Historical Posts
Matthew 21:12-13 The Courage of Jesus – audio
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Text: Matthew 21:12-13
Introduction
1. Jesus went against the culture of the day. He was not “politically correct” in His actions, but He was correct in the eyes of His Father.
2. How do we measure up to the courage of Jesus? – 2 Timothy 1:7-11
Body
I. His courage among His friends
A. Jesus did not stoop to the level of human habits but encouraged them to His level. Jesus stated many times that man should not fear this world, but overcome the world. – Luke 12:4-5
B. Are we walking like Jesus in the presence of our friends? Do we have the courage to turn away from “friends” who would lead us to sin? – Ephesians 5:8-14
II. His courage among His enemies
A. Jesus faced Satan:
1. at His temptation – Matthew 4:1-11
2. the Jews at His arrest – John 18:4-9
3. the cross without fear – Luke 23:26-31
B. Are we standing up to the enemies of the cross?
1. Ephesians 6:10-17
2. Philippians 1:1-17
III. His courage among false teachers
A. Jesus never hesitated nor retreated. He attacked the hypocritical and was uncompromising and fearless. – John 8:44
B. Too many today will not call sin “sin”. They call it “a mistake”. Do you stand courageous against false teachers and their doctrine?
1. Acts 4:13, Acts 4:18-21
2. Galatians 1:6-10
3. 2 John 9-11
Conclusion
1. It takes courage to live the Christian life.
2. Let Jesus be your great example.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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John 10:24-30 Jesus, The Good Shepherd (Part 3)
Text: John 10:24-30
Bible Class Discussion Notes
Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3- John 10:24 – Many of the Jews still doubted that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
- John 10:25 – Jesus already proved who He was by His words, miracles, and sinless life. Even if they still didn’t believe Him, they could not deny the works He did.
Jesus knew that according to Jewish law, there had to be 2 or 3 witnesses before a testimony could be considered. Therefore, Jesus claimed Himself, His works, His Heavenly Father, and John as witnesses to His identity (John 5:31-38; 1 John 5:7-11). - John 10:26-27 – Jesus knew that they didn’t believe Him because they were not of His sheep. Jesus knows His sheep, and His sheep know Him and His voice (John 8:47; previous lesson).
- John 10:28 – Christ gives eternal life to His sheep. No one can remove them from His protection (John 3:15-16).
- John 10:29 – Christ reminds us that His Heavenly Father is greater than all (John 14:28), even Himself. Thus, He gave Christ all authority (Ephesians 4:6; Matthew 28:18), who will eventually return it to Him (1 Corinthians 15:24-28).
- John 10:30 – Jesus equates Himself with His Father, which caused the Jews to believe He was blaspheming God. However, Jesus prayed that we would all be one with Him, as He is one with the Father (John 17:6-10).
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 10:07-18 Jesus, The Good Shepherd (Part 2)
Text: John 10:7-18
Bible Class Discussion Notes
Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3- John 10:7 – Jesus states plainly that He is the door of the sheep (see John 10:1). There is no other way to His Father but through Him (John 14:6).
- John 10:8 – All those coming before or after Christ are NOT Him; instead, they are the thieves and robbers (verses 1-5). Therefore, we should not believe the many false Christs that exist today that Jesus warned us about (Matthew 24:23-25).
- John 10:9 – Again Jesus emphasizes He is the door of the sheep. If we go through Him, we can be saved (Acts 4:12); we can be saved through no other! Only through Christ, the door, do we have access to God by one Spirit (Ephesians 2:18).
- John 10:10-11 – As thieves and robbers come to kill and destroy, the Good Shepherd (Jesus Himself) comes to give life abundantly. He gave His life for us (John 3:16), and often says He is the bread of life (John 6:48) or can give living water (John 4:10, 14).
- John 10:12-13 – A hireling is a temporary shepherd. He does not care for the sheep but is only interested in receiving his wages. When danger approaches, he forsakes the sheep. Zechariah prophesied about a false shepherd who would be greatly punished (Zechariah 11:16-17).
- John 10:14-15 – As Christ is the Good Shepherd, He knows every one of His sheep, and we should all know Him.
Paul said, “The Lord knows those whose are His (2 Timothy 2:19ff”. Jesus knows His Father well, and His Father knows Him. He laid down His life for His friends, His sheep; we are His friends if we do what He commands us (John 15:13-14). - John 10:16 – There are other sheep not in this fold. Jesus commanded His apostles to preach the gospel throughout the world (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16). Thus there are many folds, but all have the same Shepherd—Christ! (See previous lessons on the kingdom of God as Christ is the head of the church.) We are all baptized into one body, the church of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Ephesians 4:4-6; Ephesians 5:23; Romans 16:16).
- John 10:17-18 – God loved His only begotten Son because Jesus did His Father’s will. Thus, the world knows Jesus loved Him because He kept His commandment of laying down His life for us (John 14:31; 17:4). He has the power to lay it down and take it again (see Matthew 28:18).Jesus knows we love Him when we do His commandments (John 14:15).
Content by Richard Dillon
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John 10:01-06 Jesus, The Good Shepherd (Part 1)
Text: John 10:1-6
Bible Class Discussion Notes
Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3- John 10:1 – If anyone tries to enter the sheepfold by any way other than the door, he is a thief and a robber. In the religious world, people try to get to Heaven by other ways than through the right one.Solomon wrote, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25).” Thus there is only ONE way to Heaven, and that is through Jesus Christ (John 14:6).Sadly, there are many that go down the wrong road that leads to destruction, but we can take the narrow gate and difficult way to life (Matthew 7:13-14).
- John 10:2 – The one that goes in and out of the door is the shepherd. He has access to do the door, and we have access to Christ by faith into God’s grace (Ephesians 5:1-2), and access to God through Christ (Hebrews 11:6).
- John 10:3 – The doorkeeper opens the door for the shepherd, and the sheep follow him in and out. The shepherd knows all the sheep by name, and they should all know him.Jesus knows us all by name, and even when Mary did not recognize Him after His resurrection, He called her “Mary!” and she knew Him (John 20:16).
