:3
a. Their faith was growing exceedingly
b. Our faith needs to grow likewise
— Our faith will grow, if we are willing to “walk in the steps of the faith which our father Abraham had” (cf. Romans 4:12)
Conclusion
1. We have seen that “The Faith Of Abraham” was
a. Based upon revelation
b. An obedient faith
c. A trusting faith
d. A growing faith
2. Why do we need this same kind of faith…?
a. Because “those who are of faith are the sons of Abraham” – Galatians 3:7
b. Because “those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham” – Galatians 3:9
3. Indeed, those who have “The Faith Of Abraham” are truly the recipients of the promise made to Abraham: “In your seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.” – Genesis 18:18
4. Are we walking in the steps of the faith of Abraham, obeying the Word of God given today through the gospel of Christ, even as he obeyed the word given to him?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Joseph’s Character – Genesis 37:1 – 50:26
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Text: Genesis 37:1-50:26
Introduction
1. When we think of “the patriarchs”, the following likely come to mind
a. Abraham, man of faith
b. Isaac, son of promise
c. Jacob, father of the twelve tribes of Israel
2. Yet consider this about the patriarch Joseph
a. More space in Genesis is devoted to him than the others
b. There is not a single word of reproof against Joseph
3. Indeed, the character of Joseph is worthy of careful study
a. His nobility of character, his purity of heart and life
b. His magnanimity as ruler and brother
4. Make him, more than any other of the Old Testament characters, an illustration of that type of man which Christ was to give to the world in perfection (ISBE)
Body
I. JOSEPH AS A SON IN CANAAN
A. HATED BY HIS BROTHERS
1. Telling on his brothers didn’t help – Genesis 37:2
2. Favoritism by his father certainly hurt – Genesis 37:3-4
3. His dreams made it worse – Genesis 37:5-11
4. They eventually sold him as a slave – Genesis 37:12-36
a. Spared initially by Reuben who intended to free him – Genesis 37:21-22
b. Spared death by Judah, who suggested slavery instead – Genesis 37:26-27
B. FAITHFUL TO HIS FATHER
1. Some children rebel against their parents to win approval from their siblings
2. Joseph remained faithful to his father, willing to obey his wishes – Genesis 37:13
One might think such ill treatment, followed by separation from country and kin, would produce bitterness and hopeless in such a young man. Yet the character of Joseph really shines.
II. JOSEPH AS A SLAVE IN EGYPT
A. OVERSEER IN POTIPHAR’S HOUSE.
1. Blessed by God, Joseph found favor in Potiphar’s eyes – Genesis 39:1-6
a. Though a young man, he proved industrious and trustworthy
b. He made the best of the situation, and God blessed him and Potiphar
2. Handsome in appearance, Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife – Genesis 39:6-20
a. She tried time and again to seduce him
b. He resisted, out of faithfulness to Potiphar and God – Genesis 9:8-9
c. Her advances spurned, she spitefully accuses him wrongfully
1) Angering her husband
2) Resulting in his imprisonment
B. OVERSEER IN PHARAOH’S PRISON
1. Blessed by God, Joseph is favored by the keeper of the prison – Genesis 39:21-23
a. Placed in charge of the other prisoners, with complete trust
b. Prospered in his new role by God, who was with him
2. Interpreter of dreams, Joseph is forgotten then remembered – Genesis 40:1-41:36
a. He interprets the dreams of the butler and the baker
1) Acknowledging God as the interpreter – Genesis 40:8
2) The dreams are fulfilled, yet Joseph was forgotten – Genesis 40:20-23
b. He interprets the dreams of Pharaoh
1) Again acknowledging God as providing the answer Genesis 41:16,25,32
2) Offering advice in regards to the dreams’ fulfillment – Genesis 41:33-36
Falsely accused, then forgotten by man, many might wonder “Why bother to be righteous?” But Joseph maintained his integrity and was not forgotten by God. Just as he found favor in the eyes of Potiphar and the keeper of the prison, so he enjoyed favor in the eyes of Pharaoh
III. JOSEPH AS A PRINCE IN EGYPT
A. WISE IN HIS SERVICE TO PHARAOH
1. At the age of thirty, Joseph is exalted to rule over Egypt – Genesis 41:38-46
2. His wisdom manifested in his administration
a. Showing foresight during the years of plenty – Genesis 41:47-49
b. Showing shrewdness during the years of famine – Genesis 41:53-57; 47:13-26
3. Mindful of God’s blessings – cf. Genesis 41:50-52
B. MERCIFUL IN HIS TREATMENT OF HIS BRETHREN
1. Finally reunited with his brothers and father – Genesis 42:1-45:15
2. Arranged for them to live in Goshen – Genesis 46:16-20, 28-34; 47:1-12
3. Reassured his brothers that he has forgiven them
a. When he first revealed himself to them – Genesis 45:4-8
b. When their father Jacob died – Genesis 50:15-21
C. BELIEVING IN THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD
1. That God could make good things come out of evil intentions – Genesis 50:20
2. That God would keep His promises made to His people – Genesis 50:24-25
Conclusion
