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Hebrews 06:01-08 The Peril of Not Progressing
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Text: Hebrews 6:1-8
Introduction
1. The normal Christian life is to be one of spiritual growth and progression
a. Starting as babes in Christ, we feed on the milk of the Word
b. As our spiritual senses are exercised to discern good and evil, we are then able to progress to solid food (meat)
c. In this way we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 3:18
2. But as we saw in last week’s lesson, not all grow as they should, and some are:
a. Dull of hearing
b. Unable to teach others
c. Getting a diet of milk only
d. Unable to discern good and evil – Hebrews 5:11-14
3. But if we don’t grow spiritually as we should, so what?
a. Is spiritual growth really that essential?
b. Is there a danger involved in not progressing spiritually?
Body
I. THE DUTY OF PRESSING ON TO PERFECTION (Hebrews 6:1-3)
A. THE PERFECTION WE SEEK IS TWO-FOLD
1. Maturity in religious knowledge
a. We need the Word of God, that we may grow thereby – 1 Peter 2:2
b. By receiving the Word with humility into our hearts, it can save our souls – James 1:21
2. Full development of spiritual life
a. To faith and knowledge, we must add the qualities of godly character – 2 Peter 1:5-8
b. As we develop this godly character, we truly come to know the Lord
B. BEFORE THIS WE NEED THE ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES OF CHRIST
1. Our text reveals that this involves teaching on such subjects as:
a. Repentance from dead works
1) Turning from works which produce spiritual death, not life
2) Paul describes such works in Ephesians 2:1-3
3) Sorrow for sin and a purpose to turn from it
b. Faith toward God
1) That trusting conviction in God and His promises that is essential to pleasing Him – Hebrews 11:6
2) This faith is produced by the Word of God itself – Romans 10:17; John 20:30-31
c. The doctrine of baptisms
1) In the first century A.D., there were many ritual washings practiced by various sects of the pagans and Jews
a) Such practices needed to be carefully distinguished from Christian baptism
b) Just as John’s baptism was distinguished from baptism into Christ – Acts 19:1-5
2) Today, it is important to understand the different kinds of baptisms practiced
a) Nearly all Christian religions practice some sort of baptism
b) But most do not baptize for the reasons stated in the Scriptures – Acts 2:38; 22:16; Romans 6:1-6
d. Laying on of hands
1) In the early church, this was done for various reasons:
a) By Jesus, and others with the gift of healing, to heal the sick – Luke 4:40; Mark 16:18; Acts 28:8
b) By Jesus, to bestow special blessings upon others – Mark 10:16
c) By the apostles, to impart the Spirit in a miraculous measure – Acts 8:14-25; 19:1-7
d) By church leaders, to appoint different ones for service – Acts 6:1-6; Acts 13:1-3
2) Note that the laying on of hands was often accompanied with prayer; perhaps the imposition of hands being the outward symbol of the prayer
e. Resurrection of the dead
1) A central theme of preaching was the resurrection of Jesus – Acts 2:31-32; Acts 10:40
2) They also preached in Jesus our own resurrection, which is our precious hope! Acts 4:2; 24:15; 1 Corinthians 15:20-23
f. Eternal judgment
1) Another theme of apostolic preaching – Acts 17:30-31; Acts 24:24-25
2) Also stressed in their epistles – Romans 2:16; Romans 14:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:10
2. Understanding these concepts serves as the beginning of spiritual growth!
a. Sadly, some who have been Christians for years still need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God;
b. Such people are still babes who need milk and not solid food. – Hebrews 5:12
C. BUT WE ALSO NEED TO GO ON TO PERFECTION
1. Once we have laid the foundation, we need to build on it
2. With an understanding of the doctrines previously described, we are ready to receive more difficult knowledge
a. Such as the high priesthood of Christ – Hebrews 5:9-11
b. We might also add the work of Christ as our King of kings and Lord of lords, as depicted in the book of Revelation
3. By comprehending the meatier parts of the Word of God, we are more likely to remain steadfast in our faith
4. We need the attitude of striving toward perfection as described by Paul – Philippians 3:7-15
II. THE DANGER OF IRREVERSIBLE APOSTASY (Hebrews 6:4-8)
A. NOTE THE PRIVILEGES SOME APOSTATES HAD ENJOYED
1. They were once enlightened
a. This likely refers to their conversion – Hebrews 10:32
b. By the second century, the word enlightenment was used as a synonym for baptism (Justin, Apology, 1.61.65)
2. They have tasted of the heavenly gift
a. The word taste suggests a deep personal experience – 1 Peter 2:3
b. Their tasting the heavenly gift refers back to the past experience of salvation
1) In which they experienced the forgiveness of sins
2) In which they began to receive the spiritual blessings of being in Christ
3. They have become partakers of the Holy Spirit
a. This also refers back to their conversion – Acts 2:38
b. The word partakers (metochous) is significant
1) Christians are partakers (metochoi) of the heavenly calling – Hebrews 3:1
2) They are partakers (metochoi) of Christ – Hebrews 3:14
3) So they are also partakers in the Holy Spirit!
4. They have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come
a. Again the word tasted suggests personal experience
b. They had experienced the good things the word of God promises
c. They had experienced the powers of the age to come
1) The age to come is the Messianic age, ushered in with the first coming of Christ, and consummated with His second coming
2) The powers of the age they had experienced:
a) Certainly included the power experienced by all Christians – Ephesians 1:19; Ephesians 3:20; Ephesians 6:10
b) But perhaps even signs and wonders, and gifts of the Holy Spirit – Hebrews 2:4
5. Can these be anyone other than true Christians who had once believed in Jesus?
B. NOTE HOW FAR THEY HAD FALLEN
1. It was now impossible…to renew them again to repentance – Hebrews 6:4-6
a. It is apparent that Christians can fall away
1) Paul warned that one can become estranged from Christ and fall from grace – Galatians 5:4
2) Peter described those once saved – 2 Peter 2:20-22
b. Here we learn that some can fall away to the point they are beyond rescue!
1) We cannot say when a person reaches that point
2) But there is a point where renewal becomes impossible!
2. In such a state they crucifying again for themselves the Son of God and putting Him to an open shame.
a. This is not a Christian who sins out of weakness or ignorance
b. This is one who knowingly and openly rejects Christ publicly!
1) It is one whose heart has been so hardened by sin that in unbelief they have departed from the living God – Hebrews 3:12-14
2) It is one who despises Jesus, His blood, and the Spirit of grace – Hebrews 10:29
c. It is one thing to yield to sin contrary to the new life in Christ, it is another thing to abandon that new life altogether!
d. But such can happen if we are not careful to go on to perfection!
C. NOTE THE FEARFUL DESTRUCTION RESERVED FOR THEM
1. Like unproductive branches, they are rejected…whose end is to be burned
a. Having received blessings from God, they should have produced good fruit
b. But instead they are like thorns and briars, taking nourishment but not producing useful fruit in return – Hebrews 6:7-8
2. With a similar illustration, Jesus warned His disciples! – John 15:1-8
a. By abiding in Him, we are able to bear fruit to God’s glory
b. But if we do not bear fruit, we will be cut off and burned!
Conclusion
1. From this stern passage, we learn some sobering truths
a. Receiving wonderful blessings from God does not preclude the impossibility of apostasy
b. For those who fall away to the point of casting off their faith, destruction awaits!
2. In view of such truths
a. The peril of not progressing is very real!
b. We need to heed the exhortation: let us go on to perfection
1) We cannot be content with spiritual immaturity
2) We must be diligent to press on in our spiritual growth
3. Does this mean we must live our Christian lives with insecurity regarding our salvation? No
4. As we will see in our next lesson, there are things upon which we can base our hope and trust for the future. But the warnings in this passage should be heeded!