- John 10:4-5 – The shepherd is the leader of the sheep, and the sheep follow only him. Strangers may try to lead the sheep, but a sheep should only follow the voice that is familiar.Likewise, there are many “wolves in sheep’s clothing” in the religious world. Sadly, many are misled by those wolves. The apostle Paul warns us about them (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).We should know God’s voice by constant study of His word (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17). God’s word was first spoken directly, then through the law of Moses, then by the prophets, then by His own Son, and now in the Bible (Hebrews 1:1-3). We must not follow those that teach contrary to God’s Word!
- John 10:6 – Some were not able to understand Jesus’ illustration.He often spoke in parables because some could not see nor understand (Luke 8:9-10). There was even a time when the disciples could not understand about Jesus being delivered into the hands of men because it was hidden from them until the Day of Pentecost (Luke 9:43-45; Acts 2:1-40).
Content by Richard Dillon
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James 01:19-20 Slow to Wrath – audio
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Text: James 1:19-20
Introduction
1. We find a threefold injunction in James 1:19-20:
a. Swift to hear
b. Slow to speak
c. Slow to wrath
2. From the context, it appears that these admonitions are given in regards to our reception of the Word of God – James 1:18; James 1:21
a. Therefore, they are qualities needed especially in times of trial when we need most the Word of God
b. In other words, we need to humbly and calmly be receptive to what the Word of God has to say
3. In this lesson, I wish to concentrate our attention on the third admonition: slow to wrath
a. Especially in view of James 1:20 – For the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God
b. And also because wrath (and its close cousin anger) are too often excused as minor sins
Body
I. AN OVERALL LOOK AT ANGER AND WRATH
A. DEFINING ANGER AND WRATH
1. ANGER – (Greek, orge)
a. Indignation which has arisen gradually and become more settled – THAYER
b. ORGE suggests a more settled or abiding condition of mind, frequently with a view to taking revenge – VINE
c. Anger, then, is a lingering, seething emotion
2. WRATH – (Greek, thumos)
a. The sudden outburst of passionate anger
b. The blaze of temper which flares into violent words and deeds, and just as quickly dies
c. Today we would call this blowing off steam
B. THE OLD TESTAMENT BOOKS OF WISDOM SAY MUCH ABOUT ANGER AND WRATH
1. In the Psalms: Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; Do not fret—it only causes harm – Psalms 37:8
2. In the book of Proverbs:
a. A quick-tempered man acts foolishly – Proverbs 14:17
b. He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, But he who is impulsive exalts folly – Proverbs 14:29
c. A wrathful man stirs up strife, But he who is slow to anger allays contention – Proverbs 15:18
d. He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city – Proverbs 16:32
e. A man of great wrath will suffer punishment; For if you rescue him, you will have to do it again – Proverbs 19:19
f. Better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and angry woman – Proverbs 21:19
g. Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul – Proverbs 22:24-25
3. In the book of Ecclesiastes: Do not hasten in thy spirit to be angry: for anger rests in the bosom of fools – Ecclesiastes 7:9
C. THE NEW TESTAMENT ALSO SAYS MUCH AGAINST ANGER AND WRATH
1. To the brethren in Rome, Paul wrote: Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord – Romans 12:19
2. It is included with those things Paul lists as the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21
3. To the Ephesians Paul writes: Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice – Ephesians 4:31
4. In a similar vein to the Colossians: But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth – Colossians 3:8
D. HAVING SAID ALL THAT, WE MUST ALSO NOTE THAT:
1. Paul seems to concede that there is a place for a certain kind of anger: Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath – Ephesians 4:26
2. On several occasions Jesus expressed anger
a. Towards the money changers in the temple – John 2:13-17
b. Towards the hypocritical scribes and Pharisees – Matthew 23:13-36
3. In both testaments, God is presented as a God of anger as well as a God of love
a. In the Old Testament:
1) Psalms 78:49-51
2) Psalms 78:58-61
3) Therefore the anger of the LORD is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them And stricken them, And the hills trembled. Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets. For all this His anger is not turned away, but His hand is stretched out still – Isaiah 5:25
b. In the New Testament:
1) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness – Romans 1:18
2) Romans 2:4-11
4. How do we then reconcile those passages which demand that anger and wrath is folly and something to be put away, with those that speak of anger on the part of God, Christ and even the Christian?
II. A CLOSER LOOK AT ANGER AND WRATH
A. CONCERNING THE ANGER OF GOD
1. God’s anger is ALWAYS A JUST REACTION TO EVIL – Romans 1:18-2:11
a. Being Divine, and all-knowing, His wrath is NEVER MISGUIDED
b. He is therefore capable of properly directing anger and wrath
2. Man, with his imperfections, is not so capable!
a. Man’s anger is often misguided (through ignorance, misunderstanding, etc.)
b. Haven’t we all been angry about something, later regretting it when we realize we were in error?
3. Therefore, just because God may display wrath and anger, this does not necessarily justify man doing so!
B. CONCERNING THE ANGER OF CHRIST
1. What has already been said of God could also be said of Christ
a. Especially in light of His ability to read the hearts of men – John 2:24-25
b. With such divine knowledge, He could not mistakenly direct wrath and anger
2. Also, in the examples of His anger
a. There is nothing of self-interest
b. Only HOLY ANGER against unrighteousness which is abhorrent to God
3. He was angry, but only for God’s honor!
a. When personally abused, He said nothing – 1 Peter 2:21-23
b. But when it was against God, He displayed righteous anger
4. Again, man with his imperfections often uses anger improperly
a. For example
1) We remain silent when sin is exalted and GOD is dishonored
2) But then get angry when someone offends US personally!
b. Too often, therefore, what we justify as righteous indignation is really SELF-righteous indignation!
C. CONCERNING THE ANGER IN EPHESIANS 4:26
1. Whatever our understanding, it needs to be in harmony with the context
2. Especially with what Paul writes just a few verses later: Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice – Ephesians 4:31
3. I understand this passage, rather than justifying anger, to be directing us how to deal with it when it arises in our heart:
a. First, DO NOT SIN
1) The emotion must be CONTROLLED
2) Don’t allow it to manifest itself in a sinful way
3) Such as saying or doing something that is wrong
b. Then, DO NOT LET THE SUN GO DOWN ON YOUR WRATH
1) The emotion must be DISPELLED BEFORE NIGHTFALL
2) Otherwise, we may be giving Satan ample opportunity to tempt us to sin – Ephesians 4:27
4. In view of what Paul actually says in Ephesians 4:26 and then later in Ephesians 4:31, it seems highly unlikely that he is justifying anger and wrath
Conclusion
1. Concerning the subject of anger and wrath, we would do well to take James’ admonition to heart and to be slow to wrath
2. For though the wrath of God may on occasions accomplish the righteousness of God, it is clearly stated that the wrath of man does not: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God – James 1:20
3. Following the example of Christ, there may be a place for anger, but if so, ONLY in things pertaining to the honor and will of God!
