Historical Posts
Perfect Pair
Burton Baskin and Irvine Robbins shared a common interest: ice cream. Together, they established the famous Baskin-Robbins ice cream chain in 1945.
Phineas Taylor Barnum and James A. Bailey joined forces in 1888 to produce the “Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth.”
Colbert Coldwell and Benjamin Arthur Banker formed a well-known real estate agency (Coldwell-Banker) in San Francisco in 1906.
The aforementioned pairs shared a common interest, and together had much success.
The Bible asks, “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed (Amos 3:3)?”
If we agree with God and walk with Him, think what all we can accomplish! After all, we can do all things through Him (Philippians 4:13)! God and us are the perfect pair!
Content by Richard Dillon
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The All Seeing Eye
“There’s an All-Seeing Eye Watching You”
Hopefully many people remember the song: “There’s an All-Seeing Eye Watching You.” I can remember first learning about eyes that see everything, and it scared me to death! I just knew that if I did something wrong, someone always knew it and would never forget it.
At the same time, however, it is nice to know that other people are being watched. That way, we can be warned if something is going to happen to us.
Proverbs 15:3 states, “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.” Yes, it is true that God sees the evil that men do. At the appropriate time, God will take care of it.
Also, let us remember that God sees the good we do! If we love Him and obey His commandments, He will reward us!
Let the “All-Seeing Eye” see only good in us!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Save A Soul – audio
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It’s an ugly picture.
In one of his letters Peter uses the graphic image of a dog’s returning to his vomit or a recently washed sow’s returning to her mud.
What he was writing about, of course, was a believer who wanders away from God. If we’re honest, we must admit that it isn’t a particularly difficult thing to do, because this world is often so alluring. Sometimes we’re mesmerized by its glitz and glamor, finally waking up only to realize we’re miles away from God.
Have you ever wandered?
In adolescence, perhaps? Or maybe in college or at another particularly difficult point in your life?
I hope you’re back. If you are, I’m glad you came home.
But not everyone has come home. Not yet.
So James closes his letter with a short encouragement for us to do whatever we can for these folks.
Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins. James 5:19–20
You’re probably not a preacher, and you may not serve God in any “official” sense, but I’d like for you to do three simple things today.
- One, make a list of ten believers you know who have wandered away from God. Perhaps it’s a family member, former co-worker, a neighbor, somebody who used to attend your church. You could probably come up with a hundred, but just do ten.
- Two, pray for every name on that list. Pray that God’s Spirit would work in their hearts and move them to repentance. Ask him to orchestrate the events of their lives so they see that the path they’re on will end in destruction. Ask him to open a door for you to be able to speak an encouraging word.
- Three, take one step—just one—to let God use you to work in their lives. It might be something as simple as a “How’s it going?” text or email. It could be a phone call or an encouraging note or a Facebook post. But do something.
We undersell ourselves, I think.
We assume all the serious spiritual work will be done by the guys who stand in our pulpits or serve as our shepherds.
If I understand James correctly, though, he’s saying that just an “average” every-day believer can have an enormous effect on someone’s soul. It’s incredible to think that you and I can “save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins,” isn’t it?
So today –
Make a list
Say a prayer
Initiate contact
– and see what God does.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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The Passing of the Blush
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).
It is growing increasingly more difficult to guard against mind pollution. The things that are lovely, true, good, just, and pure are not getting a lot of exposure these days. Do a little research. Listen to the lyrics of today’s music. Count the number of times prostitution, homosexuality, and adultery are portrayed as normal and acceptable on television. Note the movies currently showing. How many of them promote good wholesome themes? How many are of the “adult” variety? Next, survey the local newsstands. Count the number of pornographic publications on display.
Nudity, profanity, and immorality are no longer shocking! We have grown accustomed to this sort of thing. We don’t blush any more. It is reminiscent of the conditions the prophet Jeremiah encountered. When confronting the immorality of his contemporaries, Jeremiah asked: “Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination?” He then replied to his own question, “No, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush” (Jeremiah 6:15). Tragically, the same could be said today. Little is shocking or surprising! Everything must be tolerated in the name of individual freedom, but God’s cry through Jeremiah needs to be heard again. We desperately need to return to the Bible and God’s standard for morality. With Jeremiah we say: “Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls” (Jeremiah 6:16).
There are many things about the past we would not want to return to. We are thankful for the many advances modern technology has made possible. But, when it comes to ethics and morality, it would be nice to return to a time when right and wrong were clearly recognizable, and people honored what was right and rejected what was wrong. That time has long since passed, and we are all losers because of it.
The good news is that it’s not hopeless. We can return to the old paths and the good way. And, we can learn to blush again! But, will we? That remains to be seen.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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1 Peter 03:08-12 Our Duties to Christians – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 03:08-12
Introduction
1. So far in his epistle, Peter has defined the Christian’s duties in various relationships:
a. Our duty in relation to those of the world – 1 Peter 2:11-12
b. Our duty in relation to governmental authorities – 1 Peter 2:13-17
c. Our duty in a servant-master relationship – 1 Peter 2:18-25
d. Our duty in wife-husband relationships – 1 Peter 3:1-7
2. Beginning now in verse 8 of the third chapter, Peter defines our duty to each other as brethren in Christ
Body
I. OUR DUTIES TO EACH OTHER (1 Peter 3:8-9)
A. TO “BE OF ONE MIND” (NASV, “harmonious”)
1. That is, to be united in the same purpose, the same goal
2. Jesus prayed for this kind of unity in John 17:20-21
3. A church that demonstrated this “oneness of mind” is that of <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Jerusalem”>Jerusalem</a> – Acts 4:32
4. How can we have this “oneness of mind”?
a. It is attainable only to the extent that we all submit to the will of God
b. Therefore, we all need to make God’s Will our will, His Purpose our purpose
c. Even as Christ did while on earth – John 5:30
B. TO HAVE “COMPASSION FOR ONE ANOTHER” (NASV, “sympathetic”)
1. This means to have pity, a feeling of distress toward the ills of others
2. It is that disposition which is moved by the problems of others
3. This is the attitude manifested by Jesus
a. During His earthly ministry – Matthew 9:35-36
b. During His heavenly ministry – Hebrews 4:15
4. Such compassion can only come from a tender, loving heart, which may be why Peter goes on to say that we need
C. TO “LOVE AS BROTHERS”
1. Literally, this means to be “brother lovers”
2. This attribute is essential, if we are to
a. Grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 1:7-8
b. Convince the world that we are truly disciples of Jesus – John 13:35
3. Are you a “brother lover”? If not
a. You are not a lover of God, either! – 1 John 4:20
b. You do not even know God! – 1 John 4:7-8
4. Here is one way to know if you are a “brother lover”
a. Ask yourself this question: “Do I even know my brother?”
b. If you don’t, how can you honestly say that you are a “brother lover”?