1. In the life and story of Joseph, we see the value of a character
a. Centered in faith and trust in God
b. Devoted to serving God and man with honor and dependability
c. Unwilling to be deterred by the hatred, betrayal, and forgetfulness of others
d. Willing to forgive the wrongs committed by others
e. Able to see the big picture, God’s wonderful workings in the affairs of men
2. This noble character can be useful in all the seasons of life
a. As a youth, tempted and tried with no help from family or friend
b. As a mature individual, charged with important responsibilities
c. As an aged person, knowing that death is imminent
May the character of Joseph serve to inspire us to develop our character as well, that in some small way we too can be: “..an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12)
Certainly this is the case with the patriarch Joseph!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Samuel 01:01 – 02:10 Hannah, a Woman of Faith
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Text: 1 Samuel 1:1-2:10
Introduction
1. The Old Testament contains many role models for us today
a. Great men like Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, David, Daniel
b. Great women like Sarah, Ruth, and Esther
2. A wonderful role model for women of faith today is that of Hannah
a. The mother of Samuel, one of the greatest prophets of Israel
b. Whose story is told in the first two chapters of 1 Samuel
3. From just a simple reading of the material in these two chapters we can glean several lessons from “Hannah – A Woman Of Faith”. For example, as we read 1 Samuel 1:1-8, we learn that…
Body
I. PEOPLE OF FAITH ENDURE REAL PROBLEMS
A. HANNAH’S PROBLEMS
1. Womb closed by the Lord – 1 Samuel 1:1-5
2. Provoking by her rival – 1 Samuel 1:6-8
B. WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM HANNAH
1. Women of faith are not without problems in this life
a. The righteous often suffer (remember Job)
b. Sarah likewise suffered ridicule from her handmaiden Hagar – Genesis 16:3-5
2. We should not let others deter our trust in the Lord
a. Hannah could have used her misfortune and mistreatment as an excuse
b. Yet year after year Hannah continued to worship the Lord – 1 Samuel 1:7
C. Women of faith have problems just like other women. What distinguishes them as women of faith is what they do when faced with their problems, as we glean from reading 1 Samuel 1:9-18
II. WOMEN OF FAITH EXTEND VIBRANT PRAYERS
A. HANNAH’S PRAYER
1. With the bitterness of soul – 1 Samuel 1:10
2. With weeping in anguish – 1 Samuel 1:10
3. With offers of a solemn vow – 1 Samuel 1:11
4. With persistence – 1 Samuel 1:12
5. With her heart – 1 Samuel 1:13
6. With all her soul – 1 Samuel 1:15-16
7. With faith in God’s promise – 1 Samuel 1:18
B. WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM HANNAH
1. Pray fervently – she put her soul in her prayers – Colossians 4:2
2. Pray persistently – she continued steadfastly in prayers
3. Pray faithfully – she believed that God would answer her prayers – 1 John 5:14-15
C. Women of faith believe in the efficacy of prayer. God takes notice of such faith, so we should not be surprise to see that as we continue reading (1 Samuel 1:19-20)
III. WOMEN OF FAITH EXPERIENCE GOD’S PROVISIONS
A. HANNAH’S PROVISIONS
1. When the Lord remembered her – 1 Samuel 1:19
2. When the Lord gave her a son, whom she named Samuel (“heard of God”) – 1 Samuel 1:20
B. WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM HANNAH
1. God may sometimes give us what we want
a. It must be according to His will – 1 John 5:14
b. We must abide in His words – John 15:7
c. Selfish prayers will not be answered as we wish – James 4:3
2. God will always provide what we need
a. It may not be what we want or expect
b. But it will meet our needs, and be for our good – Matthew 6:33; Romans 8:28
c. In Hannah’s case, she received that for which she asked. But she had made a vow, and as we read on we see that (1 Samuel 1:21-28).
V. WOMEN OF FAITH EXCEL AT KEEPING PROMISES
A. HANNAH’S PROMISE
1. She planned to keep her promise – 1 Samuel 1:22
2. She carried out what she promised – 1 Samuel 1:24-28
3. She worshipped the Lord – 1 Samuel 1:28
B. WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM HANNAH
1. We should keep our vows
a. God has no pleasure in fools who do not keep their vows – Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
b. As Christians, even our ‘yes’ and ‘no’ are as solemn vows – Matthew 5:33-37
2. We should worship the Lord
a. Fulfillment of vows or promises should not be done begrudgingly We should with gratitude of heart do the will of the Lord – Colossians 3:17
b. Finally, we note Hannah’s prayer of thanksgiving – 1 Samuel 2:1-10
V. WOMEN OF FAITH EXPRESS THEIR PRAISE
A. HANNAH’S PRAISE
1. With great joy in her heart – 1 Samuel 2:1
2. With praise for the Lord for His help – 1 Samuel 2:2-10
B. WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM HANNAH
1. We should rejoice in blessings received
a. For we are to rejoice always – 1 Thessalonians 5:16
b. How much more so when we have received blessings from the Lord!