4. In all other things, we would do well to remember another admonition:
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to Wrath – James 1:19
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 16:15 The Historical Jesus
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Text: Matthew 16:15
Introduction
1. In the previous lesson, we laid the foundation for a study in Christian apologetics: That the Christian faith is:
a. AN OBJECTIVE FAITH
1) With Jesus of Nazareth as the object of that faith
2) That He is the Son of God, who died for our sins and rose from the dead
b. A HISTORICAL FAITH
1) Based upon real people, places, and events
2) That actually took place in history
c. AN INTELLIGENT, RATIONAL FAITH
1) Which invites people to use their minds
2) To examine the historical evidence which logically supports placing one’s faith in Jesus of Nazareth as the Son of God
2. With these things in mind, we begin by considering the evidence
a. Which establishes Jesus of Nazareth as a HISTORICAL FIGURE
b. One who actually lived in Palestine during the First Century A.D.
Body
I. WAS THERE EVER ANY QUESTION?
A. THERE HAVE BEEN SKEPTICS WHO BELIEVED JESUS WAS JUST A MYTH
1. This concept was popular with some scholars of the 1800s’
2. It is rarely found today, except among those
a. Who are ignorant of the facts
b. Who purposely suppress the evidence (e.g., as was done in formerly communist dominated countries)
B. TODAY, NO SERIOUS HISTORIAN (EVEN THOSE WHO ARE ATHEISTS) DISPUTES THE FACT THAT JESUS EXISTED
1. H. G. WELLS
a. An atheist, he spoke of Jesus in his book, Outline Of History
b. “…one is obliged to say, ‘Here was a man. This part of the tale could not have been invented.'”
2. WILL DURANT
a. Ex-professor of Philisophy of History at Columbia University
b. He spent two chapters in The Story Of Our Civilization depicting Jesus as a historical figure right along with the Caesars
3. ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA
a. Used over 20,000 words to describe Jesus
b. More than Aristotle, Cicero, Alexander, Julius Caesar, Buddha, Confucius, Mohammed, or Napoleon
II. THE EVIDENCE FOR A HISTORICAL JESUS
A. AMONG “PAGAN” SOURCES
1. THALLUS (a Samaritan historian, ca. 52 A.D.)
a. Wrote attempting to give a natural explanation for the darkness which occurred at the crucifixion of Jesus
b. Note carefully:
1) He did not deny the existence of Jesus
2) But only tried to explain away the strange circumstances surrounding His death
2. LETTER OF MARA-SERAPION (written to his son, ca. 73 A.D.)
a. He tells of the deaths of Socrates, Pythagoras, and of Jesus
b. “What advantage did the Jews gain from executing their wise king?…Nor did the wise king die for good; he lived on in the teaching which he had given.”
3. CORNELIUS TACITUS (Roman historian, ca. 112 A.D.)
a. Writes of Jesus in his ANNALS
b. “Christus, the founder of the name, was put to death by Pontius Pilate, procurator of Judea in the reign of Tiberias.”
4. PLINY THE YOUNGER
a. Governor of Bithynia in Asia Minor, ca. 112 A.D.
b. Wrote to the emperor Trajan about Christians and their devotion to Christ
5. SEUTONIUS (Court official and annalist under Hadrian, 120 A.D.)
a. “As the Jews were making constant disturbance at the instigation of Chrestus, he expelled them from Rome.”
b. Luke makes reference to this same expulsion in Acts 18:1-2
B. AMONG “JEWISH” SOURCES
1. THE TALMUD
a. Consists of two separate books dealing with Jewish law, written during the period from 100 A.D. to 500 A.D.
b. Speaks frequently of Jesus of Nazareth
1) In unfriendly terms, of course
2) But never disputing his status as a historical figure
2. FLAVIUS JOSEPHUS
a. A Jewish general turned Roman historian, born 37 A.D.
b. Makes several references to Jesus in his History Of The Jews
c. E.g., “…and brought before it the brother of Jesus, the so-called Christ, whose name was James.”
C. Such is the evidence which must be taken into account by any intelligent and rational person.
III. THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS EVIDENCE
A. WHAT IT “DOES” DO…
1. It provides a solid basis upon which one can intelligently believe in Jesus as a person who actually existed in history
2. It exposes the shallow thinking of any who would try to write off Jesus as a myth
3. It requires everyone to give some sort of answer to the question posed by Jesus Himself: “But who do you say that I am?” – Matthew 16:15
B. WHAT IT “DOES NOT” DO
1. The evidence we have seen thus far DOES NOT prove Jesus to be the Son of God
2. In fact, it does not tell us anything about Jesus except:
a. That He lived and died during the First Century A.D.
b. That He must have done something significant to gain some notoriety by the historians
C. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT JESUS, WE MUST LOOK ELSEWHERE
1. There have been many fanciful stories written about Jesus
2. But the Christian considers the twenty-seven books known as the New Testament to be the only reliable source of information about Jesus
3. But are they?
a. Is the New Testament reliable as a historical document?
b. Can we even be sure that what we have is actually what was penned by the original authors of the New Testament?
Conclusion
1. The next study shall begin an attempt to answer these questions
2. For now, we have simply laid one block as we build a foundation upon which we can rest our faith
a. We have seen that it is more logical to believe that Jesus did in fact exist
b. To assert that He is a myth is groundless
3. And since He actually existed, that requires our giving some answer to the question Jesus asked: “WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM?”
4. Will our answer be “LORD!”, or “A CAREFULLY CONTRIVED LIE?”
a. As we shall see, these are the only two choices we have
b. The evidence we shall continue to examine should help give us the right answer!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 02:09-10 Out of Darkness into Light
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Text: 1 Peter 2:9-10
Introduction
- There is sin everywhere and the world is lying in wickedness (1 John 5:19). The world outside of Christ, is dead in trespasses and sins. They’re walking aimlessly in darkness toward destruction. This is why you need to step out of darkness and death and into the light of Jesus. Because He (Jesus) has made us alive through God’s grace (Ephesians 2:1-5).
