Historical Posts
Psalm 61 – Does God Listen? audio
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Text: Psalm 61
Introduction
Do you ever wonder if God listens to you?
When you pray, do you feel that He hears your every word and that He really cares?
Perhaps David expresses these thoughts exactly in Psalm 61. He pleads for God to hear his prayer, and concludes by willing to keep his vows to Him.
Body
I. God can hear! Idols cannot hear (Revelation 9:20).
A. God can hear! Elijah proved this on Mt. Carmel when 450 prophets called out to Baal, and they could not be heard (1 Kings 18:26ff.).
II. God may choose not to hear.
A. The LORD will not listen to those who will not listen to Him (Zechariah 7:8-14).
B. God does not hear sinners (John 9:31).
III. God chooses who to hear:
A. He hears those who worship Him and do His will (John 9:31).
B. He hears those willing to learn His will (Acts 10).
C. He hears those who ask according to His will (1 John 5:14-15).
D. He hears those who keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight (1 John 3:22).
IV. God has heard:
A. Jesus, who always does His will (John 11:41-42).
B. Zacharias, who was willing to do God’s will (Luke 1:5-13).
C. The children of Israel, who were willing to turn from their own will and accept the will of God (Exodus 2:23-25; Acts 7:34).
D. Judah, who was willing to be restored to God (Zechariah 10:6; 13:9).
Conclusion
God is willing to hear you if you are willing to listen to Him and submit to His will.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Are You Running?
Thanks to Al Parr, working with the Saline Church of Christ, for the content of this post.Habakkuk 2:2 – “And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.”
Habakkuk lived in a time of violence, iniquity, grievance, spoiling, strife and contention (Habakkuk 1:3-4). God revealed to him that He was about to do something that the people wouldn’t believe if they heard it (Habakkuk 1:5). But hear it, they must.
Write it, Habakkuk! Write it upon tablets. Make it plain. God wants people to know His word. More than that, He wants people to act upon His word. They can’t do what they don’t know (Romans 10:14).
It’s still true. You can’t please God if you don’t read His word. The good news is, His word is plain. When you read you can understand (Ephesians 3:4), and when you understand you will be motivated to run for Him (Isaiah 55:11; Romans 10:17).
Are you running?
Al Parr works Confirming the Churches and preaches at the Saline Church of Christ
7300 East Michigan Avenue
Saline, MI 48176
734-429-4319
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Obey – audio
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Mark Twain famously quipped, “It ain’t those parts of the Bible that I can’t understand that bother me; it is the parts that I do understand.”
I’m not sure exactly how he meant that, but in some ways I agree with him. There’s a lot about the Bible I don’t grasp, but I have plenty to do just to work on the parts I get.
Here is one of the parts I do understand: God wants us to do what he says.
You already knew that, of course, but it doesn’t hurt us to be reminded. It’s easy to get lulled into a sense of complacency and forget some of the basics.
James emphasizes this point here, and his in-your-face approach shows how serious he is about making himself clear:
“But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” (James 2:20-26).
It jumped out at me recently how often God tests people’s faith by telling them to do something that doesn’t make any sense at all.
In Abraham’s case, what God commanded him not only didn’t make sense, but it was also completely contrary to God’s nature. Did Abraham trust him enough to do something sinful? Did he believe in God strongly enough to offer a child sacrifice, a horrible practice he’d turned his back on when he began walking with God? Yes he did. By this point in his life he’d learned just to trust God . . . to do whatever he said.
And that’s a pretty good lesson for all of us – do whatever he says.
It’s not hard to do right when it’s relatively low sacrifice. It’s easy to follow Jesus when the road is smooth. But I think God is interested in something more substantial than that. He wants to know if our faith will lead us to do something more significant than attend church services, smile pretty, and act christianly.
I think he wants to know if we have real faith – genuine, life-changing, God-honoring trust.
He wants us to have the kind of faith that obeys even when what God said does not make sense to us. Even when it’s different from what we want to do. Even when it hurts. James’ major point in this section is that there’s no such thing as a faith that refuses obey. That’s a faith that’s dead, which is not faith at all.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Kings 05:08-15 Naaman and his Leprosy – audio
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Text: 2 Kings 5:8-15
Introduction
It is important to review the events found in the Old Testament Scriptures. Paul told the Romans, “for whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4).”
Let us now review the story of Naaman, and how he received hope from his leprosy (2 Kings 5:8-15).
Body
I. Background.
Naaman was commander of the army of the king of Syria, a mighty man of valor—a great and honorable man in the eyes of his master because the LORD had given the Syrians victory through him (2 Kings 5:1).
While on raids, the Syrians took captive a young Israelite girl who would wait on Naaman’s wife (2 Kings 5:2). Through her, Naaman told his master that he could be healed of his leprosy.
The king of Syria then sent a letter to the king of Israel asking him to heal him. Naturally, the king was upset because he knew he could not do that which God alone could do (2 Kings 5:3-7).
II. Elisha wanted everyone to know there is a prophet in Israel.
Naaman needed assurance that he could be healed of his leprosy, and the kings of Israel and Syria needed to know that they did not have the power to heal him, but rather a man of God did (2 Kings 5:8).
A. Having a prophet in Israel assures them that God is in Israel. The LORD told Aaron and Miriam that He reveals Himself to His prophet, who would then speak His word to the people (Numbers 12:6). Moses was excepted because He spoke to him face to face (Numbers 12:7-8).
B. The people would be blessed by heeding the words of the prophet, and thus the words of the LORD. Jehoshaphat said, “…Believe in the LORD your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper (2 Chronicles 20:20).”
C. As God spoke to the people through His prophets, He speaks to us through His Son and His Word (Hebrews 1:1-2; 2 Timothy 3:16). We too will be blessed when we heed God’s Word!
III. Naaman had a perception of Elisha.
A. He eagerly went to Elisha’s house and waited at the door expecting Elisha to come to him. Instead, he sent a messenger (2 Kings 5:9-11). Similarly, God sent us His messenger, and we must to go Him through faith (Hebrews 11:6).
B. He expected him to call on the name of the LORD his God (2 Kings 5:11), as Elijah called upon God at Mount Carmel in front of the false prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:24).
C. He expected to be healed with just a wave of the hand (2 Kings 5:11). Today many Jews, scribes, and Pharisees also want to see a sign from Jesus (Matthew 12:38; 1 Corinthians 1:22).
D. He was disappointed to be commanded to dip in the Jordan River when the Abanah and Pharpar were better (2 Kings 5:12).
1) The Abanah River is often called the “stony river, “and is purported to have healing qualities. In the Anti-Lebanon range, it originates 23 miles northwest of Damascus and flows south into Damascus, splitting into 3 rivers. The chief river of Damascus flows right through the middle of the city.
2) The Pharpar River is often called “that which produces fruit,” and is a small, lively river on the east side of Damascus.
E. After his leprosy was removed, his perception changed (verse 15). It was then he realized “…there is no God in all the earth, except in Israel (2 Kings 5:15)…” Nebuchadnezzar confessed, “Truly your God is the God of gods, the Lord of kings (Daniel 2:47)…” after Daniel interpreted his dream with His help.
Later, he made a decree that “any people, nation, or language which speaks anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made an ash heap; because there is no other God who can deliver like this (Daniel 3:29)” after they were saved from the fiery furnace.
King Darius also wrote: “I make a decree that in every dominion of my kingdom men must tremble and fear before the God of Daniel. For he is the living God, And steadfast forever; His kingdom is the one which shall not be destroyed, And His dominion shall endure to the end. He delivers and rescues, And He works signs and wonders In heaven and on earth, Who has delivered Daniel from the power of the lions (Daniel 6:26-27).”