2. We should offer praise for blessings received
a. As David offered thanks, and promised to praise God – Psalms 18:49
b. Praising God is how Christians offer spiritual sacrifices to God – Hebrews 13:15
Conclusion
1. “Hannah – A Woman Of Faith” serves to remind us that all women of faith
a. Endure real problems
b. Extend vibrant prayers
c. Experience God’s provisions
d. Excel at keeping promises
e. Express their praise
2. Today, anyone can become a person of faith
a. Even though you face many problems
b. If you are willing to come to God in prayerful obedience to the gospel of Christ
c. Receive the gift of salvation provided through God’s Son
d. Remain true to your commitment to His authority as Lord of your life
e. Offer your life and the fruit of your lips in praise to Him
3. May everyone, whether male or female, be able to say together with Hannah: “My heart rejoices in the Lord; My horn is exalted in the Lord.” – 1 Samuel 2:1
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Timothy 03:14-17 Why We Need the Bible
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Text: 2 Timothy 3:14-17
Introduction
1. We began this series of lessons by illustrating why we need God
a. He is our Creator, who knows us better than we ourselves
b. He is our Redeemer, who seeks to save us from ourselves
c. He is our Provider, who is willing to meet our every need
2. Now I wish to focus our attention on why we need the Bible
a. Both the Old and New Testaments
b. As the guide to salvation and comfort
3. Assuming that one believes in the Bible as the Word of God, we need the Bible because:
Body
I. IT IS GOD’S POWER TO SAVE
A. BY CREATING FAITH
1. Without faith it is impossible to please God – Hebrews 11:6
2. Without faith in Jesus we cannot be saved – John 8:24
3. It is the Word of God that produces such faith – Romans 10:17
4. For example, the gospels were written to produce faith – John 20:30-31
B. BY CAUSING ONE TO BE BORN AGAIN
1. Jesus taught the necessity of being born again – John 3:3-5
2. The rebirth involving water and the Spirit is produced by:
a. Receiving the “incorruptible seed” of God’s Word – 1 Peter 1:23-25a
b. In particular, that word proclaimed in the gospel of Christ – 1 Peter 1:25
3. Which gospel calls for one to be baptized – Mark 16:15-16
a. As proclaimed by Peter – Acts 2:38
b. The washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit – Titus 3:5
C. BY KEEPING ONE SAVED
1. Paul emphasized this value of the Scriptures
a. To the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 10:11-12
b. To Timothy – 2 Timothy 3:14-17
2. The saving value of the Word of God is for both young and old
a. The young can keep their ways pure by it – Psalms 119:9
b. Elders were commended to the Word for their salvation – Acts 20:32
d. Lack of knowledge concerning God’s Word destroyed Israel – Hosea 4:6
e. But when received with meekness into our hearts, the Word of God has the power to save – James 1:21
II. IT IS GOD’S POWER TO COMFORT
A. THROUGH THE HOPE IT GIVES
1. Paul wrote of the hope provided by the OT scriptures – Romans 15:4
2. The OT provides assurance of our hope in Christ, because it illustrates how God always keeps His promises
3. How much more so the NT, providing hope by revealing the grace to be shown when Christ comes again! – cf. 1 Peter 1:13
B. THROUGH THE PEACE IT GIVES
1. Especially as it reveals the means and source of true peace – Philippians 4:6-9
2. With such inner peace, nothing causes one to stumble – Psalms 119:165, 92-93
3. “In all my perplexities and distresses, the Bible has never failed to give me light and strength.” – Robert E. Lee
C. THROUGH THE HAPPINESS IT GIVES
1. Blessedness through the stability and nourishment it provides – Psalms 1:1-3
2. Note that this comes to the one engaged in daily Bible reading
Conclusion
1. To fulfill our need for God, we need the Bible
a. For God has spoken through prophets and His Son – cf. Hebrews 1:1-2
b. He has made His Word accessible to every nation and tongue – Romans 10:17-18
2. With the aid of the Bible, we can experience God’s power in our lives
a. As we learn the way of salvation, and accept it with an obedient faith
b. As we walk in the way of salvation, and receive the hope, peace, and happiness God gives
c. Great men have spoken of the value of the Bible:
– “Within the covers of this one single book, the Bible, are all the answers to all the problems we face today. If only we would read it and believe.” – Ronald Reagan
– “I believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from the Savior of the world is communicated to us through this book.” – Abraham Lincoln
– “The Bible is worth more than all other books which have ever been printed.” – Patrick Henry
3. Is that our attitude toward the Bible?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Chronicles 28:06-10 David’s Charge to Solomon
