Historical Posts
The Light of the World – Audio
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Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12).
John explained that the world was in darkness until Jesus, the true Light, came into the world to give it light (John 1:4-9). As long as He was in the world, He was the light of the world (John 9:5). Jesus was not in the world for a very long period of time. In fact, when the time would come to leave the world, He would be sure the light would still shine.
Jesus also said to His disciples, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).
Just as Jesus let His light shine in the world, so must His disciples. We are His disciples today! We must follow Him (1 Peter 2:21), letting our lights shine and being the light of the world today! John said, “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7).”
Are you walking in the light and letting your light shine as Jesus did?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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You Have a Light
You have a light that should never go out.
When a light goes out, the bulb needs to be replaced. Light bulbs come in all shapes and sizes. To have a light that is effective, you must get the proper wattage and type in order to be sure that the light will work properly once again. A light that is too bright will hurt the eyes; a light that is too dim may not allow one to see properly.
Solomon wrote, “The light of the righteous rejoices, but the lamp of the wicked will be put out (Proverbs 13:9).” Spiritually, we all can be a light. Does our light work all the time? Does it shine brightly, or is it dim? The answer may depend on whether our light is righteous or wicked. Those who are righteous have reason to rejoice! Jesus Christ has died, taking away the sin of the world (John 1:29). They are now reconciled to Him and are shining. Those that are wicked are still living in sin, and thus are still separated from God (Isaiah 59:2) and their light has been extinguished.
What kind of light are we emanating? Do you have a light that is it bright and energetic and effective, leading many souls to Christ? Or, is it dim and weak, not showing the love of God to others? Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).”
Have you accepted the salvation offered in Christ to ignite your light? Others can only have a light when we become a light.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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Ephesians 05:08-14 – Walking in the Light – audio
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Text: Ephesians 5:8-14 (reading by Don Treadway)
Introduction
A. Light and darkness are complete opposites.
1) It is impossible to have both at the same time.
2) In fact, just a little light will cancel out a great bit of darkness.
B. Spiritually speaking, sin is often equated with darkness and righteousness with light.
Body
I. We were once walking in darkness.
A. There is no one that does not sin (1 Kings 8:46).
B. All have sinned and have come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
C. Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2).
D. God is light and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5,6).
E. The world was in darkness, and did not receive the Light (John 1:5-13; 3:19-21).
II. We have been called out of darkness.
A. God called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
B. The Lord called Paul to the Gentiles, turning them from darkness to light (Acts 26:15-18).
C. We are called by the power of the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14).
D. By obeying it, we:
1) die to sin [darkness]
2) are buried with Christ in baptism
3) are raised to walk in newness of life [light] (Romans 6:1-7)
III. We must now walk in the light.
A. By becoming sons of God, we are sons of light and day; we are no longer of night nor darkness (1 Thessalonians 5:5).
B. We must walk in the light as God is in the light (1 John 1:7).
C. Jesus commands us to let our lights shine before men (Matthew 5:16).
D. Light has no fellowship with darkness (Ephesians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
Conclusion
A. Are you in the dark?
B. Come to Christ, the true Light!
Content by Richard Dillon
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Unapproachable Light – audio
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Introduction
Have you ever been disturbed by being in a dark room, and suddenly the light switch is turned on? Is the light so bright that you squinted your eyes until they adjusted? Have you ever been in a room that is too bright?
Imagine for a moment what an “unapproachable light” would be like.
Body
I. Text: 1 Timothy 6:15-16.
Paul describes Jesus Christ’s appearing to Timothy. He says it will be in His own time first of all, and that that He alone has immortality. Then, Paul describes Jesus of “dwelling in an unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power.”
II. Christ’s appearing will be manifest in His own time.
Jesus taught the disciples that no one knows the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man will come again (Matthew 24:36-44). Therefore, we must always be ready!
He illustrates this in the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13).
Our lights must always shine to glorify God (Matthew 5:16).
III. Christ dwells in an unapproachable light.
Daniel described the nature of God to Nebuchadnezzar: “He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him (Daniel 2:22).”
John says of God through Christ that He is light and there is no darkness in Him at all; therefore, we should walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:5-7).
IV. No man can see or has seen the light where Christ dwells.
Jesus explained that no one has seen the Father but who is from God (Himself). Thus, only Jesus has seen that light.