- Jesus came to earth to heal the brokenhearted, to send the message of deliverance to the captives that they might be free, and to recover the sight of the blind that they would see and obey the truth of God (Acts 26:16-18). Jesus came to deliver us out of darkness in his marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9-10).
Why Step Out of Darkness?
- You must step of darkness because it will cause you to stumble and go in the wrong direction (John 11:9-10).
- Men and women do not have the ability to direct their own way successfully (Jeremiah 10:23). The Word will guide you (Psalm 119:105).
- In darkness Satan blinds you and keeps you from seeing and obeying the truth that saves you (2Corinthians 4:3-4).
- It is necessary to step out of darkness because remaining in darkness will lead you to hating your brother instead of walking in the light of love (1 John 2:9-11).
- Therefore, let us cast of the works of darkness (Romans 13:11-14).
- It is imperative; we each step out of darkness and into light of Jesus because if we do not believe in Jesus, we will be eternally separated from God (John 8:24). In John 3:36, the Spirit of truth confirms, there is no everlasting life with God, without belief in Jesus. That means spending eternity wailing and gnashing your teeth in outer darkness, if you continue to walk in darkness (Mathew 13:40-42).
Should We Walk into the Light of Jesus Christ?
- You should walk into the light of Jesus to get out of darkness, because Jesus came into the world to be the light of the world (John 8:12).
- Since Jesus is the light, those who are unbelieving are walking in darkness and are condemned.
- (Do know why people hate Christians?) They hate the light because Jesus exposes who they are (John 3:18-21). In John 1:5 the Bible declares “And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehendeth it not.”
- You must step out of darkness and into the light of Jesus because by the power of God you can overcome sin and darkness through Jesus. In Colossians 1:12-14, the Sword of the Spirit declares that God has delivered us from the power of darkness and has translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son. We must abide in Jesus so darkness will not abide in us (John 12:46).
- Therefore, let those of us that were in darkness make sure we continue to walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8-11). To those who are lost, walking in darkness, why not make the decision to walk in the pathway of light.
HEAR BELIEVE REPENT CONFESS BAPTISM LIVE FAITHFULLY
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Micah 06:06-08 What Does Jesus Require of You? audio
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Text: Micah 6:6-8
Introduction
1. The prophet Micah raises and answers a question – Micah 6:6-8
a. What does the Lord require of you?
b. To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God
2. In this lesson, I would like to rephrase and answer the question
a. What does Jesus require of you?
b. Letting the words of Jesus Himself to answer
Body
I. TO REPENT OF SIN – Luke 24:46-47
A. THE COMMAND TO REPENT OF SIN
1. Was proclaimed by Jesus during His ministry – Matthew 4:17; Luke 13:3,5
2. Was preached by His apostles as they fulfilled His commission – Acts 3:19; 17:30-31
3. Jesus clearly requires people to repent!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REPENT
1. Repent: primarily, to change one’s mind – BDAG
2. To change one’s way of life as the result of a complete change of thought and attitude with regard to sin and righteousness – Louw Nida
3. A decision prompted by godly sorrow for one’s sins – 2 Corinthians 7:9-10
4. A decision demonstrated by fervent change in conduct – 2 Corinthians 7:11
5. Have you expressed godly sorrow for your sin, with a fervent desire to change?
II. TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED – MK 16:15-16
A. THE COMMAND TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED
1. The command to believe is foundational to the gospel message-Jn 3:16; 8:24; 20:30-31
2. Likewise the command to be baptized – Acts 2:38; 10:48; 22:16
3. Jesus clearly requires people to believe and be baptized!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED
1. To place your faith in Jesus, that He died for your sins – John 1:29
2. To place your faith in God, that in baptism He will raise you together with Christ, having forgiven you of your sins – Colossians 2:11-13; Romans 6:3-7
3. Consider the example of the Ethiopian eunuch – Acts 8:35-38
4. Have you placed your trust in Jesus, dying with Him to sin in baptism and rising with Him from baptism to a new life?
III. TO BECOME HIS DISCIPLE – Matthew 28:18-20
A. THE COMMAND TO BECOME HIS DISCIPLE
1. Was expressed earlier as a tender invitation – Matthew 11:28-30
2. Begins with the act of baptism mentioned before – Matthew 28:19
3. Jesus clearly requires people to become His disciples!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HIS DISCIPLE
1. Disciple: one who engages in learning through instruction from another, pupil, apprentice – BDAG
2. A disciple fully trained will be like his teacher – Luke 6:40
3. It requires abiding in Jesus’ words, loving one another, bearing fruit – John 8:31; 13:35
4. It requires denying self, forsaking all – Luke 14:26,33
5. Have you made the commitment to follow and learn from Jesus as His disciple?
IV. TO BE FAITHFUL UNTIL DEATH – Revelation 2:10
A. THE COMMAND TO BE FAITHFUL UNTIL DEATH
1. Is necessary because Jesus knew some would fall away – Luke 8:13-14
2. Is necessary because one can develop a heart of unbelief – Hebrews 3:12-14
3. Jesus clearly requires people to remain faithful as His disciples!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REMAIN FAITHFUL
1. To retain our “first love” – Revelation 2:4
2. To reject all false doctrines – Revelation 2:14-15
3. To maintain our zeal for the Lord – Revelation 3:15-16
4. Have you maintained that initial love and zeal you had when you became a Christian?
V. TO REPENT IF NECESSARY
A. THE NEED TO REPENT AS CHRISTIANS
1. Repeated by Jesus time and again – Revelation 2:5,16; 3:3,19
2. Expressed by Paul writing to the church at <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Corinth”>Corinth</a> – 2 Corinthians 12:20-21
3. Jesus clearly requires His disciples to repent when necessary!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REPENT
1. What we said before: a decision prompted by godly sorrow, demonstrated by fervent change
2. For the Christian it includes prayer, confessing one’s sin – Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:9
3. If your faith and service ever wavered, have you repented with fervent zeal?
Conclusion
1. In our lesson we have come full circle (repent-repent).
a. Jesus wants every lost soul to repent and obey the gospel in faith and baptism
b. Jesus wants every wayward disciple to repent and be zealous in their service to Him
2. Have you done what Jesus requires of you…?
a. If you need to repent and obey the gospel, let us assist you!
b. If you need to repent and return to the Lord, let us pray with you!
