Historical Posts
Citizens Have Obligations
Thanks to Johnny O. Trail from the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ for the content of this post.
Obligations of Citizens
Discharge your obligations as citizens in a manner worthy of Christ’s gospel
The McCord Translation of the Everlasting Gospel says in Philippians 1:27, “Finally, discharge your obligations as citizens in a manner worthy of Christ’s gospel, so that, whether I come and see you, or am away, I may hear how things are with you: that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one heart, striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.” Philippians 1:27 KJV says, “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.” Our manner of life must reflect the fundamental message and nature of Christ’s gospel. As citizens of heaven, we must live faithfully, obediently, and godly so that others might see the message of Jesus living in us.
Citizens of various states and nations have obligations
From a political standpoint, there are obligations that come with being the worldly citizen of various states and nations. One of the major obligations over the millennia is the payment of taxes. All citizens are expected to pay their fair share of money for the continuation and support of the government. This has been the case for most all of recorded history. It is a true axiom that death and taxes are constants in this earthly existence.
Another obligation for citizens is for the defense of the city state. Most nations expect their citizens to serve in the military. Some nations practice forced conscription. Some countries draft in a time of war. Still, some want people to volunteer for service. The point is that most organized governments expect something of their citizenry.
God wants His people to be active citizens
By the same token, God wants His people to be active and working in His kingdom. New Testament Christianity is not a religion of complacency. Many have reached the false conclusion that all they had to do was done at the time of their baptism – nothing could be farther from the truth. We are expected to be laboring in the kingdom to fulfill the obligations of being His citizens.
Most Christians know this, but we are all citizens of Heaven. Philippians 3:20 ESV says, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 3:20 KJV says “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” As citizens of the Heavenly city, we are expected to behave in a certain manner. Certain actions are obligatory in nature.
Just as some nations expect citizens to serve in the military, God expects His people to engage in spiritual warfare. Per Paul’s discussion of the armor of God, God wants us to wage an offensive and defensive battle against Satan for our own souls and the souls of lost humanity. Ephesians 6:11-13 says, “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” When one considers the entire context of Ephesians 6, it becomes evident that God wants His people to do more than merely defend themselves. He wants us to engage others with the sword of the spirit. One cannot fight a battle that is singularly defensive in nature and expect to win any ground.
As citizens of the kingdom, we are expected to contribute to the work for the purpose of growing the church. James 1:22 says, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” All Christians are expected to be actively and constructively involved in the work of the church. Evangelism, edification, and benevolence are things that every child of God is expected to do. We are privileged to be Christians in the service of our king.
As citizens of the kingdom, the Philippian saints were to stand firm in one spirit and strive together for the faith of the gospel with one mind. Philippians 2:2 says, “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” The biblical concept of “one” was valuable in the mind of Paul to the first century church, and it is valuable to our age as well. For any effort to be successful there must be a unified front. Division among those serving in the kingdom can create confusion and problems in the body of Christ.
The concept of one is described by Paul in Ephesians 4:3-6, “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” A kingdom that is not united will ultimately fall apart.
Unity should be the hallmark of all believers. Jesus made this point in the prayer He uttered to the Father just before His crucifixion. John 17:21 says, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” In matters of doctrine, there is no compromising for the sake of unity. Citizens of the kingdom should avoid the very appearance of rebellion by seeking and obeying God’s will in all matters.
It should be a joy to serve God as citizens in His Kingdom
As Christians we are privileged to be citizens of Heaven; however there is a great degree of responsibility that comes from such a wonderful privilege. It should be a joy to serve God in His Kingdom and to teach others about Him. We must fulfill our obligations by being about our Father’s work (Luke 2:49).
Johnny O. Trail preaches at the Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ
2699 Old Clarksville Pike
Ashland City, TN 37015
615-746-8624
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Citizens of the Kingdom
You are a citizen of a kingdom, not an island affecting only yourself.
There was a time, not that long ago, when news traveled slowly. That time is no more. Now we are inundated with information almost instantly about anything that happens anywhere in our world. It drives home the very real nature of our global environment. And, it reaffirms the validity of Paul’s statement: “For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself” (Romans 14:7). Truly, each of us is a citizen of one kingdom or another.
John Donne may have been thinking of that very passage when he wrote: “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friends or of thine own were; any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.”
In the sixteenth century Francis Bacon observed: “If a man be gracious and courteous to strangers, it shows he is a citizen of the world, and that his heart is no island cut off from other lands, but a continent that joins to them.” We would do well to remember our interconnectedness!
The premise of the Bible is that we share a common origin, and thus a common ancestry. We are all the offspring of God. One blood flows through all our veins (Acts 17:24-29). We may live in different parts of the world, speak different languages, and differ in color and size, but we are still one family, one humanity.
However, though we are one humanity, sin divided God’s creation. Christ came to repaire and reunite it in a ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:14-21). The Scriptures do not call us to embrace a one world government and be a citizen of a single earthly kingdom, but they do call us to be an active citizen in the spiritual kingdom of Jesus Christ (John 18:36). That kingdom knows no borders, in space or time. It is a brotherhood of believers sent forth to conquer, not with the sword, but with the sword of the Spirit – the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). The battle of today is for the hearts and minds of men. Truth is our only weapon. Satan our only enemy! Victory in Christ our certain end!
Are you a citizen in the kingdom of Jesus Christ? Are you part of the brotherhood of believers? Are you wielding the sword of the Spirit in the fight for the hearts of men? Salvation is in Christ’s kingdom and nowhere else. It is for those who choose to be a citizen, and no one else. Where do you choose to be a citizen?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Scatter the Seed, Wait Until it Ripens – audio
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Text: Mark 4:26-29 – And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Mark 12:28-34 – You are Not Far from the Kingdom of God – audio
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Text: Mark 12:28-34 (Reading by Clark Perkins)
Introduction
A. A scribe was very impressed with the answers that Jesus had given to the Pharisees and Sadducees concerning the paying of taxes and the issue of resurrection.
B. As a result, he wanted to ask Jesus a question.
C. This was a very important question, and the answer would encourage him to be a part of the kingdom of God.
Body
I. What is the first commandment of all?
A. There are many commandments that come from God.
1) Perhaps the ones that are most familiar are those given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 20:1-17; Deuteronomy 5:1-22).
2) In addition to these, the book of Leviticus is filled with specific instructions that God had given to the Levites for the priestly duties.
3) Knowing the challenge of learning all commands, the scribe wanted to know which was most important.
B. Jesus says that first one must know God, and love Him.
1) He reminds the scribe of what God told Moses to tell the Israelites (Deuteronomy 6:1-9) about the ONE and ONLY GOD!