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Text: 1 Chronicles 28:6-10
Introduction
1. Near the end of his life, King David gave a solemn charge to his son Solomon
a. Pertaining to the building of the temple – 1 Chronicles 28:1-10
b. Of particular note are David’s words in 1 Chronicles 28:9
2. David’s charge included three things in 1 Chronicles 28:9
a. Solomon’s duty toward God
b. Motivation for Solomon to fulfill his duty
c. Promises regarding whether or not Solomon fulfilled his duty
3. What David charged Solomon in 1 Chronicles 28:9 has application for us today, in regards to our service to God.
Body
I. OUR DUTY
A. TO KNOW GOD
1. David tells Solomon to “…know the God of your father”
2. Nothing is more important in life than to truly know God – Jeremiah 9:23-24
3. God is displeased when people do not know Him
a. As was the case in Hosea’s day – Hosea 4:1-6
b. As was the case in Paul’s day – Romans 1:18-28 (READ)
4. Yet God has made Himself known
a. Through creation – Psalms 19:1-3
b. Through revelation, and the sending of His Son – Hebrews 1:1-2
5. Have we made a serious effort to know God?
B. TO SERVE GOD
1. With a loyal heart (1 Chronicles 28:9 NKJV)
a. With a whole heart (1 Chronicles 28:9 NASB, 1 Chronicles 28:9 ESV)
b. With wholehearted devotion (1 Chronicles 28:9 NIV)
c. What Jesus described as the greatest commandment – Matthew 22:36-38
2. With a willing mind (1 Chronicles 28:9 NKJV)
a. “cordially and sincerely, cheerfully and freely,” – Gill
b. “neither in an hypocritical manner, nor through force and constraint, nor with loathing and weariness” – ibid.
3. This is the kind of service God expects today
a. Of all Christians in their giving – 2 Corinthians 9:7
b. Of elders in their shepherding – 1 Peter 5:1-2
4. Are we committed to serving God completely and willingly?
5. To know God and serve Him with sincerity and zeal, such is our duty!
II. OUR MOTIVATION
A. GOD SEARCHES THE HEARTS
1. David tells Solomon “…for the Lord searches all hearts” – 1 Chronicles 28:9
2. Solomon later confesses “…You alone know the hearts of all the sons of men” – 1 Kings 8:39
3. Today it is still the same
a. Jesus knew the hearts of men during His earthly ministry – John 2:24-25
b. Jesus continues to search the minds and hearts of all – Revelation 2:23b
c. There is no way we can hide our hearts from God – Hebrews 4:12-13
4. Since we cannot hide, why not serve Him willingly?
B. GOD UNDERSTANDS THE INTENTS
1. The Lord “is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” – Hebrews 4:12
2. He “judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” – Hebrews 4:12 NIV
3. “not only the thoughts of the heart, when regularly formed and ranged in order, but even the very beginning of them, the first motions of the mind, and before they are well formed” – Gill
4. There is no way that we can hide our motives from God!
5. Reinforcing our motivation to know God and serve Him with a loyal heart and willing mind, is the two-sided promise found in David’s Charge To Solomon
III. OUR PROMISE
A. IF WE SEEK HIM
1. He will be found by us – 2 Chronicles 15:2b
2. For the Lord is seeking those whose heart is loyal to Him – 2 Chronicles 16:9a
3. The key is to seek Him with all our heart – James 4:8-10
4. Are we making a diligent effort to find God, to learn and do His will?
B. IF WE FORSAKE HIM
1. He will cast us off forever – Isaiah 1:28
2. Even as the Lord promised to do to Israel – 1 Kings 9:6-9
3. Even as Jesus warned His disciples if they did not bear fruit – John 15:1-2
3. How sad and terrible to go through life and death without God at our side!
Conclusion
1. How much better to go through life and face death with God! – Isaiah 41:10
2. Just as David later encouraged Solomon – 1 Chronicles 28:20
3. If we want the encouraging promise spoken of by David, accept the duty spoken of by David!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Wisdom Regarding Marriage – Ecclesiastes 09:09
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Text: Ecclesiastes 9:9
Introduction
1. In this study, we will consider what it says about being a good spouse
2. The importance of this subject should be evident
a. Happiness in life is greatly affected by how successful we are in marriage
b. Even our usefulness to the Lord is affected by the relationship between husbands and wives