3. Surely the salvation of your soul and committed discipleship is what Jesus requires of you today…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Sometimes It Is Better Just to Say Nothing – Mark 9:2-6
Text: Mark 9:2-6
I rarely regret what I didn’t say, but I often kick myself for what I did say.
If the apostle Peter felt the same way, he must’ve walked around in a perpetual self-kicking posture.
As we would expect, Peter was blown away when he witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus and the sudden appearance of two men who had been dead for hundreds of years. Jesus’ clothes became intensely white and radiant, and Moses and Elijah appeared beside Him, talking to Him.
Peter felt the need to say something, but what do you say in a situation like that?
“Hi Moses, Elijah. How are you guys doing today?” wouldn’t have sounded quite right.
So Peter said what he thought was appropriate . . . Here’s the first part of the story:
Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them. And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”— because he did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid. (Mark 9:2-6)
When we’re scared to death, we say things we shouldn’t. Peter’s comment here was well-intentioned, but he simply didn’t understand the significance of what was happening. He still thought Jesus was just another great man like Moses and Elijah.
He didn’t fully recognize who this Rabbi really was.
God responds to Peter quickly and decisively:
And a cloud came and overshadowed them; and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” Suddenly, when they had looked around, they saw no one anymore, but only Jesus with themselves. (Mark 9:7-8).
When Matthew tells this story, he lets us know that Peter and the others dove for cover when they heard God’s voice (Matthew 17:6).
While they were planting their faces in the dirt, they got the message: Jesus is infinitely greater than Moses and Elijah.
God worked through Moses to lead His people and deliver His Law.
God spoke through Elijah and the prophets to guide the people back to Him.
But don’t miss this: the point of the Law and the prophets was Jesus, and that’s what it’ll always be.
And that’s the main idea to take from today’s passage.
We hear many voices in our world:
- religious voices
- secular voices
- cultural voices
Quite often they’ll tell us different ways to go.
This Rabbi who was transfigured before Peter and the others is the only voice that matters.
This is God’s beloved Son.
Listen to Him.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 01:23-25 Beyond the Manger
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Text: Matthew 1:23-25
Introduction
1. The virgin birth of Jesus is a central truth of Christianity.
2. The fact that God relinquished heaven to come to the earth and live as a man is captivating to say the least – John 1:1; John 1:14
3. While the facts surrounding the birth of Jesus are firmly rooted in Scripture, the special celebration of his birth is a man made event.
a. It wasn’t until 354 A.D. that the Bishop of Rome decided to observe December 25th, formerly a pagan holiday observed intended to honor the God, Saturn to a celebration of the birth of Jesus.
4. This afternoon, I wish for us to focus on the Jesus beyond the manger.
Body
I. As a Baby, He Was Helpless – As A Man, He Was All Powerful
A. As a Baby, he was totally dependent on others for survival.
B. As a man, we become totally dependent on him for survival.
C. Matthew 28:18-20
D. The power of Jesus must have been, and still is awe inspiring – John 11:43
E. This sort of power demands our respect.
II. As A Baby, He Was Loved – As A Man, He Was Hated
A. While it is true that Herod hated Jesus when he was born (Matthew 2), most people love a baby.
B. (John 15:18-20) Jesus was different and thus hated.
C. By his light, he exposed the darkness and the shame in others – John 3:19
III. As A Baby, He Made Demands Of His Mother – As A Man, He Makes Demands Of Everyone
A. Every parent knows from experience the taxing demands of an infant.
B. But as Jesus grew, so did the scope of his demands.
C. He began to call all men to repentance and a change of lifestyle – John 8:11; Luke 13:3; Matthew 16:24
IV. Jesus Was Born To Die So That We Can Be Born To Live
A. Christianity is full of paradoxes.
B. It was God’s plan from before the creation of the world to send Jesus to the earth to die – Revelation 13:8; Luke 24:46-47
C. Today, those who are born again can have life – John 3:3-5; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 5:4
Conclusion
1. As important as the birth of Jesus is, we must look beyond the manger;beyond the babe; and see the Christ of the cross who has all authority, who makes demands of your life, but who also promises you everlasting life.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Peter 03:15 Why Do You Believe in Jesus?
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Text: 1 Peter 3:15
Introduction
1. In 1 Peter 3:15, all Christians are commanded to be ready to make a”defense” for the reason of their hope in Christ
a. The word “defense” is from apologia, which means “a speech in defense of what one has done, or of truth which one believes”
b. The formal use of this word is used by Paul in Acts 22:1; 1 Corinthians 9:3
2. Peter, however, uses the word in the context of an informal inquiry by a friend or neighbor.
a. Someone asking “Why are you a Christian?”
b. To such Peter says that we should be ready to give reasons why we believe
3. In this series of lessons on “CHRISTIAN APOLOGETICS”, we shall examine some of the evidence that exists for placing one’s faith in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God
4. In doing so, I hope to accomplish two objectives:
a. To STRENGTHEN OUR FAITH in Jesus Christ
b. To HELP PREPARE OURSELVES to be able to do the thing required by Peter in 1 Peter 3:15
Body
I. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “AN INTELLIGENT, RATIONAL FAITH”
A. IT APPEALS TO THE “MIND” AS WELL AS TO THE “HEART”
1. God expects us to use our minds – Matthew 22:36-38; John 8:32
a. I.e., we do not have to commit “INTELLECTUAL SUICIDE” in order to have faith!
b. More than one person said, My heart cannot rejoice in what my mind rejects
1) A “WEAK FAITH” may be the result of the heart trying to believe in something the mind cannot accept
2) But the “STRONG FAITH” God requires involves both the mind and the heart
2. So it is important that we present reasons why we believe in an INTELLIGENT and RATIONAL manner
B. DOES THIS MEAN WE CAN OFFER 100% PROOF?
1. No, but there is virtually nothing of which we can be 100% sure, who our parents are
2. Yet, we often make 100% commitments with less than 100% proof; flying
a. We cannot be 100% certain that we will have a safe journey
b. But the statistical evidence is strong enough to convince us that we will
c. So though we may not have 100% certainty of arriving safely, when we step on the plane we make a 100% commitment!