2) Later, the Israelites learned what God required of them: to fear Him, walk in all His ways, love Him, serve Him with all their heart and soul, and keep His commandments and statutes (Deuteronomy 10:12-13).
3) Even Solomon said the conclusion of the whole matter is to fear God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
4) We show God we love Him by keeping His commandments (John 14:15; 1 John 5:3).
5) We love Him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
C. Jesus even went further to answer the scribe.
1) As He Himself taught to go two miles with one that asked to go one (Matthew 5:41), Jesus gave a second commandment in addition to the first commandment.
2) The second commandment, like the first, was to love his neighbor as himself.
3) Again this commandment was given to the Israelites (Leviticus 19:18), as no doubt both were very familiar.
4) Even the apostle Paul commands Christians to keep many old laws, but all are summed up in this one: loving your neighbor (Romans 13:8-10).
5) On another occasion, Jesus was asked what to do to inherit eternal life. After reminding this person of the same two commandments, He was asked who his neighbor was. Jesus then went on to teach about the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25ff.).
II. There is only ONE God!
A. Again, the scribe insisted Jesus answered well and true. He then confessed that there is ONE God, and no other!
B. This is often confirmed in the Scriptures (Deuteronomy 4:39; Malachi 2:10; Ephesians 4:6).
III. Sacrifice is not the most important thing to God.
A. Again, the scribe points out that God requires so much more than just an offering or sacrifice.
1) Hosea prophesied, “For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings (Hosea 6:6).”
2) Samuel, too, said: “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams (1 Samuel 15:22).”
IV. The scribe was not far from the kingdom of God.
A. Jesus knew the scribe had answered wisely.
1) As a result, Jesus knew he was not very far from the kingdom of God.
2) However, we are never told whether this person did enter the kingdom of God.
3) God does, however, teach us what to do to be a part of His kingdom.
B. The reality is that not everyone will be in the kingdom of God (Luke 13:23-29).
C. Jesus taught the Pharisees that the kingdom of God is within them (Luke 17:20-21).
E. Jesus taught Nicodemus he must be born again, of water and the Spirit, to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3ff.).
E. The apostle Paul taught that the kingdom of God is “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17).”
F. Paul praised the Thessalonian church for their faithfulness, and therefore they were worthy of the kingdom of God (2 Thessalonians 1:3-5).
Conclusion
A. The scribe was very close to the kingdom of God, but one can only guess as to whether he entered or not.
B. What about you? Are you in the kingdom of God?
C. You know how to enter, so will you do what God requires of you?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Teaching the Kingdom of God
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Let this encourage you to Speak of Things Pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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The Church is Like…
Our task is to practice and preach truth
God’s family is called a kingdom in relationship to its government (Colossians 1:13), a body in relationship to it’s organization (Colossians 1:18), and a church in relationship to the world (Colossians 1:18). His spiritual family is to be the “pillar and support of truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). As subjects of the King, we are here to do His bidding. As members of His body we have a job to do, a role to fill. As part of the church, we find ourselves in the world, but the world is not to be in us. Our task is to practice and preach truth throughout the world by means of works and words. But, I’m not sure everyone understands this mission.
Yet, people act like it is a country club
The church ought to be more like a hospital than a country club. Yet, people act like it is a country club, not a hospital for the soul. We should see the church for what we can give rather than what we can get. Worship should prepare us for a week of work for Christ, not entertain us for an hour. The emphasis should be service and not serve us!
A service station would be more appropriate
An appropriate modern analogy for the church may be the old fashioned service stations many of us remember as children. Our parents went there on a regular basis to refuel their cars. Not only did they fill the tank, but they checked the oil, cleaned the windshield, and checked the air in the tires. If there were mechanical problems, they took care of them. It truly was a service station. We left prepared for the road ahead.
This seems a good (not perfect), analogy for our worship assemblies. In a sense, our time together fills our tank, checks for problems, cleans our windshield (so that we see clearly), and gets us ready for the road ahead (life). Hospitals address our physical needs while the church focuses on our spiritual condition.
Not to be entertained…
We do not come to be entertained, but to exalt the Savior, to be educated in the gospel, to be equipped for service in the Lord’s army, to be excited about our task of taking His message to the world, and to have are defects (sins) exposed so they can be corrected. We can’t address a problem if we are unaware that it exists.
Food, fun, and fellowship are fine, but they are not and never have been the emphasis of the faithful. They all have their place, but let’s make sure they are never substituted for the real purpose of our assemblies or the reason for membership in His family.
There are lost and hurting people all around us
We need to bring those who are lost and hurting to the Great Physician where their wounds can be healed and their hearts mended. The church offers people real solutions for their problems. It provides hope to the hopeless. It offers help to the hurting. It gives direction to the lost. It takes care of the sick, or at least it’s supposed to!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Daniel 08:01-27 The Vision of the Ram and the Goat
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Text: Daniel 8:1-27
Introduction
1. In previous chapters we have seen visions describing four kingdoms…
a. The vision of Nebuchadnezzar – Daniel 2
b. The vision of Daniel – Daniel 7
c. These kingdoms were the Babylonian, the Medo-Persian, the Greek, the Roman
2. In Daniel 8, Daniel relates another vision…
a. Commonly called “The Vision of the Ram and the Goat”
b. In which two kingdoms are described
[The two kingdoms as the same as two of the four kingdoms in earlier visions. But just as the vision in Daniel 7 related more information about the fourth kingdom, so now the vision in Daniel 8 provides some information about the second and third kingdoms…]
Body
I. THE VISION DESCRIBED (Daniel 8:1-14)
A. DATE OF THE VISION…
1. Received by Daniel in the third year of Belshazzar king of Babylon – Daniel 8:1
2. This would be about 552 B.C., two years later than the vision in Daniel 7
B. DETAILS OF THE VISION…
1. In the vision, Daniel saw himself in Shushan (Susa) – Daniel 8:2
a. In the province of Elam (western Persia, modern day Iran)
b. The winter capital of the Persian kings
c. He was by the river Ulai
2. He saw a two-horned ram – Daniel 8:3-4
a. Standing beside the river
b. The horns were high, with one higher than the other which came up last
c. The ram was pushing westward, northward, and southward
1) No beast could withstand him
2) None could deliver from his hand
3) He did according to his will and became great
3. He saw a one-horned male goat – Daniel 8:5
a. Coming suddenly from the west
b. Across the surface of the whole earth, not touching the ground
c. With a notable horn between his eyes
4. He saw the goat defeat the ram – Daniel 8:6-7
a. With furious power the goat attacked the ram and broke his two horns
b. The ram was unable to withstand the goat, and was trampled
5. The goat become great, but when he became strong… – Daniel 8:8
a. The large horn was broken
b. In its place four notable ones came up toward the four winds of heaven
6. He saw a little horn come out of the four with great power – Daniel 8:9-12
a. Which grew exceedingly great
1) Toward the south and east
2) Toward the Glorious Land
b. Which grew up to the host of heaven
1) Casting down and trampling to the ground some of the host
2) Exalting himself as high as the Prince of host
c. By this powerful horn…
1) The daily sacrifices were taken away
2) The place of His (God’s) sanctuary was cast down
3) An army was given him to oppose the daily sacrifices (because of transgression)
d. He did all this and prospered
7. Daniel then heard a conversation between two holy ones – Daniel 8:13-14
a. One asking: “How long will the vision be, concerning…”
1) “the daily sacrifices and the transgression of desolation”
2) “the giving of both the sanctuary and the host to be trampled under foot?”