5. Brethren, what are you doing with the blessings you have received in Christ…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 05:11-14 Marks of Spiritual Immaturity
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Text: Hebrews 5:11-14
Introduction
1. Just because one has been a Christian for many years, does not mean they are mature
a. They may be like the person who had been teacher for twenty-five years
1) When she heard about a job that would mean a promotion, she applied for the position. However, someone who had been teaching for only one year was hired instead.
2) She went to the principal and asked why. The principal responded, I’m sorry, but you haven’t had 25 years of experience as you claim; you’ve had only one year’s experience 25 times.
3) During that whole time the teacher had not improved!
b. So it may be with many Christians; they have not grown, but simply repeated their first year of spiritual life many times!
2. The lack of spiritual growth (i.e., spiritual immaturity) is a dangerous thing
a. For there may be blessings to be enjoyed in Christ that only the mature Christian can truly understand and appropriate
b. If one remains spiritually immature, they do not come to fully appreciate their standing and blessings that they have in Christ!
c. Deprived of a greater understanding, they are more susceptible to the wiles of the devil
3. The author of the book of Hebrews found himself faced with this problem
a. He had much to say about Christ as our High Priest
b. But the spiritual immaturity of his readers made it difficult and so he thought it necessary to temporarily digress – Hebrews 5:11-14
4. How about you?
a. Are you growing as a Christian?
b. Or are you repeating your first year over and over again, remaining spiritual immature?
c. Do you know how to determine whether you are spiritually mature?
5. In our text we find some of the identifying marks of spiritual immaturity, indicators that reveal when one is in need of growing up spiritually
Body
I. DULLNESS OF HEARING (Hebrews 5:11)
A. THE HEBREWS HAD BECOME DULL OF HEARING
1. This prevented the writer from continuing with his argument at the moment
2. While the material he had to share was hard to explain
a. It wasn’t so much the difficulty of the material itself
b. As it was their own inability to receive it!
3. That they had become dull of hearing may imply a regression
a. At one time they were not dull of hearing
b. They may have been like the Bereans at one time, who received the word with all readiness – Acts 17:11
c. Indeed, most converts are truly sharp in their listening at the first
1) They are excited about what they are learning
2) They listen with great readiness, and spiritual growth occurs
d. But it is not uncommon for apathy to set in, making one dull of hearing
e. When one becomes dull of hearing, they begin to regress to a state of spiritual immaturity
B. ARE YOU DULL OF HEARING?
1. Ask yourself these questions:
a. Is the Bible dull?
b. Are the Bible classes dull?
c. Are the sermons dull?
d. Is anything that is spiritual in nature (like singing, praying) dull?
2. If so, then you have become dull of hearing!
a. If you listen at all, it will be to those who are willing to tickle your ears
b. And you will be susceptible to being mislead – 2 Timothy 4:3-4
II. THE INABILITY TO TEACH OTHERS (Hebrews 5:12a)
A. THE HEBREWS SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO TEACH OTHERS
1. They had been Christians for some time (by this time you ought to be teachers)
a. They had time to learn, to grow
b. A natural response to growth is to bear fruit
c. One way we bear fruit is by teaching others
2. In one way or another, they should have been able to teach others
a. Perhaps not in a formal sense, for not all are gifted in that way – 1 Corinthians 12:29; Ephesians 4:11; James 3:1
b. But all can share the good news and hope they have with others – Acts 8:4; 1 Peter 3:15
3. Their need for someone to teach them again the first principles demonstrated their spiritual immaturity
B. ARE YOU ABLE TO TEACH OTHERS?
1. Assuming that sufficient time has passed, are you teaching others?
a. Either formally as a teacher instructing others in the faith?
b. Or informally by sharing your faith with others?
2. Do you find yourself saying I don’t know what to say?
a. Then it sounds like you have forgotten the first principles
b. And you need to have someone teach you again!
3. If one has not progressed to the point where they are somehow teaching others about Christ, then they are still spiritually immature!
III. A DIET OF MILK (Hebrews 5:12-13)
A. NOW, A DIET OF MILK IS OFTEN NECESSARY
1. Certainly it is needed for those who are babes in Christ – 1 Corinthians 3:1-2
2. Also for those who have regressed (as with the Hebrews) – Hebrews 5:12b
3. Such a diet includes what is described as the first principles of the oracles of God (later called the elementary principles of Christ in Hebrews 6:1-3)
B. BUT OUR DIET MUST ONE DAY INCLUDE SOLID FOOD
1. Just as a physical baby must graduate to solid foods in order to grow to maturity
2. So a babe in Christ cannot mature unless the diet goes beyond the first principles
3. One commentator offers an interesting explanation as to what may be the difference
a. milk refers to what Jesus did on earth: His birth, life, teaching, miracles, death, burial and resurrection
b. solid food refers to what Jesus is now doing in heaven: His priesthood
4. If our diet remains milk only
a. Then we will be unskilled (lit., without experience) in the word of God
b. We will remain babes in Christ – Hebrews 5:13
C. WHAT HAS YOUR DIET BEEN LATELY?
1. Has it been limited to milk?
a. Has it even included milk?
b. Some Christians may not even be getting the milk of the Word!
2. Are you getting any meat?
a. Studying portions of God’s Word that challenges your understanding?
b. Stay with us in this study in Hebrews, and you will be sure to get some!
3. A milk only diet leaves one immature, and by default one who is unskilled in the word of righteousness
IV. THE INABILITY TO DISCERN (Hebrews 5:14)
A. NORMAL SPIRITUAL GROWTH EXERCISES THE SENSES
1. Even the milk of the word is designed to train one’s faculties
a. By exposing us to the difference between right and wrong
b. In this way our spiritual sense is exercised
2. Then by reason of use we learn to discern both good and evil
a. With clear examples set before us in the Scriptures, we learn right from wrong
b. We thereby develop the ability to distinguish between good and evil
c. We become able to apply general principles to specific situations
1) Specific condemnation of a practice is not always necessary
2) We can discern when something is more like the good, or more like the bad
B. SPIRITUAL IMMATURITY LACKS THIS ABILITY TO DISCERN
1. A babe in Christ often has difficulty discerning the difference between:
a. Good teaching (truth) and bad teaching (error)
b. Good conduct (righteousness) and bad conduct (wickedness)
2. Inability to discern leaves them open to being
a. tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine – Ephesians 4:14
b. Like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind…a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways – James 1:6-8
C. DO YOU HAVE THE ABILITY TO DISCERN?
1. Can you apply general principles to a specific situation, or do you require a clear Thou shalt not to determine if something is wrong?
2. Are you able to recognize when a doctrine is true to God’s word?
3. Or are you dependent upon someone else
a. To spoon feed you?
b. To take you by the hand and lead you?
c. To tell you what is right and wrong, what is truth and what is error
Conclusion
1. There are certainly other indicators of spiritual immaturity
a. Behaving in a carnal way
b. Possessing strife, envy, and jealousy – 1 Corinthians 3:1-4
2. But in our present text we have focused our attention on the four presented here
a. Dullness of hearing
b. The inability to teach others
c. A diet of milk
d. The inability to discern
e. All of these should serve as warning signs that something is amiss in our lives as Christians, for they are truly marks of spiritual Immaturity
3. In our next lesson, we shall see why it is so important to grow spiritually. As Peter warned, growth is the antidote to falling away:
You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge
of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. – 2 Peter 3:18
4. Are you growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 01:04-14 Jesus’ Superiority to Angels
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Text: Hebrews 1:4-14
Introduction
1. The subject of angels has certainly become a popular one lately
a. Bookstores are filled with books dealing with angels
b. Popular TV shows and movies depict angels working in our lives (Highway To Heaven, Touched By An Angel, The Preacher’s Wife, It’s A Wonderful Life)
2. Angels were also an important part of the Jewish religion
a. Angels assisted with the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai – Deuteronomy 33:2; Psalm 68:17; Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19
b. They appear throughout the history of Israel, coming to Abraham, Daniel, and many others
3. Since the purpose of The Epistle To The Hebrews is to show the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant to the Law of Moses…
a. It is necessary that the writer has something to say about angels
b. So it is that we find the comparison of the Son to prophets followed now by a comparison to angels – Hebrews 1:4-14
4. The premise is clearly stated that the Son (Jesus) is much better than the angels – Hebrews 1:4
a. The reason in a nutshell is that He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they
b. That name is Son, a title that only Jesus can properly wear
1) Angels may be called sons of God collectively – Job 1:6
2) But no angel can be called this name individually!