3. So the question becomes: IS THERE ENOUGH EVIDENCE OR PROOF TO WARRANT MAKING A 100% COMMITMENT TO CHRIST?
a. There is certainly enough evidence to commit myself 100% FOR HIM, rather than be 100% AGAINST HIM!
b. There is no other alternative – Matthew 12:30
c. Jesus is like an airplane; either we get on board totally, or we get left behind!
C. So the Christian faith is to be an INTELLIGENT, RATIONAL FAITH.
II. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “A HISTORICAL, FACTUAL FAITH”
A. CHRISTIANITY APPEALS TO HISTORY, AND THE FACTS OF HISTORY
1. The facts backing the Christian claim are not a special kind of ‘religious’ fact. They are the cognitive, informational facts upon which all historical, legal, and ordinary decisions are based.
2. It will be my purpose in future lessons:
a. To present these HISTORICAL FACTS
b. Then demonstrate that the Christian interpretation is more logical than any other
B. TO BRIEFLY ILLUSTRATE THAT CHRISTIANITY IS BASED UPON HISTORICAL FACTS
1. Consider Luke 2:1-5; Luke 3:1-2
2. Notice the appeal to time, places, people and events that actually existed in history
C. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH, THEREFORE, IS A HISTORICAL FAITH THAT APPEALS TO CERTAIN FACTS OF HISTORICAL OCCURENCE
1. Not a PHILOSOPHICAL faith appealing to philosophies of men
2. Not a faith based upon MYTHS and LEGENDS
III. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “AN OBJECTIVE FAITH”
A. IT IS A FAITH IN AN “OBJECT”: JESUS OF NAZARETH!
1. Faith in WHO He was: The Christ, the Son of God
2. Faith in WHAT He did: He rose from the dead on the third day
B. IT “DOES” MAKE A DIFFERENCE “WHAT” WE BELIEVE!
1. The old cliche “It doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as you believe in something” is inconsistent with the Christian faith
2. Consider John 8:24; Romans 10:9
a. Note that it is not faith IN OF ITSELF that is important
b. But IN WHOM (the object) our faith is based!
IV. THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS “BASED ON PRINCIPLES OF TRUTH”
A. SUCH AS “TRUTH IS ALWAYS OPEN TO EXAMINATION”
1. So is the Christian faith
a. Acts 2:22 – Peter appealed to the crowd to examine what they themselves knew
b. Acts 26:24-26 – Paul invited Agrippa to examine the evidence
2. Unlike some religions (esp. “Jehovah’s Witnesses” and the “Mormons”), the CHRISTIAN FAITH is open to honest examination
B. SUCH AS “TRUTH IS ALWAYS OPEN TO NON-TRUTH (FALSIFICATION)”
1. That is, it is open to be proven wrong
2. To illustrate, if you don’t believe Jesus was raised from the dead
a. Use the evidence that is available, and…
b. Attempt to prove by it that He wasn’t!
c. Do this and then we shall see which interpretation of the facts is more logical (intelligent and rational)
V. WHY PEOPLE REJECT CHRIST
A. AS IN THE DAYS OF CHRIST, IT IS USUALLY DUE TO ONE OF THREE REASONS:
1. IGNORANCE – John 7:40-43
a. Some rejected Jesus as the Christ because they were ignorant of the historical facts concerning His birth
b. So many do today for a similar reason: LACK OF ACCURATE INFORMATION!
2. PRIDE – John 12:42-43
a. Pride in wanting to be approved kept them from confessing Jesus as the Christ
b. Today, many do not want the RIDICULE or REJECTION one might face for following Christ
3. MORAL PROBLEM – John 3:19-20
a. Some people reject the evidence because it would mean having to change their LIFESTYLE
b. Today, many people in efforts to justify their immorality
1) Accept only that evidence which supports theories which allows them to continue their lifestyle
2) Reject any evidence which may support a doctrine which would condemn their behavior and require a change
B. WHAT IT OFTEN BOILS DOWN TO IS THIS
1. The rejection of Christ
a. Is not so much a problem of the “MIND” but of the “WILL”!
b. Is not so much “I CAN’T” but “I WON’T”!
2. There is enough evidence to convince the honest and sincere seeker
3. But there is not enough evidence to force a man against his will when he is determined to reject it!
Conclusion
1. It is with these “BASICS” in mind that I shall endeavor to give evidence that warrants faith in Jesus of Nazareth as the Christ, the Son of God
2. I shall not attempt to prove anything “beyond a shadow of a doubt,” for that is not possible
3. But I shall try to show that it is more logical to believe in Jesus, than for one not to!
4. And we shall begin by examining the evidence that demonstrates Jesus to be a true, historical figure, a person who actually lived!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 01:04-14 Jesus’ Superiority to Angels
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Text: Hebrews 1:4-14
Introduction
1. The subject of angels has certainly become a popular one lately
a. Bookstores are filled with books dealing with angels
b. Popular TV shows and movies depict angels working in our lives (Highway To Heaven, Touched By An Angel, The Preacher’s Wife, It’s A Wonderful Life)
2. Angels were also an important part of the Jewish religion
a. Angels assisted with the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai – Deuteronomy 33:2; Psalm 68:17; Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19
b. They appear throughout the history of Israel, coming to Abraham, Daniel, and many others
3. Since the purpose of The Epistle To The Hebrews is to show the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant to the Law of Moses…
a. It is necessary that the writer has something to say about angels
b. So it is that we find the comparison of the Son to prophets followed now by a comparison to angels – Hebrews 1:4-14
4. The premise is clearly stated that the Son (Jesus) is much better than the angels – Hebrews 1:4
a. The reason in a nutshell is that He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they
b. That name is Son, a title that only Jesus can properly wear
1) Angels may be called sons of God collectively – Job 1:6
2) But no angel can be called this name individually!