b. The reply given to Daniel:
1) “For two thousand three hundred days”
2) “Then the sanctuary shall be cleansed”
c. With the details before us, we are now ready to consider the explanation provided Daniel
II. THE VISION INTERPRETED
A. GABRIEL ASSIGNED TO EXPLAIN THE VISION…
1. Daniel was seeking to understand the meaning – Daniel 8:15-16
a. When there stood before him one having the appearance of a man
b. When a man’s voice from the banks of the Ulai charged Gabriel to make Daniel understand the vision
2. Gabriel speaks to Daniel – Daniel 8:17-19
a. He approaches Daniel
1) Prompting Daniel to fall on his face in fear
2) Telling him that “the vision refers to the time of the end”
b. He stands Daniel on his feet
1) For Daniel had fallen into a deep sleep with his face to the ground
2) To tell him “what shall happen in the latter time of the indignation; for at the appointed time the end shall be”
B. GABRIEL EXPLAINS THE VISION…
1. The two-horned ram – Daniel 8:20
a. Depicts the kings of Media and Persia
b. The larger horn may represent Persia’s greater influence – cf. Daniel 8:3
c. The expansion of the Medo-Persian Empire illustrated by the ram pushing westward, northward, and southward – cf. Daniel 8:4
2. The one-horned male goat – Daniel 8:21
a. Depicts the kingdom of Greece; note that it came from the west – cf. Daniel 8:5
b. The large horn representing it’s first king (Alexander the Great)
c. The speed of the goat aptly reflects Alexander’s conquests – cf. Daniel 8:5
d. Alexander defeated the Persians in three decisive battles – cf. Daniel 8:6-7
1) At Granicus (334 B.C.)
2) At Issus (333 B.C.)
3) At Gaugamela (331 B.C.)
3. The broken horn and four horns that arose in its place – Daniel 8:22
a. Alexander died at 33 years of age
b. His empire was divided between his four generals – cf. Daniel 8:8
1) Ptolemy (Egypt)
2) Seleucus I (Syria)
3) Cassander (Macedonia and Greece)
4) Lysimachus (Thrace and Asia Minor)
4. The little horn that became exceedingly great – Daniel 8:23-25
a. Some time later a king shall arise
1) When transgressors have reached their fullness (when Israel has fallen back into sin)
2) With mighty power, but not by his own
3) Who shall destroy fearfully, prosper and thrive
4) Who shall destroy the mighty and also the holy people
5) Through cunning he shall cause deceit to prosper
6) He shall magnify himself, and destroy many in their prosperity
7) He shall even rise against the Prince of princes (God Himself)
8) But he shall be broken without human hand (God shall destroy him)
b. This is Antiochus Epiphanies, ruler of Syria (175-163 B.C. )
1) Who imposed Greek culture and deities upon his subjects
2) Who when he conquered Jerusalem:
a) Set up an image in the temple
b) Offered swine flesh upon the altar
c) Encouraged Greek soldiers to commit fornication in the temple
d) Forbade circumcision, keeping the Sabbath, possessing a copy of the Scriptures
5. The vision of the evenings and mornings – Daniel 8:26
a. The number of days the sacrifices will cease, and the temple desolated
b. Maybe a literal period (a little over six years) corresponding to the actual period of time the abomination by Antiochus Epiphanes occurred (171-165 B.C.)
c. Daniel instructed to seal up the vision
1) For it was to occur “many days in the future”
2) I.e., almost four hundred years later
C. EFFECT ON DANIEL…
1. He fainted and was sick for days – Daniel 8:27
2. Though he afterward arose and went about the king’s business, he was astonished by the vision (but no one understood it) – Daniel 8:27
Conclusion
1. This vision is probably the easiest to understand of the four visions that Daniel saw…
a. The identity of the ram and goat are clearly given
b. History confirms what is described in this vision
1) The conflict between Medo-Persia and Greece
2) The division of the Grecian empire following Alexander’s death
3) The rise of Antiochus Epiphanies and his desecration of the temple in Jerusalem
2. The purpose of the vision was to prepare the people of Daniel for what was to come…
a. In “the time of the end”
b. In “the latter time of the indignation”
3. The persecution that would come upon Israel toward the end of the OT period (Young)
4. The remarkable accuracy of this vision has led some to date the book of Daniel after the events of Antiochus Epiphanies. But its accuracy poses no problem for those who accept the inspiration of the Scriptures, and should remind us of God’s power to fulfill His Word:
“Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, “Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure,’ “Calling a bird of prey from the east, the man who executes My counsel, from a far country. Indeed I have spoken it; I will also bring it to pass. I have purposed it; I will also do it.” – Isaiah 46:9-11
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Daniel 04:01-37 The Most High Rules in the Kingdom of Men
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Text: Daniel 4:1-37
Introduction
1. In Daniel 2, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had a dream…
a. Involving a large image with head of gold, chest and arms of silver, belly and thighs of bronze, legs of iron with feet of iron mixed with clay – Daniel 2:36-43
1) Representing four world empires
2) Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome
b. In which the image was destroyed by a small stone made without hands – Daniel 2:44-45
1) Representing the establishment of a kingdom by the God of heaven
2) A kingdom that would never be destroyed, and would consume the other kingdoms
3) Prompting the king to praise the God of Daniel – Daniel 2:47
2. In Daniel 3, Nebuchadnezzar made a large image of gold…
a. He required all to worship it, under threat of death – Daniel 3:4-6
b. Three young men did not, yet survived the fiery furnace – Daniel 3:23-27
c. Prompting the king to bless the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego – Daniel 3:28-29
3. From Daniel 4, it appears that Nebuchadnezzar had more to learn about God…
a. He knew that God was Lord of kings and a revealer of secrets – Daniel 2:47
b. He knew that God can deliver His servants – Daniel 3:28-29
4. But now it was time for him to learn that God, the Most High and King of heaven, rules in the kingdom of men, including his own!
