Historical Posts
Christian Example
Set A Christian Example
Paul admonished Timothy: “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
Everyone sets an example. It is impossible not to. But, what kind of example do we set? Is it good or bad? Is it a Christian example? That is up to us!
The Pharisees, one of the strictest Jewish sects in the first century, were notorious for their bad example. Jesus one time told an audience, to do as they said and not as they did, for they said and did not (Matthew 23:3). Many a parent has failed, not because of poor instruction, but because of a bad example. Many a preacher has destroyed his effectiveness, not by unsound doctrine, but by unsound living, by failure to set a Christian example.
Six specific areas are selected by Paul for emphasis. Christians must set a good example before others in:
- Speech
- Conduct
- Love
- Attitude
- Faith
- Purity
God calls His people to be accountable to a higher standard. We cannot adopt the ways of the world and set a good Christian example at the same time. In fact, we are specifically warned against the dangers of conforming to the world’s standards (Romans 12:2).
There is one perfect example we should seek to imitate. It is the example of Christ. Peter said of Him, he “left us an example that we should follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:21). Our goal is to become as much like Him as is humanly possible so that we can say with Paul, “Christ liveth in me” (Galatians 2:20). The organization of the church was designed with one purpose in mind, to bring the members of His church “unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).
Our success or failure in the Christian endeavor is determined, to a great extent, by the way we conform to the example of our Lord. If we are what we ought to be, others will know by our Christian example that we belong to Jesus. And, by a good Christian example they will be brought to Him.
We can have no effectiveness if our example is bad. We must not forget the Bible’s demand to every Christian: “Be thou an example of the believers…”.
Are you setting a good Christian example?
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Christ and His Church
One cannot accept Christ and reject His church, or accept the church and reject Jesus. The two are inseparable.
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25).
It is impossible to separate Christ from his church. Without Christ there would be no church, and without the church Christ’s mission would have been incomplete. It must be clearly understood that one cannot accept Christ and reject his church, or accept the church and reject Jesus. The two are inseparable.
His relationship to the church is set forth in Scripture. The purpose of his coming was to build the church (Matthew 16:18). His love for the church moved him to give himself for her (Ephesians 5:25) His blood was shed to purchase her (Acts 20:28). And, he is her head today (Colossians 1:18).
What is the church? It is not a building, a social club, or a political action committee. It is God’s spiritual family (1 Timothy 3:15). In relationship to its government it is called a kingdom. In regard to its organization it is called a body. In respect to its relationship to the world it is called the church, meaning the “called out.”
The church consists of saved men and women. The Lord adds the saved to the church (Acts 2:47). How, then, does one become a part of the church? According to the Bible, the only real authority on the subject, citizenship in the kingdom comes through the new birth (John 3:3,5,7). Membership in the body comes by baptism into it (1 Corinthians 12:13). And, one is added to the church by the Lord upon the basis of faith, repentance, and baptism (Acts 2:37-47).
Is it possible to accept Jesus, but reject his church? No! Can one be saved outside of the church? No! All of the saved are in Christ’s church today (Acts 2:47;4:12). Hear God’s word, believe it, and obey it. The Lord will add you to his church and you will be a Christian, nothing more, nothing less (Acts 11:26).
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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1 John 05:18-21 – Certainties of the Christian Faith – audio
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Text: 1 John 5:18-21
Introduction
1. In this last section of John’s epistle, we find him summarizing three facts or “certainties” that his readers should have learned – 1 John 5:18-21
2. These certainties of the Christian Faith relate to sin, the evil one, and the truth concerning fellowship with God and Jesus Christ
3. Each of these certainties is introduced by the words we know, and as we consider these three facts we shall begin each section in the same way
Body
I. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THOSE BORN OF GOD AND SIN (1 John 5:18)
A. “WHOEVER IS BORN OF GOD DOES NOT SIN“
1. This statement, like the one in 1 John 3:9, can be somewhat troubling to the English reader
2. But as we noticed in the lesson on that portion of scripture
a. John has already affirmed that Christians sin – 1 John 1:8, 10
b. To say we have no sin is to lie, and to make God a liar
c. So John is talking about one who does not continuously practice sin
B. “BUT HE WHO HAS BEEN BORN OF GOD KEEPS HIMSELF“
1. John explains why the one born of God does not continuously practice sin, but it is difficult to know exactly what he means
a. Some translations have keeps him instead of keeps himself
b. This is because most translators believe he who has been born of God is a reference to Jesus
c. And yet in his epistle, the phrase born of God always has reference to the child of Christ, i.e., the Christian
2. Assuming that himself is the correct wording
a. It becomes clear that the individual bears some responsibility in keeping oneself from sinning
b. While it is true that we have help from God – 1 John 3:9
c. Our faith must cooperate with God’s power – 1Pe 1:5
d. Thus the charge to keep yourselves – 1 John 5:21; Jude 21
C. “THE WICKED ONE DOES NOT TOUCH HIM“
1. When we cooperate with God, Satan has no chance
a. When we submit to God, and resist the devil, the devil flees! – James 4:7
b. For God who is in us is certainly greater than the devil! – 1 John 4:4
2. Instrumental in our cooperation with God is allowing His word to abide in us – 1 John 2:14
3. Even as the Word was instrumental in helping Jesus overcome the temptations of Satan – “it is written…” Matthew 4:4, 7, 10
D. So the first certainty of the Christian faith is that one born of God does not treat sin lightly, and with God’s help is able to win the conflict with the wicked one.
II. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN US AND THE WORLD (1 John 5:19)
A. “WE ARE OF GOD”
1. The Christian has been “born of God” – 1 John 5:1
2. The Christian is privileged to be called the “child of God” – 1 John 3:1-2a
3. Thus we are blessed to be “of God”!
B. “THE WHOLE WORLD LIES UNDER THE SWAY OF THE WICKED ONE“
1. Sadly, those in the world are not of God
2. For when one rejects Jesus Christ, they demonstrate who their father truly is – John 8:42-47
3. While they remain in their sins, they remain under the sway of Satan – 1 John 3:8, 10
C. Whose child are you?
1. Those who are in Christ have the assurance that God is their father.
2. Those not in Christ are still under the influences of Satan who has blinded them! – 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
III. THE BASIS OF FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD AND ETERNAL LIFE (1 John 5:20)
A. “THE SON OF GOD HAS COME AND HAS GIVEN US UNDERSTANDING”
1. Jesus has come to give us true insight concerning God
2. As John declared in his gospel: “No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.” – John 1:18
B. “THAT WE MAY KNOW”
1. “…Him who is true“
a. Or as expressed in other translations: He is the true God
b. By true God [John] does not mean one who tells the truth, but him who is really God.
c. By coming in the flesh, Jesus has manifested the true God to us – John 14:7-9
2. “…and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ“
a. Jesus has also given us understanding about how we can be in God
b. It is through His Son, as we keep His words and His commandments, that we can abide in God – John 14:21,23
C. “THIS IS THE TRUE GOD AND ETERNAL LIFE“
1. Again, the expression “true God” is saying He who is “the real God“
2. With this declaration, John is also defining what eternal life truly is
a. It is to “know” Him who is true
b. It is to be “in Him” who is true, and “in His Son Jesus Christ“
3. In other words, eternal life (as defined by John) is that abundant life
a. Which comes from knowing the Father and the Son intimately
b. Which comes by having fellowship with the Father and the Son
4. So John intimated at the beginning of his epistle – 1 John 1:2-3
5. And so Jesus declared in His prayer – John 17:1-3
Conclusion
1. Here then are the certainties of the Christian Faith as summarized by John
a. “We know” the relationship between those born of God and sin
b. “We know” the difference between us and those of the world
c. “We know” the basis of fellowship with God and eternal life
2. May the First Epistle of John always serve to remind of these certainties, and may the last verse always remind us of the need for diligence: “Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.” – 1 John 5:21
3. With his favorite term of endearment, John admonishes us to stay away from anything that would replace our devotion to the One True God
a. We may think that we are too sophisticated to succumb to idolatry
b. But as Paul pointed out time and again, anything that replaces God in our hearts is an idol – Ephesians 5:5; Colossians 3:5
NOTE WELL: If there was no danger of being led astray, there would be no need for a warning!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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A Lesson from our Past
Learn from our past. Seek to be Christian, and Christian only.
Diana Ross McCain, writing in Early American Life (October, 1989), described the hardships of worship in seventeenth century Connecticut. In our past, Church attendance was almost universal since it was required by law of young and old alike, unless excused by serious illness or some other equally compelling circumstance.
Church buildings were not built for the comfort of the church goer in our past. Winters were especially hard on the devout. The church building of that day had no fireplace, no stove, and no significant heat source of any kind. Preachers often delivered their sermons wearing their heavy coats and mittens. Samuel Griswold Ridgefield, writing of his boyhood in Ridgefield, Connecticut, around the turn of the nineteenth century, said, “Nobody thought of staying home from church because of the extremity of the weather.”