He is more than man; He is the Son of God! Also, it is interesting that Jesus’ face “shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light (Matthew 17:1-2)” on the Mount of Transfiguration.
John assures us “…we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is (1 John 3:2).”
Paul explains how we can approach that light by God changing us (1 Corinthians 15:50-57).
Conclusion
John paints a beautiful picture of how we will see God and remain with Him forever, and also reminds us to be ready for the second coming of Christ (Revelation 22:1-7).
Content by Richard Dillon
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Light of the World – audio
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One of the things the Pharisees couldn’t stand about Jesus was the crowd he hung around with. They didn’t know what to do with someone who claimed to be a Rabbi yet spent his time with undesirables. Tax collectors. Drunks. Adulterers. Prostitutes.
How could he? Here’s his answer: “I’m the light of the world” (John 8:12).
It is hard for light to affect something it doesn’t touch. He came to call sinners to repentance, but they never would have heard about it if he had not walked the streets on their side of town.
We don’t have a problem with that, though, because we like the idea of Jesus associating with outcasts. After all, he’s the Son of God, so he’s perfect, blameless. Their sin couldn’t rub off on him.
But notice the huge change in pronoun here:
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14–16)
Sometimes he said, “I’m the light of the world,” but here he says “You” are.
As in me. As in you.
We are the light of the world.
It’s a reflected light, of course, because we can’t generate any on our own. We reflect his light to a dark world so that they may see it and glorify him.
But there’s an important point that we shouldn’t miss. In order for us to light up the world, we’ve got to be in the world. We’ve got to be intentional about spending time with people who don’t know Christ so that they might see him in us.
I might be tempted to schedule my days so that I spend time with people who look, think, and talk like me. You might be tempted just to go to work or school and do what you’ve got to do so you can get back home to your safe place.
But Jesus calls us to do more than that. He calls us to walk their streets. He asks us to get to know them, understand them and really see them.
Thousands of people in our communities live in a very dark world, and they might never see the light if you and I seclude ourselves, either physically or emotionally, and connect only with people just like us.
You are the light of the world.
To be honest, that scares me, because it pulls me out of my comfort zone, away from my safe place. But discipleship has never really been about being comfortable, has it?
If we follow Jesus, we’ll go where he goes, and that means we’ll intentionally spend quite a bit of time with messed up people. They’re the ones who really need his light.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 John 01:05-02:02 – Fellowship with God – audio
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Text: 1 John 1:5-2:2 (Reading by Clark Perkins)
Introduction
1. We saw in 1 John 1:1-4 that John’s aim in this epistle is:
a. To declare the “Word of life”, the “eternal life” that was with the Father and has been manifested in Jesus Christ – 1 John 1:1-2
b. That we might have fellowship with the Father and Son, just as the apostles do – 1 John 1:3
c. That we might have fullness of joy – 1 John 1:4
2. So to have fullness of joy… We must experience the kind of life that comes from having fellowship with God!
3. What is the basis for fellowship with God, so that we may have the life that produces fullness of joy?
a. In our text (1 John 1:5-2:2), John discusses the basis for fellowship with God
b. He also describes the place of sin, and how it can affect that fellowship
Body
I. THE PREMISE FOR HAVING FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD (1 John 1:5)
A. “GOD IS LIGHT”
1. The figure of light is often used in the Scriptures to describe that which to good, righteous, and true – Ephesians 5:8-10
2. Therefore, God must always be thought of in this way: He is good, He is righteous, He is true!
B. “IN HIM IS NO DARKNESS AT ALL”
1. The figure of darkness would represent the opposite of light: evil, unrighteousness, falsehood
2. Therefore we can never think of God as countenancing sin, excusing it in any way
II. FALSE CLAIMS CONCERNING FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD (1 John 1:6-10)
A. “WE HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH HIM”, YET WALK IN DARKNESS (1 John 1:6-7)
1. Why is this claim false?
a. Because fellowship means to have something in common
b. And we have seen that God is “light” (goodness, righteousness, truth)
c. “Walking in darkness”, therefore, would be going against everything God stands for – Ephesians 4:17-24
2. What is the result of such a claim?
a. We are false in our WORDS (“we lie”)
b. We are false in our DEEDS (“do not practice the truth”)
3. Instead, we should “walk in the light as He is in the light”
a. I.e., instead of living a life characterized by “evil, unrighteousness, and error” (all the while claiming to have fellowship with God)
b. …we should live a life in harmony with God’s “goodness, righteousness, and truth”!