Body
I. THE DREAM, INTERPRETATION, AND FULFILLMENT
A. NEBUCHADNEZZAR’S FOREWORD…
1. Addressed to all who dwell on the earth – Daniel 4:1
2. To declare the signs and wonders of the Most High God – Daniel 4:2-3a
3. Proclaiming God’s kingdom to be everlasting, His dominion from generation to generation- Daniel 4:3b
B. NEBUCHADNEZZAR’S DREAM…
1. A dream which troubled him and made him afraid – Daniel 4:4-5
2. His dissatisfaction with the wise men of Babylon – Daniel 4:6-7
3. The dream is told to Daniel…
a. The king’s confidence in Daniel – Daniel 4:8-9
b. Elements of the dream – Daniel 4:10-17
1) A tree in the middle of the earth, its height reaching to the heavens
2) The decree of a holy one, a “watcher”, concerning the tree
a) To be cut down, leaving only the stump and roots
b) Bound with a band of iron and bronze
c) Wet with the dew of heaven
d) To graze with the beasts of the earth
e) His heart changed from that of a man to an animal
f) And let seven times (years?) pass over him
3) The purpose of the decree is for the living to know:
a) The Most High rules in the kingdom of men
b) Who gives it to whomever He will, and sets over it the lowest of men
c. The king repeats his confidence in Daniel to interpret the dream – Daniel 4:18
C. DANIEL’S INTERPRETATION…
1. Daniel is astonished and troubled by the dream – Daniel 4:19
a. Yet the king reassures Daniel to tell the interpretation
b. Daniel wished the dream pertained to the king’s enemies
2. Elements of Daniel’s interpretation – Daniel 4:20-26
a. The tree which became strong and tall represents Nebuchadnezzar
b. The king shall be driven from men, dwell among beasts and eat grass like oxen
1) Seven times (years?) will pass over him
2) Till he knew that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, giving it to whomever He chooses
c. The kingdom shall be returned to Nebuchadnezzar
1) Indicated by the command to leave the stump and roots of the tree
2) Once he comes to know that Heaven rules
3. Daniel’s counsel for the king to be righteous and show mercy – Daniel 4:27
D. THE DREAM’S FULFILLMENT…
1. It came to pass at the end of twelve months – Daniel 4:28-29
2. As the king was boasting about his power and majesty – Daniel 4:30-32
3. That very hour he was driven from men – Daniel 4:33
a. He ate grass like oxen
b. His body was wet with the dew of heaven
c. His hair grew like eagle’s feathers, his nails like birds’ claws
4. And the end of the time, understanding returned to the king – Daniel 4:34-35
a. Prompting him to bless and praise the Most High, who lives forever
b. Acknowledging His everlasting dominion and kingdom
c. Who does according to His will in the army of heaven and among inhabitants of the earth, and none can restrain or say “What have You done?”
5. Nebuchadnezzar restored – Daniel 4:36-37
a. His reason, honor, and splendor returned, his counselor and nobles resorted to him
b. But now he praises and honors the King of heaven for His truth and justice, Who is able to humble those who walk in pride
E. THE MAIN POINT OF THE DREAM AND ITS FULFILLMENT…
1. Stated several times in this chapter
a. In the dream itself – Daniel 4:17
b. By Daniel, in providing the interpretation – Daniel 4:25-26
c. As spoken from Heaven when the dream came to pass – Daniel 4:32
d. By Nebuchadnezzar when he returned to his senses – Daniel 4:34-35
2. To learn that “The Most High Rules In The Kingdom Of Men”
a. Which Daniel acknowledged from Nebuchadnezzar’s first dream – Daniel 2:20-21
b. And now does the king, from his second dream!
[The main point is simple enough, but do we acknowledge that it is still true? Do we appreciate that the Most High still rules in the kingdom of men, only now through His Son? Lest we forget, let’s review what the New Testament teaches about…]
II. THE RULE OF GOD IN THE KINGDOMS OF MEN
A. CHRIST NOW REIGNS AS SOVEREIGN…
1. As claimed before His ascension to heaven – Matthew 28:18
2. As proclaimed after His ascension – Revelation 2:26-27; 3:21
3. As taught by His apostles – Ephesians 1:20-22; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28; 1 Peter 3:22
[So He has the authority, but does He exercise it? Consider the next point…]
B. CHRIST NOW REIGNS IN THE KINGDOM OF MEN…
1. As foretold by the prophets
a. In Psalms 2, which speaks of:
1) The attempt of the nations to reject Christ – Psalm 2:1-3
2) The coronation of Christ despite their efforts – Psalm 2:4-6
3) The exercise of Christ’s rule over the nations – Psalm 2:7-9
4) The importance of kings and judges serving the Lord – Psalm 2:10-12
5) Acts 4:23-28 confirms that this passage refers to Jesus!
b. In Psalms 110, which tells of:
1) The rule of Christ in the midst of His enemies – Psalm 110:1-2
2) The voluntary service of His people (the church), and the priestly service of their King – Psalm 110:3-4
3) The exercise of judgment among the nations – Psalm 110:5-7
4) Acts 2:32-36 confirms that this passage refers to Jesus!
2. As taught by the apostles
a. Governing authorities exist as appointed by God, to serve as ministers of God – Romans 13:1-4
b. Why pray for kings and those in authority, that peace may prevail, unless God through Christ can do something about it? – cf. 1 Timothy 2:1-2
c. Jesus is the “ruler over the kings of the earth” – Revelation 1:5
1) He exercised that rule in the destruction of Jerusalem, foretold in Matthew 24
2) He exercised that rule in destroying the beast of Revelation (the Roman empire) and all his forces – cf. Revelation 17:14
d. Truly Jesus is “King of kings, and Lord of lords”- Revelation 19:16; 1 Timothy 6:15
3. We may not always be able to see how it is so
a. If Christ rules in the kingdom of men, why do evil men and evil empires exist?
b. It helps to understand the nature of Christ’s rule1) He rules “in the midst of His enemies” – Psalm 110:22) He must reign “till He has put all enemies under His feet” – 1 Corinthians 15:25-26
c. Until He comes again, Jesus exercises His authority over the nations in ways we may not always be able to comprehend
Conclusion
1. To know that “the Most High rules” must have been comforting to Daniel…
a. For at that time he and the nation of <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Israel”>Israel</a> were in captivity
b. Their temple was destroyed, the land plundered and filled with transplanted foreigners
c. Yet Daniel knew the prophecy of Jeremiah, that after seventy years they would return – cf. Daniel 9:1-2
d. Knowing that God rules, even when wicked men seem to prevail, gave him hope
2. We can take comfort in knowing that “the Most High rules” today…
a. That He who rules in the kingdom of men is Jesus!