About 1830 stoves were introduced. Writing about their introduction, Ridgefield, noted: “As soon as this reform was suggested, they began to wrestle with the people, until at last the church and society were divided into two violent factions, the Stove Party and the Anti-stove Party.” At the first worship service following the introduction of the stove, the head of the anti-stove faction slid to the floor in her pew in a faint. She was carried outside where she quickly regained consciousness. “What happened?” she was asked. “Oh, it is the heat of those awful stoves,” she replied. “No, no, my dear,” responded the head of the stove faction, “That can’t be: it’s a warm day, you know, and there’s no fire in them.”
It is an amusing story, but it illustrates an important point from our past that is still applicable today. It has been man’s tendency, almost since the day God first revealed His will to man, for men to seek to change it. We either make laws where God has made none, or set aside the laws which He has made. Moses warned against this when he wrote: “What thing so ever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it” (Deuteronomy 12:32).
So many problems could be avoided if only we would heed this command! Let’s not make laws where God has made none, and let’s not set aside any which He has made.
Would you join us in seeking to be Christians, and Christians only?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Christian or Curious
About 32% of the people in the world call themselves Christians, which is about 2.2 billion. I have no idea how many of those truly walk with Christ – God does, of course – but it seems that if there were more than 2 billion dedicated Christ-followers in the world, some of our problems wouldn’t exist.
Right?
What’s the issue?
Part of the answer is obvious – there’s a difference between what we call ourselves and what we actually are.
There’s a difference between checking a box on a questionnaire and living out the implications of faith.
Perhaps you’ve heard this distinction before: some people know about Christ, and some people know Christ.
Which group are you in?
Notice Paul’s emphasis here: “that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death” (Philippians 3:7-10).
That I may know him.
That’s what it means to be a Christian, and I believe that’s what so often frustrated Jesus.
Often in his ministry the crowds around him swelled. He would perform a miracle – feed a hungry crowd, heal a blind man, raise someone from the dead – and the numbers would go up.
They were curious, intrigued, often amazed.
But not committed.
Inevitably he would stop and face them and say something like this: “If you’re not willing to die with me… if you’re not willing to commit everything to me, you can’t follow me.”
There’s a difference between being in the “Jesus crowd” and being a Jesus-follower.
So again: why the disconnect between the hundreds of millions in the world who claim Christ and all of the sinful stuff that’s going on?
It’s obvious that some of the 32% don’t really know Christ.
But as always, our concern is a little closer to home.
Do you know him? Are you following him or just interested in him?
Does he just intrigue you or does He lead you?
There’s a huge difference.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 02:01-02 Christians Must Desire The Word
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(Christians Must Desire the Milk of The Word to Grow)
Text: 1 Peter 2:1-2
Introduction
- Animals, plants, and humans beings, from the time they are planted or born, are expected to grow from infancy to maturity in a specified period. In order for them to grow and mature properly they must receive and digest nutrients from various sources. In Luke 13:6-9, Jesus gives the parable of the barren fig tree that produced no fruit. The vineyard owner was expecting fruit on the fig tree for 3 years and found none. As a result, he was going to cut it down, but the servant requested to work on it, and if it didn’t produce fruit afterwards then to cut it down. God is expecting us to grow as Christians. Are you like this barren fig tree? In John 15:1-2, 6, Jesus teaches, if your not bearing fruit, or growing, you will be cut off, from the vine and be burned.
- The Christian, new babe in Christ must desire and receive the sincere milk of the Word of God, along with exercising or applying what they have learn from the Word of God to grow, mature, and bear much fruit – 1 Peter 2:1-2.
God’s Word is the Necessary Food for Spiritual Growth
- In order to grow, you must have an interest and desire to go beyond the infancy stage to a mature Christian. You must cry out for the milk of the Word of God, just as a baby cries out for it’s mother for milk – John 5:39; Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15. It is God’s Word that causes us to increase and grow – 2 Peter 3:18.
- Sometimes new Christians do not receive enough of the sincere milk of the Word, that they might grow. This one reason why some members of the church do not grow and mature as they should and need to be re-introduced to the milk of the Word of God that they might grow – Hebrews 5:12-14; 1 Corinthians 3:1-3.
- It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been a Christian or how mature a Christian you think you are. You always need a daily feeding of the Word of God since we can’t live without it – Matthew 4:4. The Word of God is our light in a world filled with darkness – Psalm 119:104-105.
With the Milk of the Word, Growing Christians Must Exercise Godliness
- Along with feeding on the milk of the Word, the new babe in Christ must also exercise godliness – 1 Timothy 4:7-8. New Christian’s must put into practice what they have learned from the Word of God. The new convert must learn to take time in their daily lives to be holy – 1 Peter 1:15-16.
- The challenge for new Christian’s is to not fall back into old worldly and sinful practices – 1 John 2:15-17. And to not allow worldly friendships to drown out the influence that God’s Word and fellow Christians have on them – 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.
- Therefore, let us feast on the Word of God and grow. The question is are you a growing branch of the vine bearing much fruit? Or are you a dead branch of the vine ready to be bundled & burned?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
1 Peter 01:13-16 Christians Must Be Pure And Holy
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Text: 1 Peter 1:13-16
Introduction
- The word pure means something that’s unmixed, free from pollutants, or foreign substances which contaminate it. If you have something that’s unpure and you want to make it 100% pure, there must be a process to remove the impurities to make it pure. You and I are like a diamond in the rough that needs refining because all have contaminated ourselves with sin – Romans 3:23. If you’re lost and defiled by sin or have fallen from God’s grace, you need to be purified by obeying the truth of the Word of God – 1 Peter 1:22-23.
- When you obey the gospel of Jesus Christ, you are sanctified & holy. You have been separated or set apart from the world and evil and consecrated to God for His purpose. In John 17:17, Jesus teaches us we’re sanctified through the truth of the Word of God.
Saints Must be Pure, Without Spot or Wrinkle, Shining as Lights in the World
- To free yourselves from the pollutants of sin and to be pure, without spot or wrinkle, Jesus died, was buried, and was resurrected for the forgiveness of your sins – John 3:16; John 3:36. This started the refining process, but you must be willing to complete the process by taking heed to God’s Word to be cleansed, and made pure – Psalm 119:9-11.
- The challenge for Christians is to live a pure life, while we are being surrounded by individuals that love evil – 3 John 11. This is why we need to increase teaching and practicing Christian morality. In James 1:27, we are admonished to visit those that do not have fathers and widows, and make sure we are unspotted from the world. In Philippians 2:12-15, we are reminded to work out your own salvation that we might be pure, shining as lights.
- Did you know that if you want to see God, you must have a pure heart? In Matthew 5:8, Jesus teaches the pure in heart shall see God. This is why we need to think and mediate on holy things that we might be about doing the holy things of God – Philippians 4:8.
God has Called You to be Holy Because He is Holy
- In 1 Peter 1:13-16, Peter exhorts the dispersed Christians to be holy. However, many people may perceive in their heart that it’s impossible to be holy.
- Holiness is not dependant upon being morally perfect. Being holy or sanctified is based on your obedience to God to be saved and to be set apart or separated from the world, to be consecrated or dedicated to God for His purpose – 2 Timothy 2:20-21.
- Being holy means being separated from evil. A Christian cannot be holy or sanctified if they’re trying to blend in with being politically correct or in that gray area. A line has to be drawn. You must stand with God for the truth – 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, the Bible describes Christian’s as the temple of God which is holy. Did you know, Christian’s are to give their lives as a sacrifice to God which is to be holy – Romans 12:1.
- Taking time to be holy will make your life better (Husbands, Wives, employee’s and employer’s) – Colossians 3:18-25. In conclusion, God is holy ( 1 Peter 1:16); God’s son Jesus is holy (Mark 1:24); God’s Spirit is holy (John 14:26); When Jesus comes back, will you be found holy in Christ?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
It’s a Crazy World
Some time ago I read a story in the Columbus Dispatch about a child-custody case in which the parents were in disagreement over their daughter’s education. The mother was insisting on home-schooling her daughter, and the father was just as insistent that the child attend public schools. My interest in the story had nothing to do with the pros and cons of home-schooling. What caught my attention was the reason the mother gave for wanting to home-school her daughter. She said, “I believe when you teach your children, you teach from the Bible.”
Claiming to be a Christian
Again, I have no quarrel with the home-school movement, nor do I have a problem with our local public school system. I feel my children received a good education in our public schools. But, as parents, we also played a significant role in their education. So, what’s the point? It seems this girl’s parents were never married. They have lived together for the past four years. The child was the result of that relationship. Still, the woman claimed to be a devout Christian.