Body
I. JESUS IS THE SON
A. TWO PROPHECIES REFER TO THE MESSIAH AS SON
1. The first is Psalm 2:7
a. A psalm depicting the enthronement of the Messiah (the Lord’s Anointed)
b. In which Jehovah calls the Messiah My Son
c. The begetting has reference to the resurrection of Jesus – Acts 13:33; Romans 1:4
2. The second is 2 Samuel 7:14
a. This passage had immediate application to Solomon, David’s son
b. But as the Messiah he would receive the throne of David
1) It’s ultimate application would be to the Messiah
2) Jesus, the son of David – Matthew 1:1; Mark 10:47; John 7:42
B. BUT NO ANGEL IS EVER CALLED MY SON
1. Collectively they were called sons of God, but never individually!
2. This not only demonstrates Jesus’ superiority to angels
a. It proves that Jesus Himself was NOT an angel!
b. Contrary to what some (such as JW’s) believe
II. JESUS IS THE FIRSTBORN WHO RECEIVES WORSHIP
A. JESUS IS DESCRIBED AS THE FIRSTBORN
1. The term firstborn does not always mean born first
a. It is also used in the Scriptures as a metaphor to describe one who occupies the rank and privilege of being firstborn (without literally being firstborn)
b. Used by God in this way to refer to the nation of Israel – Exodus 4:22
c. Used by God in this way to refer to David, youngest of eight – Psalm 89:20-27
2. It is used of Jesus in this way to stress His preeminence over creation
a. As Paul explains in Colossians 1:15-18
b. By virtue of being the Creator, He maintains the rank and privilege of firstborn!
B. WHEN THE FIRSTBORN CAME INTO THE WORLD, THE ANGELS WERE TO WORSHIP HIM
1. The angels of God were to worship Him. Note well: No created being is or was ever worthy of worship!
a. The angels themselves refused to be worshipped – Revelation 22:8-9
b. The apostle Peter refused to accept worship – Acts 10:25-26
2. Yet Jesus received worship!
a. From the wise men – Matthew 2:11
b. From the leper – Matthew 8:2
c. From the ruler – Matthew 9:18
d. From His disciples in the boat – Matthew 14:33
e. From the Canaanite woman – Matthew 15:25
f. From the man born blind – John 9:38
g. From the women and other disciples following His resurrection – Matthew 28:9,17
h. From the disciples following His ascension – Luke 24:52
III. JESUS IS GOD ENTHRONED AND ANOINTED
A. ANGELS ARE SIMPLY FOR THE SERVICE OF GOD
1. They are created spirits to serve God (called ministering spirits in He 1:14)
2. Their service can be as powerful yet transient as wind or flames of fire, if need be
B. BUT THE SON IS GOD HIMSELF, ENTHRONED AND ANOINTED!
1. The author is quoting from another Messianic psalm – Psalm 45:6-7
2. Notice that the Son is called God! – Hebrews 1:8
a. The Hebrew writer clearly proclaims the deity of Jesus! – Hebrews 1:3a
b. Yet in the next verse we read where it says God, Your God has
1) Here we find a distinction of personalities within the Godhead
2) Which we learn through later revelation involves the Father and the Son (and the Holy Spirit)
3. The Son, Who is God, has been enthroned, and reigns over an everlasting kingdom with righteousness
a. A kingdom of which Daniel said shall never be destroyed – Daniel 2:44
b. A kingdom of which Gabriel (an angel) told Mary: there will be no end – Luke 1:33
c. Both Paul and John wrote of this kingdom – Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9
4. This Son, Who is God and King, has been anointed – Hebrews 1:9
a. Of course, the word Messiah means anointed one
b. In this passage, the emphasis is on how Jesus has been anointed with gladness more than Your companions
1) Who are these companions?
2) In view of He 2:11; 3:1, it is likely the followers of Jesus, His brethren!
5. As God, King, and Messiah, Jesus is certainly greater than angels!
IV. JESUS IS THE LORD WHO IS THE ETERNAL CREATOR
A. JESUS IS YAHWEH (JEHOVAH)!
1. Now the Hebrew writer is quoting from Psalm 102:25-27
a. A psalm which addresses God using His covenant name Yahweh (or Jehovah)
b. This is the name that God used to identify Himself to Moses – Exodus 3:13-14
2. But the Hebrew writer by inspiration knew this psalm equally applied to Jesus!
a. Such would be blasphemy, unless Jesus is truly Deity!
b. So while the Son is distinct from the Father (Hebrews 1:9), He and the Father are also one
3. In this chapter, then, we find evidence relating to the nature of the Godhead
a. There is one God, but three distinct personalities within the Godhead
b. As Jehovah, Jesus is not a god, or any sort of created being (contra JWs, Mormons)
c. As the Son who is distinct from the Father, the Son is not the same in personality as the Father (contra the Oneness Pentecostals)
d. Though not a biblical term, the word trinity does help to convey the Biblical evidence as to the nature of the Godhead!
B. JESUS IS THE ETERNAL CREATOR!
1. In the beginning it was He who created the earth and the heavens – Hebrews 1:10
a. As the author had already stated in Hebrews 1:2c
b. As both John and Paul professed – John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17
2. He is also eternal, therefore unchangeable – Hebrews 1:11-12
a. The heavens and the earth will perish, grow old and be changed – 2 Peter 3:10-12
b. But Jesus will remain, be the same, and not fail – Hebrews 13:8
V. JESUS IS THE SOVEREIGN
A. NO ANGEL HAS BEEN INVITED TO SIT AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND
1. The psalm quoted now is Psalm 110:1
a. This psalm is quoted or alluded to more than any other psalm in the NT
b. It refers to the Messianic reign of Christ that began when Jesus sat down at the right hand of God – Hebrews 1:3; Acts 2:34-36; 1 Peter 3:22
2. That no angel has been asked to sit at God’s right hand
a. Once again proves that Jesus was not an angel (contra JWs)
b. Only Jesus, as the Son of God, has been so invited, and is truly the Sovereign!