b. Who is our Savior, Priest, and Friend!
c. Therefore we can look forward to the future with hope, not apprehension
3. But this is true only if we give Jesus sovereign rule in our personal lives…
a. He must be “our” Lord, the King of “our” lives!
b. We must be “volunteers” in the day of His power – cf. Psalm 110:3
4. Have we submitted in obedience to Him who is both Lord and Christ (cf. Acts 2:36-38)?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Daniel 02:01-49 The Kingdom that Shall Never be Destroyed
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Text: Daniel 2:1-49
Introduction
1. In Daniel chapter 2, we read about Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and Daniel’s interpretation…
a. Nebuchadnezzar challenges his magicians, sorcerers, et al, to tell him both the dream and its interpretation, and they are unable – Daniel 2:1-13
b. God reveals the secret of the dream to Daniel in a night vision – Daniel 2:14-23
c. Daniel approaches the king and explains that God has made known to him both the dream and its interpretation – Daniel 2:24-30
d. Daniel then tells the dream, and gives the interpretation of it, to the amazement of Nebuchadnezzar – Daniel 2:31-49 (read)
1) The king had seen a great image
a) With head of gold
b) With chest and arms of silver
c) With belly and thighs of bronze
d) With legs of iron, and feet mixed with iron and clay
2) The great image was destroyed by a small stone made without hands
a) The image representing the rise and fall of four world empires
b) The stone representing a kingdom that God would set up
3) The king praises God, and exalts Daniel along with his three friends
2. There are certainly two key thoughts expressed in this chapter…
a. God is a revealer of secrets – Daniel 2:19, 22, 28-29, 47
b. God can make know the future and bring it pass – Daniel 2:28-29, 21
3. But of particular interest to us ought to be the “kingdom” in verse 44…
a. Which the God of heaven Himself shall set up
b. Which shall never be destroyed, but consume other kingdoms and stand forever
4. Several questions naturally come to mind concerning this “kingdom”…
a. When would God set it up?
b. Has it been set up as foretold?
c. If it has, and if it shall never be destroyed…
1) Where is it now?
2) What is the future of this kingdom?
3) Can we be a part of this indestructible kingdom?
Body
I. THE PREPARATION FOR THE INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. “IN THE DAYS OF THESE KINGS…” (Daniel 2:44)
1. Daniel describes the image as depicting four kingdoms which shall rise and fall
2. The first one is definitely Babylon – Daniel 2:37-38
3. With Babylon as the starting point, world history confirms that the next three kingdoms would be:
a. The Medo-Persian empire, represented by the chest and arms of silver
b. The Grecian empire, represented by the belly and thighs of bronze
c. The Roman empire, represented by the legs of iron, with feet mixed with iron and clay
4. Thus one could look for the establishment of the “indestructible kingdom” in the days of the Roman empire
B. WHEN “THE TIME IS FULFILLED”…
1. Notice what John the Baptist began preaching during the days of the Roman Empire (“the kingdom of heaven is at hand”) – Matthew 3:1-2
2. Jesus proclaimed this also, adding “the time is fulfilled” – Mark 1:14-15
a. What “time” was fulfilled?
b. The time described by Daniel!
II. THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. DURING JESUS’ EARTHLY MINISTRY, IT WAS “AT HAND”…
1. This is what both John and Jesus proclaimed – Matthew 3:1-2; Mark 1:14-15
2. Yet after Jesus’ death, there were those who were still waiting for the kingdom – Joseph of Arimathea, Luke 23:50-51
B. BUT FOLLOWING THE ASCENSION OF JESUS…
1. He is far above all principality, power, might, dominion – Ephesians 1:20-21
2. All has been made subject to Him – 1 Peter 3:22
3. He is ruler over the kings of the earth – Revelation 1:5
4. He rules the nations with a rod of iron – Revelation 2:26-27
5. He truly has all authority in heaven and on earth! – cf. Matthew 28:18
C. THIS SUPPORTS WHAT IS REVEALED LATER IN DANIEL…
1. Consider Daniel 7:13-14
a. Where one like the Son of Man approaches the Ancient of Days (God)
b. And is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom which shall not be destroyed
2. Compare this with Acts 1:9
a. Daniel describes the ascension from a heavenly perspective
b. Whereas Luke describes it from an earthly perspective!
3. It is clear, then, that the King (Jesus) has received a kingdom, that the indestructible kingdom was set up when He returned to heaven! But one might naturally ask: Where is it now?
III. THE NATURE OF THE INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT THIS KINGDOM…
1. It was described by Daniel as a “stone cut…without hands which became a great mountain and filled the whole earth” – Daniel 2:34-35
a. “without hands” suggests it is not your ordinary kingdom
b. Also, it would start small and then grow larger
2. Compare this with what Jesus taught about the nature of His kingdom
a. His kingdom is not of this world – John 18:36; cf. Romans 14:17
b. It would start small, and grow to encompass the earth – Matthew 13:31-33
3. Thus this “indestructible kingdom” would start small, and would be spiritual in nature
B. THIS KINGDOM THEREFORE INVOLVES THOSE IN THE CHURCH…
1. The Christians at Colosse were in the kingdom – Colossians 1:12-13
2. Those at Thessalonica likewise – 1 Thessalonians 2:12
3. Along with the seven churches in Asia – Revelation 1:6,9
4. Indeed, all Christians receive their part in this “indestructible kingdom” – Hebrews 12:28
a. Including us gathered here this day!
b. Fulfilling the statement that this kingdom would fill the whole earth!
c. For here we are, on the other side of the planet from Jerusalem, yet citizens of this kingdom foretold in Daniel!
d. Whoever is willing to “repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15) can be a part of the kingdom Jesus established when He sat down at the right hand of God following His ascension to heaven.