Body
I. JESUS IS THE SON
A. TWO PROPHECIES REFER TO THE MESSIAH AS SON
1. The first is Psalm 2:7
a. A psalm depicting the enthronement of the Messiah (the Lord’s Anointed)
b. In which Jehovah calls the Messiah My Son
c. The begetting has reference to the resurrection of Jesus – Acts 13:33; Romans 1:4
2. The second is 2 Samuel 7:14
a. This passage had immediate application to Solomon, David’s son
b. But as the Messiah he would receive the throne of David
1) It’s ultimate application would be to the Messiah
2) Jesus, the son of David – Matthew 1:1; Mark 10:47; John 7:42
B. BUT NO ANGEL IS EVER CALLED MY SON
1. Collectively they were called sons of God, but never individually!
2. This not only demonstrates Jesus’ superiority to angels
a. It proves that Jesus Himself was NOT an angel!
b. Contrary to what some (such as JW’s) believe
II. JESUS IS THE FIRSTBORN WHO RECEIVES WORSHIP
A. JESUS IS DESCRIBED AS THE FIRSTBORN
1. The term firstborn does not always mean born first
a. It is also used in the Scriptures as a metaphor to describe one who occupies the rank and privilege of being firstborn (without literally being firstborn)
b. Used by God in this way to refer to the nation of Israel – Exodus 4:22
c. Used by God in this way to refer to David, youngest of eight – Psalm 89:20-27
2. It is used of Jesus in this way to stress His preeminence over creation
a. As Paul explains in Colossians 1:15-18
b. By virtue of being the Creator, He maintains the rank and privilege of firstborn!
B. WHEN THE FIRSTBORN CAME INTO THE WORLD, THE ANGELS WERE TO WORSHIP HIM
1. The angels of God were to worship Him. Note well: No created being is or was ever worthy of worship!
a. The angels themselves refused to be worshipped – Revelation 22:8-9
b. The apostle Peter refused to accept worship – Acts 10:25-26
2. Yet Jesus received worship!
a. From the wise men – Matthew 2:11
b. From the leper – Matthew 8:2
c. From the ruler – Matthew 9:18
d. From His disciples in the boat – Matthew 14:33
e. From the Canaanite woman – Matthew 15:25
f. From the man born blind – John 9:38
g. From the women and other disciples following His resurrection – Matthew 28:9,17
h. From the disciples following His ascension – Luke 24:52
III. JESUS IS GOD ENTHRONED AND ANOINTED
A. ANGELS ARE SIMPLY FOR THE SERVICE OF GOD
1. They are created spirits to serve God (called ministering spirits in He 1:14)
2. Their service can be as powerful yet transient as wind or flames of fire, if need be
B. BUT THE SON IS GOD HIMSELF, ENTHRONED AND ANOINTED!
1. The author is quoting from another Messianic psalm – Psalm 45:6-7
2. Notice that the Son is called God! – Hebrews 1:8
a. The Hebrew writer clearly proclaims the deity of Jesus! – Hebrews 1:3a
b. Yet in the next verse we read where it says God, Your God has
1) Here we find a distinction of personalities within the Godhead
2) Which we learn through later revelation involves the Father and the Son (and the Holy Spirit)
3. The Son, Who is God, has been enthroned, and reigns over an everlasting kingdom with righteousness
a. A kingdom of which Daniel said shall never be destroyed – Daniel 2:44
b. A kingdom of which Gabriel (an angel) told Mary: there will be no end – Luke 1:33
c. Both Paul and John wrote of this kingdom – Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9
4. This Son, Who is God and King, has been anointed – Hebrews 1:9
a. Of course, the word Messiah means anointed one
b. In this passage, the emphasis is on how Jesus has been anointed with gladness more than Your companions
1) Who are these companions?
2) In view of He 2:11; 3:1, it is likely the followers of Jesus, His brethren!
5. As God, King, and Messiah, Jesus is certainly greater than angels!
IV. JESUS IS THE LORD WHO IS THE ETERNAL CREATOR
A. JESUS IS YAHWEH (JEHOVAH)!
1. Now the Hebrew writer is quoting from Psalm 102:25-27
a. A psalm which addresses God using His covenant name Yahweh (or Jehovah)
b. This is the name that God used to identify Himself to Moses – Exodus 3:13-14
2. But the Hebrew writer by inspiration knew this psalm equally applied to Jesus!
a. Such would be blasphemy, unless Jesus is truly Deity!
b. So while the Son is distinct from the Father (Hebrews 1:9), He and the Father are also one
3. In this chapter, then, we find evidence relating to the nature of the Godhead
a. There is one God, but three distinct personalities within the Godhead
b. As Jehovah, Jesus is not a god, or any sort of created being (contra JWs, Mormons)
c. As the Son who is distinct from the Father, the Son is not the same in personality as the Father (contra the Oneness Pentecostals)
d. Though not a biblical term, the word trinity does help to convey the Biblical evidence as to the nature of the Godhead!
B. JESUS IS THE ETERNAL CREATOR!
1. In the beginning it was He who created the earth and the heavens – Hebrews 1:10
a. As the author had already stated in Hebrews 1:2c
b. As both John and Paul professed – John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17
2. He is also eternal, therefore unchangeable – Hebrews 1:11-12
a. The heavens and the earth will perish, grow old and be changed – 2 Peter 3:10-12
b. But Jesus will remain, be the same, and not fail – Hebrews 13:8
V. JESUS IS THE SOVEREIGN
A. NO ANGEL HAS BEEN INVITED TO SIT AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND
1. The psalm quoted now is Psalm 110:1
a. This psalm is quoted or alluded to more than any other psalm in the NT
b. It refers to the Messianic reign of Christ that began when Jesus sat down at the right hand of God – Hebrews 1:3; Acts 2:34-36; 1 Peter 3:22
2. That no angel has been asked to sit at God’s right hand
a. Once again proves that Jesus was not an angel (contra JWs)
b. Only Jesus, as the Son of God, has been so invited, and is truly the Sovereign!