B. ANGELS ARE BUT MINISTERING SPIRITS
1. While Jesus sits enthroned in heaven, angels are sent forth to minister (serve)
2. They minister for those who will inherit salvation
a. They have certainly ministered in the past – Luke 1:11-38
b. They will certainly minister at the time of Christ’s return – Matthew 13:36-43
c. But to what extent they minister in the present, the Scriptures reveal little (Matthew 18:10), and we should be careful to refrain from vain speculation
Conclusion
1. In a very forceful manner, the writer to the Hebrews has shown Jesus’ superiority to angels:
a. Jesus is the Son (not angels)
b. Jesus is the Firstborn who receives worship (not angels)
c. Jesus is God enthroned and anointed (not angels)
d. Jesus is the LORD (Yahweh) who is the eternal creator (not angels, who are only created beings)
e. Jesus is the Sovereign, reigning at God’s right hand (angels are but ministering spirits)
2. While angels certainly have a special place in God’s plan for redeeming man
a. They are not to become the object of worship or adoration – Colossians 2:18-19
b. Only Jesus is worthy of such worship and adoration! As innumerable angels proclaimed with a loud voice: Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing! – Revelation 5:11-12
3. Let Jesus, and not angels, be the focus of your interest and adoration!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 01:01-03 God’s Perfect Spokesman
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Text: Hebrews 1:1-3
Introduction:
1. The Epistle to the Hebrews is unique in its beginning
a. There is no mention of the author’s name, nor the recipients
b. Rather, it starts like an essay – Hebrews 1:1-3
2. We also notice the purpose of the epistle is twofold:
a. To encourage Jewish Christians to remain steadfast in their faith
b. Accomplished by showing the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant
3. That superiority is demonstrated through a number of contrasts
a. The very first contrast begins in these first three verses
b. In which Jesus is contrasted with the prophets of the Old Testament
Body
I. GOD’S SPOKESMEN IN TIME PAST
A. THE EXPRESSION IN TIME PAST
1. Refers to the period of time prior to the coming of Jesus
2. That period of time described in the Old Testament (Genesis-Malachi)
B. GOD SPOKE TO THE FATHERS BY THE PROPHETS
1. The fathers would be the ancestors of the Israelites
2. The prophets would include great men like Samuel, Elijah, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel
a. The Hebrew word for prophet means one who boils over
b. It refers to one who is inspired by God to speak for Him – 2 Peter 1:21
3. At times, the prophets themselves were unsure of what they spoke – 1 Peter 1:10-12
C. GOD SPOKE AT VARIOUS TIMES AND IN DIFFERENT WAYS
1. His revelation did not come all at once, but progressively at different times
2. His methods varied as well, using visions, dreams, symbols, etc.
D. So God has clearly revealed Himself as One who speaks; that is, He communicates His will to mankind!
II. GOD’S SPOKESMAN IN THESE LAST DAYS (Hebrews 1:2-3)
A. THE EXPRESSION IN THESE LAST DAYS
1. The Old Testament often spoke of the last days – Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1
2. As such it often special reference to the age of the Messiah
a. The apostles spoke of their time as the time of this fulfillment – Acts 2:16-17
b. Thus it denotes the final phase of history, brought on by the first coming of Christ, continuing until His second coming and the consummation of all things – Hebrews 9:26
B. GOD HAS SPOKEN TO US BY HIS SON
1. God has spoken once again, but note the contrast!
2. In time past it was through prophets; but in these last days it is by His Son!
a. God has sent His own Son to speak for Him!
b. As wonderful as the prophets were, how can they compare to God’s own Son?
3. There is no contrast, especially as we read on and notice
C. THE EXCELLENCE OF GOD’S PERFECT SPOKESMAN
1. Jesus is the appointed heir of all things!
a. The author may have had Psalm 2:8 in mind, for in verse 5 he quotes from Psalm 2:7
b. As the beloved Son, it is only natural that He would be the appointed heir
c. What does all things include?
1) All that the Father has! – John 16:15
2) The authority to raise and judge the dead – John 5:26-29
3) The authority to rule in heaven and on earth – Matthew 28:18
4) This authority Christ has even now! – Acts 2:36; 10:36; Ephesians 1:20-22; 1 Peter 3:22; Revelation 1:5
2. Jesus is through whom He (God) also made the worlds!
a. Not only the Heir, but also the Creator!
b. For it was through the Son that God created the universe – cf. John 1:3; Colossians 1:16
1) All things were created by (or through) Him (He is the Creator)
2) All things were created for Him (He is the rightful Heir)
3. Jesus is the brightness of His (God’s) glory!
a. In Jesus we see the very radiance of the glory of God!
b. As John wrote, we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father… – John 1:14
c. When we behold Jesus, we see an extension of the glory of God!
4. Jesus is the express image of His (God’s) person!
a. He is the exact representation of God’s being and character! – Colossians 2:9
b. Therefore Jesus could say:
1) To Thomas: If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him. – John 14:7
2) To Philip: He who has seen Me has seen the Father; – John 14:9
5. Jesus is upholding all things by the word of His power!
a. Not only the Creator, but also the Sustainer of the universe – Colossians 1:17
1) By His word the universe holds together!
2) All He has to do is say the word, and the universe is no more!
b. Note well:
1) This illustrates the power of His Word
2) Shall we not listen when He speaks? – Luke 6:46
6. Jesus has also by Himself purged our sins!
a. A clear reference to His death on the cross for our sins
b. This speaks to His role as our Redeemer, a theme that will be prominent later in this epistle – Hebrews 2:17; 9:26,28
7. Jesus has also sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high!
a. This Jesus did when He ascended to heaven – Ephesians 1:20; 1 Peter 3:22
b. Sitting at the right hand of God is a place of honor, but for Jesus it is also a place from which He reigns!
1) As indicated in Ephesians 1:21-22; 1 Peter 3:22
2) It is true that He is waiting for the His enemies to be made His footstool (Hebrews 10:12-13), but He is reigning until that time! – 1 Corinthians 15:25-26
3) As stated in Psalm 110:1-2, from which the author to the Hebrews quotes, the Messiah was to rule in the midst of Your enemies
c. Thus Jesus is truly the ruler over the kings of earth – Revelation 1:5; 17:14
Conclusion
1. The sentence does not end with verse three
a. It continues on into verse four, with a declaration of Jesus’ superiority over angels
b. But that verse and the rest of the chapter we shall save for the next study
2. But what have we seen in this lesson?
a. God is clearly a God who speaks, He makes His Will known to mankind!
b. And now He speaks through His Son, Who is:
1) The appointed Heir of all things!
2) The Creator!
3) The brightness of God’s glory, the express image of His person!
4) Our Sustainer, Redeemer, and King!
3. How can one turn their back on Him? Especially when the Majesty on high proclaimed at the Mount of Transfiguration: This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him! – Matthew 17:5
4. Are you heeding the words of the Beloved Son, God’s Perfect Spokesman? – Matthew 28:18-20
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:06 – Do We Believe That God Is? audio
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Podcast: Play in new window | Download
(Taking a Hard Look at Our Own Convictions)
Text: Hebrews 11:6
Introduction
A. In this series of lessons, we are emphasizing the need to take God more seriously. There is not a single one of us who does not need to do this!
B. In the last lesson, we saw that it’s possible for us to actually PLEASE God. That ought to be our confident hope and our highest aim.
C. In this lesson, we’ll look at FAITH — “for he who comes to God must believe that He is.”
D. Do we believe that God is? Let’s take a hard look at our own convictions.
Body
I. DO WE NEED THIS LESSON?
A. Some will already have said they don’t need to ask whether God is. They say, “of course we believe that God is!”
1. Well, perhaps we do, but in all honesty, the “faith” that many of us have is little more than a hand-me-down religion. Some indications:
(1) carnal attitudes and worldly lifestyles
(2) non-involvement in congregational life
(3) ignorance of the Scriptures
(4) vulnerability to temptation.
2. Ours may be a “Christian” nation — but few may really believe that God is.
3. And ours may be a faithful congregation but real, personal faith may be in short supply
B. The Scriptures speak of things like a “sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5) and a “genuine faith” (2 Timothy 1:5)
C. As individuals, our faith is somewhere on a continuum between the faith of others and a faith that is our own. The question is: what can we do to move toward a faith that is more our own?
D. Let’s look first at the difference between these two kinds of faith, starting with the one that we’re striving for: a truly genuine, personal faith.
II. THE INGREDIENTS OF PERSONAL FAITH
A. Genuine, personal faith has three basic elements:
1. Credence (belief) – John 8:24 – This includes not only the what but also the why – 1 Peter 3:15.
2. Confidence (trust) – 2 Timothy 1:12 – Real trust produces unconditional obedience: trust = obey.
3. Constancy (faithful unto death) – 2 Timothy 4:7-8 – Faith = Faithfulness – Revelation 2:10.
B. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your own faith in these three areas?
III. THE TRAITS OF MERE TRADITION
A. Definition: “tradition” simply refers to that which has been “received.”
B. In religion, some people’s faith is nothing more than tradition. They’ve simply been going with the flow, and their convictions are nothing more than those of the “chameleon.” Their faith is not really their own. It is a matter of convenience rather than conviction.