While living an immoral life
I realize that many in our society see nothing wrong with two people living together outside of wedlock and conceiving a child in that environment, but the Bible does not condone it. It is sin. And, someone living in open sin cannot be called a “devout Christian.” Granted, I don’t know the whole story, only what I read in the paper. It is possible that this woman just acquired her faith, and as a result, kicked the father out of the house because he would not do the right thing and marry her.
Christians are called to live godly lives
At any rate, living together outside of marriage, and conceiving a child in that sinful relationship is not right. Devout Christians do not live that way, and they do not defend those who do. Christians are called to live godly lives. And, although we are not perfect, we certainly do not live in open sin while professing a devout faith. We are called to live a different life. Paul wrote to Titus that “the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world” (Titus 2:11-12). Anything less is not devout Christianity but blatant hypocrisy. Though the world seems not to know it, Christianity demands a holy life! In our crazy world, this truth has been forgotten!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Galatians 05:05 Eagerly Awaiting Our Hope
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Text: Galatians 5:5
Introduction
1. A few questions to stimulate your thinking
a. What is your hope as a Christian?
b. How strong is that hope?
c. Can you say that you are eagerly awaiting your hope?
2. Much of the joy of being a Christian is related to our hope
a. How real that hope is to us
b. How eager we are to one day realize that hope
c. How it enables us to serve the Lord with joy and patience
3. Paul writes concerning his hope – Galatians 5:5
a. What he was waiting for
b. How he was eagerly waiting for it
4. From his words in this verse and elsewhere we can glean truths that can make a great difference in our attitude and service as Christians.
Body
I. WHAT WE ARE TO EAGERLY WAIT FOR
A. THE HOPE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
1. The hope of justification
a. Paul had been writing about justification – Galatians 5:4
b. Justification and righteousness come from the same Greek word
c. Thus Paul is talking about the hope of being made right, not guilty of sin
2. They had no other hope of justification than by faith in the Redeemer
a. This was Paul’s hope expressed to the Philippians – Philippians 3:9
b. A hope that sustained him in his last days, his darkest hours – 2 Timothy 4:8
3. We are to have a strong desire plus expectation (the meaning of hope) regarding our standing before the Lord guiltless of sin
B. THE SAVIOR FROM HEAVEN
1. The Corinthians were eagerly waiting for the revelation of Jesus – 1 Corinthians 1:7
2. Paul also was eagerly waiting for Jesus from heaven – Philippians 3:20
3. For those who so eagerly await Him, Jesus will bring salvation – Hebrews 9:28
4. We are to eagerly await the coming of the Lord, for He will bring the righteousness (justification) we hope for!
C. THE REDEMPTION OF OUR Body
1. Paul also wrote of eagerly awaiting the redemption of our bodies – Romans 8:23
2. This pertains to the hope of the resurrection – Acts 23:6; 24:15
3. In which our mortal bodies will be raised and put on immortality – 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, 48-54
4. Made possible by the coming and power of our Lord Jesus Christ! – Philippians 3:20-21
5. We are to eagerly await that glorious transformation in which our bodies as well as our souls will be redeemed by the Lord!
D. Such are the things we are to hope for and await eagerly: Our justification from sin, our Savior from heaven, our resurrection from the dead!
II. HOW WE CAN EAGERLY WAIT FOR IT
A. BY FAITH
1. This is our part
a. We are to have faith – ESV “For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait…” – Galatians 5:5 ESV
b. Faith in Christ and His sacrifice, faith in His coming
2. A faith that is Bible-based
a. A strong conviction in things unseen; in particular, Jesus – Hebrews 11:1; John 3:36
b. Which comes through the Word of God-Rom 10:17;John 20:30-31
c. Which gives us hope, like a light shining in darkness – Romans 15:4; 2 Peter 1:19
3. The eagerness with which we wait is proportional to the degree of faith we have
B. THROUGH THE SPIRIT
1. This is God’s part
a. Strengthened by the Spirit we wait for the fulfillment of the hope which righteousness by faith instead of the law insures to us.
b. Paul wrote of God helping us to abound in hope via His Spirit – Romans 15:13
2. We receive the Spirit’s aid as we:
a. Walk in the Spirit – Galatians 5:16
b. Set our minds on the things of the Spirit (i.e., the Word) – Romans 8:5-6
c. Ask God for strength by His Spirit (via prayer) – Ephesians 3:16,21
3. The eagerness with which we wait is proportional to the strength we receive from the Spirit
Conclusion
1. What is your hope (desire plus expectation) as a Christian? It should include
a. The hope of righteousness (justification)
b. The Savior’s revelation from heaven
c. The glorious resurrection from the dead
2. How strong is your hope? It all depends
a. Are you growing in faith (through the Word)?
b. Are you being strengthened by the Spirit (through prayer)?
3. If so, then we will eagerly await that for which we both desire and expect to see…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Galatians 05:01 Standing Fast in the Liberty of Christ
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Text: Galatians 5:1
Introduction
1. Galatians has been called “The Magna Carta Of Christian Liberty”; ‘Magna Carta’ refers to the royal charter of political rights given to rebellious English barons by King John in 1215
2. The reason it has been so called is because of Paul’s discussion regarding ‘bondage’
a. In connection with the meeting in Jerusalem – Galatians 2:4-5
b. In arguing that we are justified by faith in Christ, not works of the Law – Galatians 4:3-5, 9, 24-25
c. With his climax found in the text for our study today – Galatians 5:1
3. The liberty we have in Christ is indeed precious, and it is imperative that we stand fast in it. Yet exactly what does that liberty entail…?
Body
I. THE LIBERTY WE HAVE IN CHRIST
A. FREEDOM FROM THE LAW OF MOSES
1. This is Paul’s primary concern in this epistle – Galatians 2:16
2. Upon which he expounded in the first four chapters – Galatians 3:23-25
3. Concerning which he wrote elsewhere – Romans 7:4-6
4. Christ has delivered the Jews from their obligation to keep the Law of Moses
B. FREEDOM FROM THE BONDAGE OF SIN
1. Writing of being “justified”, Paul refers to being “not guilty” of sin – Galatians 2:16-17
2. Concerning which he wrote elsewhere – Romans 8:1-2
3. Jesus also spoke of the deliverance from bondage of sin – John 8:31-34
4. Christ has delivered all men from the guilt and power of sin
C. FREEDOM FROM THE TRADITIONS OF MEN
1. Paul wrote of this in chapter four – Galatians 4:9-11
2. Also in his writing to the Colossians – Colossians 2:20-23
3. Jesus also spoke of the danger of human traditions – Matthew 15:3-9
4. Christ has delivered us from the need to keep human traditions
D. FREEDOM FROM WORKS OF THE FLESH
1. Paul will have much more to say about the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:13, 17, 19-21; 6:8
2. As he warned against in writing to the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
3. About which Jesus also warned – Mark 7:20-23
4. Christ offers deliverance from deeds of the flesh which endanger our salvation
E. Such are the things we experience through the liberty that we have in Christ. Of course, that presumes that we are indeed
II. STANDING FAST IN OUR LIBERTY
A. HANDLE THE LAW PROPERLY
1. The Law is good if used properly – 1 Timothy 1:8; 2 Timothy 2:15
2. It was written for our learning and admonition – Romans 15:4
3. It is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, instruction in righteousness – 2 Timothy 3:14-17
4. But it has its limitations
a. It has ceased as a system of justification – cf. Galatians 5:4
b. It has been replaced as a covenant – Hebrews 8:6-13
c. Its religious observances have been replaced – Hebrews 9:9-10
5. The Law must be properly handled if we are to preserve our liberty in Christ
B. APPLY OUR BLESSINGS IN CHRIST LIBERALLY
1. The blood of Christ frees us from the guilt of sin – Ephesians 1:4
a. The remission of sins is promised to those who repent and are baptized – Acts 2:38
b. The blood of Christ remains available for Christians who repent of sin – 1 John 1:7-10
c. Christians need to repent and pray when they sin – Acts 8:22
2. The Spirit of God can free us from the power of sin – Romans 8:12-13
a. God can strengthen us by His Spirit in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16
b. We can do all things through God and Christ – Philippians 4:13
3. We must not hesitate to access the blood of Christ and the Spirit of God to make use of our liberty in Christ
C. DEAL WITH TRADITIONS OF MEN CAUTIOUSLY
1. Traditions may have a place on an individual level – Romans 14:5-6
a. When not taught as a doctrine of God – Mark 7:7
b. When not done instead of keeping a command of God – Mark 7:8-9
2. But they must handled with the utmost of caution on a congregational level
a. Things done on a congregational level necessarily bind them upon all the members
b. That is why religious holidays are reasons for such grave concern – Galatians 4:10-11
3. We must be careful not to let human traditions destroy our liberty in Christ
D. FOLLOW THE SPIRIT DILIGENTLY
1. We must not use our liberty as an occasion for the flesh – Galatians 5:13
2. Our best weapon against the flesh is to follow the Spirit – Galatians 5:16-18
3. Those who are led by the Spirit will produce the fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23
4. Our new life in Christ makes it possible to walk in the Spirit – Galatians 5:25
5. We must be diligent to set our minds on the things of the Spirit if we want to enjoy life and peace – Romans 8:5-6
Conclusion
1. The liberty we enjoy in Christ is great
a. Freedom from the law of Moses
b. Freedom from the bondage of sin
c. Freedom from the traditions of men
d. Freedom from the works of the flesh
2. But it is not license to do whatever we want; we must
a. Handle the Law properly
b. Apply our blessings in Christ liberally
c. Deal with traditions of men cautiously
d. Follow the Spirit diligently
3. With the aid of Paul’s epistle to the Galatians, we will succeed in “Standing Fast In The Liberty Of Christ”. Have you begun to enjoy the liberty Christ offers through obedience to the gospel…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Galatians 02:20-21 The Life Which I Now Live
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Text: Galatians 2:20-21
Introduction
1. Much that we know of the Christian life is dependent upon the apostle Paul
a. Who wrote half the books of the New Testament?
b. His conduct and attitudes are set before us as an example – 1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17
c. But what principles governed Paul’s life as a Christian?