c. For example, a husband’s prayers can be hindered by his treatment of his wife
– Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered. – 1 Peter 3:7
3. Appreciating the importance of a good marriage, let’s begin with that beautiful passage in Proverbs 31:10-31.
Body
I. THE VIRTUOUS WIFE
A. THE IDEAL WIFE
1. Trustworthy – Proverbs 31:11
a. The husband can safely entrust her with his income
b. She will not squander what he gives her, but use it in a manner that benefits them both
2. Filled with an enduring love – Proverbs 31:12
a. Devoted to doing her husband good all her life
b. Just as she vowed in the wedding ceremony
3. Has practical skills – Proverbs 31:13-15, 21-22
a. Such as sewing
b. And cooking
4. Industrious – Proverbs 31:16, 24
a. Makes investments (buys land and plants a vineyard)
b. Provides extra income (makes clothing and sells to merchants)
5. Compassionate – Proverbs 31:20
a. Helping the poor
b. Reaching out to the needy
6. Strong character – Proverbs 31:25
a. Character matters, and she has developed a strong one
b. Just as Peter stressed in 1 Peter 3:3-4
7. Speaks words of wisdom and kindness – Proverbs 31:26
a. She is thus concerned about what proceeds from her mouth
b. Just as Paul stressed in Ephesians 4:29
8. Diligently sees to her family’s need – Proverbs 31:27
a. Makes whatever preparation necessary – cf. Proverbs 31:15
b. So that her family does not go in want – cf. Proverbs 31:21
9. Fears the Lord – Proverbs 31:29-30
a. She understands that this quality is more important and praiseworthy than physical beauty
b. With the fear of the Lord, she has the potential for great wisdom – Proverbs 1:7
10. Such are the qualities of being a good spouse
B. WHAT A WIFE DOES NOT WANT TO BE
1. Contentious:
– Better to dwell in a corner of a housetop, Than in a house shared with a contentious woman. – Proverbs 21:9
– Better to dwell in the wilderness, Than with a contentious and angry woman. – Proverbs 21:19
2. Hateful:
– For three things the earth is perturbed, Yes, for four it cannot bear up: for a servant when he reigns, A fool when he is filled with food, a hateful woman when she is married, And a maidservant who succeeds her mistress. – Proverbs 30:21-23
3. Both make it where the husband does not want to be around her
[Enough about being a good wife; where can we go in Proverbs to learn about being a good husband…?]
II. THE VIRTUOUS HUSBAND
A. WHERE’S THE PASSAGE DESCRIBING THE VIRTUOUS MAN…?
1. A question often raised by women, sometimes suggesting there is none
2. But, bear in mind that the Proverbs are primarily addressed to the man!
a. There is half a chapter describing the virtuous woman
b. There are thirty plus chapters describing the virtuous man!
3. The entire book, if followed, produces a husband any woman would love
B. THE IDEAL HUSBAND
1. Values his wife highly:
– He who finds a wife finds a good thing, And obtains favor from the LORD. – Proverbs 18:22
– Houses and riches are an inheritance from fathers, But a prudent wife is from the LORD. – Proverbs 19:14
a. He realizes that she is a gift from God
b. Especially when she proves to be prudent
2. Gives his wife her due:
– Give her of the fruit of her hands, And let her own works praise her in the gates. – Proverbs 31:31
a. Allows his wife the opportunity to develop her own abilities
b. Lets her reap the benefits of her own labors
c. i.e., does not treat her simply as an appendage of himself
3. Praises his wife profusely:
– Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: “Many daughters have done well, But you excel them all.” – Proverbs 31:28-29
a. Praises her frequently
b. Does not take her for granted
4. Trusts his wife implicitly:
– The heart of her husband safely trusts her; So he will have no lack of gain. – Proverbs 31:11
a. Demonstrates a willingness to trust her
b. In such areas as her intelligence, her faithfulness, her abilities
c. Is not jealous or suspicious
5. Content with his wife’s love – Proverbs 5:15-21 READ
a. Does not look elsewhere
b. Will save him and his family much harm
6. A few examples of how Proverbs can help a man be a good spouse
Conclusion
1. So much of the joy and meaning of life that God would have us enjoy is lost if there is not a good marriage
2. As Solomon wrote in another book of wisdom
– Live joyfully with the wife whom you love all the days of your vain life which He has given you under the sun, all your days of vanity; for that is your portion in life, and in the labor which you perform under the sun. – Ecclesiastes 9:9
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Exodus 03:01-10 Excuses of Moses
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Text: Exodus 3:1-10
Introduction
1. When God appeared to Moses at the burning bush
a. He called him to the task of leading the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage
b. In response, Moses gave excuses as to why he did not think he was the man for the job
2. The excuses of Moses, and God’s response to them, will serve as the basis for our study
a. For in a similar way, as God’s people today, we have received from God a calling
b. Not to go to a country to deliver those in physical bondage, but to a world to deliver those in the bondage of sin
– And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. – Mark 16:15
– But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. – 1 Peter 2:9-10
3. Too often, though, we behave just like Moses, making the very same excuses!
Body
I. “WHO AM I?”
A. FOUND IN EXODUS 3:11…
1. Though Moses was once a member of the ruling house of Egypt
a. He was now but a lowly shepherd
b. 40 years had passed since he had been in Egypt
c. He was an 80 year old man, already past the average life span for his generation
d. This prompted Moses to wonder whether he was the right man for the job
2. But God’s response was quick, and should have been adequate
a. “I will certainly be with you…” – Exodus 3:12
b. God promised to be with Moses, and this alone should have been sufficient
c. As Paul later wrote, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
B. SOME USE THIS SAME EXCUSE TODAY
1. Trying to excuse ourselves by believing that we are insufficient for the task
a. It is true that by ourselves that we are insufficient
b. But God can make us sufficient
– Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, (6) who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. – 2 Corinthians 3:5-6
c. Look what He did with the apostles!
– Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. – Acts 4:13
2. Through Jesus, God has provided us the same assurance given Moses – Matthew 28:20
3. With His help, we can accomplish anything He wants us to do! – Philippians 4:13
4. As will be apparent later, any excuse for not doing what the Lord has called us to do is simply a smokescreen. So it was with Moses, and we find him quickly coming up with another excuse.