Conclusion
Three applications from the story of Naaman.
A. It matters not who we are, we must all be subject to the will of God.
Naaman may have been a commander of an army, a mighty man of valor, and considered great and honorable by some, but he still had to do what Elisha commanded him. Thus, God is no respecter of persons. Peter learned this as he was sent to Cornelius (Acts 10:34). Moses said that God does not show partiality (Deuteronomy 10:17). Jehoshaphat taught the judges of Judah there is no iniquity, partiality, or taking of bribes with the LORD (2 Chronicles 19:7). Paul taught this very lesson (Romans 2:11; Galatians 2:6; Ephesians 6:9), and thus showed the gospel is for all (Romans 1:16).
B. Naaman could not be healed by the king of Syria, nor the king of Israel. He could only be healed by God.
The LORD taught Moses, “…There is no God besides Me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; Nor is there any who can deliver from My hand (Deuteronomy 32:39).” As the king of Israel recognized he is a man and not God, so are we. When Cornelius tried to worship Peter, he replied “Stand up; I myself also am a man (Acts 10:26).”
C. Naaman was cleansed only after completing the task commanded by God of him through Elisha.
He had to dip, or wash in the Jordan River! Interestingly, Jesus also dipped (was baptized) in the Jordan River (Matthew 3:13-17). He commands us to be baptized and wash away our sins in order to be saved (Luke 4:27; Acts 22:16; Hebrews 10:22; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 3:21).
Content by Richard Dillon
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Acts 02:26-35 – The Ethiopian Eunuch – audio
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Text: Acts 2:26-35
Introduction
An Ethiopian eunuch was returning from Jerusalem, where he had gone to worship. On his way he had begun to read from Isaiah.
Whether he was reviewing what he heard in Jerusalem, picked up a scroll there, or for some other reason, we do not know. What we do know is that he had an opportunity to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18)” and he did.
Body
I. The eunuch was increasing his faith (Acts 8:27-28).
As he was traveling, he was reading from Isaiah. Interestingly, the prophet Isaiah says to “search from the book of the LORD, and read (Isaiah 34:16)…” He was indeed searching something, and by the providence of God would later find it.
One thing he would find by searching the Scriptures is faith. After all, faith comes from hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). Without it, one cannot please God (Hebrews 11:6).
Our faith must grow, and one thing we add to our faith is knowledge (2 Peter 1:5-7). The eunuch obviously wanted to know more about what he was reading (as we’ll see shortly). As those were in Berea, so was the eunuch. He “received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so (Acts 17:11).”
II. The eunuch sought to understand the Scriptures (Acts 8:30-34).
It is not enough o only hear the Word of God; one must do it (James 1:22). In order to do what God commands, we must understand what He says!
Jesus commands us to understand (Matthew 15:10), as Matthew encourages his readers to understand his gospel (Matthew 24:15). On one occasion, Jesus opened the understanding of some to help them comprehend the Scriptures (Luke 24:45). This would be done to the eunuch through Philip.
It is God’s plan that everyone will understand His will (Romans 15:20-21)! Our understanding is only beneficial when we receive it with love (1 Corinthians 13:1-2), as the eunuch did.
A. Not understanding God’s Word will have its consequences. When Jesus taught the parable of the sower, He explained that those that do not understand the word had it snatched away by the wicked one (Matthew 13:19).
B. Understanding God’s Word will have its benefits.
1) Understanding God’s Word will bear much fruit (Matthew 13:23).
2) We may know the hope of His calling, the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints (Ephesians 1:18).
3) This gives us wisdom (Ephesians 5:17).
4) We can walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him (Colossians 1:9-10).
5) Our hearts are encouraged and we have full assurance of God’s promises (Colossians 2:2).
6) It is a blessing to understand all things, and others are praying for us as Paul did for Timothy(2 Timothy 2:7).
7) We can come to know God and Jesus, and be in Him. This gives us eternal life (1 John 5:20; Ephesians 1:3).
III. Philip preached Christ to Him (Acts 8:35).
Jesus commanded us to preach the gospel to everyone (Matthew 28:18-19; Mark 16:15-16), as Philip was doing.
Even Paul said he determined not to know anything but “Jesus Christ and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:1-2).”
IV. The eunuch understood what Isaiah meant (Acts 8:36-39).
Isaiah prophesied about Jesus and His crucifixion (Isaiah 53:7-8). He was silent as He appeared before His accusers (Matthew 26:61-63; 27:12-14; John 19:9). He endured the suffering because of our transgressions. The eunuch realized Christ died for him, and readily obeyed the gospel.
Conclusion
Just as the eunuch understood he needed to become a Christian, so do we! Like the eunuch, we need to:
A. Hear the gospel (Romans 10:17; Hebrews 11:6) to get faith.
B. Believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God (Acts 16:30-34; Mark 16:16; Romans 10:9-10; John 8:24).
C. Repent of your sins (Luke 13:3-5; Acts 2:38).
D. Confess your faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10).
E. Be baptized for remission of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21).
Content by Richard Dillon
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The Love of God
The poet wrote: “Could we with ink the ocean fill; were every blade of grass a quill. Were all the world of parchment made, and every made a scribe by trade, to write the love of God above, would drain the ocean dry. Nor could the scroll contain the whole, though stretched from sky to sky.”
Jesus said, “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son” (John 3:16).
It is impossible to measure the extent of His love.
Perhaps no writer of the New Testament had a better grasp of God’s love than John. He simply said, “God is love” (1 John 4:16). Three times in his first epistle he sought to describe the nature of God’s love as it relates to us.
- First, he wrote: “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world that we might live through him” (1 John 4:9).
God’s love was demonstrated in the sending of His Son. This was done, not because man loved Him, but because He loved us (1 John 4:10). - Second, he observed: “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16).
The love of God is clearly seen on the cross. It was God’s love that sent Jesus into this world. It was our sins which took Him to the cross, but it was His love for us which kept Him there. - Third, he exclaimed: “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not” (1 John 3:1).
Because He loves us, He has invited us to be a part of His family. There is no greater honor in this world than to be a child of God!
There is no doubt about God’s love.
We never have to ask, “Does He love me?”
He has proven His love for us!
The important question is, “Do we love Him?“
How do you respond? Remember, Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Salvation Comes From Obeying God’s Truth
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(Eternal salvation comes from God only by obeying the truth)
Introduction
- The source of man’s eternal salvation is Jesus Christ – Hebrews 5:8-9. Since God showered His love upon us, by giving us a perfect substitute sacrifice, for ours sins – John 3:16.
- God has provided the means by which man can be saved (Grace) – Ephesians 2:4-5. But man must be willing to obey Jesus for their eternal salvation – Matthew 7:21. Obedience means that man must also continue to abide with Christ, or obey Him, to retain their eternal salvation – John 8:31-32. Don’t be deceived by Satan, you can lose your salvation, by departing from the faith and returning to disobedience – Hebrews 3:12-14; 1 Timothy 1:18-20; 1 Timothy 4:1-2.
- There is a false doctrine rooted in Calvinism, called “Perseverance Of The Saints”, that erroneously asserts the impossibility of apostasy; the unconditional security of the believer in Jesus Christ. Also called once saved always saved. Therefore, let us make sure we are abiding in the true doctrine of Christ that we might have fellowship with the Father and the Son – 2 John 9-11.