IV. THE FUTURE OF THIS INDESTRUCTIBLE KINGDOM
A. IT WILL LAST FOREVER…
1. As Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar – Daniel 2:44
a. “which shall never be destroyed”
b. “it shall stand forever”
2. As the writer to the Hebrews stated: “a kingdom which cannot be shaken” – He 12:28
3. As the angel Gabriel spoke to Mary: “of His kingdom there will be no end” – Lk 1:31-33
B. AT CHRIST’S COMING, IT WILL BE DELIVERED TO THE FATHER…
1. As taught by Paul to the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 15:23-26
a. When Christ comes, He shall deliver the kingdom to God the Father, having put an end to all rule, authority and power
b. Until then, Christ shall reign until all enemies are placed under His feet, the last enemy being death
2. As Jesus taught in the parable of the tares – Matthew 13:40-43
a. At the end of the age, His angels will gather out of the kingdom those that offend and practice lawlessness
b. Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father
Conclusion
1. And so this kingdom…
a. Foretold by Daniel, proclaimed by John the Baptist and Jesus Himself
b. Was begun in the days of the Roman empire, with Christ as its king and His disciples as its citizens
2. It is an indestructible kingdom…
a. That continues on, ever growing
b. With the hope of a glorious future in eternity
3. But let us not forget the last question raised in our introduction: Can we be a part of this indestructible kingdom?
a. Yes! For Jesus and His apostles tell us how
1) We must be born again of water and the Spirit – John 3:5; cf. Titus 3:5
2) An allusion to baptism, commanded of penitent believers – Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38
b. But beware, some in the kingdom may one day be cast out!
1) As Jesus warned in the parable of the tares – Matthew 13:41-43
2) Telling us later of the necessity of an enduring faith – Revelation 2:10
4.Therefore, once we have been obedient to the gospel (cf. Romans 6:17-18) we must remain diligent in our faith, if we wish to experience the futur e glories of…”The Kingdom Which Shall Never Be Destroyed!”
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Second Coming of Christ Jesus
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(The Second Coming)
Introduction
1. A fundamental doctrine of the Christian faith is the second coming of Christ…
a. That Jesus will literally one day return
b. To usher in a series of events that will transform our existence
2. This “second coming” will be…
a. At the “last day”
b. At the end of time as we know it
c. The beginning of a totally new existence that will last for eternity
Body
I. THE PROMISE OF HIS COMING
A. BY JESUS HIMSELF…
1. At the last supper, before His arrest and crucifixion – John 14:1-3
2. Comforting His disciples with the promise of His return
B. BY HIS ANGELS…
1. When Jesus ascended into heaven – Acts 1:9-11
2. The “two men…in white apparel”
3. Who said, “This same Jesus, who was taken up from into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
C. BY HIS APOSTLES…
1. Peter, in his second recorded sermon – Acts 3:19-21
2. Paul, in writing to…
a. The Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 11:26; 15:22-23
b. The Thessalonians – 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; 2:19; 3:13
c. The young evangelist, Timothy – 2 Timothy 4:1
3. The writer to the Hebrews – Hebrews 9:27-28
[As I believe in Jesus and His apostles, I believe in their promises. Besides the promise of His coming, there is also…]
II. THE PURPOSE OF HIS COMING
A. TO RAISE THE DEAD…
1. Both the righteous and wicked dead – John 5:28-29
a. Note there is but one resurrection, including both good and evil, that will occur at one time
b. As Paul said, “there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust” – Acts 24:15
2. Those who are alive at the Lord’s coming…
a. Will be changed in the twinkling of an eye, clothed with immortality and incorruption – 1 Corinthians 15:50-54
b. Then “caught up…to meet the Lord in the air.” – 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18
B. TO DELIVER THE KINGDOM TO GOD…
1. When all are made alive at His coming – 1 Corinthians 15:22-24
2. Contrary to the view that Jesus has yet to establish His kingdom on earth, He has been ruling over His kingdom since He first ascended to heaven!
a. In fulfillment of the prophecy that God would raise up the Christ to sit on the throne of David, Jesus was raised from the dead and made “Lord” – Acts 2:30-36
b. All authority has been given unto Him – Matthew 28:18; Ephesians 1:20-22; 1 Peter 3:22
c. Christians are said to be “in” His kingdom – Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9
d. Christ will continue to reign “till He has put all enemies under His feet” – 1 Corinthians 15:25
1) Note that His reign will be concurrent with the fact enemies are still present
2) As prophesied by the Psalmist: “Rule in the midst of Your enemies!” – Psalm 110:1-2
e. Thus Christ is now “the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of Lords” – 1 Timothy 6:15; cf. Revelation 19:16
f. And He will reign “till He has put all enemies under His feet” – 1 Corinthians 15:25
1) The last enemy that will be destroyed is death itself – cf. 1 Corinthians 15:26
2) Which we have seen will be destroyed at the coming of the Lord when He will raise the dead – 1 Corinthians 15:51-54
3. So when He comes, it will not be to “set up”, but to “deliver up” His kingdom!
a. As Paul clearly told the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 15:23-26
b. As taught by Jesus in His Parable of the Tares – Matthew 13:36-43
1) His kingdom will last until “the end of this age”
2) After which “the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father”
C. TO JUDGE THE WORLD AND PUNISH EVIL…
1. God has appointed “a day” in which He will judge the world – 2 Peter 3:7
a. The one appointed to be the Judge is Jesus Christ – Acts 17:31; 2 Corinthians 5:10
b. The standard by which He will judge will be the words He has spoken – John 12:48
2. It will be a day of perdition (utter destruction) of ungodly men – 2 Peter 3:7
a. Those who know not God and have not obeyed the gospel will be punished with “everlasting destruction” – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10
b. Those whose names are not in the “Book of Life” will be cast into the “lake of fire” – Revelation 20:11-15
D. TO USHER IN THE “NEW HEAVENS AND NEW EARTH”…
1. As taught by Peter – 2 Peter 3:10-14
a. This will follow the “passing away” of the present heavens and earth
b. In fulfillment of God’s promise – cf. Isaiah 65:17-19; 66:22-23
c. Something we are to “look for”
d. It will be a realm where righteousness dwells, therefore the need for us to be found “in peace, without spot and blameless” when Christ returns
2. As taught by John – Revelation 21:1-22:5
a. It will follow after the first heaven and first earth have “passed away” – cf. Revelation 20:11
b. It will be the place where the “Jerusalem” will abide when it “comes down out of heaven” – Revelation 3:10c; 21:10
c. God will dwell with us in this “Jerusalem” that has “come down out of heaven”
Conclusion
1. If there will not be a second coming, then there will not be…
a. A resurrection of the dead
b. A transfer of Christ’s kingdom to the heavenly kingdom
c. A judgment of the world and subsequent punishment of evil
d. A new heavens and new earth, in which righteousness dwells
2. If there will not be a second coming, then Christians are to be pitied…
a. For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen – 1 Corinthians 15:16
b. And if Christ is not risen, our faith is futile and we are still in our sins – 1 Corinthians 15:17
c. Those who have died in Christ have perished – 1 Corinthians 15:18
d. If in this life only we have hope, we are of all men the most pitiable – 1 Corinthians 15:19
3. But we can have confidence in the second coming of Christ…
a. If we believe there is a God
b. If we believe the Bible is the Word of God
c. If we believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
4. The fact that Jesus has not yet come is only an indication of God’s long-suffering (2 Peter 3:8-9). But rest assured, as promised that “day” will come!