C. Now, what is wrong here is not tradition itself. There is nothing wrong with tradition! We are fools if we throw things away simply because they are traditional – 2 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 3:14-15; 2 Thessalonians 2:15.
D. Our point is not that faith and tradition are opposites, but that real faith is MORE than tradition!
E. The difference is not in the CONTENT, but in the QUALITY of our faith.
1. If our faith is mere tradition, then it’s probably very weak.
2. We’ve probably never examined it or thought it through.
3. It’s probably never been seriously tested. Cf. James 1:2, 3; 1 Peter 1:6-7.
4. It’s probably quite abstract & impersonal — God is little more than an idea to talk about.
5. Worst of all, we’re probably not able to give a reason for the hope that is within us – 1 Peter 3:15 — we don’t know why we believe.
F. Three dangers of a faith that is mere tradition:
1. It won’t stand the test of temptation.
2. It won’t stand the test of hardship.
3. It won’t stand the test of judgment – Matthew 7:22-23; Matthew 15:8-9
IV. STEPS WE CAN TAKE TO GROW IN OUR FAITH
A. Many never really confront the issue of real faith until they’re faced with some serious crisis in life. Yet this is too IMPORTANT an issue to postpone until a crisis makes it URGENT.
B. Can’t we decide right now to move from “hand-me-down religion” to a deeper, more genuine faith? What practical steps can we take?
1. First, we can be honest about our faith – Mark 9:24, 2 Corinthians 13:5.
2. Then we can:
a. Feed it.
b. Challenge it.
c. Refresh it.
C. Like most valuable things, real faith has to be grown. There is no “get faithful quick” scheme – 1 Timothy 4:15-16 – We need incremental growth, little investments in our faith day by day.
Conclusion
A. We say we “believe that God is,” but how much do we trust Him in making real-life decisions?
1. Do you believe that somebody could walk over Niagara Falls on a tightrope while pushing a wheelbarrow? Many might say they believed it, but how many would . . . get into the wheelbarrow?
2. When tough, real-world decisions have to be made we find out whether we truly “believe that God is.”
B. The goal of gospel teaching is to produce love out of:
(1) a pure heart
(2) a good conscience
(3) a “faith unfeigned” (1 Timothy 1:5 KJV)
(4) what we want is a faith that is the “real deal.”
C. In future, we won’t be able to “go with the flow.” The flow is moving in too many different directions!
D. It has never been more important to decide what kind of FAITH we’re going to have
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Titus 01:10-16 Those Who Resist Authority
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Text: Titus 1:10-16
Introduction
1. In his epistle to Titus, Paul’s first order of business was to:
a. Remind Titus why he was left on the island of Crete – Titus 1:5
b. Provide the qualifications needed for the appointment of elders – Titus 1:6-9
2. The need for such elders is described in the rest of the first chapter
a. Because of those described as insubordinate – Titus 1:10
b. Who were negatively impacting the churches on Crete – Titus 1:11
3. What does it mean to be an insubordinate?
a. Insubordinate: one who does not submit to authority, mutinous, unruly
b. Insubordination is therefore disobedience and resistance to authority
4. In the setting of our text, that would mean the authority of the apostles of Christ
a. In whose teachings the early church continued steadfastly – Acts 2:42
b. Whose teachings were to be considered on par with the Lord’s – 1 Corinthians 14:37; 1 Thessalonians 2:13
5. Insubordination can be a problem in churches today, so we do well to carefully consider the text of our study – Titus 1:10-16
Body
I. Who are We Talking About?
A. IN THE CHURCHES OF CRETE
1. They were idle talkers and deceivers – Titus 1:10
a. More given to talk than practical religion
b. Not honest, seeking to deceive others
c. Such conduct had permeated the character of those living on Crete – Titus 1:12-13a
d. It was also true of those among the circumcision – Titus 1:10
2. Their minds and consciences were defiled – Titus 1:15
a. A natural consequence of deceiving others
b. Their minds and consciences have become corrupted
c. Notice Paul’s description of such people in 1 Timothy 6:3-5
3. They had become abominable and disobedient – Titus 1:16
a. Abominable: detestable to God
b. Disobedient: unwilling to be persuaded and obey
c. Guilty of six things that are an abomination to God – Proverbs 6:16-19
4. They were disqualified for every good work – Titus 1:16
a. Disqualified: literally, reprobate, worthless
b. Of no real value to God, who has created us to walk in good works – Ephesians 2:10
B. IN CHURCHES TODAY
1. Those who resist the authority of the Word are more likely to be given to talk than doing
2. We should beware of those prone to be talkers and not doers
3. They not only deceive others, but themselves as well – James 1:22-26
4. Following them will make our religion useless
II. What difference do they make?
A. IN THE CHURCHES OF CRETE
1. They were subverting whole households – Titus 1:11
a. Turning them away from the faith
b. Not just one member, but entire families!
2. They were teaching things they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain – Titus 1:11
a. Motivated more by popularity and monetary gain
b. Willing therefore to teach things that were not true
B. IN CHURCHES TODAY
1. Insubordinates are also motivated by such things as popularity and monetary gain
2. Who will teach what others want to hear, rather than the Word of God
3. Whose influence will not stop with just one or two, but impact entire families!
III. What should be done?
A. IN THE CHURCHES OF CRETE
1. Their mouths were to be stopped – Titus 1:11
a. It means, properly, to check, or curb, as with a bridle; to restrain, or bridle in; and then, to put to silence
b. It is, of course, implied here that this was to be done in a proper way, and in accordance with the spirit of the gospel
2. They were to be rebuked sharply – Titus 1:13
a. The reproof should be such as would be understood, and would show them plainly the wickedness of such traits of character
b. Titus was not to be mealy-mouthed, but he was to call things by their right names, and not to spare their faults
3. With the goal of helping them to be sound in the faith – Titus 1:13
a. Confronting error has the objective of saving the one in error
b. Not just stopping the spread of error
4. This was the duty, not just of Titus, but of the elders – Titus 1:9
B. IN CHURCHES TODAY
1. We must take insubordination seriously
2. We must stop the spread of false teaching by addressing it plainly
3. We must have in view the salvation of those guilty of insubordination and error
4. This is the duty of both evangelists and elders
5. If the insubordinate fails to repent, then withdrawal is the final option
a. As Paul commanded the church in Rome – Romans 16:17-18
b. As he commanded the church in Thessalonica – 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14-15
Conclusion
1. We have seen that those who resist the authority of God’s Word
a. Hurt themselves by corrupting their minds and consciences
b. Harm those whom they influence through their teaching
2. Insubordinates must be stopped
a. By rebuking them sharply, hoping they will become sound in the faith
b. If they do not repent, then we must withdraw ourselves from them Elders and evangelists are especially charged with the responsibility of dealing with insubordinates. But every Christian should be on guard against the harmful influence of those who are disobedient and resistant to the authority of God’s Word
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Timothy 04:06-18 Why Paul Died a Happy Man
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Text: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 18
Introduction
1. The Bible is silent regarding the death of the apostle Paul
a. The tradition is that Paul, as a Roman citizen, was beheaded on the Ostian Road just outside of Rome – ISBE
b. We have the concurrent testimony of ecclesiastical antiquity that he was beheaded at Rome, by Nero, in the great persecutions of the Christians, by that emperor, A.D. 67 or 68 – Smith
2. The Bible does reveal Paul’s anticipation of death
a. He knew when it was imminent – 2 Timothy 4:6
b. He expressed a strong confidence concerning his demise – 2 Timothy 4:7-8, 18
3. How was Paul able to approach death with such serenity and joy concerning the future?
Body
I. HIS VIEW OF DYING
A. AN OFFERING
1. I am already being poured out as a drink offering – 2 Timothy 4:6
2. His death was just another way to offer himself as a sacrifice to God
a. He encouraged all to offer themselves as spiritual sacrifices – Romans 12:12
b. Thus he sought to magnify Christ, even in the manner of death – Philippians 1:20
3. Have we thought of how we die as a way to magnify Christ?
a. We may not die a martyrs death, as did Paul
b. But we can demonstrate the death of a believer with hope
B. A DEPARTURE
1. the time of my departure is at hand – 2 Timothy 4:6
a. departure – a metaphor drawn from loosing moorings preparatory to setting sail
b. The true idea of death is that of loosening the bands that confine us to the present world; of setting us free, and permitting the soul to go forth, as with expanded sails, on its eternal voyage. With such a view of death, why should a Christian fear to die?