Eternal Salvation is Made Available to All by God’s Grace
- It is through God’s love and mercy that He has prepared a way, through Jesus, that all sinners might avoid the wages of sin (Death) and be saved – John 1:17. This favor bestowed upon us without merit on our part is God’s wonderful grace – 1 John 3:1.
- In Titus 2:11-14, the Bible emphatically teaches the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to everybody. This does not mean that every soul will be saved, but that all humanity has the opportunity to access the benefits of God’s grace through His divine plan of redemption (By faith) – Romans 5:1-2; Ephesians 2:8-9.
- Before one can access the blessings of God’s grace, one must be first taught of God through His Word – John 6:45. God’s grace is not dispensed apart from instruction (Teaching) and obedience of His Word (Taught religion). Once this is done, it produces faith – Romans 10:17.
Eternal Salvation is Conditional Based of Your Faithfulness
- To have eternal salvation, to be saved, you must have faith in God. Faith in God will require you to obey the works of obedience which God has commanded – James 2:17-24. If you do not do these things you will not be saved. These are condition required for salvation – Mark 16:16.
- God admonishes repeatedly to overcome all things, that we might obtain the crown of life that He, the Lord, will give us – 1 Timothy 6:12; Revelation 2:10; Revelation 3:21-22. In 2 Peter 1:5-11, it is clear a Christian must add these virtues to their faith to be fruitful (We access God’s grace through faith) and to diligently make their calling and election sure.
- If an individual disciple of Christ stops being faithful to God, they have departed from the faith – 1 Timothy 4:1. They need to repent of the sins that caused them to depart from the faith to be reconciled back to God – 1 John 1:7-9; 1 John 2:1. In Acts 8:12-13, 18-24, Simon had been baptized and erred from the truth and was then admonished to repent and pray to God for forgiveness.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
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The Threefold Nature of Salvation
Salvation has been offered to every man
God is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9). He would have all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). His desire for our salvation moved Him to give His Son for us, and in that gift He extended to every man an invitation to eternal life (John 3:16-17). But, God’s offer of pardon (salvation) may be rejected.
Salvation is acquired by man through obedience to Christ (Hebrews 5:8-9)
Those who say that man must do nothing to be saved beyond faith do not know what the Bible teaches. The words of Jesus are very clear: “…for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins” (John 8:24). “I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3). “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 10:33-34). “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16). All of the preceding statements were from the lips of the Lord Himself. Each emphasized a different aspect of obedience. Faith, repentance, confession, and baptism are man’s response to God’s offer. Thus, salvation is acquired by man when he meets the conditions set forth by God. Sadly, many want to omit one or more of those conditions. To do so places one’s soul in jeopardy. God has extended the offer, and He alone has the right to set the terms!
Once salvation is acquired, it must be maintained.
The idea that once a man is saved he can never do anything to be lost did not originate with God. Jesus said: “But the one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 10:22). For our salvation to be maintained we must “walk in the light, as he is in the light” and in so doing, “we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). If we accept God’s offer and obey His Son, but then turn away from Him, we will be lost.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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A New Life
Jesus Christ can provide a fresh start
No matter what may haunt a man from his past, Jesus Christ can provide a fresh start, a clean slate, a new beginning. That’s really what conversion is all about. When a man looks to Jesus as savior, surrenders his will to the will of Christ, repents and is born again, he really is given a new life.
We should walk in newness of life
Paul wrote to the Christians at Rome: “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin” (Romans 6:3-6).
Baptism marks a new beginning or new birth for a Christian
The old life with all its sin is renounced. A new life begins. It is a life patterned after Jesus. We are no longer controlled by the devil. We have become children of God. We must behave like God’s children. We are specifically charged to put off the old man with his corrupt deeds and put on a new man made in the image of the Creator (Colossians 3:9). We must rid our lives of all that is wicked and vile, and fill the void with what is good.
We must become what god wants us to be
The problem is that many find the promises of Jesus very appealing, but are unwilling to accept his demands. They want the blessings of a relationship with Christ without any of the responsibilities. That’s not possible. Yes, there is forgiveness, but there must also be reformation. We must become what God wants us to be. That’s why he gives us a fresh start, a new beginning, that we might become a new man. “Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Would you like to be a new man?
Read your Bible. Believe what it says. Repent of your sins. Confess the precious name of Jesus. Be baptized! Christ will add you to his church, and you can become the person he wants you to be.
–Roger
SEPTEMBER 18, 2011
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Obedience – Romans 15:4 – powerpoint
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Obedience-Romans-15-04-04.pptx
Text: Romans 15:4
- Introduction
The transliterated Greek word for obedience is “hupakouō” meaning:
1) a state of compliance, obedience (Such as a slave is to a master or a Christian is to God); to follow instructions, obey, follow, be subject to;
2) to grant one’s request, hear;
3) to answer a knock at the door. - Old Testament Examples
- The Israelites were warned of idolatry; if they trusted God, He would not forsake, destroy, nor forget His covenant with them (Deuteronomy 4:24-31; 5:24-33). They died due to disobedience (Deuteronomy 8:20). Isaiah prophesied the good and bad (Isaiah 1:18-20; 42:24-25).
- The Israelites made a covenant with Joshua at Shechem (Joshua 24:15-25).
- The Israelites made a covenant under Moses to be obedient (Exodus 24:1-7).
- Moses made a sacrifice.
- To obey is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22; Hosea 6:6).
- Isaiah prophesied hearts would turn away (Isaiah 29:13) and it was fulfilled, even in the NT (Matthew 15:7-9; Mark 7:6-7).
- Moses did good and bad (Exodus 3; Numbers 20).
- We can learn from others (Adam and Eve, Jonah, Noah, Abraham, etc.).
- New Testament Examples
- The early church was obedient (Acts 6:7).
- Paul boasted to Titus on the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 7:14-15) for they passed the test (2 Corinthians 2:9).
- Paul had confidence in Philemon’s obedience (Philemon 21).
- Jesus Christ was obedient!
- man’s disobedience →sinners, but Man’s obedience→righteous (Romans 5:19)
- Obedience was suffered, yet it led to conditional salvation- obedience (Hebrews 5:8-9).
- He was obedient till death (Philippians 2:8), and so should Christians (Revelation 2:10).
- Instructions for Obedience
- We should obey rulers and authorities (Titus 3:1).
- Children obey parents (Ephesians 6:1; Colossians 3:20) and the church is to be obedient likewise (1 Peter 1:2, 13-14).
- God commands an obedience to the faith (Romans 16:26) that is received through Christ (Romans 1:5).
- Obedience of Christ is a spiritual warfare (2 Corinthians 10:3-6).
- Preachers should be sent to give all an opportunity for obedience to the gospel (Romans 10:14-17).
- Faith without works is dead (James 2:17).
- Vengeance is taken on those not knowing God, nor obeying the gospel (2 Thessalonians 1:7-8). What if one obeys the gospel, but does not live accordingly? (2 Thessalonians 3:11-15)
- Not everyone that talks the talk enters the kingdom of God, but who walks the walk (Matthew 7:21).
- Peter said, “We ought to obey God rather than man.” (Acts 5:29)
- Just as slaves obey their masters (Ephesians 6:5; Colossians 3:22-24; Titus 2:9), we are slaves to Christ (Romans 6:16-23).
- We show our love to God by keeping his commandments (John 14:15; James 2:15-16).
- We need obedience along with a wise rebuker (Proverbs 25:12).
- Benefits of Obedience
- Our souls are purified by obeying the truth (1 Peter 1:22).
- All Spiritual blessings are in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).
- We receive whatever we ask of Him (1 John 3:22).