2. In our text we find Paul expressing some of the principles – Galatians 2:20-21
a. That guided his life as a disciple of Christ
b. As he speaks of “the life which I now live in the flesh”
3. What kind of life was that? Are we governed by the same principles?
4. Notice first of all that Paul says his life which he lived in the flesh was
Body
I. A LIFE CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST (Galatians 2:20a)
A. HOW IS “CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST” POSSIBLE…?
1. We can’t go back in time and join Christ on the cross!
2. But we can be united with Christ in His death when we are baptized! – Romans 6:3-8
3. Note that baptism into Christ is
a. A baptism into His death – Romans 6:3-4
b. Being united together in the likeness of His death – Romans 6:5
c. Crucifying our old man with Christ – Romans 6:6
d. Dying together with Christ – Romans 6:8
4. If we have been baptized into Christ, we can say together with Paul: “I have been crucified with Christ”
B. WHAT DOES “CRUCIFIED WITH CHRIST” MEAN…?
1. For some it means a death “to the Law” – Galatians 2:19
a. Paul wrote of himself as a Jew who was at one time under the Law of Moses
b. Those who have been crucified with Christ have died to the Law – Romans 7:1-6
2. For all it means a death “to self” – Galatians 2:20
a. “It is no longer I who live”
b. As Jesus taught, we must be willing to deny self to follow Him – Luke 9:23-24
3. For all it means we have crucified “the flesh” – Galatians 5:24
a. Which occurred in principle at our baptism – Romans 6:6, 11-14
b. Which occurs in practice as we continue to “put to death” the deeds of the body – Romans 8:12-13; Colossians 3:5- 9
4. For all it means we have been crucified “to the world” – Galatians 6:14
a. Before our obedience to Christ, we were in bondage to the rudiments of the world – Galatians 4:3, 9
b. But now, Christ is our rule and authority in life – Colossians 2:8-10, 20-22; 3:17
5. Any external (Law, world) or internal (self, flesh) controls have now surrendered to the authority of Christ
6. One who has been baptized into Christ and is letting Jesus be his or her authority in all things is living a “life crucified with Christ”. But note that Paul also wrote “the life which I now live” is:
II. A LIFE IN WHICH CHRIST LIVES IN ME (Galatians 2:20b)
A. HOW DOES CHRIST LIVE IN ME…?
1. It is like electricity
a. I may not comprehend how it works
b. But I know how to get it working!
2. We are taught how to make sure that He will abide in us
a. By Jesus Himself – John 14:21-23; 15:9-10
b. By His beloved disciple John – 1 John 3:24
3. As we keep the commandments of Christ, we are assured that He lives in us!
B. WHAT BENEFITS COME FROM CHRIST LIVING IN US…?
1. The wonderful love of the Father and the Son – John 14:21
2. There is fullness of joy – John 15:11
3. There is peace, even in the midst of tribulation – John 16:33
4. There is the hope of being with Jesus and beholding His glory – John 17:24
5. These are just a few of the many blessings of a life in which Christ lives in us!
III. A LIFE LIVING BY FAITH IN CHRIST (Galatians 2:20c)
A. WHAT IS LIVING BY FAITH IN CHRIST…?
1. The word ‘faith’ implies trust
2. Living by faith in Christ means constantly trusting in Jesus
a. E.g., for the forgiveness of our sins
1) Trusting in His blood to cleanse us from our sins – 1 John 1:7, 9
2) Trusting in Him as our Advocate – 1 John 2:1
3) Trusting in Him as our Propitiation – 1 John 2:4
b. E.g., that His words will provide a solid foundation for our lives – Mathew 7:24-25
c. E.g., that He will never forsake us – Mathew 28:20
3. Trusting in Jesus, not in self, not in the Law, not in the world!
B. WHY SHOULD WE SO TRUST JESUS…?
1. Because He loves us! – cf. Galatians 2:20
2. Because He gave Himself for us! – Galatians 2:20
3. Shall He not do more if we continue to trust Him? – Romans 8:34-39
4. Such love naturally compels one to live a life of faith in Him – 2 Corinthians 5:14-15
5. Does such love should compel us to trust in Jesus, living by faith in Him?
IV. A LIFE WHICH DOES NOT SET ASIDE GOD’S GRACE (Galatians 2:21)
A. WE MUST DILIGENTLY KEEP JESUS’ COMMANDMENTS
1. As a true indication of our love for Him – John 14:15
2. As a true indication that we really know Him – 1 John 2:3
3. One cannot ignore the commandments of the Lord
B. YET WITHOUT GOD’S GRACE, ALL IS VAIN
1. We cannot nor dare not try to earn or merit our salvation – Titus 3:4-5; Ephesians 2:8-9
2. After all is said and done, we are still unworthy servants – Luke 17:10
3. If not for the grace of God:
a. Our faith would be useless
b. Our repentance would meaningless
c. Our baptism would be fruitless
d. Our salvation would be impossible!
4. And so, from beginning to end
a. We must look to God and the Word of His grace
b. We must trust in His mercy offered through Jesus
c. We are totally dependent upon Jesus and His death on the cross for any degree of true righteousness
5. If we think we have earned or merited salvation on our own, Christ died in vain!
Conclusion
1. Such was the life Paul lived in the flesh
a. A life crucified with Christ
b. A life in which Christ lived in Him
c. A life living by faith in Christ
d. A life that did not set aside the grace of God
2. Can the same be said of us…?
a. Have we been crucified with Christ (in baptism)?
b. Is Christ living in us (manifested by keeping His commandments)?
c. Are you living by faith in Christ (trusting His blood, His Word)?
d. Are you always trusting in the grace of God (not your own goodness or obedience)?
3. May the words of Paul move us to live the kind of lives becoming of those who call themselves Christians!
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.” – Galatians 2:20-21
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Examples Worth Following
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Introduction
1. The Bible speaks of examples…
a. Imitating those who are good examples – cf. 1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17; Hebrews 13:7
b. Being a good example to others – cf. 1 Timothy 4:12
2. Such scriptures should cause one to wonder…
a. Who is my example, my role model as a Christian?
b. Whose example am I as a Christian?
c. What kind of example do I set as a Christian?
Body
I. WHO IS YOUR EXAMPLE?
A. IS IT THE LORD JESUS CHRIST…?
1. He was for the apostle Paul – 1 Corinthians 11:1
2. He should be our example as well
a. On how to please one another – Romans 15:1-3
b. On how to love one another – Ephesians 5:1-2
c. On how to look out for one another – Philippians 2:4-5
d. On how to suffer patiently when mistreated – 1 Peter 2:20-23
— Jesus certainly serves as our prime example
B. IS IT THE APOSTLE PAUL…?
1. As he urged the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 4:6; 11:1
a. To give no offense – 1 Corinthians 10:32
b. To seek the benefit of others – 1 Corinthians 10:33
2. As he urged the Philippians – Philippians 3:17
a. To not consider themselves as having attained perfection – Philippians 3:12a
b. To press on to maturity – Philippians 3:12b-15
c. To live according to the level they have learned – Philippians 3:16
d. To enjoy a close relationship with the God of peace – Philippians 4:9
3. As he praised and encouraged the Thessalonians
a. For receiving the Word despite affliction – 1 Thessalonians 1:6
b. To avoid being a burden to others – 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10
— Paul and other New Testament Christians provide wonderful examples
C. IS IT OTHER FAITHFUL CHRISTIANS…?
1. As Paul exhorted the Philippians – Philippians 3:17
a. To note those walking like Paul
b. To consider them a pattern to follow
2. As exhorted by the writer to the Hebrews
a. To imitate the faith and patience of those who inherit the promises – Hebrews 6:12
b. To follow the faith of those who rule over us – Hebrews 13:7
— Many Christians today provide examples worthy of emulation
II. WHOSE EXAMPLE ARE YOU?
A. IS IT NOT OTHER CHRISTIANS…?
1. Your brothers and sisters in the Lord?
2. Especially those who are babes in Christ?
3. But even older Christians?
— Christians should be mindful of their example on one another – 1 Thessalonians 1:7; 1 Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:7
B. IS IT NOT YOUNG CHILDREN…?
1. Who naturally look up to their parents?
2. Who are also influenced by others?
a. Adults like their parents
b. Older children as well
— Christians should be mindful of their example upon the young – Matthew 18:6
C. IS IT NOT UNBELIEVERS…?
1. Who see if we “walk the talk”?
2. Who often gauge the value of following Christ by our example?
3. Who judge the church by its members?
— Christians should be mindful of their example seen by the world – 1 Peter 2:12
[Whether we want to be or not, we are examples to others, especially the young in years and young in faith. So let me ask…]
III. WHAT KIND OF EXAMPLE ARE YOU?
A. IS IT INDICATIVE OF A FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN…?
1. Showing the world what it means to be a Christian?
2. Showing babes in Christ what maturity means as a disciple?
— Is your example helping or hindering discipleship in others?