II. “WHAT SHALL I SAY?”
A. THIS EXCUSE IS FOUND IN EXODUS 3:13
1. Moses knew that should he go to the children of Israel, there were bound to be questions.
a. Such as, “Who is this God who sent you to us?”
b. And perhaps, “Why are we to leave this country we have come to consider our home for over 400 years?”
c. Moses expresses inadequacy in knowing what to say
2. Again, God’s response was quick
a. “Thus you shall say…” – Exodus 3:14-15
b. God tells Moses what he needs to say in response to their questions
B. AGAIN, A SIMILAR EXCUSE IS SOMETIMES GIVEN TODAY
1. We try to excuse ourselves by saying that our knowledge is inadequate
2. But God has told us what to say
a. It is really quite simple – cf. Mark 16:15-16
b. How simple? – cf. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; 2:2
3. And so, as with Moses, we have no reason for saying “what shall I say?” As we return to Moses, we see that despite God instructing him what to say, he soon raises a third objection.
III. “SUPPOSE THEY WILL NOT BELIEVE ME?”
A. THIS EXCUSE IS FOUND IN EXODUS 4:1…
1. Now that he knows what to say, he balks at the idea that the people may not listen
a. Is he afraid of failing?
b. Has he already forgotten that God will be with him?
2. God responds by equipping him with several convincing proofs
a. The ROD, which turns into a serpent – Exodus 4:2-5
b. His OWN HAND, which turns into leprosy – Exodus 4:6-8
c. The WATER, which will turn to blood when dropped on the dry ground – Exodus 4:9
B. SOME HESITATE TO SHARE THE GOSPEL FOR THE SAME REASON
1. The fear of failure keeps them from trying
2. But just as God gave Moses convincing proofs, so He has given us the evidences necessary to convince the honest and sincere person.
a. The Word of God, able to produce faith – Romans 10:17; John 20:30-31
b. Especially its evidences concerning the resurrection of Christ, fulfilled prophecy, etc.
3. With such aids, we cannot justify our inactivity in sharing the gospel with others
4. You would think by now Moses would accept the call; but a fourth excuse is quickly given.
IV. “I AM SLOW OF SPEECH AND SLOW OF TONGUE”
A. WE FIND THIS EXCUSE IN EXODUS 4:10…
1. Moses claims that he is not an eloquent speaker
2. But God is not moved by this objection…
a. He already knows the inability of those He calls – Exodus 4:11
b. But He is able to make up for anyone’s shortcomings
1) Again, promising to be with Moses – Exodus 4:12
2) He had even arranged for Aaron to be Moses’ mouthpiece – Exodus 4:14-16 (who was sent earlier so as to arrive about this time – Exodus 4:27)
B. SOME CHRISTIANS TRY TO USE THIS EXCUSE AS WELL
1. But it did not stop the apostle Paul – cf. 1 Corinthians 2:1,3-4
2. It has not stopped others
a. I know of some who overcame speech impediments to become preachers
b. I know of one who despite stammering would preach any opportunity he could
3. At the very least, we can make use of those who can speak by arranging studies for them with others (as did Cornelius – Acts 10:24,33)
4. We have considered four excuses that Moses gave; but as mentioned earlier, they were really smokescreens. The true reason for all these excuses is revealed in Exodus 4:13
V. “PLEASE SEND…WHOMEVER ELSE YOU MAY SEND”
A. MOSES SIMPLY DID NOT WANT TO GO!
1. The previous excuses were simply a smokescreen attempt to hide this fact!
2. Now that the smokescreen is removed, God’s impatience with Moses becomes evident
a. His anger was kindled against Moses – Exodus 4:14a
b. Read Exodus 4:15-17 with an emphasis on the word “shall” to appreciate the anger of the Lord
B. BRETHREN, THE SAME IS TRUE WITH US TODAY!
1. Any and every excuse we could offer is only a smokescreen
2. We really would rather that God use someone else!
3. We really don’t want to do what God has called us to do!
4. But brethren, the anger of the Lord is kindled against those who do not live up to their calling!
5. If we have been making excuses, we need to repent!
Conclusion
1. With Moses, we know the rest of the story
a. He answered the call, and went to Egypt
b. With the help of God, he delivered the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage
2. But what about us? What will be the rest of our story?
a. Shall we heed the call to preach the gospel to the lost?
b. Or shall we make excuses and one day suffer the wrath of God?
c. Only time will tell, but I pray that I encouraged all not to make excuses
3. What about the call to obey the gospel of Christ? Are you making excuses for not responding as you know you should?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Church Discipline – Part 5 – Deuteronomy 17:2-6 – audio
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Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3 – Part 4 – Part 5
Introduction
1. In the second sermon of this series of lessons we discussed “Why We Don’t Discipline”.
a. In that lesson we concluded that ignorance was one of the main reasons we don’t obey God in this regard.
b. My goal has been that hopefully no one who listened to this series has that excuse any more.
2. Tonight we will finish the series with the topics:
a. “How are we to discipline?
b. “How are we to treat those who have been disciplined?”