- Conclusion
By learning from the rights and wrongs of the OT, along with the instructions of the NT, we can become better servants of Christ and one another. It is imperative that we become a Christian and obey the commandments of God till death. By succeeding in this, we can secure our place in Heaven.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Genesis 06:05-08 Noah Found Grace
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Text: Genesis 6:5-8
Introduction
1. We read of God’s displeasure with the world and its wickedness – Genesis 6:5-7
2. But as God pronounces judgment upon the world, and prepares to destroy it with a flood, we find encouraging words concerning one man: “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.” – Genesis 6:8
3. This simply means that Noah found favor in God’s sight, and we know the result of that favor: escape for him and his family from the flood!
a. But why Noah?
b. Why did Noah find grace in the eyes of the Lord?
c. And how might we apply this to our situation today?
Body
I. WHY NOAH FOUND GRACE IN THE EYES OF THE LORD
A. HE WAS “A JUST MAN” – Genesis 6:9
1. Some translations say “righteous”
2. This likely refers to his moral relation to God (Keil & Delitzsch)
B. HE WAS “PERFECT IN HIS GENERATIONS” – Genesis 6:9
1. Other translations (Genesis 6:9 nasb95, Genesis 6:9 NIV) use the word “blameless”
2. Not that he was sinless, but that there were no blatant faults
3. He was a man of moral integrity among the people
C. HE “WALKED WITH GOD” – Genesis 6:9
1. This is how he manifested his righteousness and integrity
2. In walking with God, he imitated the example of Enoch, his great- grandfather – Genesis 5:24
3. Walking with God in Noah’s case likely involved
a. Calling upon the name of the Lord (which began in the days of Seth – Genesis 4:26)
b. Offering sacrifices to God (which began in the days of Cain & Abel – Genesis 4:3-4)
D. HE “DID ACCORDING TO ALL THAT THE LORD COMMANDED HIM”
1. Twice this is emphasized in the Scriptures – Genesis 6:22; 7:5
2. We learn from the writer of Hebrews that this obedience of Noah came from faith – Hebrews 11:7
E. HE WAS “A PREACHER OF RIGHTEOUSNESS” – 2 Peter 2:5
1. He not only “lived” a righteous life
2. But he also “proclaimed” the need for righteousness, even though he lived in a very ungodly world
F. What about ourselves? Is there a need for us to “find grace in the eyes of the Lord” today? Yes!
II. WHY WE NEED TO FIND GRACE IN THE EYES OF THE LORD
A. NOT BECAUSE WE FACE THE THREAT OF A WORLDWIDE FLOOD
1. After Noah and his family were saved from the flood, God promised He would never again destroy the world in such a manner – Genesis 9:8-11
2. The rainbow is a constant reminder of God’s promise – Genesis 9:12-17
B. BUT BECAUSE WE FACE THE PROMISE OF THE END OF THE WORLD!
1. Peter reminds us that just as the world was once destroyed by water, so it shall be destroyed by fire when Jesus returns! – 2 Peter 3:3-13
2. In view of this promise, Peter calls upon us to “be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless” – 2 Peter 3:14
a. Just as Noah “found grace in the eyes of the Lord”…
b. So we need to “found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless”
3. Is this not simply another way of saying that we, like Noah, need to find grace in the eyes of the Lord?
4. Indeed, it is! When the end of the world comes, we had better be in a condition where we too find grace in the eyes of the Lord! Otherwise, we will be like those left outside of the ark when the floods came!
III. HOW WE CAN FIND GRACE IN THE EYES OF THE LORD
A. WE MUST BE “JUST” IN HIS SIGHT
1. Fortunately, the good news of the gospel is that God sent Christ in order to make us “just” (righteous, forgiven) in His sight! – Romans 5:8-9
2. This blessing is available to all who demonstrate true faith in Jesus – Romans 3:24-26
3. Being justified, we can have peace with God – Romans 5:1; cf. 2 Peter 3:14
B. WE MUST BE “PERFECT” IN OUR GENERATION
1. That is, to be complete, mature, to be everything God desires of us
2. Again, the good news of the gospel of Christ is that God has provided the necessary elements for us to be “perfect”!
a. The blood of Christ, to cleanse us of our sins – 1 John 1:7-9
b. The Word of God, to guide us to completion – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
c. The strength of the Spirit, to help us in our struggles – Ephesians 3:16
d. The providence of God, who will work with us and lead us to victory! – 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 1 Peter 5:10
C. WE MUST “WALK WITH GOD”
1. Of course, this would mean that we can “no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk…” – cf. Ephesians 4:17-20
2. Rather, it requires that we be “followers of God as dear children” (Ephesians 5:1), and that we…
a. “Walk in love” – Ephesians 5:2
b. “Walk as children of light”, exposing the sins of darkness – Ephesians 5:8-11
c. “Walk as wise”, with an understanding of what the Lord’s will is – Ephesians 5:15-17
D. WE MUST “DO ALL THAT THE LORD HAS COMMANDED”
1. Observing not just “some” things, but “all” things – cf. Matthew 28:20
2. For in so doing, we demonstrate our faith to be “a living faith” – James 2:17,24,26
E. WE MUST BE “PREACHERS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS”
1. It is God’s will that we “proclaim the praises of Him”, which would include His righteousness – cf. 1 Peter 2:9
2. This can be done most vividly by example, in living transformed lives – Romans 12:1-2
Conclusion
1. God does not want anyone to perish in the great conflagration that is yet to come, but He does require all to come to repentance – 2 Peter 3:9; Acts 17:30-31
2. And when we turn from sin and turn to God, what do we find? The same thing Noah and his family found: “grace in the eyes of the Lord”!
3. Speaking of the salvation of Noah should remind us of the comparison Peter makes between Noah’s salvation and our own
a. I.e., the part baptism serves in our salvation – 1 Peter 3:20-21
b. Just as God used the element of water to save Noah from a wicked world
c. …so in His grace God utilizes water in our salvation through the blood of Jesus!
4. If you have not done so, why not find favor in God’s sight by being baptized for the remission of your sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16)?
5. Then, as we look forward to the coming of the Lord in which He will usher in “the new heavens and new earth”, give special heed to the words of Peter: “Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless.” – 2 Peter 3:14
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Would We Have Believed Them?
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Introduction
1. I have often wondered…
a. How many of us living today, had we been living in the first century…
b. Would have been receptive to the preaching of those like:
1) John the Baptist?
2) Peter?
3) Paul?
2. Most of us would probably say, “Of course, for we receive them now!”
a. But maybe that is because what they taught has become socially acceptable…
b. And more often than not, their teaching is presented to us in a non-offensive manner
3. But how was the truth originally presented?
a. By what manner of men?
b. If we had been there, would we have believed them?