D. TO “BE TENDERHEARTED” (NASV, “kindhearted”)
1. It is this kind of heart that is compassionate, capable of loving our brethren
2. The opposite would be “cold-hearted”, where we are insensitive to the needs and feelings of others
3. Even if we start out as “cold-hearted”, in Christ Jesus we can and must undergo a transformation, in which we develop a “tender heart” – Ephesians 4:22-24, 31-32
4. Have you considered what kind of heart you have?
E. TO “BE COURTEOUS” (NASV, “humble in spirit”)
1. Literally, to be “friendly of mind, kind”
a. Such courtesy would imply humility of spirit
b. For an arrogant or proud spirit does not bother to be courteous
2. Christians are to imitate their Lord and Savior, and not think so highly of themselves that they cannot be kind and courteous to others – Philippians 2:3-5
F. TO “RETURN BLESSING FOR EVIL”
1. When someone (E.g., a brother) does us evil, we are to respond with a blessing!
2. While this may go against “human nature”, Peter gives two reasons why we are to react in this way:
a. We are called to follow the example of Christ – 1 Peter 3:9 with 1 Peter 2:21-23
b. That we might receive a blessing from God – Luke 6:35
II. MOTIVATION TO FULFILL THESE DUTIES (1 Peter 3:10-12)
A. THAT WE MIGHT “LOVE LIFE AND SEE GOOD DAYS”
1. Everyone wishes to enjoy life as they experience it from day to day
a. But too often, many make their own lives miserable by their own self-seeking, self-destructive attitudes
b. Constantly complaining, contentious, retaliating to evil with evil, they only aggravate the situation
2. But David in the 34th psalm gives the secret to loving life and seeing good days:
a. Refrain the tongue from evil, and lips from speaking guile – 1 Peter 3:10
1) Don’t engage in slander, backbiting, complaining, lying, murmuring, and grumbling
2) It doesn’t solve difficulties, but only makes them worse
b. Do good, seek peace and pursue it – 1 Peter 3:11
1) Do the very kind of things mentioned by Peter in 1 Peter 3:8-9
2) Only then will your life be pleasant, for the qualities described by Peter
a) Make the best out of difficult situations
b) Make good situations even better!
B. SO THE LORD’S EYES AND EARS WILL BE OPEN TO US – 1 Peter 3:12
1. Only by doing the will of God (As found in 1 Peter 3:8-9) can we ensure that
a. His gracious eyes will watch over us
b. His ears will be open to our prayers
2. On the other hand, the Lord’s face is against those who do evil, and will not hear their prayers
3. Indeed, consider the list of abominations found in Proverbs 6:16-19 and notice how many are the direct opposite of how we are to be
a. We are to be courteous (Humble) – but the Lord hates a proud look!
b. We are to be compassionate – but abusing the innocent is an abomination to the Lord!
c. We are to be tender-hearted – but the Lord hates a cold heart that thinks evil of others!
d. We are to return good for evil – but those who respond quickly with evil, the Lord abhors!
e. We are to be of one mind – but if we sow discord by murmuring and complaining, we are abominable in God’s sight!
Conclusion
1. So if we want the Lord to watch over us, if we want Him to heed our prayers, let us be sure to fulfill our duties to each other as brethren as outlined by Peter in 1 Peter 3:8-9
2. In so doing, we will enjoy life to its fullest, and see many good days during our pilgrimage here on earth!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 03:01-07 The Functional Family – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 3:1-7
Introduction
1. In this study of 1st Peter, we are seeing that God teaches the Christian how to conduct himself in all relations of life
a. BEFORE GOD, he is to be holy, even as God is holy – 1 Peter 1:14-16
b. BEFORE THE WORLD, he is to live an honorable life – 1 Peter 2:11-12
c. AS A CITIZEN, he is to submit to civil authorities – 1 Peter 2:13-17
d. AS A SERVANT, he is to do good, even it means to suffer patiently the mistreatment of others – 1 Peter 2:18-25
2. We find there are also certain responsibilities as husbands and wives – 1 Peter 3:1-7
3. In a society where “dysfunctional families” seem to be the norm, it is even more imperative that the people of God demonstrate through their families that which is the will of God
Body
I. INSTRUCTIONS TO THE WIVES
A. BE SUBMISSIVE TO YOUR HUSBANDS (1 Peter 3:1-2)
1. The word “likewise” refers back to the discussion in the previous chapter
a. In which the principle of submission has already been applied to:
1) Our responsibility to governmental authorities
2) The servant’s relationship to his master
b. This would suggest that the same principles hold true for wives
1) To submit not only to the good, but also to the harsh – 1 Peter 2:18
2) That if a wife suffers wrong from her husband when she was doing good, it is commendable before God if she bear that mistreatment patiently – 1 Peter 2:19
2. This is best illustrated in the case where a Christian wife is married to an unbeliever
a. He might be converted by her “conduct”
1) Even though he might not have previously obeyed “the” word
2) Without “a” word, he may be reached by her conduct!
b. The type of “conduct” likely to have that effect is described as:
1) “chaste” – that is, purity in all manner of life
2) “accompanied by fear” – that is, reverence; which in this case
a) Is manifested toward the husband
b) And is an attitude consistent with the principle of “submission”
3. So the first duty of wives as outlined by Peter is that of “submission”, especially if the husband is an unbeliever
B. ADORN YOURSELVES PROPERLY (1 Peter 3:3-4)
1. Peter’s comments are in the form of a “Hebraism”
a. A Hebrew idiom (Form of speech) commonly found in the Scriptures
b. In this case, there is a contrast (“not this…but this”) for the sake of emphasis
c. A good example of this is found in John 6:27
1) Jesus is not saying that it is wrong to work so we can eat
2) But that our priority in life should be to have everlasting life
2. A similar emphasis by way of contrast is being made by Peter
a. Don’t let your emphasis on “beauty” pertain to outward adornment
b. Not that is always wrong to arrange the hair, wear gold, or put on apparel
c. But place your emphasis elsewhere!
3. Let your beauty be “the hidden person of the heart”
a. Conduct yourself so that beauty of the “inner person” shines forth
b. Where people notice more “who” you are rather than “what” you wear!
4. It is a “gentle and quiet spirit” that constitutes true inner beauty
a. Unlike hair, gold, and apparel, it is incorruptible! – 2 Corinthians 4:16
b. It is also very precious in the sight of God
5. So Christian women, let your inner beauty be your most noticeable feature!
a. Without inner beauty, any outward beauty is like a ring of gold in the nose of a pig – Proverbs 11:22
b. Parents, are we teaching this truth (By word and example) to our daughters?
C. BE “DAUGHTERS OF SARAH” (1 Peter 3:5-6)
1. Remember, the holy women in the Old Testament who trusted in God
a. Adorned themselves with a gentle and quiet spirit
b. Were submissive to their husbands
2. A case in point is that of Sarah:
a. Who was so beautiful outwardly
1) That Pharaoh wanted her when she was over 65 years old
2) That the king of the Philistines wanted her when she was over 90 years old
b. Yet her true beauty was demonstrated by her submissive spirit
3. Christian women can become the “daughters of Sarah,” provided they:
a. “do good” (Be submissive to their husbands)
b. “are not afraid of any terror” (Composed with a gentle and quiet spirit)
c. To be considered a “daughter of Sarah” by God would be a very special honor! It can be had by any woman who heeds the words of the apostle Peter.
d. But a failure to heed these words will result in being more like a “daughter of Jezebel.”