3. A. Campbell – “… to cut off an offender is good, to cure him is better, but to prevent him from falling is best of all. The Christian spirit and system alike include all vigilance in preventing; all expedience in healing; and firmness in removing incorrigible offenders.“
Body
I. The certainty of the guilt must be ascertained
A. Deuteronomy 17:2-6
B. Matthew 18:15-17
II. The disorderly must be warned
A. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-14
B. Titus 3:10-11
III. There must be sincere diligent effort to restore the disorderly
A. Galatians 6:1, 2
B. James 5:19, 20
IV. Withdrawal is the last step not the first
A. Matthew 18:17
B. 1 Corinthians 5:4-5, 13
C. 2 Thessalonians 3:14
D. Romans 16:17
V. Review of the steps shown in Matthew 18:15-17
A. Go yourself
B. Take witnesses with you
C. Tell it to the church
D. Withdrawal
VI. Review of the steps in Titus 3:10 – 11
A. Multiple admonitions
B. rejection
VII. How are we to treat one who has been withdrawn from?
A. No social contact
1. 1 Corinthians 5:11
2. 2 Thessalonians 3:14
B. Admonish as a brother – 2 Thessalonians 3:15
C. If a false teacher or divisive
1. Romans 16:17-18
2. Titus 3:10-11
D. Receive him back if he repents – 2 Corinthians 2:6-8
Conclusion
1. Discipline is:
a. Long process
b. Difficult
c. Can cause tears and pain
d. God’s process
2. We can’t pick and choose.
3. We discipline those we love:
a. Children
b. The Church
4. The goals:
a. Restore the person
b. Protect the purity of the Church
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Church Discipline – Part 4 – 2 Thessalonians 3:3-6
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Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3 – Part 4 – Part 5
Text: 2 Thessalonians 3:3-6
Introduction
1. The first three covered the following:
1) What is discipline?
2) The need for discipline
3) God’s rule in the past
4) Does God require discipline today?
5) Who has the responsibility for discipline?
6) Why have we not practiced discipline?
7) What is God’s purpose for discipline?
8) Objections to discipline
2. Tonight we will examine what the Bible has to say about who is to be disciplined and when is it to happen.
3. Next week we will look at how we are to discipline and how we are to treat those who are disciplined.
Body
I. The general command of who is to be disciplined is 2 Thessalonians 3:5-6
A. The natural place to start the process of discipline is in the love of God and the patience of Christ
B. We will now define terms:
1. Withdraw – to place yourself away from
2. Walks – not a onetime thing
3. Disorderly – breaks rank
II. Specific commands of who is to be disciplined
A. A brother who sins against you – Matthew 18:15-17
B. An iunrighteous person – 1 Corinthians 5:9-11, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
C. Divisive man – Romans 16:17, 1 Timothy 6:3-5
D. Those that forsake the assembly – Hebrews 10:24-31
III. When are we to discipline?
A. There is a Biblical process found first in Matthew 18:15-18
1. Go yourself and try to resolve the problem
2. Take two or three witnesses
3. Tell it to the church
4. Let him be as a heathen
B. Also in Titus 3:9-12
1. Avoid disputes, contentions and strivings
2. If one continues to be a heretic or divisive:
a. Admonish him – Acts 20:31
b. At least two times
C. In other words we are never to withdraw from someone who sins; but we are to withdraw from someone who refuses to repent after repeated attempts to reclaim such a one for Christ
Conclusion:
1. In church discipline we are not throwing any one out of the church, we are acknowledging their condition with God.
2. When we make a vow to serve Christ and Him only we are to keep it or face the Consequences
3. Have you made such a vow?
4. Are you keeping it?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Church Discipline – Part 3 – Matthew 13:24-30; 36-43 – audio
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Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3 – Part 4 – Part 5
Introduction
1. We have already discussed:
1) What is discipline?
2) The need for discipline
3) God’s rule in the past
4) Does God require discipline today?
5) Who has the responsibility for discipline?
6) Why have we not practiced discipline?
7) What is God’s purpose for discipline?