4. I hope in this lesson to challenge our thinking along these lines…
Body
I. THE HARSH HERMIT?
A. JOHN THE BAPTIST, WHO…
1. Did his preaching in the wilderness, forcing people to come out to hear him? – Matthew 3:1-2
2. Dressed himself in camel’s hair and a leather girdle, eating a diet of locusts and wild honey? – Matthew 3:4
3. Called religious people coming to be baptized a “brood of vipers”? – Matthew 3:5-7
B. I SERIOUSLY DOUBT WE WOULD…
1. IF we balk at having to travel some distance to study God’s Word!
a. As is sometimes the case today (e.g., going twice on Sundays, etc.)
b. But consider what Jesus taught in Matthew 12:42
2. IF we tend to judge people by the clothes they wear!
a. It is easy to be affected by the “Dress For Success” philosophy
b. But we need to remember God’s perspective – 1 Sa 16:7; James 2:1-4
3. IF we get upset or offended when a preacher points out our faults!
a. Some would have preachers never preach “negative” sermons
b. But even Jesus demonstrated that sometimes the occasion calls for strong measures – Matthew 23:13-15
[Or how about the…]
II. THE HILLBILLY HYPOCRITE?
A. THE APOSTLE PETER, A MAN…
1. Whose “country ways” demonstrated his lack of formal religious training? – Acts 4:13
2. Who denied Jesus three times? – Matthew 26:69-75
3. Whose hypocrisy on one occasion split a church? – Galatians 2:11-13
B. IT IS UNLIKELY…
1. IF we expect a man to be formerly educated before we would want him as a preacher!
a. In some churches, a preacher is required to have a degree to be considered acceptable
b. But the wrong kind of learning can be a dangerous thing – 1 Corinthians 1:18-29
2. IF we aren’t willing to give others another chance who fail us, especially more than once!
a. If Peter had been treated like we sometimes treat fallen preachers today, would he have remained an apostle?
b. Fortunately, the early church took to heart what Jesus taught Peter about forgiveness – Matthew 18:21-22; Luke 17:3-4
[And then, what about…]
III. THE NOTORIOUS NERD?
A. THE APOSTLE PAUL, WHO…
1. Had been a blasphemer, persecutor of the church? – 1 Timothy 1:13
2. Was not a fluent speaker? – 1 Corinthians 2:3-4
3. Had a physical appearance described as “weak”? – 2 Corinthians 10:10
B. I DOUBT WE WOULD HAVE KINDLY RECEIVED PAUL…
1. IF we hold a person’s pre-Christian life against them!
a. Such people must not believe in the power of the gospel to transform lives
b. But consider what it did for the people of Corinth – 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
2. IF we don’t care to hear preachers whose sermon presentation lacks “polish”!
a. Many people will not go to hear preachers who may be young, inexperienced, or who are not eloquent
b. Yet “smooth words and flattering speech” can oftentimes be used to deceive – Romans 16:17-18
3. IF we tend to judge people by their physical appearance (size, weight, etc.)!
a. So people first judged Abraham Lincoln
b. Again, we need to remember God’s perspective on things – 1 Samuel 16:7
Conclusion
1. What I am suggesting is that how we receive people today is a strong indication as to whether we would have received such as John, Peter, Paul and even Jesus! – cf. Matthew 13:54-58
2. While we would like to think we would have been quick to listen and believe their message, perhaps we might have acted differently!
3. I hope that we appreciate the importance of looking beyond the messenger and how his message might be presented, to the message itself
4. But there is another way to determine if we would have believed them back then: HAVE WE OBEYED THEM TODAY?
a. It may be speculation on our part to say we would have believed these men back in the first century…
b. But one thing is sure…if we are unwilling to obey them today, we certainly would not have done it then!
5. How about you…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Genesis 15:06 Faith of Abraham
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Text: Genesis 15:6
Introduction
1. One of the greatest men in history has to be the patriarch Abraham…
a. Three religions look to him as their spiritual progenitor (Judaism, Christianity, Islam)
b. Christians view him as “the father of all them that believe” – Romans 4:11
2. What is most noteworthy about Abraham was his faith…
a. Paul made reference to his faith time and again – Romans 4:3,9, 11,16-22; Galatians 3:7-9
b. James used his example to illustrate saving faith – James 2:21-23
3. Both Paul and James make reference to the following OT statement about Abraham’s faith: “And he believed in the LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness.” (Gen 15:6; cf. Romans 4:3; James 2:23)
[What was it about Abraham’s faith that so pleased God? Do we have the same kind of faith? Let’s take a closer look at “The Faith Of Abraham”…]
Body
I. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS BASED ON REVELATION
A. GOD REVEALED HIMSELF TO ABRAHAM…
1. In Ur of the Chaldees – Genesis 15:7
2. At Haran of Mesopotamia – Genesis 12:1-4
3. At Shechem in Canaan – Genesis 12:6-7
4. After Lot moved to Sodom – Genesis 13:14-17
5. And many times more – cf. Genesis 15:1-17; 17:1-27; 18:1-33; 22:1-19
— By revealing Himself to Abraham, God provided Abraham ample evidence for him to place his faith and trust in God
B. OUR FAITH MUST BE BASED UPON REVELATION
1. Not that God reveals Himself to us as He did to Abraham
2. But faith comes through the Word of God – cf. Romans 10:17
a. It contains evidence that we might believe – John 20:30-31
b. The more we read, the more God is revealed to us, especially in the person of His Son Jesus Christ!
— If we desire to have “The Faith Of Abraham”, we must be receptive to God’s revelation of Himself through His Word!
II. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS AN OBEDIENT FAITH
A. BY FAITH, ABRAHAM OBEYED GOD
1. He left his country – Hebrews 11:8
2. He sojourned in a foreign land – Hebrews 11:9-10
3. He offered his son Isaac – Hebrews 11:17
— Abraham’s faith was not a dead faith (cf. Ja 2:20,26), but a dynamic faith expressing itself in obedience!
B. BY FAITH, WE MUST OBEY GOD
1. For the gospel calls for “obedience to the faith” – cf. Romans 1:5;16:25-26
2. We must “obey from the heart” the doctrine of Christ – cf. Romans 6:17
3. Woe to those who do not “obey the gospel” – cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; 1 Peter 4:17
— If we desire to have “The Faith Of Abraham”, we must have a faith that “works through love” (Galatians 5:6)
[While works are an essential element of a saving faith, it is crucial to note that it is the faith behind the works that pleases God (and not the works per se)! Therefore we point out that…]
III. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS A TRUSTING FAITH
A. ABRAHAM TRUSTED IN GOD, NOT HIS WORKS
1. Return to our text, and note what is said – cf. Genesis 15:6
a. Abraham believed in the Lord
b. “It” (his faith) was reckoned or considered for righteousness
c. It was Abraham’s faith in God that greatly pleased God
2. Paul stresses this point in his epistle to the Romans – cf. Romans 4:1-3
a. Abraham was not justified because of his works
b. Abraham was justified (declared blameless) because of his faith!
— Though he had a faith that works, he did not trust in his works; rather in God who justifies the ungodly (cf. Romans 4:5-8)
B. WE MUST TRUST IN JESUS, NOT OUR WORKS
1. As noted before, we must obey God which involves certain “works”
a. Such as faith, which is a “work” – cf. John 6:28,29
b. Even baptism, which is more a work of God than a work of man – Colossians 2:12-13
2. But when all is done, we must not put our trust in our obedience
a. As though we somehow earned our salvation
b. For Christ taught us to realize we are still unworthy – cf. Luke 17:10
— It is the faith or trust in Jesus prompting us to obey that pleases God, not some meritorious value of the work done to receive God’s grace!