4. Only then will we experience:
a. “Fellowship with one another”
1) That is, we will have fellowship with God
2) Whereby we can share in that life which is eternal, and provides fullness of joy!
b. “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son [which] cleanses us from all sin”
1) This suggests that “walking in the light” does not imply sinlessness!
2) Any more than “walking in darkness” implies total absence of good
3) Rather, “walking in the light” suggests
a) A life making progress under the positive influence of God’s “light”
b) A life enjoying the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood as one meets the conditions of forgiveness
B. “WE HAVE NO SIN” (1 John 1:8-9)
1. John is reference to statements made by professing Christians who thought they had become sinless
2. The consequences of such a claim
a. Self-deceit (“we deceive ourselves”)
b. Living in error (“the truth is not in us”)
c. In other words, walking in darkness, not walking in light!
3. Instead, we should freely confess our sins – 1 John 1:9a; Proverbs 28:13
4. Then God, who is “faithful” (trustworthy) and “just” (one who does what is right) will:
a. “forgive us our sins”
b. “cleanse us from all unrighteousness”
c. through His mercy He makes it possible for to continue in fellowship with Him!
C. “WE HAVE NOT SINNED” (1 John 1:10)
1. This claim is made by some denying they had ever sinned
2. The consequences of this claim are grievous
a. We make God a liar! – Romans 3:23
b. His Word is not in us!
3. How can anyone who makes such claims as these hope to have true fellowship with God, and thereby enjoy the life such fellowship gives?
4. Fellowship with God does not occur by making claims that turn God into a liar!
5. Though affirming that we do sin, John is not seeking to encourage sin. Indeed, he is writing to discourage sin – 1 John 2:1
III. FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD REQUIRES AN ADVOCATE (1 John 2:1-2)
A. “WE HAVE AN ADVOCATE WITH THE FATHER, JESUS CHRIST THE RIGHTEOUS”
1. The word “advocate”
a. Literally means “to call to one’s side, to one’s aid”
b. It suggests the capability for giving aid
c. Used in a court of justice to denote a legal assistant, a counsel for the defense
d. Generally, it is one who pleads another’s case, an intercessor
2. Jesus is the perfect “advocate”, for He is RIGHTEOUS
a. As sinners, we are alienated from God – Isaiah 59:1-2
b. But since Jesus is without sin, He is a fit representative to come before God on our behalf!
c. The author of Hebrews also makes the point that though righteous, He understands our situation perfectly – Hebrews 2:17-18; 4:14-16
B. “HE HIMSELF IS THE PROPITIATION FOR OUR SINS” (1 John 2:2)
1. The word “propitiation” means “an appeasing”
a. E.g., the pagans would offer sacrifices to appease their gods
b. In the New Testament, it is God, not man, who offers the appeasing sacrifice – 1 John 4:10
c. Through His death on the cross, Jesus is the means by which God can show mercy to the sinner
d. This explains how God can be “just” (cf. 1 John 1:9) and still forgive sin
e. This wonderful “propitiation” was given to the whole world, but is accessed only by those who believe in Jesus – 1 John 2:2; Romans 3:21-26
Conclusion
1. In this first chapter, and even into the second, John makes it clear upon what basis we can have fellowship with God, and enjoy the life that provides fullness of joy
2. To have fellowship with God, we who are Christians must
a. Not walk in darkness, but walk in the light of God’s goodness, righteous, and truth
b. Admit that we have sinned, and do sin
c. Utilize our “advocate” (Jesus Christ), whom God provides as the “propitiation” for our sins
3. In 1 John 1:9, John explained how those who are already children of God can appropriate the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus (through confession and prayer).
4. But how about the alien sinner? – Acts 2:38; 22:16 (faith, repentance, and baptism)
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 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 Must You 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. You should step out of darkness, because in darkness, Satan blinds you and keeps you from seeing and obeying the only Truth that can save you – 2 Corinthians 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 off the works of darkness – Romans 13:11-14.