1. Remember, she delighted in her physical beauty and in manipulating her husband.
2. May such never be true of women professing godliness and wearing the name of Christ!
II. INSTRUCTIONS TO THE HUSBANDS
A. DWELL WITH YOUR WIVES “WITH UNDERSTANDING”
1. The KJV says “with knowledge”
2. Husbands are expected to know, and understand
a. Their responsibilities in marriage – Ephesians 5:25
b. The nature of women, as “weaker vessels”
1) Refers to physical strength
2) Not to intellectual abilities, moral courage, or spiritual strength
3. Such understanding is to govern how the husband lives with his wife — with love and thoughtfulness
B. “GIVE HONOR” TO THE WIFE
1. The word “give” means “to assign”
2. “honor” involves the idea of that which is “precious, of high value”
3. So the husband is to assign to his wife the honor of being precious and of high value in his sight
4. A good reason to consider our wives in such light: they are truly “heirs together of the grace of life”
C. “THAT YOUR PRAYERS MAY NOT BE HINDERED”
1. Here is good reason to heed Peter’s instruction!
2. The word “hindered” literally means “cut off”
3. Thus the way we treat our wives may result in our access to God being cut off!
4. This is what happened to the O.T. priests who divorced their wives – Malachi 2:13-16
Conclusion
1. We learn from Peter, then, that how we conduct ourselves as husbands and wives can have a bearing on our personal relationship with God
a. If wives are to be considered “very precious in the sight of God…”
b. If husbands are to keep open the avenue of their prayers to God
c. Then we must apply the principles in this passage (1Pe 3:1-7) to our lives!
2. If we do, then we all can be “heirs together of the grace of life!”
3. Speaking of being heirs of the grace of life, do you know one can become such an heir? – Titus 3:3-7
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 02:18-25 Commendable Lives – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 2:18-25
Introduction
1. Our last study introduced the importance of submission to human institutions that rule over us – 1 Peter 2:13-17
2. Now in verses 18-25, Peter addresses those who were servants, emphasizing again the principle of submission
3. In the course of his instructions, Peter mentions conduct that is considered “commendable” before God
a. In the NKJV, the word “commendable” is used twice – 1 Peter 2:19-20
b. The NASV translates it as “finds favor”
4. In this study, we shall consider:
a. What is commendable conduct before God?
b. Why it is considered commendable?
c. How we can be sure to have this commendable conduct before God?
Body
I. WHAT IS COMMENDABLE CONDUCT BEFORE GOD?
A. TO SUFFER PATIENTLY WHEN MISTREATED FOR DOING GOOD
1. Consider the example given by Peter
a. A servant is trying to serve his master well
b. For some reason, however, his master mistreats him
c. The servant “finds favor” in God’s sight if he patiently and submissively endures the mistreatment!
2. To put it in other words:
a. When you are doing that which is good
b. And despite it you are being mistreated
c. But you endure the unjust treatment patiently
d. Your patient forbearance is commendable in the sight of God!
3. Note carefully:
a. It is not simply suffering patiently that is commendable
b. But suffering patiently when you did good, and yet are abused for it – 1 Peter 2:20
B. IS THIS APPLICABLE ONLY IN A MASTER-SLAVE RELATIONSHIP?
1. No! Consider 1 Peter 3:13-14, 17, where Peter speaks to brethren in general
2. In writing to servants, then, Peter is applying a general truth to a specific application
3. It is therefore applicable to any situation where we are told to submit – Matthew 5:10
a. In other words, in our relationship to government – 1 Peter 2:13
b. In other words, in a wife’s relationship to her husband – 1 Peter 3:1
c. In other words, in our relationship to one another – Ephesians 5:21
II. WHY IS THIS CONDUCT COMMENDABLE BEFORE GOD?
A. WE WERE CALLED FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE!
1. Consider 1 Peter 2:21-23
a. Christians are called to follow the example of Jesus
b. Just as He suffered patiently when mistreated without cause, so should we!
2. We have therefore been called to respond to ill treatment with good treatment – 1 Peter 3:9; Luke 6:27-36
B. IN VIEW OF THE POTENTIAL GOOD THAT CAN RESULT!
1. See what Jesus accomplished by His patient forbearance to mistreatment done to Him – 1 Peter 2:24-25
a. The forgiveness of our sins!
b. The restoration of straying sheep back to their Shepherd!
2. By following the example of Jesus, we can have an effect for good also
a. Returning good for evil, we are more likely to overcome evil – Romans 12:19-21
b. In this way we are more likely to change those who persecute us
c. For they are often ashamed when they see how we patiently endure their mistreatment by doing good
d. Just as we were moved by the sacrificial death of Jesus for our sins, so we might best move others to change their evil ways by patiently doing good even when they mistreat us.
III. HOW WE CAN BE SURE TO HAVE THIS COMMENDABLE CONDUCT?
A. “REJOICE” THAT YOU ARE COUNTED WORTHY TO SUFFER
1. So Peter commanded later in this epistle – 1 Peter 4:12-14; Acts 5:41
2. Just as Christ did in His sermon on the mount – Matthew 5:10-12
3. Knowing that we are blessed in the sight of God, and have joined a great group of prophets, apostles, and disciples in suffering for Christ, can help us to have the proper attitude
4. Even if those mistreating us do not know that we are Christians, if our response is governed by Christ’s teachings, we can still have satisfaction in knowing that God is pleased!
B. “RESIST” THE TEMPTATION TO RETALIATE
1. When we suffer mistreatment by others, Satan is behind it all – 1 Peter 5:8-9
2. He would love to hinder the cause of Christ by having us retaliate just as people in the world would, proving that Christians are no different than sinners of the world
3. Don’t let him win!
C. “RESPOND” TO MISTREATMENT BY DOING MORE GOOD
1. When mistreated for doing good, just do more good! – 1 Peter 3:9; Romans 12:20-21
2. For “endure” (1 Peter 2:19) means “to bear from underneath, to undergo hardship”, thus to bear up under pressure
3. There is nothing noble (Commendable) about stopping when “the going gets tough”; but when “the tough get going”, and going about doing good, now THAT is commendable!
D. “RELY” ON GOD
1. Suffering patiently when mistreated for doing good does not always bring immediate satisfaction
2. We must therefore trust in God, believing that His will is best
3. So just as Jesus “committed Himself to Him judges righteously”(1 Peter 2:23), so should we – 1 Peter 4:19
4. And if our Christ-like behavior does not change the behavior of those who mistreat us, God will one day do what is right – Romans 12:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:6
Conclusion
1. Hopefully by following the “four R’s” (Rejoice, Resist, Respond, Rely) we can follow in the steps of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ
2. If so, then we can be sure to have “commendable conduct before God”!
3. We have made reference to what Jesus accomplished by suffering for us, how He bore our sins on the tree (1 Peter 2:24). Peter also says Jesus did this “that we, having died to sins might live for righteousness”.
4. Have you “died to sins”?
5. Do you even know how that it is accomplished?
6. The answer is found in Romans 6:1-8
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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A Speckled Ax
One of my favorite books is the Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin. In it Franklin tells about a man who wished to buy an ax with the whole surface ground as bright as the edge. The smith consented to grind it bright for him if he would turn the wheel; he turned, while the smith pressed the broad face of the ax hard and heavily on the stone, which made the turning of it fatiguing. The man came every now and then from the wheel to see how the work went on, and at length would take his ax as it was, without further grinding. “No,” said the smith, “turn on, turn on; we shall have it bright by-and-by; as yet it is only speckled.” “Yes,” said the man, “But I think I like a speckled ax best.”
I have a hunch there are a lot of folks who prefer speckled axes. Like the man in Franklin’s story, we have high ideals, but are often unwilling to put forth the effort necessary to see them realized. Therefore, we settle for less than what we desire. That’s all right when it comes to an ax, but not when it comes to the development of character.