B. IS IT CONDUCIVE TO CHURCH GROWTH…?
1. Offering a noble pattern of faithful church attendance?
2. Setting a good example of developing one’s abilities for Christ?
3. Providing a worthy model of involvement in service to the Lord and His Church?
— Is your example helping or hindering the progress of the church?
C. IS IT WORTHY OF EMULATION…?
1. Would you want a child or new Christian to follow your example?
2. If every member provided the same example as you…
a. Would the church be strong?
b. Would the church be growing?
c. Would the church have service on Sunday and Wednesday nights?
d. Would the church even exist?
— Is your example helping or hindering the cause of Christ?
Conclusion
1. I hope this questions have prompted serious introspection on your part…
a. As to who is your example or role model as a Christian
b. As to the sort of example or role model you are setting for others
2. Though written to a young preacher, I encourage you to apply Paul’s words to yourself…
a. Be an example to the believers – 1 Timothy 4:12a
b. Be an example in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity – 1 Timothy 4:12b
3. You cannot escape being an example to others.
a. Your only choice is what kind of example you will be.
b. Will you be one of the many “Examples Worth Following”…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Faith within the Family
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Introduction
1. As Christians, we are privileged to be members of God’s family…
a. With God as our Father in heaven
b. With Christ as our Elder Brother
c. With many fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters – cf. Mark 10:29-30
2. Even so, we also have duties as members of our human families…
a. As husbands and wives
b. As parents and children
c. As married and single
[What impact should our faith as Christians have on our physical families? What are our responsibilities as Christians who are blessed with familial relationships? Consider first…]
Body
I. THE CHRISTIAN AS HUSBAND AND FATHER
A. DUTIES OF THE HUSBAND…
1. Husbands are to love their wives – Ephesians 5:25-29
a. As Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her
b. As their own bodies, nourishing and cherishing them
2. Husbands are to leave mother and father – Ephesians 5:31
a. Leaving parents to be joined to one’s wife
b. The husband therefore gives his wife priority over his parents
3. Husbands are not to be bitter toward their wives – Colossians 3:19
a. “do not be harsh with them” – Colossians 3:19 ESV
b. “never treat them harshly” – Colossians 3:19 NRSV
4. Husbands are to be understanding and give honor to their wives – 1 Peter 3:7
a. Understanding their delicate nature
b. Honoring them as heirs together of the grace of life
B. DUTIES OF THE FATHER…
1. To provide the necessities of life – 2 Corinthians 12:14; 1 Timothy 5:8
a. Parents ought to provide for their children
b. A man who fails to do so is worse than an infidel
2. Not to provoke the children to wrath – Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21
a. That is, by unreasonable commands; by needless severity; by the manifestation of anger
b. Lest, by your continually finding fault with them, they should lose all courage, and despair of ever pleasing you
3. To provide for spiritual training of the children – Ephesians 6:4
a. Bringing them up in the training (discipline, Ephesians 6:4 ESV) of the Lord
b. Bringing them up in the admonition (instruction, Ephesians 6:4 ESV) of the Lord
4. To provide loving discipline as necessary – Hebrews 12:6-11; Proverbs 13:24
a. Even as our Heavenly Father disciplines His children
b. Though it may be unpleasant at the moment
[Such are familial responsibilities of Christian men as husbands and fathers. Now let’s consider…]
II. THE CHRISTIAN AS WIFE AND MOTHER
A. DUTIES OF THE WIFE…
1. Wives are to submit to their husbands – Ephesians 5:22-24; Colossians 3:18; 1 Peter 3:1-2
a. As to the Lord, as is fitting in the Lord
b. In everything, as the church is subject to Christ
2. Wives are to respect and love their husbands – Ephesians 5:33; Titus 2:4
a. Not just to submit, but to do so with respect and love for their husbands
b. Which older women should teach the younger women
B. DUTIES OF THE MOTHER…
1. To love their children – Titus 2:4
a. Which ought to be natural
b. Yet sin can lead to a lack of proper affection – cf. Romans 1:31
2. To manage the household – Titus 2:5; 1 Timothy 5:14
a. The primary responsibility of the wife and mother
b. Though a woman may also engage in activities outside the home – cf. Proverbs 31:10-31
3. To provide spiritual training when male leadership is lacking – 2 Timothy 1:5; cf. Acts 16:1
a. Timothy’s mother and grandmother were believers
b. Evidently his father was not, which is too often the case today
[Such are the duties of Christian women as wives and mothers. Next let’s take a look at…]
III. THE CHRISTIAN AS CHILD AND SINGLE
A. DUTIES OF CHILDREN…
1. To obey their parents – Ephesians 6:1; Colossians 3:20
a. In the Lord, for this is right
b. In all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord
2. To honor their parents – Ephesians 6:2-3
a. The first commandment with promise – cf. Exodus 20:12
b. By providing for their welfare in later years – cf. 1 Timothy 5:4, 8, 16
B. DUTIES OF THE SINGLE CHRISTIAN…
1. To utilize the advantage of being single – 1 Corinthians 7:32-35
a. Use your freedom to increase your service to God
b. Don’t be selfish with the extra time and freedom you have
c. Don’t begrudge others who may not do as much as you because of their other responsibilities (e.g., children, spouse)
2. To watch out for the dangers of being single – cf. Ecclesiastes 4:9-11
a. Temptation – make an effort to develop a close relationship with the Lord
b. Loneliness – accept invitations to be with others, initiate opportunities to be with others
c. Self-centeredness – offer yourself in service to others; be flexible
3. To remember that you are in the family of God – Mark 10:29-30
a. You have many mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children
b. Make the effort to develop and utilize these relationships
[Finally, some remarks regarding discipleship as it relates to our familial relationships…]
IV. THE CHRISTIAN AS DISCIPLE
A. PUTTING THE LORD BEFORE THE FAMILY…
1. Of course, we are to love our parents, spouses and children
2. Yet our love for the Lord must come first – Matthew 10:34-37; 12: 46-50
a. Otherwise we are not worthy to be called His disciple
b. Only then will Jesus view us as members of His family
3. By putting God and His kingdom first, our families will benefit more – cf. Matthew 6:33
a. God’s providence will help provide for our families’ needs
b. We will also be better parents, spouses and children by following Jesus
B. PRESENTING THE LORD TO THE FAMILY…
1. By way of example – cf. 1 Peter 3:1-2
a. So wives were to influence their unbelieving husbands
b. So we can influence other unbelieving members of the family
2. By way of instruction – cf. Ephesians 6:4
a. So fathers were to instruct their children
b. So we can teach other members of the family
Conclusion
1. The nuclear family is a wonderful blessing, intended by God to consist of…
a. Husbands and wives who love and respect one another
b. Parents who love and discipline their children
c. Children who honor and obey their parents
2. As Christians, our familial duties are clear…
a. Whether as husbands or wives
b. Whether as parents or children
c. Whether as married or single
3. May our faith in Christ lead us to be the best spouses and parents, the best children and singles, we can possibly be
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Faith within the Community
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Introduction
1. As Christians, we are but pilgrims and sojourners in this world…
a. We have duties regarding our spiritual growth and development – 1 Peter 2:11
b. Yet we also have a duty toward those who are still of this world – 1 Peter 2:12
2. One arena where we fulfill our duty to those in the world is “the community”…
a. The cities and neighborhoods in which we live
b. Relationships we maintain with our neighbors and fellow citizens
3. What impact should our faith have as members of the community…?
a. What effect should it have on us as neighbors and citizens?
b. How can our communities become a place to evangelize the lost?