- It is imperative that you step out of darkness and into light of Jesus because if you do not believe in Jesus, you will be eternally separated from God – John 8:24. In John 3:36, the Spirit of truth confirms, you will not have everlasting life with God, if you do not believe in Jesus. You will spend eternity wailing and gnashing your teeth in outer darkness, if you continue to walk in darkness – Mathew 13:40-42.
Why should You 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. And since Jesus is the light, those whom are unbelieving, and walking in darkness 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 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 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. If you are lost walking in darkness, why not make the decision to walk in the pathway of light, right now?
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Ephesians 05:01-21 Walking in Love, Light and Wisdom
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Text: Ephesians 5:1-21
Introduction
1. Though we now enter chapter five, we are still noticing how to “walk worthy of the calling with which you were called” – Ephesians 4:1
a. We have been “called” to be
1) “holy and without blame before Him in love” – Ephesians 1:4
2) “sons by Jesus Christ to Himself” – Ephesians 1:5
3) “fellow citizens with the saints” – Ephesians 2:19
4) “members of the household of God” – Ephesians 2:19
5) “a holy temple in the Lord” – Ephesians 2:21
6) “fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ” – Ephesians 3:6
b. What sort of “walk” is worthy of such a calling? So far we have seen that it is one in which we are
1) “Walking Together in Unity” – Ephesians 4:1-16
2) “Walking In Truth and Holiness – Ephesians 4:17-32
2. As we come into the fifth chapter, we learn that our “walk” (or conduct) which is worthy of our calling is one in which we
a. Walk In Love – Ephesians 5:1-7
b. Walk As Light – Ephesians 5:8-14
c. Walk As Wise – Ephesians 5:15-21
Body
I. WALK IN LOVE (Ephesians 5:1-7)
A. FOLLOWING CHRIST AS OUR EXAMPLE (Ephesians 5:1-2)
1. Jesus certainly has loved us and given Himself for us
2. He offered Himself to God as an offering and sacrifice in our behalf
3. Let His example teach us how to “walk in love” – cf. John 13:34-35; 1 John 3:16-17
B. WITH A LOVE THAT IS PURE (Ephesians 5:3-7)
1. Our love should be free from any hint of immorality or greed – Ephesians 5:3
2. Even words or jokes suggestive of immorality or greed are unbecoming those who are “saints” (holy, set apart for God’s purpose) – Ephesians 5:4
3. This is a serious concern, for immoral or greedy persons have no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ, but instead will experience the full wrath of God! – Ephesians 5:5-7
II. WALK AS LIGHT (Ephesians 5:8-14)
A. WE ARE NOW “LIGHT IN THE LORD” (Ephesians 5:8-10)
1. Before coming to Christ, we were once “darkness” (remember Ephesians 2:1-3); but now we are “light in the Lord” and should walk as “children of light” – Ephesians 5:8
2. The fruit expected of those children of light is goodness, righteousness and truth – Ephesians 5:9
3. By bearing such fruit, we fulfill our role as “light” by “proving” (demonstrating) what is well-pleasing to the Lord – Ephesians 5:10; cf. Romans 12:1-2
B. AS “LIGHT” WE MUST NECESSARILY EXPOSE “DARKNESS” (Ephesians 5:11-14)
1. We are not to have fellowship with “unfruitful works of darkness” – Ephesians 5:11, 5:3-4
2. Instead, our task is to “expose” them – Ephesians 5:11b-13
a. Things that we must expose are often so disgraceful, it is shameful to speak of them
b. But by “walking in the light” ourselves, we can through example and word expose by contrast these “works of darkness”
3. Thus the need to be “light” ourselves, something that comes only from Christ – Ephesians 5:14
a. Christ gives “light” to those who were spiritually asleep and dead – cf. Ephesians 2:4-6
b. Some scholars think this verse (Ephesians 5:14) may have been an early “baptismal hymn”, sung at a person’s baptism
III. WALK AS WISE (Ephesians 5:15-21)
A. CHARACTERISTICS OF “WALKING AS WISE” (Ephesians 5:15-17)
1. Doing so with great care – Ephesians 5:15
a. The word translated “circumspectly” means “exactly, accurately, diligently”
b. Unlike fools, who care little about where they are going or what is happening
2. Taking advantage of the time available to one – Ephesians 5:16
3. Understanding the will of the Lord – Ephesians 5:17
a. Only by understanding the will of the Lord can we be a “wise people”
b. Just as Israel was to demonstrate their wisdom by doing the will of the Lord, so we can “walk as wise” only if we understand His will for us – Deuteronomy 4:5-6
B. TO WALK AS WISE REQUIRES BEING “FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT” (Ephesians 5:18-21)
1. While those who “walk as fools” delight in being filled with wine, those who walk as wise” will endeavor to be filled with the Spirit!