B. ANGELS ARE BUT MINISTERING SPIRITS
1. While Jesus sits enthroned in heaven, angels are sent forth to minister (serve)
2. They minister for those who will inherit salvation
a. They have certainly ministered in the past – Luke 1:11-38
b. They will certainly minister at the time of Christ’s return – Matthew 13:36-43
c. But to what extent they minister in the present, the Scriptures reveal little (Matthew 18:10), and we should be careful to refrain from vain speculation
Conclusion
1. In a very forceful manner, the writer to the Hebrews has shown Jesus’ superiority to angels:
a. Jesus is the Son (not angels)
b. Jesus is the Firstborn who receives worship (not angels)
c. Jesus is God enthroned and anointed (not angels)
d. Jesus is the LORD (Yahweh) who is the eternal creator (not angels, who are only created beings)
e. Jesus is the Sovereign, reigning at God’s right hand (angels are but ministering spirits)
2. While angels certainly have a special place in God’s plan for redeeming man
a. They are not to become the object of worship or adoration – Colossians 2:18-19
b. Only Jesus is worthy of such worship and adoration! As innumerable angels proclaimed with a loud voice: Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing! – Revelation 5:11-12
3. Let Jesus, and not angels, be the focus of your interest and adoration!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 01:01-03 God’s Perfect Spokesman
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Text: Hebrews 1:1-3
Introduction:
1. The Epistle to the Hebrews is unique in its beginning
a. There is no mention of the author’s name, nor the recipients
b. Rather, it starts like an essay – Hebrews 1:1-3
2. We also notice the purpose of the epistle is twofold:
a. To encourage Jewish Christians to remain steadfast in their faith
b. Accomplished by showing the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant
3. That superiority is demonstrated through a number of contrasts
a. The very first contrast begins in these first three verses
b. In which Jesus is contrasted with the prophets of the Old Testament
Body
I. GOD’S SPOKESMEN IN TIME PAST
A. THE EXPRESSION IN TIME PAST
1. Refers to the period of time prior to the coming of Jesus
2. That period of time described in the Old Testament (Genesis-Malachi)
B. GOD SPOKE TO THE FATHERS BY THE PROPHETS
1. The fathers would be the ancestors of the Israelites
2. The prophets would include great men like Samuel, Elijah, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel
a. The Hebrew word for prophet means one who boils over
b. It refers to one who is inspired by God to speak for Him – 2 Peter 1:21
3. At times, the prophets themselves were unsure of what they spoke – 1 Peter 1:10-12
C. GOD SPOKE AT VARIOUS TIMES AND IN DIFFERENT WAYS
1. His revelation did not come all at once, but progressively at different times
2. His methods varied as well, using visions, dreams, symbols, etc.
D. So God has clearly revealed Himself as One who speaks; that is, He communicates His will to mankind!
II. GOD’S SPOKESMAN IN THESE LAST DAYS (Hebrews 1:2-3)
A. THE EXPRESSION IN THESE LAST DAYS
1. The Old Testament often spoke of the last days – Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1
2. As such it often special reference to the age of the Messiah
a. The apostles spoke of their time as the time of this fulfillment – Acts 2:16-17
b. Thus it denotes the final phase of history, brought on by the first coming of Christ, continuing until His second coming and the consummation of all things – Hebrews 9:26
B. GOD HAS SPOKEN TO US BY HIS SON
1. God has spoken once again, but note the contrast!
2. In time past it was through prophets; but in these last days it is by His Son!
a. God has sent His own Son to speak for Him!
b. As wonderful as the prophets were, how can they compare to God’s own Son?
3. There is no contrast, especially as we read on and notice
C. THE EXCELLENCE OF GOD’S PERFECT SPOKESMAN
1. Jesus is the appointed heir of all things!
a. The author may have had Psalm 2:8 in mind, for in verse 5 he quotes from Psalm 2:7
b. As the beloved Son, it is only natural that He would be the appointed heir
c. What does all things include?
1) All that the Father has! – John 16:15
2) The authority to raise and judge the dead – John 5:26-29
3) The authority to rule in heaven and on earth – Matthew 28:18
4) This authority Christ has even now! – Acts 2:36; 10:36; Ephesians 1:20-22; 1 Peter 3:22; Revelation 1:5
2. Jesus is through whom He (God) also made the worlds!
a. Not only the Heir, but also the Creator!
b. For it was through the Son that God created the universe – cf. John 1:3; Colossians 1:16
1) All things were created by (or through) Him (He is the Creator)
2) All things were created for Him (He is the rightful Heir)
3. Jesus is the brightness of His (God’s) glory!
a. In Jesus we see the very radiance of the glory of God!
b. As John wrote, we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father… – John 1:14
c. When we behold Jesus, we see an extension of the glory of God!
4. Jesus is the express image of His (God’s) person!
a. He is the exact representation of God’s being and character! – Colossians 2:9
b. Therefore Jesus could say:
1) To Thomas: If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him. – John 14:7
2) To Philip: He who has seen Me has seen the Father; – John 14:9
5. Jesus is upholding all things by the word of His power!
a. Not only the Creator, but also the Sustainer of the universe – Colossians 1:17
1) By His word the universe holds together!
2) All He has to do is say the word, and the universe is no more!
b. Note well:
1) This illustrates the power of His Word
2) Shall we not listen when He speaks? – Luke 6:46
6. Jesus has also by Himself purged our sins!
a. A clear reference to His death on the cross for our sins
b. This speaks to His role as our Redeemer, a theme that will be prominent later in this epistle – Hebrews 2:17; 9:26,28
7. Jesus has also sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high!
a. This Jesus did when He ascended to heaven – Ephesians 1:20; 1 Peter 3:22
b. Sitting at the right hand of God is a place of honor, but for Jesus it is also a place from which He reigns!
1) As indicated in Ephesians 1:21-22; 1 Peter 3:22
2) It is true that He is waiting for the His enemies to be made His footstool (Hebrews 10:12-13), but He is reigning until that time! – 1 Corinthians 15:25-26
3) As stated in Psalm 110:1-2, from which the author to the Hebrews quotes, the Messiah was to rule in the midst of Your enemies
c. Thus Jesus is truly the ruler over the kings of earth – Revelation 1:5; 17:14
Conclusion
1. The sentence does not end with verse three
a. It continues on into verse four, with a declaration of Jesus’ superiority over angels
b. But that verse and the rest of the chapter we shall save for the next study
2. But what have we seen in this lesson?
a. God is clearly a God who speaks, He makes His Will known to mankind!
b. And now He speaks through His Son, Who is:
1) The appointed Heir of all things!
2) The Creator!
3) The brightness of God’s glory, the express image of His person!
4) Our Sustainer, Redeemer, and King!
3. How can one turn their back on Him? Especially when the Majesty on high proclaimed at the Mount of Transfiguration: This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him! – Matthew 17:5
4. Are you heeding the words of the Beloved Son, God’s Perfect Spokesman? – Matthew 28:18-20
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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