4. Paul gave general instructions concerning Christians living in this world – 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
a. To lead a quiet life
b. To mind our own business
c. To work with our own hands
d. To walk properly toward those who are outside
Body
I. THE CHRISTIAN AS NEIGHBOR
A. TO ASSOCIATE WITH OTHERS…
1. True, we are to be separate – cf. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18
2. But we must not confuse separation with isolation – 1 Corinthians 5:9-13
3. Jesus provides the example – cf. Mark 2:14-17
B. TO LIVE IN PEACE…
1. As much as it depends on us – cf. Romans 12:17-21
2. Careful to give no offense if possible – cf. 1 Corinthians 10:32-33
C. TO WALK IN LOVE AND WISDOM…
1. We owe it to our neighbors to love them – cf. Romans 13:8-10
2. Showing kindness through hospitality – Romans 12:13; 1 Timothy 3:2; 5:10
3. Making good use of our time – cf. Colossians 4:5
4. Speaking with truth and grace – cf. Colossians 4:6; Ephesians 4:25, 29
D. TO DO GOOD…
1. Diligent in doing good works – cf. Matthew 5:16; Luke 6:35; Galatians 6:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Timothy 6:17-18; Titus 3:8 1 Peter 2:12
2. Displaying honorable conduct – cf. 1 Peter 2:12; 2 Corinthians 8:21
3. Earning a good testimony from those outside – 1 Timothy 3:7; Acts 22:12
II. THE CHRISTIAN AS CITIZEN
A. OBEY THOSE IN AUTHORITY…
1. To be subject to rulers authorities – cf. Titus 3:1; Romans 13:1-5
2. To obey their laws, unless they conflict with God’s law – 1 Peter 2:13-16; Ac 5:27-29
B. GIVE HONOR AND PAY TAXES…
1. Honor all, including those in government – cf. 1 Peter 2:17
2. Pay taxes and customs, rendering fear (respect) and honor – Romans 13:6-7
C. PRAY FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY…
1. For kings and all who are in authority – cf. 1 Timothy 2:1-2
2. That we might lead quiet and peaceable lives in all godliness and reverence – cf. 1 Timothy 2:2-3
D. Christians are a valuable asset for any country in which they live. Not only by their lawful obedience and prayers for those in authority, but by sharing the good news of God’s love – 1 Timothy 2:4-6
III. THE CHRISTIAN AS EVANGELIST
A. HOLDING FAST THE WORD OF LIFE…
1. We are to shine as lights in the world – cf. Philippians 2:14-15
2. Holding fast the Word of life – cf. Philippians 2:16
a. Some translations say “holding forth” (KJV, ASV) or “hold out” (NIV)
b. Certainly a duty expressed elsewhere – Mark 16:15; 1 Peter 2:9
3. In our communities, we have a duty to spread the Word!
B. INFLUENCING PEOPLE BY EXAMPLE…
1. Sometimes people won’t listen to our message
2. But we can still influence them for good by our example – 1 Peter 3:1-2
3. In our communities, we have a duty to confirm the Word by our lives!
Conclusion
1. Living in our community is a wonderful opportunity…
a. To be a positive influence on our friends and neighbors
b. To be a blessing for whatever country in which we find ourselves
2. Let your faith in the community be an opportunity…
a. To demonstrate the value of a vibrant faith in Christ!
b. To reach others for Jesus Christ through the gospel!
3. What kind of neighbors and citizens are we? Do we encourage others to glorify God…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Romans 12:05 Blest be the Tie
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Text: Romans 12:5
Introduction
1. A wonderful blessing we enjoy in Christ is fellowship with other Christians…
a. We are members of one another – Romans 12:5
b. Thus we have a special bond or tie that binds us together
2. A simple yet beautiful song that describes this bond is “Blest Be The Tie”…
a. Words written by John Fawcett in 1782
b. Melody by Johann Georg Nageli, arranged by Lowell Mason in 1845
Body
I. FIRST VERSE
A. “BLEST BE THE TIE THAT BINDS OUR HEARTS IN CHRISTIAN LOVE”…
1. Consider first what the tie that binds or members one of another is not
a. It is not an earthly tie, such as:
1) Friendship
2) Marriage
3) Family
— All of which are either social or physical ties
b. It is not broken like earthly ties, such as through:
1) Separation
2) Incompatibility (e.g., the apostles were a diverse group)
3) Death
2. Consider then what the tie that binds is
a. Love, not easily broken – Colossians 3:14
b. Love, that comes from the God of love – 1 John 4:7-11
c. Love, learned from the example of Christ – 1 John 3:16
d. Love, serving as a mark of true discipleship – John 13:34-35
— The tie involves love that is uniquely Christian; patterned after Christ’s love
B. “THE FELLOWSHIP OF KINDRED MINDS IS LIKE TO THAT ABOVE”…
1. This tie involves a unity for which Jesus prayed – John 17:20-23
2. It involves a unity of mind for which Paul prayed – Philippians 2:2 fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
3. Therefore any threat to this unity is strongly condemned – 1 Corinthians 1:10
— The tie seeks to emulate the unity between the Father and the Son
[The tie that binds is based upon the love and unity which Christ makes possible; how it is manifested is illustrated in the remaining verses of the song…]
II. SECOND VERSE
A. “BEFORE OUR FATHER’S THRONE WE POUR OUR ARDENT PRAYERS”…
1. We are blessed to be able to approach God in prayer
a. A privilege enjoyed in Christ – Hebrews 4:14-16a
b. A privilege with great blessings – Hebrews 4:16b
2. This song depicts frequent and fervent prayer
a. Praying for one another – James 5:16
b. Praying with another – Acts 1:14; 2:42; 12:12; 21:5
— Such prayer is a benefit of the tie that binds, and also strengthens that tie
B. “OUR FEARS, OUR HOPES, OUR AIMS ARE ONE, OUR COMFORTS AND OUR CARES”…
1. We have similar concerns and desires
a. Some because we are simply fellow humans in this world
1) We desire to be healthy, we fear sickness and dying
2) We enjoy comforts of life, we fear joblessness and poverty
b. Others because we are fellow citizens of the kingdom
1) We share the hope of the resurrection and eternal life – 1 Peter 1:3
2) We share in the struggles against temptation and persecution – 1 Peter 5:8-9
2. As Christians, therefore, we can have more in common
a. Not just because of our human nature
b. But also because we are partakers of divine nature
1) Grace and peace are multiplied – 2 Peter 1:2-3
2) We have exceedingly great and precious promises – 2 Peter 1:4
— Our shared experiences, enhanced by our spiritual blessings, strengthen our tie
[The next verse focuses on mutual problems we sometimes face…]
III. THIRD VERSE
A. “WE SHARE OUR MUTUAL WOES, OUR MUTUAL BURDENS BEAR”…
1. As Christians, we are to bear one another’s burdens – Galatians 6:1-2
2. In times of spiritual weakness, we are to pray for one another – James 5:16
3. In times of physical need, we are to provide for one another – James 1:27
— Manifested in such ways, the tie we have in Christ is truly a blessing
B. “AND OFTEN FOR EACH OTHER FLOWS THE SYMPATHIZING TEAR”…
1. Because that is how God composed the body of Christ! – 1 Corinthians 12:24b-26
2. That we might weep with those who weep – Romans 12:15
— An emotional but effective demonstration of the bond we share
[The final verse describes the impact of the tie that binds, when it becomes time to separate, even temporarily…]
IV. FOURTH VERSE
A. “WHEN WE ASUNDER PART, IT GIVES US INWARD PAIN”…
1. The tie is such that departure can be painful
2. Note the example of Paul and the Ephesian elders – Acts 20:36-38
— Never experience such pain? Perhaps one might need to examine their tie
B. “BUT WE SHALL BE JOINED IN HEART AND HOPE TO MEET AGAIN”…
1. We might be separated in the flesh, but can remain together in spirit – Colossians 2:5
2. We are comforted by a wonderful hope
a. The hope of the resurrection – 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
b. Made possible by the resurrection of Christ, and our faith in Him – 1 Peter 1:3-5
— It is this hope which keeps our hearts joined together, when all other bonds fail
Conclusion
1. “Blest Be The Tie” is a beautiful song…
a. That describes the blessings of our oneness in Christ
b. That expresses how many Christians truly feel for one another
2. But it describes blessings known only by those…
a. Who have been added by Christ to His church – Acts 2:41, 47
b. Who are diligent in preserving the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace
“I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:1-3
3. Have you been added to the Lord’s church through obedience to the gospel (cf. Acts 2:38)?
4. Are you doing your part to strengthen the tie that binds those in Christ?
“so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” – Romans 12:5
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 02:11-12 Faith in the Workplace
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Text: 1 Peter 2:11-12
Introduction
1. As Christians, we are but pilgrims and sojourners in this world
a. We have duties regarding our spiritual growth and development – 1 Peter 2:11
b. Yet we also have a duty toward those who are still of this world – 1 Peter 2:12
2. One arena where we fulfill our duty to those in the world is the work place
a. Places of employment where we work
b. Relationships we maintain with those with whom we work
3. What impact should our faith have as members of the workforce?
a. What effect should it have on us as laborers or managers?
b. Should the workplace become a place to evangelize the lost?