Paul admonished, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23). To accomplish what is really important requires hard work, dedication, and determination. Little that is worthwhile comes easily. This is especially true regarding the building of Christian character.
Peter wrote: “…make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-8). Spotless character does not come easily. We must work at it every day, and we should not be satisfied with anything less.
We must not settle for a speckled ax when we can have a shining one. We must work hard at being everything God envisions for His people. We will never be flawless, but we will get better and better if we are willing to work at it!
— Roger
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Matthew 06:33 Priorities – audio
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Text: Matthew 6:33
Introduction
A. Jesus lists many things that we need for our physical well-being.
1. He ends by saying “do not worry about tomorrow”
2. But what we should do is simply put first things first.
3. God always puts spiritual things first.
B. These verses below all deal with our reaction to others.
1. I believe this shows how important God deems our relationships.
2. These relationships affect our worship/service to God.
Body
I. First – Seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness
A. Matthew 6:33
B. Without this there will be no need to hope for a relationship with God
1. Worry is one of the greatest destroyer of a relationship
2. Trust in God enables us to be trust worthy
II. First — remove the plank from your own eye
A. Matthew 7:3-5
B. Jesus’ words condemn one who would constantly look for sin in others while he would ignore his own sin.
1. We tend to magnify the smallest transgression in others
2. While we down- play great transgressions in which we are involved.
III. First — be reconciled
A. Matthew 5:23-24
B. Thoughts and actions arising from bitter human relations hinder acceptable worship to God. As Christians, we must have the right attitude and action toward others to have a right relationship with God – Romans 12:18
IV. First — forgive others before you ask God to forgive you
A. Matthew 6:14-15
B. If we refuse to forgive others before God, we forfeit our own forgiveness by God.
1. We must seek to have a forgiving spirit
2. When those who wrong us ask for our forgiveness we will forgive “as Christ forgave us” – Colossians 3:13
Conclusion
A. What will help us in fulfilling the above points?
B. 2 Corinthians 8:3-5
C. No matter what we give or do, if we have not first given ourselves to God it means nothing
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 02:09-12 A Plea to Pilgrims – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 2:9-12
Introduction
1. Having said that as Christians we are:
a. a chosen generation
b. a royal priesthood
c. a holy nation
d. God’s own special people
e. Peter makes a heart-felt plea concerning our conduct before those in the world
2. As we consider this plea to pilgrims, remember that Peter is speaking by inspiration; it is actually GOD who is making this plea!
Body
I. THE BASIS OF THE PLEA
A. YOU ARE BELOVED
1. Beloved by whom?
a. By Peter, of course – 1 Peter 2:12
b. By Paul, James, John, & Jude, all of whom used this same term of endearment
c. But most of all, we are beloved of God and Jesus! – Romans 1:7; Colossians 3:12
2. It is out of such human and divine love that this plea is made
B. YOU ARE SOJOURNERS AND PILGRIMS
1. You have not yet reached your heavenly home
2. As we will see later, failure to heed the plea will mean you will never reach it!
3. In view of that real possibility, we find this plea made even in form of begging!
C. YOU ARE ENGAGED IN WARFARE
1. A war in which fleshly lusts wage war against the soul
2. The outcome will determine whether or not we will reach our heavenly home
D. YOU ARE BEING OBSERVED BY OTHERS
1. Some of which who often speak evil of you (even as they did of Christ)
2. But by heeding this plea, it is possible to cause those very ones who speak evil of you to glorify God in the day of visitation
a. This day of visitation is the Day of Judgment
b. We have an opportunity to bring glory to God by the way we heed this plea
II. THE PLEA ITSELF
A. FIRST, THE PLEA BEGS US TO ABSTAIN FROM FLESHLY LUSTS
1. The word abstain means to hold one’s self constantly back
2. From what are we to abstain?
a. Fleshly lusts, some of which are defined by Paul – Galatians 5:19-21
b. Notice that they involve more than just sexual sins (such as fornication)
c. They also include sins of the emotions (hatred, outbursts of wrath, jealousies, envy)
3. Why must we hold ourselves constantly back from these things?
a. According to Peter, they wage war against the soul
b. According to Paul, they can keep us out of the kingdom of God! – Galatians 5:21
c. So if we want to succeed in our spiritual pilgrimage and reach our heavenly destination, we must heed this plea to pilgrims!
4. How can one abstain from fleshly lusts? In his epistles, Paul explains how:
a. Keep your mind on the things of the Spirit, not on the things of the flesh – Romans 8:5-6
b. Grow in Christ, and don’t provide opportunities for the fulfillment of fleshly lusts – Romans 13:13-14
c. Should such opportunities arise, flee them (remember Joseph and Potiphar’s wife?), and pursue after that which is good – 2 Timothy 2:22
B. THE PLEA ALSO BEGS US TO HAVE HONORABLE CONDUCT
1. The word honorable in the Greek is kalos
a. It means that which is good, beautiful, harmonious, and lovely
b. In other words, our conduct is to be something beautiful and refreshing to behold
2. We can have conduct that is honorable
a. If on the one hand, we abstain from fleshly lusts
b. And on the other hand, we do good works
3. We have seen what fleshly lusts are. What good works can we do that are beautiful to behold?
a. We can see to the needs of those who are poor, fatherless, widowed, sick, and otherwise afflicted – James 1:27
b. We can demonstrate love and hospitality to brethren, friends, neighbors, even strangers – Hebrews 13:1-3
c. We can react kindly to those who despise us, speak evil of us, and mistreat us – Luke 6:27-31
4. The effect of such conduct is that it will likely prompt others to glorify God!
a. As Jesus taught us – Matthew 5:16
b. Even those who at the present may speak against us as evildoers! – 1 Peter 2:12
Conclusion
1. By heeding this plea to pilgrims as found in 1 Peter 2:11-12, it is possible to accomplish several things at the same time:
a. We can save ourselves
b. We can glorify God
c. We might even help save those who presently speak evil of us!
2. As the people of God who have obtained mercy (1 Peter 2:10), can we do any less?
a. Abstain, then, from those fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul!
b. Conduct yourselves, then, in ways that are honorable and a thing of beauty to behold!
3. In so doing, you will ensure the successful completion of your spiritual pilgrimage!
4. Speaking of the mercy of God, have you received the mercy that comes through the blood of Christ? – Acts 20:28
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 01:22-02:03 The Practice of Holy Living – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 1:22-2:3
Introduction
1. I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God – I’ve been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood! Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod; For I’m part of the family, the family of God. (Song 890)
2. I have spent the last several weeks help us to realize that as believers we are to pursue holiness.
a. We realize that because we belong to God therefore, we should act like it
b. But we also realize the incredible cost of our redemption and this drives us to pursue holiness
c. But this morning Peter is going to give us a test that reveals the genuineness of your pursuit of holiness.
d. We have all had struggles with fellow believers, but what is our response to those struggles that is what reveals our heart.
e. Weigh yourself by this standard of genuine love for fellow believers, all based upon the eternal bond of Believers, this then hopefully will lead us to action as we seek to take up the call as believers.
3. For the genuineness of your pursuit of holiness is revealed in your relationship with other believers.
Body
I. Do you have genuine love for your fellow believers (1 Peter 1:22)
A. Obedience leads to purity (1 Peter 1:22a)
1. Peter is transitioning from the call to holiness to the practice of holiness, what we are about to study is what the pursuit of holiness will look like in the life of a believer.