2. What evidence is there that one is “filled with the Spirit”? Paul describes three indications…
a. One indication is singing praises – Ephesians 5:19
b. Another indication is giving thanks – Ephesians 5:20
c. A third indication is submitting to one another in the fear of God – Ephesians 5:21
Conclusion
1. Children of God who delight in:
a. Singing praises and making melody in the heart
b. Giving thanks always for all things to God
c. Submitting to one another in the fear of God
d. Demonstrate that they are “filled with the Spirit”, and as such, truly are “followers of God as dear children” – Ephesians 5:1
2. As children of God, and “filled with the Spirit”, they are able to walk in a manner worthy of their calling, as they:
a. “Walk in love”
b. “Walk as light”
c. “Walk as wise”
3. Brothers and sisters in Christ, we live in a world:
a. That has perverted the meaning of “love”
b. That takes perverse pleasure in works of darkness
c. That stumbles around aimlessly, like drunken fools
d. Can we not see the need for the people of God today to live up to their “calling”, and to “prove what is acceptable in the Lord”?
4. May God fill His children with His Spirit:
a. So that we can truly “walk in love”, “walk as light”, and “walk as wise”
b. And thereby show to the world the fruit of the Spirit, goodness, righteousness, and truth
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
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Joshua 24:15 Be a Man – audio
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Text: Joshua 24:15.
Delivered on: June 3, 2012 at Streetsboro.
Introduction
1. Tonight, we are going to be seeing the movie, Courageous.
2. As men, we must strive to be the men that God wants us to be in all areas of our lives.
3. We need to be men.
a. What makes a male human being a man?
b. Is it big muscles?
c. Is it lots of money?
d. Is it being able to fight?
e. What makes a male a man?
4. I fear that our society doesn’t understand.
5. A real man, first and foremost, honors his God!
Body
I. BE A MAN: REALIZE WHAT IS AT STAKE.
A. Some men go through their whole life thinking it is a big game.
1. See how much money you can acquire.
2. See how many women you can have.
3. Eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die.
4. They never stop to realize that they have a lot at stake, spiritually.
B. A definition: Stake – a sum of money or something else of value gambled on the outcome of a risky game or venture.
C. You possess something of value.
1. Matthew 16:26. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
2. What makes your soul so valuable?
a) It is that part of you which is the image of God.
b) It is immortal.
c) Your soul is YOU.
3. Nothing in this world is more valuable than you soul for your soul we still exist long after this world has passed away.
D. Your soul’s destiny is determined by the outcome of your venture.
1. Venture – a risky or daring journey or undertaking.
2. Life!
3. The choices you make in your life will determine where your soul spends eternity.
E. Most of us understand this. However, we also must realize that the choices we make can also affect the souls of others.
1. While it is true that each one is accountable for their own actions, we are warned about setting stumbling blocks for others.
2. 1 Corinthians 8:9-13. But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak. 10 For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will not the conscience of him who is weak be emboldened to eat those things offered to idols? 11 And because of your knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? 12 But when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. 13 Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.
II. BE A MAN: BE A LIGHT TO YOUR NEIGHBORS.
A. You are the only Bible that many people will read.
1. You are that light of the world. Matthew 5:14-16. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
2. You are the salt of the earth. Matthew 5:13. You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
B. What example do your neighbors see in you?
1. Do they see in you a man who is the spiritual leader of his family?
2. Do they see in you a man who loves his wife as Christ loved the church?
3. Do they see in you a man who loves God with all his heart soul and mind? Matthew 22:37. Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’
4. Do they see in you a man who loves his neighbor as himself? Matthew 22:39. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
5. Do they see in you a man who loves the church for which Christ died?
C. Do your neighbors know that you care for their souls?
1. We never seem to have a problem helping a neighbor with material things.
2. Do you ever talk to your neighbors about God? Jesus?
3. Do you ever talk to your neighbors about their spiritual condition?
4. Let me let you in on a secret. If they know you are a Christian; they are expecting you to talk to them about Christ.
5. We’re not suggesting it needs to come up in every conversation… but it should come up at some point. And more than once.