[So “The Faith Of Abraham” was an obedient faith that placed its trust in God who justifies the ungodly. To be “the sons of Abraham”, we must have the same kind of faith. Finally, observe that…]
IV. ABRAHAM’S FAITH WAS A GROWING FAITH
A. ABRAHAM GREW IN FAITH
1. There were times when his faith was weak
a. He had Sarah his wife tell a half-truth to save his life – Genesis 12:11-20; 20:1-18
b. He questioned God when he and Sarah did not have children – Genesis 15:2-3
c. He showed weak faith in the case of Hagar – Genesis 16:1-4
d. He offered an alternative to God when he thought it would be impossible for he and Sarah to have children – Genesis 17:17-18
2. But God was patient with Abraham, and his faith grew
a. He had faith, even against hope, and was able to conceive – Romans 4:18-22
b. He had faith that God could raise Isaac from the dead, and so was willing to offer him as commanded – Hebrews 11:17-19
— “The Faith Of Abraham” was not a static faith, but an ever-growing faith that came through being “a friend of God” (cf. Ja 2:23)
B. WE MUST GROW IN FAITH
1. Just as the apostles of Christ did
a. From men with little faith and easily afraid – Matthew 8:25-26; 14:31
b. To men of great boldness – Acts 4:13
2. Like the Thessalonians – 2 Thessalonians 1:3
a. Their faith was growing exceedingly
b. Our faith needs to grow likewise
— Our faith will grow, if we are willing to “walk in the steps of the faith which our father Abraham had” (cf. Romans 4:12)
Conclusion
1. We have seen that “The Faith Of Abraham” was
a. Based upon revelation
b. An obedient faith
c. A trusting faith
d. A growing faith
2. Why do we need this same kind of faith…?
a. Because “those who are of faith are the sons of Abraham” – Galatians 3:7
b. Because “those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham” – Galatians 3:9
3. Indeed, those who have “The Faith Of Abraham” are truly the recipients of the promise made to Abraham: “In your seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.” – Genesis 18:18
4. Are we walking in the steps of the faith of Abraham, obeying the Word of God given today through the gospel of Christ, even as he obeyed the word given to him?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 05:08-09 Obeying The Truth Brings Salvation – audio
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Text: Hebrews 5:8-9
Introduction
- The source of man’s eternal salvation is Jesus Christ (Hebrews 5:8-9). Since God showered His love upon us, by giving us a perfect substitute sacrifice, for ours sins (John 3:16).
- God has provided the means by which man can be saved – grace (Ephesians 2:4-5).
- But man must be willing to obey Jesus for their eternal salvation (Matthew 7:21).
- Man must continue to abide with Christ, or obey Him, to retain eternal salvation (John 8:31-32).
- Don’t be deceived by Satan, you can lose your salvation by departing from the faith (Hebrews 3:12-14; 1 Timothy 1:18-20; 1 Timothy 4:1-2).
- There is a false doctrine rooted in Calvinism, called “Perseverance Of The Saints”, that erroneously asserts the impossibility of apostasy (falling away); the unconditional security of the believer in Jesus Christ. Also called once saved always saved. Therefore, let us make sure we are abiding in the doctrine of Christ that we might have fellowship with the Father and the Son (2 John 9-11).
Eternal Salvation is Made Available to All by God’s Grace
- It is through God’s love and mercy that He has prepared a way through Jesus that all sinners might avoid the wages of sin (death) and be saved (John 1:17). This favor bestowed upon us without merit on our part is God’s wonderful grace (1 John 3:1).
- In Titus 2:11-14, the Bible emphatically teaches the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to everybody. However, this does not mean that every soul will be saved, but that humanity has the opportunity to access the benefits of God’s grace through His divine plan of redemption [by faith] (Romans 5:1-2; Ephesians 2:8-9).
- Before one can access the blessings of God’s grace, one must be first taught of God through His Word (John 6:45). God’s grace is not dispensed apart from instruction (teaching) and obedience of His Word (taught religion). Once this is done, it produces faith (Romans 10:17).
Eternal Salvation is Conditional, Based on Faithfulness
- • To obtain and retain eternal salvation, to be saved, you must have faith in God, and faith in God will require you to obey the works of obedience which God has commanded (James 2:17-24). If you do not do these things you will not be saved which is condition of your salvation (Mark 16:16).
- We are admonished repeatedly to overcome all things that we might obtain the crown of life that the Lord will give us (1 Timothy 6:12; Revelation 2:10; Revelation 3:21-22).
- In 2 Peter 1:5-11 it is clear Christians must add these virtues to their faith to be fruitful (we access God’s grace through faith) and to diligently make your calling and election sure.
- If an individual disciple of Christ stops being faithful to God, they have departed from the faith (1 Timothy 4:1). They need to repent of the sins that caused them to depart from the faith to be reconciled back to God (1 John 1:7-9; 1 John 2:1. Simon was baptized and then erred from the truth and was admonished to repent and pray to God for forgiveness (Acts 8:12-13; Acts 8:18-24).
HEAR BELIEVE REPENT CONFESS BAPTISM LIVE FAITHFULLY
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Luke 11:37-41 Cleaning the Inside
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Text: Luke 11:37-41
Introduction
1. People are often concerned about appearances
a. Especially that they are viewed as moral and upright
b. Even when deep down they are not moral and upright
2. Jesus warned of cleaning the outside without cleaning the inside – Luke 11:37-41
a. Of which the Pharisees were often guilty – Matthew 23:25-26
b. Appearing righteous, but full of hypocrisy and lawlessness – Matthew 23:27-28
Body
I. THROUGH CONVERSION
A. BY BEING BORN AGAIN
1. Jesus taught the necessity of a “new birth” – John 3:3-8
2. This new birth involves the Spirit and water – John 3:5; Titus 3:5
3. It also involves the Word of God – James 1:18, 21; 1 Peter 1:22-23
B. BY OBEYING THE GOSPEL
1. The Word which causes rebirth is proclaimed in the gospel – 1 Peter 1:24-25
2. The good news Jesus which Jesus wanted everyone to hear – Mark 16:15-16
3. A message including faith, repentance, baptism – Acts 2:37-38
4. When one obeys the gospel in faith, repentance, and baptism, their sins are washed away through the blood of Christ – Acts 22:16
That is truly “cleaning the inside”! But the cleansing continues:
II. THROUGH SANCTIFICATION
A. PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN
1. Sanctification involves becoming “holy”, “set apart”
2. This requires seriously addressing those things which defile a man – Mark 7:21-23
3. This is an ongoing process for Christians, putting off the old man – Colossians 3:5-11
B. PUTTING ON THE NEW MAN
1. It is not enough to get rid of the old; we must replace it – Matthew 12:43-45
2. Replacing the old man by putting on the new man – Colossians 3:12-17
3. Producing the fruit of the Spirit instead of works of the flesh – Galatians 5:19-23
Conclusion
1. Are we clean on the outside while dirty on the inside?
2. Look to Jesus for true conversion and sanctification, or remain as whited sepulchers!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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1 Timothy 01:12-17 Master, Let Me Walk with Thee – audio
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Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Introduction
A. It is very important to have a sound concept of what being a Christian is all about. In particular, we need to have a scriptural perspective on what is involved in being a servant of God
B. We ought to view serving God just as the Prodigal Son viewed going home to his father, requesting the privilege of being just a servant – Luke 15:18-19
C. A wholesome concept of godly service is reflected in the song: O Master, let me walk with Thee in lowly paths of service free
Body
I. LIFE IN CHRIST IS A MATTER OF WALKING WITH GOD
A. The Bible pictures faithful men walking with God
1. Enoch – Genesis 5:24 – He pleased God (Hebrews 11:5)
2. Noah – Genesis 6:9
B. Walking with implies friendship and close companionship
C. Walking with God requires walking in His truth – 1 John 1:5-7
1. Zacharias and Elizabeth – Luke 1:5, 6
2. Psalm 86:11; Isiah 2:3
II. THE ONE WITH WHOM WE WALK IS OUR MASTER — WE ARE HIS DISCIPLES
A. Disciple = learner, follower, one under the discipline of another
B. We must live with the Master, and adopt His manner of life and character – Matthew 28:19-20
C. Walking with the Master is not always easy – John 6:66
III. WE WALK WITH THE LORD IN PATHS OF SERVICE
A. Life in the Lord’s kingdom is a life of service – Matthew 20:25-26
1. Acts 20:35
2. Life ought to be more than a selfish concern about whether our own needs are being met
3. It is not the servitude, but the master, that makes slavery degrading – Exodus 21:5-6
B. Jesus Himself was a Servant: Luke 22:27; Matthew 20:28
1. Galatians 6:2
2. 2 Corinthians 12:15
C. In His service to us, Jesus is the Great Example – John 13:1-17
IV. DISCIPLESHIP TO CHRIST IS AN OPPORTUNITY, A PRIVILEGE
A. 1 Timothy 1:12
B. 1 Corinthians 15:9-10
C. God had to be merciful to each of us to allow us to be His servants. Service to Him is not a thing to resent, but to be thankful for!