4. In 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12, Paul gave general instructions concerning Christians living in this world
a. To lead a quiet life
b. To mind our own business
c. To work with our own hands
d. To walk properly toward those who are outside
Body
I. The Christian as a laborer
A. Scriptural passages for laborers
1. From the epistles of Paul – Ephesians 6:5-8; Colossians 3:22-25; 1 Timothy 6:1-3; Titus 2:9-10
2. From the epistle of Peter – 1 Peter 2:18-20
3. Instructions to servants can be easily applied by Christian laborers today
B. Scriptural guidelines for laborers
1. Obey those who are over you (unless they ask you to do that which is unethical or illegal)
2. Work with proper respect and good will toward your boss
3. Labor sincerely and heartily, as to the Lord and not to men
4. Do not work only when the boss is watching, or just to please those over you
5. Demonstrate that you can be trusted with responsibility
6. Offer such service, not just to good employers, but even to those who are unfair
7. In so doing, you are adorning the doctrine of God our Savior!
8. Proverbs 12:24; 22:29 and other passages are also helpfully in understanding God’s will for laborers. Those who follow theses guidelines will be pleasing to ‘God likely very successful in their work
II. The Christian as manager
A. Scriptural passages for managers
1. From the epistles of Paul – Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 4:1
2. From the Old Testament – Deuteronomy 24:14-15; Proverbs 22:16; Jeremiah 22:13-17; Malachi 3:5
3. From both Testaments there are principles to guide the Christian manager
B. Scriptural guidelines for managers.
1. Remember that you have a Boss in heaven!
2. Treat employees with justice and fairness
3. Do not oppress or exploit those who are under you
4. Don’t resort to threatening (seek positive motivation instead)
5. Applying the golden rule (Matthew 7:12) will go a long way to managing properly
C. Managers who so govern will likely be highly esteemed, both by those they manage and those under whom they serve. Yet as Christians, our goal is not just to provide honorable service, but to encourage people to glorify God
III. The Christian as evangelist
A. Concerns to consider
1. As Christians, we are to seek and save the lost – Mark 16:15-16
2. As workers, honorable service demands a proper day’s work for a day’s wage
3. Adorning the doctrine of Christ requires that we not steal (including time) – Titus 2:10
4. The challenge is to properly balance our efforts to save and our duty to work
B. Guidelines to govern
1. Don’t forget the power of a good example – 2 Peter 2:12; 3:1-2
2. Don’t let your speech betray your profession as a Christian – Ephesians 4:29; 5:4; Colossians 4:6
3. Wisely consider the best use of one’s time on the job – Colossians 4:5
a. Circumstances at work are rarely conducive to substantive spiritual discussions
b. Seek to turn casual conversations related to spiritual subjects into opportunities for home Bible studies
4. Spiritual zeal is no excuse for cheating those who have hired us
Conclusion
1. Involvement in the workplace is a wonderful opportunity
a. To be able to provide for one’s self and family
b. To be able to serve the Lord through making a positive impact on others
2. Let your faith in the workplace be an opportunity
a. To demonstrate the value of a vibrant faith in Christ!
b. To reach others for Jesus Christ!
3. What kind of laborers and managers are we?
4. Do we encourage others to glorify God?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Christian – Consecrated to God
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Introduction
1. We have begun to see that there is much significance to being a Christian
a. A Christian is “a person reborn“, a new creation that leads to a new life
b. He now “belongs to the Lord“, God’s special child that lives as a pilgrim
c. Who sojourns in this world “living by faith”, trusting in the Lord and being a trustworthy servant
2. Another significant fact about being a Christian involves the concept of sanctification
a. The words “sanctify” and “sanctification” are translated from the Greek “hagiazo“
b. It means to make holy, to set apart for a special purpose; related words include holiness, consecration, saint
3. As we shall see, this pertains to both our standing before God and our conduct before God
Body
I. THE PROGRESS OF SANCTIFICATION
A. ALL CHRISTIANS ARE SANCTIFIED
1. Some understand sanctification as “all at once” or “in two stages”
a. E.g., the Wesleyan concept of “entire sanctification”
b. Some even suggesting that once “sanctified”, one can no longer sin
2. The Biblical evidence suggests otherwise:
a. The church at Corinth was made of people…
1) Who were “sanctified in Christ Jesus” – 1 Corinthians 1:2
2) Who had been “sanctified” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
3) Note the past tense
b. Yet many of these people were still “babes in Christ” and “carnal” – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
1) They were filled with envy, strife and divisions
2) They were acting carnally, as mere men
3. Thus, while Christians may not be perfect, they are still called “saints”
a. Note the use of the word “saint” in addressing all Christians – Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:2
b. Because they had been “set apart” to be “God’s holy people”, it was appropriate to be called “saints” – cf. 1 Peter 2:9
4. This pertains to our standing before God; we are blessed to be considered His holy people
B. CHRISTIANS ARE ALSO “BEING SANCTIFIED”
1. Sanctification is an ongoing process
a. Those in Christ are “being sanctified” – Hebrews 2:11
b. It begins at conversion, and continues as we grow in the faith
c. As Paul prayed for the Thessalonians: “may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23
2. Thus Christians are to pursue sanctification (holiness)
a. As the Hebrews were admonished – Hebrews 12:14
b. As Paul commanded the Corinthians – 2 Corinthians 7:1
3. Because God is holy, so we are to be holy in our conduct – 1 Peter 1:15-16
4. This pertains to our conduct before God, our responsibility to live holy lives
5. God has therefore called Christians to be holy, set apart, sanctified. In obeying the gospel we have been sanctified; but if we are truly consecrated to God, then we will pursue and perfect our holiness.
II. THE PROCESS OF SANCTIFICATION
A. SANCTIFICATION IS THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
1. Note how sanctification is tied in with the work of the Holy Spirit:
a. “sanctified by the Holy Spirit” – Romans 15:16
b. “sanctified…by the Spirit of our God” – 1 Corinthians 6:11
c. “sanctification by the Spirit” – 2 Thessalonians 2:13
d. “the sanctifying work of the Spirit” – 1 Peter 1:2 NASB
2. The Holy Spirit naturally has an important role in our ongoing sanctification
a. Because He was instrumental in our spiritual regeneration when we become Christians- Titus 3:5-6
b. Our bodies serve as the temple of the Holy Spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
c. The Spirit is the instrumental agent by which God strengthens the inner man – Ephesians 3:16
3. How does the Spirit accomplishes His work of ongoing sanctification?
B. SANCTIFICATION IS ALSO THE WORK OF THE WORD OF GOD
1. Note that sanctification is also said to be tied in with the Word of God:
a. “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” – John 17:17
b. “that He might sanctify…by the word” – Ephesians 5:26
2. Since the Word of God is said to be “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17), the Word is evidently the instrument used by the Spirit to help bring about our sanctification
a. One who sets their mind on things the Spirit has revealed through the Word is setting their mind on “the things of the Spirit”
b. When we set our minds on “the things of the Spirit” (the Word of God), we are then able to “live according to the Spirit” – cf. Romans 8:5
c. Led by the Spirit through the Word of God, we will then produce the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, instead of the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:16-22
3. If we wish to live holy, sanctified lives, we must allow the Spirit to do His work through the Word of God!
Conclusion
1. When a Christian understands that he or she…
a. Is “a person reborn”
b. Who now “belongs to the Lord”
c. And is “living by faith”
…they should have no trouble accepting the idea that they are also “consecrated to God”
2. Do we appreciate the privilege of being “Consecrated To God”?
a. That God has blessed us to be part of “a holy nation”?
b. That God has called us to holiness, because He is holy?
c. That having sanctified us, He desires to sanctify us completely?