6. Are you thankful that someone took the time to teach you the truth?
7. Matthew 7:12. Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
8. You’re not loving your neighbor if you don’t try to help them with their spiritual welfare.
D. Who is your neighbor?
1. The parable of the Good Samaritan…
2. Luke 10:36-37. So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” 37 And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
3. Your neighbor is anyone and everyone with whom you come into contact.
E. If we don’t fulfill our responsibilities to our neighbors; their very souls are in danger!
III. BE A MAN: BE A LABORER IN THE LORD’S CHURCH.
A. In regard to the church, we need to be LABORERS.
B. How highly do we value the Lord’s church?
1. What is it that determines the value of something?
2. Sometimes things are valued by the raw materials from which they are made.
3. Sometimes, though, the value of a thing can be much, much greater than the cost of the materials from which it is made. For example: certain baseball cards.
4. The value of something is determined by what a person is willing to pay for it.
5. The church is important to God!
a) It has always been in His mind. Ephesians 3:10-11. To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, 11 according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord,
b) The price He paid for it was nothing else but the blood of His only begotten Son. Acts 20:28. Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.
6. If it is that valuable to God, then it ought to be that valuable to us as well.
C. How do we behave toward something that is valuable to us? Let’s use our wives for an example.
1. Do you talk bad about her to other people? You had better not!
2. Do you tell other people how great she is? You should!
3. Do you work to provide for her:
a) Physical needs?
b) Social needs?
c) Spiritual needs?
4. Why are we willing to do all these things for her? Because we love her.
D. Even more so with the church.
1. Matthew 6:33. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
2. You are supposed to love God and His church more than you love anything else.
3. Do you talk bad to others about the bride of Christ?
4. Do you tell others about how wonderful the bride of Christ is?
5. Do you work to provide for:
a) The physical needs of the church. Galatians 6:10. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
b) The Social needs of the church. James 1:27. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
c) The spiritual needs of the church. Hebrews 10:24-25. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
E. If we don’t fulfill our responsibilities to the Lord’s church; souls will be in danger.
1. John 13:34-35. A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
2. If you don’t love the church, how can you expect your family or your neighbors to love the church?
3. Can they see your live for the church?
IV. BE A MAN: BE THE LEADER OF YOUR FAMILY.
A. Your family needs you to be a LEADER.
B. Men, we need to be the spiritual leaders in our families.
1. Your number one job as the head of the family is to get your family to heaven.
2. That is primarily YOUR responsibility.
a) The church will help.
b) The elders will help.
c) But it is your responsibility to do all you can.
C. We need to bring up our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
1. If you still have children at home, you need to be having devotionals with them on a nightly basis.
2. We send them of to school to learn worldly wisdom five days a week for six hours a day.
3. They get about three hours of Bible study a week in Bible class and worship.
4. 30 to 3. What does that say about our priorities?
5. Fathers, it is your job to:
a) Teach your children to love and follow Jesus.
b) Teach your children the importance of hard work.
c) Teach your sons to provide for their families.
d) Teach your children to treat others with kindness and respect.
e) Teach you children to respect authority.
6. We need to lead by example as well. Not with just words.
a) Who is the leader when it comes time to get to services on time?
b) Who is the leader when it comes time to load up on a weeknight and go to a gospel meeting?
c) They need to see in you, how a husband should treat a wife.
d) They need to see in you, a love and devotion to the Lord and His church. John 13:34-35. A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
D. What is at stake in regard to our families? If we don’t fulfill our responsibilities; the very souls of our family are in danger!
Joshua 24:15 – And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Conclusion
1. There is too much at stake!
2. There are consequences to the choices we make.
3. If we don’t stay faithful we will not only lose our own souls…
4. Our family could lose theirs.
5. Our neighbors could lose theirs.
6. The church will suffer.
Content by Ralph Price
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