D. Gratitude for God’s grace and mercy shows up eventually as zeal, enthusiasm, and diligence in God’s service
Conclusion
A. We need to make discipleship an entire way of life, not just one of our many activities
B. When we walk with the Lord, we come to know Him – John 17:3
C. The words of another song speak of the glory of walking with the Master:
When we walk with the Lord in the light of His word, what a glory He sheds on our way.
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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Hebrews 11:06 What Does it Mean to Seek God? audio
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Text: Hebrews 11:6
Introduction
A. A right relationship with God does not happen by accident — it requires deliberate action We need to make more careful decisions about God
B. In the last lesson, we saw that we must BELIEVE that God is
C. In this lesson, we will focus on the word SEEK — God is “a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him”
1. “Seeking” God has become somewhat of a fad in recent years
2. Unfortunately, much that is called “seeking God” is little more than an exercise in self-gratification
D. What does it mean to seek God?
Body
I. WHAT SEEKING GOD IS
A. First, let’s consider some things that seeking God is not (These things will certainly accompany seeking God, and if things like these weren’t present in a person’s life, that would indicate a deficiency in that person’s seeking But by themselves these things don’t necessarily mean that a person is seeking God)
1. Church membership, attendance
2. Bible study, prayer
3. Helping others
4. Doctrinal soundness
5. Personal evangelism – Matthew 23:15
6. Spiritual feelings – Romans 10:2
B. What seeking God is:
1. Growth in OBEDIENCE
2. With a desire to LOVE and HONOR God MORE each day
C. A deep longing to be closer to God — closer to Him than our sins have allowed us to be in the past!
D. A conscious, deliberate goal that we reach for – Philippians 3:13-14
E. Some similar expressions in the Scriptures
1. Desiring God: A fervent longing – Psalm 27:4
2. Loving God with all our hearts: A wholehearted affection – Matthew 22:37-38
3. Calling upon the Lord: An earnest appeal – Isaiah 55:6
II. WHY SEEKING GOD IS SO IMPORTANT
A. God desires fellowship only with those who deeply desire such fellowship – John 4:23
B. Seeking God is a “first-principles” issue
1. Having to do with the heart, this is surely among the “weightier matters” – Matthew 23:23
2. Some “first-principles” passages – Micah 6:8; Matthew 22:37-40; Acts 24:25
3. Much more fundamental than many of the “basics” that we emphasize
C. God’s promises to the seeker:
1. “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you and you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” – Jeremiah 29:12-13
2. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened” – Matthew 7:7-8
III. ARE WE SEEKING GOD OR NOT? A SELF-TEST
A. Our need for an honest self-inventory – 2 Corinthians 13:5
1. Are we seeking to fill our minds more and more with the KNOWLEDGE of God?
2. Are we seeking to bring our thoughts, words, and deeds more into line with the WILL of God?
3. Are we seeking more and more to engage in WORSHIP unto God?
4. Are we seeking more and more to be with the PEOPLE of God?
B. God is seeking those who are seeking Him – John 4:23
Conclusion
A. Many of us have grown up in sound, faithful congregations and never learned a real desire for God Himself
B. Religion is not only about serving God — it is also about desiring Him
C. “One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple” – Psalm 27:4
D. Having a DEEPER DESIRE FOR GOD every day is what this life is all about!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:08-22 Faith that Embraces the Promises
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Text: Hebrews 11:8-22
Introduction
1. In the first seven verses of the eleventh chapter, we saw:
a. Faith explained
1) As confidence of things hoped for
2) As conviction of things not seen
b. Faith exemplified
1) In Abel (faith worshipping)
2) In Enoch (faith walking)
3) In Noah (faith working)
c. Faith emphasized
1) Without which it is impossible to please God
2) We must believe He exists, and rewards those who diligently seek Him
2. Another aspect of our faith pertains to the promises in which we hope:
a. We are warned not to fall short of what’s been promised – Hebrews 4:1
b. Faith (along with patience) is necessary to inherit the promises – Hebrews 6:11-12
3. The faith which pleases God, then, is one that embraces God’s promises – Hebrews 11:13
a. In Hebrews 11:8-22, we learn of the faith of those who embraced the promises
b. Because of their faith, God is not ashamed to be called their God
4. Do we have the sort of faith that makes God unashamed to be called our God?
Body
I. THE FAITH OF THE PATRIARCHS (Hebrews 11:8-12, Hebrews 11:17-22)
A. THE FAITH OF ABRAHAM
1. By faith he obeyed – Hebrews 11:8
a. When God called him to leave his country, he obeyed the voice of the Lord
1) Even though at first he did not know where he was going
2) This is an example of conviction in things not seen!
b. Here we see that faith and obedience are not contradictory terms
1) Indeed, Jesus is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him – Hebrews 5:9
2) Is our faith an obedient faith like Abraham’s? – Luke 6:46
2. By faith he sojourned – Hebrews 11:9-10 KJV
a. His faith required him to live as in a foreign country
1) Even though it was the land of promise, he and his descendants could not have it for four hundred years – Genesis 13:14-17; 15:13-21
2) He therefore patiently waited for the city whose builder and maker is God
a) This suggests that the promises he embraced were more than just those pertaining to the land of Canaan
b) Later, we will see he had a heavenly hope as well!
b. Our faith requires us to live as in a foreign country
1) For we too are sojourners and pilgrims – 1 Peter 2:11
2) Is our faith a sojourning faith like Abraham’s? – Hebrews 13:14
3. By faith he offered up Isaac – Hebrews 11:17-19
a. His faith required him to be willing to offer that which was closest to him
1) His son, Isaac – Genesis 22:1-19
a) Through whom the promises he embraced were to be fulfilled
b) He was sure that God would raise Isaac from the dead, if need be, in order to keep His promises
2) Thus he illustrated that confidence in things hoped for!
b. Our faith often requires forsaking things closest to us
1) Our loved ones, even our own life! – Luke 14:26-33
2) Is our faith an offering faith like Abraham’s? – Romans 12:1-2
B. THE FAITH OF SARAH
1. By faith she received strength – Hebrews 11:11-12
a. Though beyond the normal age of child-bearing – Genesis 18:1-3; Genesis 21:1-7
b. Though she laughed when she first heard of God’s promise, she later judged Him faithful who had promised
c. Through her faith, the promises of a great nation were fulfilled!
2. Our faith requires looking to God for strength, and trusting He will provide
a. We must look to God to find grace to help in time of need – Hebrews 4:16
b. Is our faith a receiving faith like Sarah’s? – Philippians 4:13
C. THE FAITH OF ISAAC
1. He blessed Jacob and Esau regarding things to come – Hebrews 11:20; Genesis 27:1-40
2. This illustrates how Isaac by faith embraced the promises
D. THE FAITH OF JACOB
1. Jacob blessed the sons of Joseph when he was dying – Hebrews 11:21; Genesis 48:14-20
2. His blessing involved the promises of God, showing how he embraced them also
E. THE FAITH OF JOSEPH
1. When he was dying, Joseph:
a. Made mention of the departure of Israel out of Egypt
b. Gave instructions concerning his bones – Hebrews 11:22; Genesis 50:24-26
2. In so doing, he demonstrated that he had embraced the promises!
F. Such was the faith of the patriarchs. I purposely skipped Hebrews 11:13-16, for what is said there not only applies to Abraham and Sarah, but to Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph also.