— That He does this because He desires to dwell among us? – cf. 2 Corinthians 6:17-18
3. If we do, then we will take to heart the admonition of Paul: “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1)
4. Are we perfecting holiness in the fear of God?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Christian – Belonging to the Lord – 1 Corinthians 06:19-20
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Text: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Introduction
1. In our previous lesson, we began this series
a. Asking what is the significance of being a Christian
b. Starting with the idea that a Christian is “A Person Reborn“
2. We noted that a Christian is a person reborn because in Christ
a. They are a new creation – 2 Corinthians 5:17
b. They have been born again – 1 Peter 1:22-23
c. They now have a new loyalty: to serve Jesus Christ – Galatians 2:20
3. We begin this lesson by noting Paul’s comments to the Corinthians
a. As recorded in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
b. In which he challenged their thinking by asking “Do you not know…you are not your own?”
c. The Christian needs to understand that he or she has been “bought at a price” and consequently is a person “Belonging To The Lord”
4. Belonging to the Lord” has many connotations attached to it. One is that a Christian is:
Body
I. GOD’S SPECIAL PERSON
A. CHRISTIANS ARE NOW GOD’S OWN SPECIAL PEOPLE
1. Note how Peter describes them in 1 Peter 2:9-10
a. “a chosen generation”
b. “a royal priesthood”
c. “a holy nation”
d. “His own special people”
2. These are terms that were once reserved for the physical nation of Israel
a. The Lord had chosen them – Deuteronomy 10:15
b. He made them a kingdom of priests and a holy nation – Exodus 19:5
c. Thus they had become a special people above all other nations – Deuteronomy 7:6
d. What had once been limited to physical Israel, is now possible to all people who are in Christ, as promised to Abraham – Galatians 3:8-9,28-29
B. A SPECIAL PEOPLE, WITH SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
1. To proclaim the praises of God – 1 Peter 2:9-10
a. Because He called us out of darkness into His marvelous light
b. Because He showed mercy, and made us the people of God
2. To grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 1:8-11
a. To make our calling and election (as God’s people) sure
b. To have an abundance entrance into the everlasting kingdom
3. From the example of physical Israel, let us beware of becoming hardened and not lose faith, or we may not enter the heavenly rest that awaits us! – Hebrews 3:12-4:2,11
C. A Christian is truly “a special person” because he belongs to the Lord.
a. He can rejoice in knowing that he is one of God’s “beloved” – Romans 1:7
[God’s love for the Christian is made even more evident when we note that he is also:]
II. GOD’S BELOVED CHILD
A. CHRISTIANS ARE BLESSED TO BE CHILDREN OF GOD
1. In one sense, all people are God’s children – Acts 17:26-29
2. In another sense, many do not have God as their Father – John 8:42-44
3. Yet Christians are the children of God in a very special way
a. Because of their faith, and having put on Christ in baptism – Galatians 3:26-27
b. Redeemed and adopted by God, they have received His Spirit into their hearts – Galatians 4:4-6
c. Because we do the Father’s will, Jesus considers us His family – Matthew 12:48-50
d. Christians should be touched by this expression of God’s love – 1 John 3:1-2
B. AS GOD’S CHILDREN, WE HAVE BLESSINGS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. We are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ – Galatians 4:7
a. For we are heirs according to the promise of God – Galatians 3:29
b. It is an inheritance that is incorruptible, undefiled, that does not fade, and is reserved for us in heaven – 1 Peter 1:4
2. As heirs, we have many responsibilities, including:
a. Being thankful for the inheritance we have – Colossians 1:12
b. Abstaining from the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:19-21
c. Perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord – 2 Corinthians 6:17-7:1
d. If we wish to receive the promised blessings, we need to patiently carry out our responsibilities with an enduring faith – Hebrews 10:35-39
C. Besides being God’s special person and God’s child, a Christian who “belongs to the Lord” also has a special relationship to the world in which he or she lives:
III. GOD’S HEAVENLY PILGRIM
A. CHRISTIANS ARE IN THE WORLD, BUT NOT OF THE WORLD
1. As Jesus mentioned in His prayer for His disciples – John 17:15-16
2. Like Abraham, a Christian is a sojourner, a pilgrim – Hebrews 11:13; 13:14; 1 Peter 1:1
3. We are fellow citizens with members of God’s family – Ephesians 2:19
4. As such, our true citizenship lies in heaven, not here on earth – Philippians 3:20
B. AS GOD’S PILGRIMS, WE HAVE SEVERAL OBLIGATIONS
1. To conduct our sojourn on earth with fear – 1 Peter 1:17
2. To abstain from worldly lusts – 1 Peter 2:11; 1 John 2:15-17
3. To keep our conduct honorable, filled with good works – 1 Peter 2:12
4. To obey the laws, and respect the leaders, of the countries in which we sojourn – 1 Peter 2:13-17
Conclusion
1. We have seen that a Christian is a person who “belongs to the Lord”, one who is:
a. God’s special person
b. God’s child
c. God’s pilgrim
2. The more we understand the significance of such privileges
a. We ought to be filled with gratitude and humility
b. We ought to be moved to be the kind of people God intended
3. Are we living and conducting ourselves as those who “belong to the Lord”?
a. Are we acting like a special people?
b. Do we live like a child of God should?
c. Is our life truly a sojourn, or are we living like we want to make this earth our permanent home?
d. As we saw in our beginning text: “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
4. May the significance of belonging to God prompt us to always glorify God in our bodies and our spirits!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Christian – A Person Reborn
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Introduction
1. It is always exciting to see someone become a Christian
a. Even when an observer doesn’t understand all that is involved, they often sense something meaningful is going on
b. Especially as time goes on, and changes begin to occur in the person’s life
2. But often the significance of becoming a Christian appears to be lost
a. Sometimes even Christians fail to appreciate the significance of being a Christian
b. When this happens, Christians often fail to grow as they should
3. It never hurts for a Christian to reflect, and ask such questions as
a. What did I do?
b. What have I received?
c. What are the implications and consequences of what I’ve done?
d. What has happened to me?
e. What have I become?
f. What is different about me?
4. To summarize these questions
a. What is the meaning, importance, and value of becoming a Christian?
b. What am I now to do?
Body
I. A NEW CREATION
A. A CHRISTIAN IS A “NEW CREATION”
1. A Christian rises out of the watery grave of baptism to newness of life – Romans 6:4-5
2. Old things have passed away, and new things have come – 2 Corinthians 5:17
B. A NEW CREATION MADE POSSIBLE BY VIRTUE OF A NEW BIRTH
1. A new birth produced by responding to the Word of God – James 1:18
2. A new birth produced by the working of the Spirit of God – John 3:3-5
C. THIS NEW CREATION EMBARKS ON A LIFE OF RENEWAL
1. The inner man is to be renewed daily – 2 Corinthians 4:16
2. This renewal is ongoing, involving the renewal of one’s mind – Romans 12:2
II. A NEW LIFE
A. HAVING PASSED FROM DEATH TO LIFE
1. As Jesus promised to those who hear His words – John 5:24-25
2. Once dead in sin, we are now made alive to God – Ephesians 2:1-5; Colossians 2:12-13
3. We now have the promise and prospect of life eternal, given through God’s Son – 1 John 5:11-13
B. HAVING PASSED FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT
1. Such is the objective of gospel preaching: to turn people from darkness to light
a. So Jesus told Paul – Acts 26:18
b. So Peter wrote to Christians – 1 Peter 2:9-10
2. Though we once walked in darkness, we can now walk in the light
a. As children of light – Ephesians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:5
b. The metaphor of light representing goodness, righteousness, and truth – Ephesians 5:9
3. For which we should ever be thankful – cf. Colossians 1:12-13
4. What makes such a new creation and a new life a reality? It is more than a mere obedience to some new doctrine. It is possible only when such obedience is the result of:
III. A NEW LOYALTY
A. A CHRISTIAN IS A “CONVERTED” PERSON
1. As exemplified by the Thessalonians – 1 Thessalonians 1:9
2. Conversion inherently involves change, particularly a change of loyalties
a. From serving sin to serving God – Romans 6:16-18
b. From serving idols to serving God – e.g., 1 Thessalonians 1:9
B. A CHRISTIAN IS CONVERTED TO JESUS CHRIST
1. He or she acknowledges the Lordship of Jesus Christ – Acts 2:36; 1 Peter 3:15
2. Above family, life, and self, the Christian chooses to follow Jesus – Matthew 10:37-39
3. When one makes that choice, Christ will become the focus of that person’s life – Galatians 2:20
C. SUCH LOYALTY TO CHRIST RESULTS IN A NEW LIFE
1. In which God blesses the individual through Jesus Christ – e.g., Philippians 4:6-7
2. In which one finds strength to live the new life – e.g., Philippians 4:13
Conclusion
1. A significant thing about a Christian, then, is that he or she:
a. Experiences a new creation
b. Enjoys a new life
c. Entertains a new loyalty
d. Such an individual is truly “A Person Reborn”
2. But not all professing Christians show evidence of this rebirth…why is that?
a. They may have not yet truly experienced the new creation
1) Obedience not rendered in faith will not produce the new birth – Mark 16:16
2) For God’s power to be at work, we must submit in faith – Colossians 2:12-13
3. Though they may have been reborn and entered the new life, they may have gone back into sin
a. Hardened by sin’s deceitfulness, they have departed from God – cf. Hebrews 3:12-13
b. Entangled once again by the pollutions of the world – cf. 2 Peter 2:20
4. In either case, their loyalty is certainly not where it ought to be!
5. May the promise of a new creation and a new life in Christ remind us of the significance of being a Christian, and challenge us to examine our loyalties if we do not see in our lives the evidence of a person reborn.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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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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