2. Like Peter, who also did not view death as ceasing to exist
a. Peter viewed his death as exit – 2 Peter 1:15
b. An allusion to the Israelites going out of Egypt, and marching for Canaan’s land; this world being, like Egypt, a place of wickedness, misery, and bondage; as heaven, like Canaan, a place and state of rest and happiness.
3. Paul looked forward to departing to be with Jesus – Philippians 1:23
a. To be with Christ is far better – 2 Corinthians 5:6-8
b. Jesus would have the promise to be with Him to be a comfort to us – John 14:1-3
4. Do we view death as the beginning of a journey?
a. A journey long anticipated?
b. A journey for which preparation has been made?
5. One’s view of death will determine ones attitude toward it. Paul’s view of it as an offering and a departure helped him approach dying with a joyful anticipation.
II. HIS PRECIOUS MEMORIES
A. HE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT
1. I have fought the good fight – 2 Timothy 4:7
a. The Christian life is often described as a conflict or a war – Ephesians 6:10-17
b. That noble conflict with sin, the world, the flesh, and the devil, Paul now says he had been able to maintain.
2. Paul could look back over his life with satisfaction
a. Not that he was sinless, but he had found mercy – 1 Timothy 1:12-16
b. Not that he was perfect, but he always tried to do better – Philippians 3:12-14
3. Will we at life’s end be able to look back at a fight well done?
a. Having received the mercy Jesus offers for our sins?
b. Having fought the good fight of faith, laying hold on eternal life? – 1 Timothy 6:12
B. HE FINISHED THE RACE
1. I have finished the race – 2 Timothy 4:7
a. Paul compared the Christian life to running a race – 1 Corinthians 9:24-26
b. An endurance race, not a sprint – Hebrews 12:1-2
2. Paul could look back over his life with contentment
a. He had run the race to win, with certainty
b. He had not given up, but pressed on to the goal – Philippians 3:13-14
3. Will we at life’s end be able to look back at a race well run?
a. Completing the race of faith set before us?
b. Or letting the sin of unbelief to easily ensnare us? – Hebrews 12:1
C. HE KEPT THE FAITH
1. I have kept the faith – 2 Timothy 4:7
2. Paul could look back over his life with happiness
a. He had kept and guarded the faith (Gospel) entrusted to him – 1 Timothy 1:11
b. He had maintained faithfulness to Jesus, despite great suffering – 2 Timothy 1:12
3. Will we at life’s end be able to look back on a faith that has been kept?
a. Holding fast to the words of eternal life in the gospel of Jesus Christ?
b. Remaining strong in our faith in Jesus as our Lord and Savior?
4. Paul could die a happy man because of his precious memories. Looking back, he could take comfort in knowing he had fought hard, run well, and kept the faith.
III. HIS GLORIOUS HOPE
A. THE CROWN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
1. There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness – 2 Timothy 4:8
a. Crown – the wreath or garland which was given as a prize to victors in public games – 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
b. metaphorically the eternal blessedness which will be given as a prize to the genuine servants of God and Christ: the crown which is the reward of the righteousness – Thayer
c. Also described as the crown of life – James 1:12; Revelation 2:10
2. Which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day – 2 Timothy 4:8
a. Jesus has been appointed to judge the world one Day – Acts 17:30-31
b. He will judge the living and the dead – 2 Timothy 4:1; 2 Corinthians 5:10
c. For some, a day of condemnation; for others, a day to be glorified – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-12
3. Not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing – 2 Timothy 4:8
a. The same hope, the same reward, is available to others
b. Provided they likewise desire His coming – e.g., Revelation 22:20
c. Thus we are to set our hope on the grace that is to be revealed – 1 Peter 1:13
4. Are we looking forward to same reward that Paul had?
a. To be received on the Day of Judgment?
b. Such that we love and eagerly look forward to His appearing?
B. DELIVERANCE FROM EVIL
1. The Lord will deliver me from every evil work – 2 Timothy 4:18
a. Deliverance from the efforts of evil men and Satan to destroy him
b. he expected afflictions as long as he was in the world, but he knew that God would support him under them; and in his own time and way deliver out of them;
2. Not deliverance from death per se
a. He knew his martyrdom was near – 2 Timothy 4:6
b. But in the Lord, even death can be a deliverance from evil – Isaiah 57:1
3. Do we have the same confidence of victory that Paul had?
a. Knowing that the Lord will always be with us?
b. Trusting that the Lord will deliver us through any hardship?
C. PRESERVATION FOR THE KINGDOM
1. And preserve me for His heavenly kingdom – 2 Timothy 4:18
a. Paul looked forward to future manifestation of the kingdom
b. The same everlasting kingdom of which Peter wrote – 2 Peter 1:11
c. The same kingdom Jesus promised to those on His right hand – Matthew 25:34
2. Paul had confidence in the preserving power of the Lord
a. Knowing that God could finish what He started – Philippians 1:6
b. Knowing that He would provide a way of escape in every temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:13
c. Thus praying for the preservation of others – 1 Thessalonians 5:23
3. Do we have the same trust in the preservation of the Lord that Paul had?
a. Knowing that the Lord will likewise keep us for the kingdom?
b. Knowing that we are kept by the power of God through faith? – 1 Peter 1:5
Conclusion
1. Paul was able to die a happy man, because of:
a. His view of dying
b. His precious memories
c. His glorious hope
d. For such reasons one can truly say, Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on – Revelation 14:13
2. If we also approach death
a. As an opportunity to praise God and the beginning of a journey
b. Having fought the good fight, having finished the race, and having kept the faith
c. Looking forward to the crown of righteousness, knowing he will deliver us from evil, and will preserve us for his heavenly kingdom
d. Then we too will say concerning the Lord, To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen! – 2 Timothy 4:18
e. May our anticipation of death one day mirror that of the apostle Paul
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Moral Issue: Tobacco Use – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – audio
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Moral Issues: Gambling - Sex - Tobacco Use
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Text: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Introduction
1. Another moral issue confronting Christians is the consumption of tobacco
a. In the form of smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes)
b. Also smokeless tobacco (chew, snuff)
2. In the past, the dangers of tobacco use may have not been known
a. Prompting many (including Christians) to consider it a harmless habit
b. Even today some take it lightly
3. But the evidence for the harmful effects of tobacco is now overwhelming
Body
I. STATISTICS ON TOBACCO
A. OVERALL MORTALITY
1. Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States
2. Cigarette smoking causes an estimated 438,000 deaths, about 1 of every 5 deaths, each year
3. More deaths are caused each year by tobacco use than by all deaths from human HIV, illegal drug use, alcohol use, motor vehicle injuries, suicides, and murders combined
4. On average, adults who smoke cigarettes die 14 years earlier than nonsmokers
5. Centers For Disease Control Prevention
B. MORTALITY FROM SPECIFIC DISEASES
1. Lung cancer: 123,800 deaths; other cancers: 34,700 deaths per year
2. Chronic lung disease: 90,600 deaths; coronary heart disease: 86,800 deaths per year
3. Stroke: 17,400 deaths; other diagnoses: 84,600 deaths per year
C. EFFECTS OF SECOND HAND SMOKE
1. Secondhand smoke exposure causes heart disease and lung cancer in nonsmoking adults
2. It causes approximately 3,400 lung cancer deaths and 22,700- 69,600 heart disease deaths annually among adult nonsmokers in the United States