2. When you have accepted the free gift of being purchased out of the slave market of sin paid for by Christ, you are responsible and led by the Spirit to pursue holiness.
3. Your obedience to the truth of the Gospel and your obedience to the pursuit of holiness will lead to purified souls.
4. One who has purified himself by living according to God’s Word has discovered the joy of obedience.
B. Purity produces love (1 Peter 1:22b)
1. This purity is revealed by a changed life and Peter explains that this changed life is revealed in a changed relationship with God and likewise with God’s family
2. The word that Peter uses for love is the philo love that is the brotherly love, it is pure love, it is not a mask that you wear when you come to church
a. This is a genuine love for your fellow believer; it’s pure and not tainted
b. The implication that Peter is giving is that there were some in the body of Christ that just pretended to love each other.
c. The love that should be on display here this morning should walk out those doors with you when you leave, it should remain with you in the privacy of your car and in the sanctity of your home.
d. This love comes not from your selfish motives, or your selfish desires but as a spring of love that bursts forth because of your obedience to the truth, that means that this love is a reflection of your pursuit of holiness.
C. Are you loving your fellow believer? (1 Peter 1:22c)
1. Peter now repeats the call to love, but this time uses not philo but agape
2. And in adding to the intensity of the command he includes that we should agape love each other fervently.
a. This agape love is the love Christ demonstrated on the cross in its purest sense.
b. This is the word used in John 3:16 when we are told that God loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son.
3. This love should come from the heart, because we realize the preciousness of the other person, we understand that regardless of their past and regardless of their actions today, Christ gave His life for them.
4. In a discussion about the number of churches in town and the conflict in which some were born, a comment was made by a person who shall remain nameless, they said, “whenever more than about thirty people go to church together we can’t stand one another and split.” It’s a sad statement, but not that far from the truth, this is not philo love and it for sure isn’t agape love.
5. Peter is taking us from the principle of pursuing holiness to it’s practice. It is one thing to say that we are servants of the Lord, willing and able to pursue holiness, and quite another to practice genuine love for other who belong to the same family as we do. But Peter continues by building on Who we have in common. And the eternal bond of believers.
II. Have you experienced the eternal bond of believers (1 Peter 1:23-25)
A. Your lasting new birth (1 Peter 1:23)
1. If you have come to know Christ as Savior you can rest assured of the truth that you were born again, this time not die, but to live eternally.
2. Your Salvation and the Word of God are inexpressibly linked together.
3. This imperishable Word was the content of Peter’s preaching. His hearers must be affected by its life-changing power, indeed it is through it that we heard about and have received the gift of Redemption from the market place of sin.
B. The brevity of the flesh (1 Peter 1:24)
1. In contrast with the imperishable seed that now makes up our identity because of what the Triune God has accomplished for our salvation, Peter quotes from Isaiah 40
2. Flesh and the things of the flesh are fleeting,
a. even more fleeting than flesh are the glories that come from a life lived in the flesh.
b. Beloved, it is much easier to love each other both in the brotherly sense of philo and sacrificially in agape when we realize that those things that cause us to hold back our love are not eternal, they are fleeting and in fact are mostly gone.
c. But, your fellow believer is eternal you will stand side by side in heaven giving glory to God and giving him praise for his enduring Word.
3. An exasperated preacher once said this about a person who left his congregation angry, “I guess they will probably ask Christ to reserve a mansion on the other side of heaven from mine.” Have you ever felt that way? Of course we have all been there, but realize this we are all spending eternity together, let’s start now by loving that which eternal and casting aside those fleeting things of the flesh.
C. The enduring Word of God (1 Peter 1:25)
1. We have already had to understand at least in part the truth that the Word of the Lord endures forever.
2. The Word of God has stood when no other book has lasted, it has been the object of great kings wrath and burned by blood thirsty mobs, but yet it remains.
3. What a statement of our faith which Peter says is the result of the word being preached to you.
D. Peter staying true to the style that he has so far in his book, gives us the challenge, then gives us the reason to live up to the challenge and now he is about to make it personal.
III. Have you taken up the call as believers? (1 Peter 2:1-3)
A. Practice genuine love (1 Peter 2:1)
1. Peter now opens our hearts and reveals that we must plead for forgiveness if we are harboring any of these five sins which will drive a wedge between believers and be used of Satan to incite a family feud.
2. Each these five sins reveal a lack of pure love for each other, and instead reveal a love for a life that we should have left behind when we came to know Christ.
a. Malice – which is wicked ill-will
b. Deceit – which is deliberate dishonesty. You realize that you deliberately lie to spare yourself that this is a form of hate for your fellow believer
c. Hypocrisy – pretending to love
d. Envy – resentful discontent
e. Slander – which is backbiting lies.
B. Long for the Word of God (1 Peter 2:2)
1. Instead of these things the life of the believer should long for the Word of God like a new born striving for milk.
2. How many of you strive for the word of God like this? Peter’s instruction is sometimes the last place we go.
a. Notice as well that Peter doesn’t say look to the Word of God to defeat nor to find faults with your fellow believers
b. But instead he says that we should look to the Word of God to provide the nourishment that we ourselves need to grow in respect to salvation
c. This is what is meant when Paul says working out your salvation with fear and trembling – Philippians 2:12
C. Be a part of the family of God (1 Peter 2:3)
1. If you are a believer this morning you have tasted the graciousness of the Lord.
2. Since you were blessed, be a blessing to the family of God, not because you like a person, or because you feel the obligation, but rather you are a child of God act like it.
3. Use the example of Christ’s kindness to you and sacrificially love your brother or sister in Christ, join in the family of God.
Conclusion
1. Peter no doubt has touched each of us here this morning.
a. Your faith, your pursuit of holiness is directly related to your love for each other.
b. As in any family there are the hard times and the fusses but as believers these should never separate us from each other.
c. Don’t try to reserve the mansion on the other side of heaven from each other.
2. You are part of a family, the family of God, act like it, and live like it.
3. If, You are not now is the greatest opportunity you will ever have to be a part of the family of God!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Passing the Buck
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade men” (2 Corinthians 5:10-11).
Will Rogers once said that there have been three periods of American history, “the passing of the Indian, the passing of the buffalo, and the passing of the Buck.”
We are living in the third period.
No one wants to accept responsibility for mistakes We do our best to pass the blame to someone else. As a result, offenders are never guilty. Parents, teachers, poverty, society or the church are at fault. God forbid we should hold a person responsible for his choices.
The same thing happens in the home. Wives never make mistakes. It’s the man’s fault. Men do the same thing. As one poet put it, “He wrecked his car, he lost his job, and yet throughout his life, he took his troubles like a man and blamed them on his wife.”
It’s an age old problem.
When Adam was confronted in the garden, he replied, “The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat” (Genesis 3:12). There is even a fable which tells of Adam and his son, Seth, hiking one afternoon when they came upon a beautiful valley. Seth said to his father, “Dad, why don’t we live there.” Adam replied, “We did, son, until your mother ate us out of house and home.”
What did Eve say when questioned about her sin? “The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat” (Genesis 3:13). In other words, “It’s not my fault!”
God did not accept their excuses. He will not accept ours either.
He has appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness. When that day comes there will be no “passing of the buck.” We will each give an account of our life. If we are lost, we will have no one to blame but ourselves.
It’s time to take charge of your life
Accept responsibility for your decisions, and stop blaming others when you mess up. God will understand our mistakes and forgive us when we repent, but He will not accept our excuses.