5. In the meantime, what should be our attitude be toward the coming of our Lord?
a. One of prayerful preparation – Luke 21:34-36; 2 Peter 3:14
b. One of joyful expectation – Philippians 3:20-21
c. One of patient endurance – Hebrews 10:35-39
6. Is that your attitude…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Matthew 07:21-23 Who Will Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?
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Text: Matthew 7:21-23
Introduction
1. Most people believe they will go to heaven when they die
a. Their hope is fostered by the comforting words of many preachers, priests, and rabbis
b. Their hope is based upon the idea that heaven is for all believers, or for those whose good works outweigh the bad
2. But are such hopes well-founded?
a. Will most people go to heaven when they die?
b. Is salvation based upon good works? Is it based upon faith only?
3. In His sermon on the mount, Jesus gave some ominous warnings…
a. Few, not many, would be saved – Matthew 7:13-14
b. Many religious people, including some believers in Jesus, will learn that they too will be lost! – Matthew 7:21-23
4. With Matthew 7:21-23 as the spring board for our study, I wish to address the question: “Who will enter the kingdom of heaven?”
Body
I. WHAT IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN?
A. THE TERM “KINGDOM OF HEAVEN”…
1. Is synonymous with the “kingdom of God” – Matthew 4:17 with Mark 1:14-15
2. Refers to God’s kingship, or rule, from heaven
3. The kingdom of heaven is focused in the Person of Jesus Christ, and is especially manifested where He rules in the hearts of men – Luke 17:20-21
B. IN BRIEF, THE “KINGDOM OF HEAVEN”…
1. Is spiritual in nature – John 18:36; Romans 14:17
2. It began when all authority (rule) was given to Jesus – Matthew 28:18; Acts 2:36; Ephesians 1:20-23
3. Today, it includes the Lord’s church on earth (for those who submit to the Will of Christ are added to the kingdom) – Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9
4. In the future, it will involve the “new heavens and new earth,” where we will be with God and Jesus for eternity! – Matthew 13:40-43; 2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1-22:5
5. The kingdom of heaven was “inaugurated” on the Day of Pentecost, and will be culminated” when Jesus returns to deliver it back to God – cf. 1 Corinthians 15:23-28
C. THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IN OUR TEXT…
1. Appears to have the future aspect of the kingdom in view
a. Note that Jesus says “in that day…” – Matthew 7:22
b. An apparent reference to the day of judgment – cf. 2 Timothy 1:12, 18; 4:8
2. Thus Jesus is talking about who will enter the kingdom in its future aspect
a. Of which He spoke on other occasions – Matthew 25:31-34
b. Of which Peter wrote – 2 Peter 1:10-11
D. What a wonderful blessing, to have an abundant entrance into “the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ”! But this leads me back to our text (Mt 7:21-23), and to the main question of our study
II. WHO WILL ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN?
A. NOT EVERYONE WHO PROFESSES JESUS…
1. “Not everyone who says to Me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven”
2. There are some who teach that as long as one believes in Jesus, they will be saved
a. That salvation is by “faith only”
b. Even though the only time “faith only” is found in the Scriptures, it says: “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.” – James 2:24
3. But there is such a thing as “an unsaved believer”…
a. The demons believe, but are not saved – James 2:19
b. There were some who believed in Jesus, but were not saved – John 12:42-43
c. Jesus described a true disciple as one who not only believes in Him, but does what He says – John 8:30-32
d. Let no one think that just because they “believe” in Jesus, they have a free ticket into heaven!
B. NOT EVERYONE WHO DOES MANY GOOD WORKS…
1. “Many will say to Me in that day, `Lord, Lord, have we not…” – Matthew 7:22
2. Here were people who not only believed in Jesus, but believed they had:
a. Prophesied in His name!
b. Cast out demons in His Name!
c. Done many wonders in His Name!
3. They thought they had been empowered to do such wonderful works!
4. Such good works certainly did not earn their way to heaven
a. Indeed, salvation is by grace, not meritorious works – cf. Titus 3:3-7
b. Good works had not saved Cornelius, he still needed to be told what to do to be saved – Acts 10:1-5; 11:14
5. Indeed, sometimes what we may think is a good work is without any authority…
a. Jesus condemns these as those “who practice lawlessness” – Matthew 7:23
b. Literally, those who act without authority
1) It was not that they did something condemned by Jesus
2) It was that they did things for which they had no authority!
6. We might be very religious, and do many things in the name of Jesus, yet He might still say: “I never knew you; depart from Me…”
C. ONLY THOSE WHO DO THE FATHER’S WILL…
1. As Jesus said, “…he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” – Matthew 7:21
a. Here is the dividing line: those who DO the Father’s will!
b. As James would write later, it is the “doer of the work” who is blessed in what he does – cf. James 1:22-25
2. Is this legalism?
a. No! Legalism is salvation by perfect law-keeping, believing that one earns salvation by the merit of what they have done
b. Salvation by grace does not preclude the necessity of obedience
1) We simply need to recognize that our obedience does not earn or merit salvation
2) When all is said and done, we are still unworthy! – cf. Luke 17:10
3. The Father’s will, while it offers salvation by grace, does require obedience!
a. Only those who obey from the heart will be delivered from sin – Romans 6:17-18
b. Christ is the author of salvation to all who obey Him – Hebrews 5:9
c. Christ will come in judgment against those who obey not the gospel -2 Thessalonians 1:7-9
Conclusion
1. Who will enter the kingdom of heaven?
a. Not those who profess to believe, but do not obey
b. Not those who think they are doing many religious things, but without authority
c. Only those who do the Father’s will!
2. This is why we must take an earlier statement in Jesus’ sermon so seriously…
a. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” – Matthew 6:33
b. We must make the finding of God’s will and rule the number one priority in our life!