3. It causes respiratory symptoms in children and slows their lung growth
4. It causes sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more frequent and severe asthma attacks in children
5. Almost 60% of U.S. children aged 3-11 years-or almost 22 million children-are exposed to secondhand smoke
6. There is no risk-free level of secondhand smoke exposure – even brief exposure can be dangerous — Ibid.
D. OTHER FORMS OF TOBACCO USE
1. Pipe smoking and cigar smoking increase the risk of dying from cancers of the lung, esophagus, larynx, and oral cavity
2. Smokeless tobacco contains 28 cancer-causing agents (carcinogens)
3. Smokeless tobacco use increases the risk for developing oral cancer
4. Adolescents who use smokeless tobacco are more likely to become cigarette smokers — Ibid.
E. IN VIEW OF THE EVIDENCE OF HARMFUL EFFECTS, THERE ARE GOOD REASONS TO ABSTAIN FROM TOBACCO
II. WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD ABSTAIN
A. THE EFFECT ON OUR BODIES
1. Remember what the Bible teaches
a. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:19
b. Our bodies have been bought, and are not our own – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
c. Our bodies are to glorify God – 1 Corinthians 6:20
d. Our bodies are instruments by which we serve God – Romans 12:1-2; 6:13,19
2. Thus our bodies are a reflection of our stewardship
a. We are all stewards of God’s manifold grace – 1 Peter 4:10
b. Our duty is to be faithful in what has been given us – 1 Corinthians 4:2
c. We shall be judged by how we used what has been given us – Luke 16:10-12
d. What if someone borrowed what is yours and misused it (e.g., your car)?
3. Years cut short by tobacco are lost opportunities to serve and glorify God
B. THE EFFECT ON OTHERS
1. Hurting, even killing them through second-hand smoke
2. Burdening family financially with hospital bills left behind
3. Depriving family of your presence as spouse, parent, grand-parent
4. Impoverishing the church and society of our talents and service
5. Is slowly killing yourself and harming others showing love, or selfishness?
C. THE EFFECT ON OUR INFLUENCE
1. We are role models, for our faith is spoken of by others – Romans 1:8; 16:19
2. We influence others for good or ill
3. Can we say what Paul did about following one’s example? – Philippians 3:17
4. Do we consider the effect it has on saving others? – 1 Corinthians 10:31-33
5. Does tobacco help or hinder our efforts to share Christ with others?
Conclusion
1. The harmful effects of tobacco have been clearly established
a. The scientific evidence is overwhelming
b. Even our bodies tell us by the way they react to smoke
2. Christians have ample reason to abstain
a. For health reasons
b. For spiritual reasons
For those addicted to nicotine, stopping may not be easy. But I trust we have seen that one should make every effort to rid themselves of this habit that can destroy both body and soul
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Moral Issue: Gambling – Ephesians 04:17-20 – audio
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Moral Issues: Gambling - Sex - Tobacco Use
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Introduction
1. We turn now to gambling, a moral issue confronting Christians due to:
a. The proliferation of government sanctioned gambling (e.g., state lotteries)
b. The easy access to gambling (race track, lottery tickets in convenience stores, bingo, charitable gambling and casinos are going to be back on the ballot) [editor’s note: Casino’s are now opening in Columbus Oct 8th, 2012. Voted down by Franklin county voters, but voted in by the statewide Ohio electorate]
2. What is gambling (or gaming)…?
a. The wagering of money or something of material value on an event with an uncertain outcome with the primary intent of winning additional money and/or material goods
b. Typically, the outcome of the wager is evident within a short period
c. The term gaming in this context typically refers to instances in which the activity has been specifically permitted by law
3. Sadly, some religions encourage gambling
a. Both the Catholic and Jewish traditions traditionally set aside days for gambling – Dwayne Carpenter, quoted in Gambling Had Role in Religious History
b. The above article mentions Christmas and Hanukkah as holidays in which gambling was permitted, if not encouraged
4. If both states and some religions approve of gambling, what could be wrong with it?
Body
I. FALSE ARGUMENTS USED TO JUSTIFY GAMBLING
A. LIFE IS A GAMBLE?
1. Does not Solomon say time and chance happen to them all? – Ecclesiastes 9:11
2. So it may appear when life is viewed under the sun (a purely worldly perspective)
3. But God’s will in our lives precludes a life of pure chance – 1 Corinthians 4:19; James 4:15
4. Life is not gambling, it involves the will of God!
B. FARMING IS A GAMBLE?
1. Does not the farmer take a risk in sowing when he may not reap?
2. But God has promised seedtime and harvest would not cease – Genesis 8:22
3. Farming is an honorable way of receiving God’s blessings – Psalm 104:14
4. Farming is not gambling, it involves the activity of God!
C. BUYING INSURANCE IS A GAMBLE?
1. Is not buying insurance a gamble?
2. Insurance is simply a method of shifting risk (accident, illness) from one party to another
3. It is also a way of providing for one’s family, an important duty – 1 Timothy 5:8
4. Insurance is not gambling, when used to shift risk and provide for others
D. INVESTING IS A GAMBLE?
1. Is not investing in business or the stock market a gamble?
2. It can be, when involving speculative or significant risks
3. But good and safe investments are not evil within themselves – Matthew 25:14-30
4. Investing is not gambling, when done prudently
II. ARGUMENTS AGAINST GAMBLING
A. THE PRINCIPLE IS SINFUL
1. Gambling violates the work ethic – Ephesians 4:28; 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
a. To gain from honorable labor
b. Not get rich quick schemes
2. Gambling violates the stewardship ethic – 1 Chronicles 29:13-14; 1 Peter 4:10
a. All things come from God
b. We will have to give an account for our stewardship
3. People gamble for a quick buck, willing to risk what is not theirs
B. THE MOTIVATION IS SINFUL
1. People gamble because of greed – 1 Timothy 6:9-10
a. Their desire to be rich, which leads to foolish and harmful lusts, destruction and perdition
b. Their love of money, which leads to loss of faith and many sorrows
2. People gamble because of covetousness – Ephesians 5:3-7; Colossians 3:5-6
a. They want something more than God, making it idolatry
b. They will bring the wrath of God upon themselves
3. People gamble because they want to be rich, a desire we should flee (1 Timothy 6:11)
C. THE FRUIT IS SINFUL
1. It takes advantage of others’ weaknesses – Romans 15:1-2
a. Exploiting others or extorting money for one’s own advantage
b. Do gamblers care what happens to those who lose?
2. It leads to unsavory companions – 1 Corinthians 15:33; Ephesians 5:11
a. Others who are motivated by greed and covetousness
b. Those quick to take advantage: bookies, loan sharks, etc.