- Read your Bible.
- Believe it!
- Obey it!
- Live it every day.
Stop making excuses!
— Roger
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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What is Your Sermon? – audio
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Introduction
1. The Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard.
He once raised the question as to what would happen if there were no preachers. He concluded that the only thing remaining would be the lives of Christians. And so he wondered: “What kind of sermon would you be preaching?”
2. A poet once expressed it somewhat like this:
You are preaching a gospel day by day;
by the things you do and the words you say.
These may be many, or maybe just few;
but say, what is the gospel according to you?
3. What does the world see as they observe the children of God?
4. I would like ask is that what they see when they see you?
Body
I. Calmness
A. In a world that seems to be coming apart at the seams, the Christian needs to radiate calmness. Someone has written:
Said the Robin to the Sparrow:
“I would really like to know,
why these anxious human beings
rush around and worry so.”
Said the Sparrow to the Robin:
“I think that it must be,
that they have no heavenly Father
such as cares for you and me.”
B. Do we live in fear?
1. Are we constantly fretting over material things?
2. We should “relax” in the Lord and enjoy our Christian lives. People can tell whether we are contented or not. We ought not to portray a frustrated image.
3. Philippians 4:4-7
II. Courtesy
A. In his letter to the church at Philippi, Paul admonished:
1. “Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice. Let your forbearance be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand” – Philippians 4:4-5
2. The term “forbearance” (ASV), or “moderation” (KJV) is probably obscure to many.
3. The rendition “reasonableness” (ESV) is some better.
4. But, I like “gentleness” (NKJV) the best!
B. The idea is that of courtesy or graciousness.
1. Unfortunately some people are known as professional grumps.
2. They are ever poised to “tell off” someone – the waitress, the bank clerk, the grocery checker.
III. Compassion
A. It was said of Christ, on a number of occasions as he saw the crowds in distress, that he had “compassion” on them.
1. The Greek word for compassion is related to a term that has reference to one’s inner organs.
2. Metaphorically it denotes a deep inner feeling for someone. When we see folks suffering, we should feel for them and strive to help them as we are capable.
3. When we see the bereaved, do we “feel” their pain – as much as one can for another?
4. Galatians 6:1-5
B. It seems the world is growing increasingly cold.
1. The problem is not global warming; it’s global cooling.
2. It’s a dog-eat-dog environment (significantly undergirded by the evolutionary philosophy).
C. We cannot help everyone of course; nor can we solve all the world’s problems. The Christian does need to show compassion in his daily demeanor.
IV. Courage
A. John F. Kennedy wrote a book titled Profiles in Courage, in which he applauded this quality.
1. Courage is a virtue. David once said to the Lord: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you” (Psalm 56:3). The noblest courage of all is that derived from faith in God.
2. Courageousness is not pugnaciousness.
3. It is not the disposition that is loud-mouthed, or that runs over others.
B. Courage is quiet confidence while doing what is right.
1. Courage is a quality people admire; it is not that of which they are fearful, or that by which they are intimidated.
Conclusion
1. Yes, people are seeing your sermons every day.
2. Make sure they are clear and meaningful for good.
3. When folks observe your life as a truly Christian sermon, they may just want to hear about what it is you have – that they might need!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 23:1-4 Consistency is the Key – audio
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Text: Matthew 23:1-4 (reading by Andy Anderson)
I. Observe!
A. Jesus told the multitudes and the disciples to observe the instructions of the scribes and Pharisees – Matthew 23:3
Are they themselves doing what they tell others to do? – Romans 2:21-24
B. Likewise, we must observe God’s instructions!
1) We need faith to come to God – Hebrews 11:6
2) It only comes from hearing God’s word – Romans 10:17
3) Therefore, we observe God’s word by faithfully studying it – Acts 17:11-12; 2 Timothy 2:15; 1 Peter 2:2
C. Once God’s instructions are observed, they must be understood.
1) Jesus often taught in parables so many heard but did not understand His words – Matthew 13:12-13
2) Thus, Jesus often said:
“Hear and understand” – Matthew 15:10; Mark 7:14
“whoever reads, let him understand” – Matthew 24:15; Mark 13:14
1. Ezra and all the people were helped to understand the Law of Moses – Nehemiah 8:1-8
2. Philip helped the Ethiopian eunuch understand what he was reading – Acts 8:30-39
3. Paul prayed for the Colossians that they would understand the law of Christ – Colossians 1:9-10
D. God gave us examples to learn from.
1) We should observe and do the right examples – 1 Peter 2:21-24; Acts 10:38; Ephesians 5:1; 1 Corinthians 11:1
2) We should observe, but not do the wrong examples – Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:1-11
II. Do!
A. Observing only is half of the command. The other is action!
1) If we know what to do but do not do it, it is sin – James 4:17
2) Jesus told a parable in which a landowner put idle men to work – Matthew 20:1-7
3) An idle person will suffer, but a worker will reap the reward – Proverbs 19:15-16
B. Doing God’s will allows us to enter the kingdom of Heaven – Matthew 7:21
C. God is pleased when we do good – Hebrews 13:16; 1 Peter 3:10-12; Galatians 6:10
III. Jesus is consistent…are we?
A. The scribes and Pharisees did not practice what they preached, but Jesus did – Hebrews 1:12; 13:8
B. Do we live 7 days a week what we preach on the first day?
C. The scribes and Pharisees are not the same on the outside as they are on the inside…
D. Are we? – Matthew 23:25ff
Content by Richard Dillon
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Philippians 03:12-14 Looking Back – audio
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Text: Philippians 3:12-14
Introduction
1. Earlier this year, the college football season opened with the University of Michigan playing Alabama.
2. Michigan was beaten badly. 41-14.
3. After the game, coach Brady Hoke said, “The important thing is that we can’t let Alabama beat us twice. This is a week where we will learn about our team’s leadership and our motivation. There are only 11 more guaranteed opportunities for University of Michigan football games, so we have to learn from what happened in Dallas and start focusing on Air Force this weekend.”
4. Wide receiver, Devin Gardner said, “”I haven’t looked at every defense we play, but they have got to be the best. I learned more in that game than I’ve learned in all the practices I’ve had since starting to play wide receiver. That’s the important thing. We don’t just want to forget this happened — we need to learn from this and apply the lessons to Air Force. We can’t let one team beat us twice.”
5. In these comments we see two important facts.
a. Michigan wanted to learn from their mistakes and get better.
b. Then they wanted to move on and not allow Alabama to “beat them twice.”
6. In other words, once they had analyzed the game and learned all they could, they wanted to forget about it and move on.
7. As Christians, we must do the same thing.
Body
I. IT IS BENEFICIAL TO LEARN FROM THE PAST.
A. We can learn from other’s mistakes – 1 Corinthians 10:1-13
1. Notice that in 1 Corinthians 10:6, we are told that what happened to Israel was an example to us.
2. Notice that in 1 Corinthians 10:11, we are told that these things were written for OUR admonition.
3. Their failures, and their subsequent punishment, should teach us…
a) Not to lust after evil things – 1 Corinthians 10:6
b) Not to become idolaters – 1 Corinthians 10:7
c) Not to commit sexual immorality – 1 Corinthians 10:8
d) Not to tempt Christ – 1 Corinthians 10:9
e) Not to complain – 1 Corinthians 10:10
f) Not to think more highly of ourselves than we ought – 1 Corinthians 10:12
4. The Old Testament and history in general are full of lessons to be learned.
B. We can learn from other’s successes – Hebrews 11:1-12:2
1. Hebrews 11:1-40 is often referred to as the Hall of Fame of Faith.
2. It gives us a list of people who trusted God and were rewarded for it – Hebrews 11:6
3. We read of such people as:
a) Able.
b) Enoch.
c) Noah.
d) Abraham and Sarah.
e) Moses.
f) And many others.