3. What is the Father’s will? It begins with…
a. Repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ – Acts 20:21
b. Confessing Jesus as Lord – Romans 10:10
c. Being baptized into Christ for the remission of sins – Acts 2:38
4. Followed by a life of faithful service to Christ, confessing our sins along the way – Revelation 2:10; 1 John 1:9
5. Are you doing the Father’s will?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 12:18-29 Obey the Voice from the Mountain – audio
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Text: Hebrews 12:18-29
Introduction
1. In encouraging Christians to run the race that is set before them
a. Lay aside things that would hinder them – Hebrews 12:1
b. Run with endurance – Hebrews 12:1
c. Keep their focus on Jesus – Hebrews 12:2-3
d. Remember the value of the Lord’s chastening – Hebrews 12:4-11
e. Run with style – Hebrews 12:12-13
f. Pursue peace and holiness – Hebrews 12:14
g. Look diligently lest one fall short of God’s grace, stumble because of bitterness, or become a fornicator or profane person – Hebrews 12:15-17
2. Further encouragement is now provided in the last half of chapter twelve
a. With a reminder of the mountain to which they have come
b. With a warning to obey Him who speaks
3. As we run the race of faith today, we need this same reminder and warning
a. Do we appreciate the significance of the mountain to which we have come?
b. Are we obeying the voice from the mountain?
c. How we answer such questions can reveal how well we are running the race of faith!
Body
I. THE MOUNTAIN TO WHICH WE HAVE COME (Hebrews 12:18-24)
A. IT IS NOT MOUNT SINAI (Hebrews 12:18-21)
1. The mountain described first is Mount Sinai, to which Israel came following their deliverance from Egyptian bondage where they received the Law – Exodus 19:12-19
a. It seems to have been much like a volcano – Exodus 20:18; Deuteronomy 4:11
b. It frightened the people – Deuteronomy 5:22-26; 18:16
c. Even Moses was afraid – Deuteronomy 9:19
2. We have not come to such a mountain, which forces us to stand afar off
B. IT IS MOUNT ZION (Hebrews 12:22-24)
1. The mountain to which we have come is one that encourages us to draw near
2. We have come to Mount Zion
a. Zion was originally the stronghold of the Jebusites in Jerusalem that became the city of David – 2 Samuel 5:6-10; 1 Chronicles 11:4-9
b. The term Zion came to be used to refer to:
1) The city of Jerusalem – Psalm 48:2; 84:7; Amos 6:1
2) The heavenly Jerusalem where God dwells – Isaiah 28:16; Psalm 2:6; Revelation 14:1
3. In coming to Mount Zion, we have also come to:
a. The city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem
1) The heavenly city longed for by Abraham and the others – Hebrews 11:10, 13-16
2) The heavenly city longed for by Christians today – Hebrews 13:14
3) The heavenly city we will one day experience – Revelation 3:12; 21:1-7; 22:14
b. An innumerable company of angels
1) The heavenly servants of God, of which there is a great number – Revelation 5:11
2) Who also minister to those who will inherit salvation – Hebrews 1:14
c. The general assembly and church of the firstborn registered in heaven
1) The church in the universal sense, made up of all who are saved – Acts 2:47
2) They are the firstborn ones, who enjoy special privileges of their birthright
3) Their names are in the Book of Life – Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5
d. God the Judge of all
1) The Judge of all the earth – cf. Genesis 18:25
2) He is the One to whom we must give obey, as we shall note shortly
e. The spirits of just men made perfect
1) Those who died in faith, such as the Old Testament saints – Hebrews 11:39-40
2) Note: They had not been made perfect apart from us, but now they are made perfect; they were redeemed by the blood of Christ! – Hebrews 9:15
f. Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant
1) As we’ve seen, He is the Mediator of a better covenant – Hebrews 8:6
2) This new covenant is by means of His death – Hebrews 9:15
g. The blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel
1) Abel still speaks through the example of his faith – Hebrews 11:4
2) But in comparison, the blood of Jesus speaks volumes! – Hebrews 10:11-14
II. WHY WE SHOULD OBEY THE VOICE FROM THE MOUNTAIN (Hebrews 12:25-29)
A. THOSE AT MOUNT SINAI DID NOT ESCAPE (Hebrews 12:25)
1. We have seen from our study that:
a. Every transgression and disobedience received a just reward – Hebrews 2:2
b. Those who sinned, their corpses fell in the wilderness – Hebrews 3:17
c. Those who rejected Moses’ law died without mercy – Hebrews 10: 28
2. Thus the argument is again one of comparison, from the lesser to the greater
a. How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation – Hebrews 2:1-4
b. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy – Hebrews 10:26-31
3. As Jesus said in Luke 12:48
a. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required
b. And to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.
4. In Christ we enjoy so much more; dare we refuse to obey Him who speaks, not from Mount Sinai, but from Mount Zion (heaven itself)!
B. THE ONE WHO SPEAKS WILL SHAKE HEAVEN AND EARTH (Hebrews 12:26-27)
1. When God spoke at Mount Sinai, the earth trembled – Exodus 19:18
2. The day is coming when both heaven and earth will be shaken, even removed!
a. As promised in Hag 2:6
b. Which refers to the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made – 2 Peter 3:10-12
3. Dare we refuse to obey Him who speaks with such impact?
C. WE ARE RECEIVING A KINGDOM WHICH CANNOT BE SHAKEN (Hebrews 12:28)
1. While everything made will one day perish, we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken!
a. Note the present tense (are receiving)
b. Thus we are in the process of receiving this kingdom
2. It is a kingdom both present and future:
a. In one sense, we are now in the kingdom – Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9
b. In another sense, we have yet to enter the kingdom – 2 Peter 1:10-11
3. It is a kingdom:
a. Inaugurated when Jesus ascended to sit at God’s right hand on David’s throne – Acts 2:30-36
b. To be culminated when Jesus returns to deliver the kingdom to God – 1 Corinthians 15:23-26
4. Thus it is a kingdom:
a. which shall never be destroyedit shall stand forever – Daniel 2:44
b. Of which there will be no end – Luke 1:33
5. Receiving such a kingdom, dare we refuse to obey Him who speaks?
D. THE ONE WHO SPEAKS IS A CONSUMING FIRE (29)
1. We’ve read of a fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries – Hebrews 10:27
2. We’ve seen it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God – Hebrews 10:31
3. Even Jesus taught us to fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell – Matthew 10:28
4. Dare we refuse to obey such an awesome God?
Conclusion
1. God has indeed spoken
a. He has spoken through His Son – Hebrews 1:1-2
b. He has spoken from Mount Zion, that heavenly city, the New Jerusalem:
1) To which we have come through an obedient faith in Jesus – Hebrews 5:9
2) Where we can enjoy the fellowship of angels, the redeemed in heaven and on earth, and of Jesus and God Himself!
3) Where we can enjoy a New and better covenant, based upon the better sacrifice of Jesus’ blood!
2. But with such wonderful blessings come the responsibility of giving obedience:
a. Not to neglect our great salvation
b. Not to refuse Him who speaks from the heavenly mountain
3. Therefore our goal should be that as expressed by the author himself: let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. – Hebrews 12:28b
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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