2. Tonight we will look at objections to discipline
Body
I. Objections Considered:
A. It will cause more harm than good
1. Acts 5:1-11, 14
2. 1 Corinthians 5:1-5
3. 2 Corinthians 2:6-8
B. Don’t withdraw just don’t use
1. Don’t understand the purpose of discipline
C. When one ceases to assemble with us them have withdrawn themselves
1. They are still lost – 1 Corinthians 5:5
2. Matthew 18:12-14
3. Many things are not accomplish by this method
1) The offender does not know he has been withdrawn form
2) The offender does not know he has been delivered to Satan
3) Members do not know
4) God’s purpose has not been accomplished
5) The church still has a corrupting influence
6) The world does not know
D. Where would we start? I will cover this later
E. We are not judge! – Matthew 7:1-5
1. Read Matthew 7:2
2. John 7:24
3. 1 Corinthians 5:5
F. We are all sinners – John 8:7
1. Romans 2:1-11
2. Look at the church at Corinth
1) 1 Corinthians 1:12 – following the preacher
2) 1 Corinthians 3:3 – carnal
3) 1 Corinthians 1:11 – contentious
4) 1 Corinthians 11:17ff – change the worship
5) 1 Corinthians 5:5 – deliver such a one to Satan
G. The Lord adds and The Lord only subtracts not us
1. We are only let the sinner know where the Lord stands!!!
2. We are not subtracting, we are trying to save the lost and please God
H. The parable of the wheat and the tares – Matthew 13:24ff
1. Read Matthew 13:38
2. This parable has nothing to do with church discipline
Conclusion
1. Let the Lord add you to the church
2. Positive – H B R C B live an obedient life
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Church Discipline – Part 2 – Acts 5:1-14 – audio
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Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3 – Part 4 – Part 5
Text: Acts 5:1-14
Introduction
1. Last week
1) What is discipline?
2) The need for discipline
3) God’s rule in the past
4) Does God require discipline today?
2. This week we will continue our study of this important biblical topic
Body
I. Responsibility for the action corrective discipline
A. Individual responsibly towards oneself
1. 1 Timothy 4:16
2. Acts 20:28
3. Luke 11:29-35
4. 2 Corinthians 13:5
B. Individual responsibly towards a brother
1. Matthew 5:23-24
2. Matthew 18:15
3. Galatians 6:1 – James 5:19-20
C. The churches responsibility
1. 1 Corinthians 5:4-5
2. Matthew 18:17
3. 1 Corinthians 5:11
4. 2 Thessalonians 3:14
II. Why we have not practiced corrective discipline?
A. Ignorance of how to go about it and fear of doing it wrong
1. 2 Timothy 2:15
2. John 8:32
B. A greater fear of offending relatives and friends of the sinner than of offending God
1. Galatians 1:10
2. John 12:42
C. A lack of love for those who are subject to discipline
1. 1 Peter 4:8
2. James 5:20
3. 1 Timothy 4:16
4. Galatians 6:11
D. A lack of love for God
1. 1 John 5:3
2. John 14:15
3. John 14:23
4. John 2:5
III. The purpose of corrective discipline
A. To save the souls of the brother or sister disciplined
1. 1 Corinthians 5:4-5
2. 2 Corinthians 2:6ff
3. 2 Thessalonians 3:14
4. 1 Timothy 5:20
B. To save the church
1. Romans 6:23
2. James 1:15
3. 1 Timothy 5:20
C. To save the world
1. Matthew 28:18-20
2. Mark 16:15-16
3. Philippians 2:14-16
4. Acts 5:1-14
Conclusion
1. Love God by accepting responsibility
2. Positive – H B R C B live an obedient life
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Church Discipline – Part 1 – 1 Corinthians 10:1-12
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Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3 – Part 4 – Part 5
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-12
Introduction
1. God declared the city of Jericho was to be devoted to him – Joshua 6:17-19
2. Tell the story of Achan’s sin
1) Sin was not known to leaders but innocent men died – Joshua 7:1-9
2) Quite praying and began disciplining – Joshua 7:10-12
3) Proof of guilt was established before all before discipline began – Joshua 7:13-23
4) After discipline, God was with them Joshua 7:24-8:1
3. It is true that sinners will always be in the church, but God says that we should be able discern them – 2 Thessalonians 3:6
Body
I. What is church discipline?
A. Define terms
1. Church: The body of called out believers over whom Christ is the head and that accept the Bible as His Word.
2. Discipline:
(a) training which molds, corrects, strengthens;
(b) Punishment, chastisement;
(c) to train in self control
B. There are two kinds of discipline
1. Preventive discipline
1) Ephesians 6:4
2) Romans 13:1-2
3) Galatians 5:19-21
4) 1 Timothy 4:1-6
2. Corrective discipline
1) Children
2) Government
3) Hebrews 12:9-11
4) 2 Thessalonians 3:6
II. The need for corrective discipline
A. The home
1) Proverbs 13:24
2) Proverbs 19:18
3) Proverbs 23:13-14
4) Hebrews 12:7
B. The government
1) Romans 13:1-4
C. The church
1) 2 Thessalonians 3:6
III. God’s rule in the past
A. Patriarchal Age
1. Adam and Eve
1) instructed – Genesis 2:15-17
2) punished – Genesis 3:23-24
1) instructed – Genesis 19:17
2) punished – Genesis 19:26
B. Mosaic Age
1. Achan
1) instructed – Joshua 7:17-18
2) punished – Joshua 7:20ff
2.Moses
1) instructed – Numbers 20:8
2) punished – Numbers 20:9-12
3. Young Prophet
1) instructed – I Kings 13:7-10
2) punished – I Kings 13:21-24
IV. Does God require corrective discipline today?
A. All sufficiency of the Word of God
1. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
2. 2 Peter 1:3-4
B. Is discipline a command?
1. 1 Corinthians 5:12 – Romans 16:17-18
2. John 12:48 – Titus 3:10-11
3. Matthew 18:15-17 – 2 Thessalonians 3:6
Conclusion
1. Positive – H B R C B live an obedient life
2. Corrective – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
`
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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