4. Then in chapter 12, we are told… Hebrews 12:1-2
a) That “great cloud of witnesses” is comprised of all of those who we discussed in the previous chapter.
b) Their faithfulness to God and God’s faithfulness in them ought to teach us to trust in God as well!
C. We can learn from our own mistakes.
1. David’s example.
a) With Bathsheba.
(1) 2 Samuel 12:7 – Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man!…
(2) 2 Samuel 12:13 – So David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.”
(3) It is important to note that, even though he undoubtedly would have had other opportunities, David never did something like this again.
b) With the movement of the ark.
(1) 2 Samuel 6:3 – So they set the ark of God on a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill; and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drove the new cart.
(2) 2 Samuel 6:6-7 – And when they came to Nachon’s threshing floor, Uzzah put out his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it, for the oxen stumbled. Then the anger of the Lord was aroused against Uzzah, and God struck him there for his error; and he died there by the ark of God.
(3) David learned from his mistake – 1 Chronicles 15:11-15
2. What about us?
a) Are we wise enough to learn from our past mistakes?
b) Proverbs 26:11 – As a dog returns to his own vomit, So a fool repeats his folly.
c) We have a duty, an obligation, to learn from our past mistakes.
d) If we do not learn, we are doomed to repeat the mistakes again and again.
e) Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. – Einstein.
f) Learn from your mistake so that at least one good thing will come from it.
D. We can learn from our own successes.
1. David’s example – 1 Samuel 17:34-37
a) David knew that God had delivered him from the lion and bear in the past.
b) As a result, he knew that God would deliver him from Goliath.
c) It is important to note that David gave God the credit. He did not claim to have done these things by his own power or strength.
2. What about us?
a) Do we remember all of the answered prayers?
b) Do we remember all of the times that God helped us get through a difficult patch?
c) Remembering those things ought to give us courage for the future.
II. ONCE WE HAVE LEARNED WHAT CAN BE LEARNED FROM THE PAST, WE MUST PRESS ON.
A. Dwelling on past mistakes can be torture.
1. If ever anyone who had a past that they would like to forget, it had to be the apostle Paul.
2. Yet, he said that he had to forget the past and press on – Philippians 3:12-14
3. There comes a time, when you just have to move on and press onward and upward.
4. Even if our heart condemns us (We can’t forgive ourselves), God is greater than our heart – 1 John 3:20
B. Dwelling on past successes has the potential to be equally dangerous.
1. Past successes will not get me to heaven.
2. I have to stay faithful till death.
3. Ezekiel 18:24
4. Even Paul pointed out that he had not yet attained to perfection – Philippians 3:12
5. I must not be overconfident – 1 Corinthians 10:12
III. THERE IS ONE SENSE IN WHICH WE MUST NEVER LOOK BACK – LUKE 9:61-62
A. No one has ever turned back who has not first looked back.
B. We dare not look back on our previous lifestyle with longing.
1. Proverbs 3:31
2. Proverbs 23:17
3. Proverbs 24:1
4. Proverbs 24:19-20
C. Hebrews 6:4-6
D. 2 Peter 2:20-21
Conclusion
1. As Christians, we must learn from both our past mistakes and our past successes.
2. Once we learn what we can, we must move on…
a. And not continually beat ourselves up over our mistakes.
b. And not continually pat ourselves on our back for our successes.
3. We must never look back to that old life of sin with a desire to return.
Delivered on: November 11, 2012. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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1 Thessalonians 04:11-12 An Aspiring Christian – powerpoint
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1thessalonians-04-11-12-an-aspiring-christian.pdf
thessalonians-04-11-12-an-aspiring-christian.pptx
Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
Aspire – Set and Reach for a Goal
Romans 15:20
2 Corinthians 5:9
Make this Your Goal – 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
Not Ambition
Ecclesiastes 12:8
Ecclesiastes 12:13
Lead a Quiet Life
Acts 11:2, 18
1 Timothy 2:2
Mind Your Own Business
1 Timothy 5:8
1 Peter 4:15
Work with Your Own Hands
1 Thessalonians 2:9
Ephesians 4:28
The Desired Result
Walk Properly Toward Those Who are Outsiders
That You May Lack for Nothing
Colossians 4:5
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Rejoice – audio
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- If you look at the world a certain way, it’s easy not to rejoice.
- Life is stressful.
- I keep waiting for that time when everything slows down. Then, I tell myself, I’ll be less stressed and more content.
Do you ever fall into this trap? There’s negative stuff all around us, which, if we’re so inclined, can damper our spirits.
- An uncertain economy. A rising deficit. Strife in the Middle East (isn’t there always?).
- Personally, perhaps there’s uncertainty about health (why these weird symptoms?).
- And concern for the kids and grandkids (Lord, help them to turn out okay . . .).
- And a million more besides.
But our world isn’t any different from the one the Bible spoke to.
- Parents worried about their children.
- They stressed over the new emperor.
- In ways we can’t even imagine, their physical health was always a concern (no antibiotics???).
To that world, and to ours, Paul wrote: “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
Notice that he didn’t say, “Rejoice always.”
The little prepositional phrase in the middle makes all the difference.
- If our joy depends on perfect health or a booming economy, it’ll be short-lived.
- If our contentment hinges on a stress-free life or perfect relationships, we’ll always be disappointed.
- It just won’t work.
Which is why Paul said to rejoice “in the Lord.”
- Rejoice because of our relationship to Jesus Christ.
- Because he saved us.
- Because even though this world is messed up, one day he’ll fix it.
- Because our names are written in the book of life, and we’ve got a certain hope for tomorrow.
- No matter what kind of stresses we face today.
Rejoice, Paul says, In the Lord.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 1:1 Pilgrims of the Dispersion – audio
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Text: 1 Peter 1:1
Introduction
1. Throughout the New Testament, various phrases are used to describe those people of God who make up the Lord’s church
a. Individually, they are referred to as disciples, saints, believers, priests, Christians, etc.
b. Collectively, they are called the church, the church of God, churches of Christ, the body of Christ, the temple of God, the family of God, etc.