3. It leads to addiction – 2 Peter 2:19
a. Gambling can become psychologically and physically addictive
b. Monetary reward in a gambling-like experiment produces brain activation very similar to that observed in a cocaine addict receiving an infusion of cocaine. – Hans Breiter, MD, co-director of the Motivation and Emotion Neuroscience Centre at Massachusetts General Hospital
4. It leads to other sins – Mark 7:21-23
a. As debts build up, people turn to other quick sources of money (theft, drugs)
b. Suicide is common, along with abuse, divorce, other mental disorders
5. People who gamble do not consider how they hurt themselves and others
Conclusion
1. Which is gambling more like…?
a. The works of the flesh, or the fruit of the Spirit? Galatians 5:19-23
b. The deeds of the old man, or the apparel of the new man? Colossians 3:5-14
2. One does need to look long to see that gambling is sinful:
a. The motive is greed
b. The desire is to get rich quick (covetousness)
c. The harm to self and others is extensive
3. Consider these tidbits of wisdom:
a. Gambling: The sure way of getting nothing from something – Wilson Mizner
b. The safest way to “double your money” is to fold it over once and put it in your pocket
c. By gaming we lose both our time and treasure – two things most precious to the life of man – Owen Felltham
d. Lottery: A tax on people who are bad at math – Author Unknown
Only those blinded by the deceitfulness of sin have problems seeing the problems with gambling…
“This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart; who, being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you have not so learned Christ…” – Ephesians 4:17-20
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Revelation 21:08 A Journey Through Hell – powerpoint – audio
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Text: Revelation 21:8
Revelation-21-08-08-A-Journey-Through-Hell.PDF
Revelation-21-08-08-A-Journey-Through-Hell.PPTX
References:
Matthew 7:13-14
Luke 16:22-23
Mark 9:43-48
Matthew 25:41
Luke 12:4-5
Revelation 20:13-15
Revelation 21:8
Pilate (Indifferent):
– Matthew 6:24
– Matthew 12:30
– James 4:17
Pharisees (Corrupt):
– Luke 7:29-30
– Matthew 23:15
Demas (Materialist):
– 2 Timothy 4:10
– James 4:4
– 1 John 2:15
Agrippa (Hesitant):
– Acts 26:28
– 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
Demetrius (Idolator):
– Acts 19:23-29
– John 4:24
– Revelation 21:8
You or I?
– 2 Corinthians 13:5
– 1 Corinthians 15:1-2
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Moral Issue: Sex – 1 Corinthians 6:18 – audio
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Moral Issues: Gambling - Sex - Tobacco Use
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Text: 1 Corinthians 6:18
Introduction
1. As we begin addressing specific moral issues confronting the Christian, perhaps a proper starting place is with the issue of sexual immorality:
a. A moral issue faced by every Christian
b. One about which the Bible has much to say – 1 Corinthians 6:18
2. The admonition to flee sexual immorality is needed just as much today:
a. Sexual immorality is rampant in our culture
b. Morality is being loosely defined (and redefined), encouraging many to engage in sinful behavior
Body
I. THE DEFINITION OF SEXUAL IMMORALITY
A. THE BASIC CONCEPT
1. The Greek word translated sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18 NKJV), fornication (1 Corinthians 6:18 KJV), is porneia
2. “Used generally to refer to any sexual sin” – The Complete Word Study Dictionary
3. Thus it includes any form of “illicit sexual intercourse – adultery, fornication, homosexuality, lesbianism, intercourse with animals, etc.” – Thayer
B. THE PROBLEM THEN AND NOW:
1. Porneia became synonymous with life in the 1st century, reflected by:
a. Their attitude toward adultery: “We keep mistresses for pleasure, concubines for day-to-day needs of the body, but we have wives in order to produce children legitimately and to have a trustworthy guardian of our homes” – Demosthenes
b. Their attitude toward divorce: “Roman women were married to be divorced and were divorced to be married. Some of them distinguished the years, not by the names of the consuls, but by the names of their husbands.” – Seneca
c. Their attitude toward family: “Caligula lived in incest with his sister Drusilla, and the lust of Nero did not even spare his mother Agrippina.” – Suetonius
d. Their attitude toward homosexuality:
1) “It were better not to need marriage, but to follow Plato and Socrates and to be content with the love of boys.” – Lucian
2) “Of the first fifteen emperors, Claudius was the only one whose taste in love was entirely correct.” – Gibbons
2. God’s disdain for sexual immorality is seen in the fact:
a. There are seven lists of evil in the writings of Paul
b. Porneia is listed in five of them, and is the first in each of them – 1 Corinthians 5:9-11; 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-22; Ephesians 5:3-5; Colossians 3:5
3. Does it require much insight to see that porneia is rampant in our time as well?
a. Pre-marital sex has become rampant among many, including teenagers
b. Adultery is considered inevitable, even acceptable by many
c. Divorce has been made easy through “no-fault” laws
d. Families have been torn asunder by incest, adultery, and divorce
e. Homosexuality has become an “acceptable alternative lifestyle”
4. Porneia is thus a general term for sexual immorality; i.e., sexual behavior that rightly belongs only to husbands and wives – Hebrews 13:4
II. THE DEVASTATION OF SEXUAL IMMORALITY
A. DESTROYS THE BODY
1. Through bacterial STDs (e.g., Chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea)
2. Through viral STDs (e.g., genital herpes, Hepatitis B, AIDS), which are incurable
3. Many people have learned the hard way, what Solomon warned his son – Proverbs 5:11-12
B. DEMOLISHES THE HOME
1. Marriages intended for life are broken, often beyond repair – Matthew 19:4-6
2. Children are devastated, with emotional effects lasting into adulthood
C. DESOLATES THE SOUL
1. It will be hard to forgive oneself, there will be self-recrimination – Proverbs 5:12-13
2. Your soul will be deprived of good friends, whose trust you violated – Proverbs 6:30-35
3. If unrepented and unforgiven, there is no hope – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21; Hebrews 13:4
III. THE DETERRENCE OF SEXUALITY IMMORALITY
A. FORM PROPER DISCERNMENT
1. Remember God’s will for you
a. Joseph understood that sexual immorality was a sin against God – Genesis 39:9
b. Paul taught that abstinence was God’s will – 1 Thessalonians 4:1-3
2. Remember God’s will for your body
a. To control your body in holiness and honor (ESV) – 1 Thessalonians 4:4-8
b. To glorify God in your body, as a temple of the Holy Spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:13-20
c. To present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy to God – Romans 12:1-2
3. Remember the consequences
a. Self-recrimination – Proverbs 5:12-13
b. Lost friendships – Proverbs 6:30-35
c. Judgment against the impenitent – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Hebrews 13:4
d. David’s sin with Bathsheba serves as an object lesson – 2 Samuel 11-12
B. FLEE EVERY OPPORTUNITY
1. Remember Joseph’s example! – Genesis 39:10-12
2. Remember the wisdom of Solomon! – Proverbs 5:1-23; 6:23-35; 7:1-27
3. Remember Paul’s admonitions!
a. Flee youthful lusts, pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace – 2 Timothy 2:22
b. Make no provision for the lusts of the flesh – Romans 13:13-14
C. FIND A SUITABLE SPOUSE
1. Paul counsels marriage between man and woman to counter sexual immorality – 1 Corinthians 7:1-2
2. Sexual conduct within the framework of marriage is appropriate – 1 Corinthians 7:3-5; Hebrews 13:4
3. Singleness is good, if one has self-control; otherwise, marriage the only option – 1 Corinthians 7:6-9
D. FORGE AHEAD WITH STRENGTH FROM GOD
1. United with Christ in baptism, consider yourself dead to sin – Romans 6:2-15
2. By the Spirit, put to death the sinful deeds of the body – Romans 8:12-13
a. The Spirit is God’s instrumental agent by He strengthens the Christian – Ephesians 3:16,20
b. The fruit of the Spirit in our lives includes self-control – Galatians 5:16-25
3. In Christ, we can do all that God desires of us – Philippians 4:13; Ephesians 6:10-13
4. Utilize the tools of prayer and the Word of God – Ephesians 3:16; 6:17
Conclusion
1. To prevent the devastating effects of sexual immorality, we need to remember:
a. God’s will for us: “abstain from sexual immorality” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3
b. Paul’s admonition: “flee sexual immorality” – 1 Corinthians 6:18
2. Sexual immorality is too serious to take lightly
a. It can destroy your body, home, and soul
b. Forgiveness is possible, but physical consequences of sin (STDs) often remain
3. To flee sexual immorality, we need to have:
a. The strength of Joseph
b. The wisdom of Solomon
c. The penitence of David (when necessary)
4. Let these words of Paul encourage us to abstain from sexual immorality, and to repent if need be – 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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