c. Each of these terms describe various relationships maintained by those who are Christians
2. An interesting phrase not commonly used in reference to the people of God is found in 1 Peter 1:1, where Peter addresses the pilgrims of the Dispersion
3. A proper understanding of this phrase can be very beneficial, and give us insight into:
a. What the Christian life is
b. An important responsibility expected of Christians
c. Our true home, and goal in this life
Body
I. DEFINING PILGRIMS OF THE DISPERSION
A. THE WORD TRANSLATED PILGRIM IS INTERESTING
1. Transliterated from Grk., it is parepidemos which is a combination of three words:
a. para – alongside of
b. epi – upon
c. demos – used in Biblical Greek of the people of a heathen city
2. Here, then, is how Thayer defines the word parepidemos:
a. one who comes from a foreign country into a city or land to reside there by the side of the natives
b. a stranger
c. a foreigner
3. Another definition: One who stays in a place as a stranger or visitor
B. THE MEANING OF THE WORD DISPERSION
1. The Greek word means to sow, to scatter seed
2. The term is found in John 7:35, and there it refers to the Jews who were scattered among the Greeks
a. Some as a result of the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities
b. This has caused some to conclude that Peter was writing to Jewish Christians
c. Who were living in the regions of Asia Minor – 1 Peter 1:1
3. But there is good reason to believe that Peter was writing to ALL the Christians, both Jewish and Gentile, who were scattered throughout Asia Minor
a. Comments are made in this epistle that cannot be understood in reference to the original recipients being Jews – 1 Peter 1:14,18, 20-21
b. More likely, Peter employs terms once limited to the Jews, but now applicable to all who are in Christ
1) For example, terms like elect (1 Peter 1:2), holy nation (1 Peter 2:9), people of God (1 Peter 2:10)
2) Just as Paul did: circumcision (Philippians 3:3), Israel of God (Galatians 6:16)
4. If this be so, then Peter implies by using the term pilgrims of the dispersion that all Christians are:
a. Pilgrims living in a world not their own
b. Like scattered seed, spread out among those in the world
II. INSIGHTS FROM BEING CALLED PILGRIMS OF THE DISPERSION
A. THIS PHRASE REVEALS WHAT THE CHRISTIAN LIFE REALLY IS:
1. It is but a JOURNEY, begun when we first became Christians, ending only when we reach our true destination
a. This ought to affect our entire perspective on life
1) It is not an end in itself
2) Only a temporary trip toward our final destination
3) Our homes, our jobs, take on a different meaning when viewed in this light
b. This even ought to affect our perspective on death
1) Not the end of life, but the end of our journey!
2) Not the end of life, but the beginning of eternity in our true home!
2. Embarked on this JOURNEY, we become like our spiritual father, Abraham
a. Notice Hebrews 11:8-10, 13-16
b. If this be our attitude towards this life:
1) Then God is not ashamed to be called our God
2) And we can honestly sing songs like This World Is Not My Home
B. THIS PHRASE REMINDS US OF AN IMPORTANT RESPONSIBILITY
1. Our responsibility as pilgrims is to be SEPARATE – 1 Peter 2:11-12
a. We may be in the world, but we are not to be of the world – John 17:15-16; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1
b. Remaining separate may cause some in the world to think we are strange – 1 Peter 4:3-4
c. But Jesus said this would happen, even as it did to Him – John 15:18-19
2. Figuratively speaking, we should be like those foreign refugees now in our country:
a. Who resist giving up their heritage, their language
b. Who resist attempts to Americanize them and destroy their cultural traditions
3. Can it be said of us who are Christians, that we are keeping ourselves SEPARATE from the world?
a. Are we allowing the world to influence our:
1) Speech?
2) Dress?
3) Conduct?
b. If we so, then we are no longer pilgrims, but naturalized citizens of this world!
c. Remember John’s warning in 1 John 2:15-17
C. THIS PHRASE OUGHT TO REMIND US OF OUR TRUE HOME
1. Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly await our Savior – Philippians 3:20-21
2. We are to be looking for a new heavens and a new earth – 2 Peter 3:13-14
3. That is where we will find our true home, the CITY
a. which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God – Hebrews 11:10, 16
b. That is the one to come – Hebrews 13:14
c. That comes down out of heaven from God – Revelation 21:1 – 22:5
d. That is where we, who are now simply strangers and foreigners scattered like seed in this world, will one day be gathered together!
4. Those who are truly pilgrims will think often of their true home
a. When I lived in Vietnam, I thought often of my home in the states
b. And so we will think often of our heavenly home, if we are truly pilgrims of the Dispersion!
Conclusion
1. Are we pilgrims of the Dispersion? We are, if as Christians we:
a. View our life here on earth as a journey in a foreign land!
b. Keep ourselves separate from things in the world that would lead us away from God!
c. View as our true home, the heavenly city God has prepared from those who confess they are strangers and pilgrims on the earth!
2. But you are NOT a pilgrim of the Dispersion if:
a. You have not yet begun your spiritual sojourn by obeying the gospel of Christ!
b. Having done so, you allow the attractions of the world to entice you to settle down into things which would separate you from God!
3. Are YOU a pilgrim of the Dispersion?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Never Give Up
Haddon Robinson tells the following story. I hope you appreciate it the way I did.
It was New Year’s Day, 1929, and Georgia Tech and UCLA were battling it out in the Rose Bowl. Georgia Tech fumbled the football late in the first half. Roy Riggles recovered for California. Picking up the fumbled ball, Riggles became confused and ran 65 yards in the wrong direction. Benny Lom, another UCLA player managed to tackle his teammate before he scored for Tech. Now, with the ball deep in Georgia Tech territory, UCLA was forced to punt. The punt was blocked, and Tech scored a safety, which, as it turns out, was the margin of victory for the Yellow Jackets.
Riggles went into the locker room at halftime a very dejected young man. He sat down in a corner, head in hands, and cried like a baby. UCLA’s coach, Nibbs Price said little in the locker room that day, perhaps not knowing what to say. Finally, just before leaving the locker room to return to the field, Coach Nibbs said, “Men, the same team that played the first half will start the second.”
The players headed for the field, all but Riggles. “Roy, didn’t you hear me? The same team that started the first half will start the second.” “Coach,” he said, “I can’t do it. I’ve ruined you. I’ve ruined the University of California. I’ve ruined myself. I couldn’t face that crowd in the stadium to save my life.” Then Coach Price put his hands on Riggles’s shoulder and said, “Roy, get up and go on back. The game is only half over.” Riggles returned to the game and played like he’d never played before.
I’m not a big football fan, and not terribly impressed with the conduct of most coaches today, but I like Nibbs Price. He gave Roy Riggles a second chance, and Riggles made the most of it. He may have wanted to quit, but he couldn’t, and Coach Price knew that!
All of us have run the wrong direction at one time or another in our lives, and God knows it. But, His message is the same. Don’t give up, get back in the game. What’s done is done. We cannot live in the past. Let’s put our mistakes behind us and go on to finish the game.
Paul wrote: “…this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward to the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13,14). We would do well to follow his example. Never give up!
— Roger
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Do You Believe In God?
Most acknowledge faith in a Supreme Being.
If the statistics can be believed, more than ninety out of every one hundred Americans believes in God or some higher power. When asked, most folks are quick to acknowledge faith in a Supreme Being. But, the life they live frequently betrays the faith they profess.
Folks often talk a much better religion than they live. The apostle Paul described his situation in his second letter to the young preacher, Timothy. In it he condemned those who have a “form of godliness,” but deny its power (2 Timothy 3:5). The AMPLIFIED BIBLE does a good job of conveying Paul’s meaning. It reads, “For (although) they hold a form of piety (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it—their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession.”
There is more than one kind of atheist in our world.
Sure, there are folks who deny the existence of God and belittle those who believe, but they do little harm to the cause of Christ. The real damage is done by those who claim to believe, but live like unbelievers.
The Bible makes specific demands upon those who follow Christ.
We must “follow after peace and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). Paul challenged Christians to be different from the world (2 Corinthians 6:17), and urged them not to conform to the world’s standards (Romans 12:2). Everyone who follows Christ must depart from iniquity (2 Timothy 2:19). We cannot live like the devil and still be a child of God!
Do you believe in God?
You will never win the world for Christ if your preaching is contradicted by your living.
— Roger
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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