II. HOW THEIR FAITH PLEASED GOD (Hebrews 11:13-16)
A. THEY EMBRACED THE PROMISES – Hebrews 11:13-16a
1. They did not receive the promises during their lifetime
a. Yet with faith they could see them afar off
b. They freely confessed to be strangers and pilgrims on the earth
1) This implies that they sought a homeland, they could have returned to the old one
2) But what they desired was a better one, indeed a heavenly country
2. They died in faith (i.e., holding fast to the promises)
B. THEREFORE GOD IS NOT ASHAMED OF THEM – Hebrews 11:16b
1. He is not ashamed to be called their God
a. He is well pleased with them
b. It was their faith embracing the promises that pleased Him
2. He has prepared a city for them
a. What they waited for, He has prepared – Hebrews 11:10
b. That which He has prepared for them is what we look for, too – Hebrews 13:14
1) The new heavens and new earth – 2 Peter 3:13
2) In which will be the New Jerusalem, that great city descending out of heaven – Revelation 21:1-3, Re 21:10ff
3) Indeed, even now in a sense we have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem – Hebrews 12:22-24
Conclusion
1. What kind of faith pleases God?
a. Worshiping faith like that of Abel
b. Walking faith like that of Enoch
c. Working faith like that of Noah
d. But also a waiting faith seen in the patriarchs (Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph)!
2. The faith that pleases God is one that embraces the promises made by God
a. Patiently waiting for their ultimate fulfillment, even if it doesn’t happen in one’s lifetime
b. But with conviction and confidence of things hoped for and things of unseen
1) We will obey His calling
2) We will sojourn here on earth
3) We will offer up whatever He asks of us
4) We will receive strength to do whatever He bids us
5) And we will make mention of His promises from generation to generation!
3. This is the kind of faith
a. In those who believe to the saving of the soul – Hebrews 10:39
b. In those of whom God is not ashamed to be called their God – Hebrews 11:16
c. May the Lord grant us grace and mercy to develop this kind of saving faith!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:01 A Servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ – audio
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Text: James 1:1
Introduction
1. In our introductory study, we concluded that James, the Lord’s brother, was most likely the author
2. If this is so, then it is interesting that James does not identify himself as such, but rather as simply a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ – James 1:1
3. Perhaps it was a case of humility; yet, calling himself a servant was not peculiar to James
a. Paul described himself as such as well – Romans 1:1
b. So did Peter (2 Peter 1:1) and Jude (Jude 1)
4. Why did these men refer to themselves as servants?
a. The Greek term (DOULOS) literally means a slave
b. Why use such a term to describe themselves?
c. Maybe we should think of ourselves as servants?
Body
I. BEING A SERVANT IS WHAT A DISCIPLE OF JESUS IS CALLED TO BE
A. JESUS STRESSED THIS TRUTH ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS
1. While pointing out the faults of the scribes and Pharisees – Matthew 23:8-12
2. During the Last Supper, with a vivid demonstration of servitude – John 13:12-17
3. Even by His own example, as He came to serve – Matthew 20:25-28
B. SPECIFICALLY, WE ARE CALLED TO SERVE
1. God – Hebrews 9:14
2. Jesus Christ – 1 Corinthians 4:1
3. Each other – 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
4. The early Christians called themselves servants, because that is what they were!
II. BEING A SERVANT IS A MARK OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
A. AN IMMATURE PERSON IS USUALLY VERY SELFISH
1. For example, newborn babies are very ego-centrical
2. Normally, as people grow older, they begin to concern themselves with the needs of others
a. If they do, they are becoming mature
b. If they remain selfish, it is an indication of immaturity
B. A PERSON WHO SERVES OTHERS
1. Is certainly not selfish, but concerned with the needs of others
2. And thereby demonstrates mature behavior
C. JAMES’ DESCRIPTION OF HIMSELF FITS IN VERY WELL WITH THE THEME OF HIS EPISTLE
1. Remember, the theme is: MARKS OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
2. By being a servant, James is demonstrating his own spiritual maturity
3. And we can make the point that one of the marks of spiritual maturity is truly being a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ!
4. Are we trying to be servants of God, and of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ? If so, then we are on the road to spiritual maturity!
III. BEING A SERVANT HAS SEVERAL IMPLICATIONS
A. IT IMPLIES ABSOLUTE OBEDIENCE
1. In a slave-master relationship…
a. The slave knows no law but his master’s word
b. He has no rights of his own
c. He is the absolute possession of his master
d. He is bound to give his master unquestioning obedience
2. Does this describe our relationship to Christ?
a. It should, especially in light of 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
b. We have to come to Jesus on HIS terms, not our own – Luke 6:46
B. IT IMPLIES ABSOLUTE HUMILITY
1. Otherwise, absolute obedience is not possible
a. When we have a humble opinion of ourselves, we are receptive to the idea of complete obedience
b. For example, consider Paul’s self-estimation – 1 Corinthians 15:9-10; Ephesians 3:8; 1 Timothy 1:15
2. Does this describe our relationship to Christ and His Will?
a. Jesus said it should! – Luke 17:10
b. But if we murmur or complain about what Jesus tells us to do, can we really be considered servants?
C. IT IMPLIES ABSOLUTE LOYALTY
1. Since we become servants FREELY, it should be expected that we:
a. Are to be loyal to Him first – Galatians 1:10
b. Do not consider our own profit or pleasure important, but that of the One we freely serve!
2. But it is amazing how anyone can claim to be servants of the Lord Jesus Christ, while:
a. Complaining about having to do the will of God, OR
b. Being negligent or slothful in carrying out His will
3. But some act as though they are being forced against their own will!
a. They don’t have to serve the Lord Jesus
1) Of course, the alternative is not very inviting
2) If we don’t serve Jesus, by default we serve Satan, and are destined for hell!
b. But God by His grace has offered salvation, and how dare we ever grumble or complain that He calls us to life of service in grateful appreciation!
c. These are some of the implications of being called a servant. It is costly in terms of service, pride, and allegiance.
IV. BEING A SERVANT IS A GREAT HONOR
A. FAR FROM BEING A TITLE OF DISHONOR, IT WAS THE TITLE BY WHICH THE GREATEST MEN OF THE OLD TESTAMENT WERE KNOWN
1. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob – Deuteronomy 9:27 (your servants)
2. Moses – 1Kings 8:53 (your servant)
3. Joshua – Josh 24:29 (Servant of the Lord)
4. Caleb – Numbers 14:24 (My servant)
5. Job – Job 1:8 (My servant)
6. Isaiah – Isaiah 20:3 (My servant)
7. The prophets – Jeremiah 7:25 (My servants)
B. HOW WONDERFUL IT WOULD BE IF GOD LOOKED UPON US AS COMPANIONS OF THESE GREAT MEN
1. Who found freedom, peace, and glory!
2. Who found it in perfect submission to the Will of God!
Conclusion
1. God will, IF we are willing to accept the call to serve Him and His Son Jesus Christ with:
a. Absolute obedience
b. Absolute humility
c. Absolute loyalty
2. And when we are serving God, His Son Jesus Christ, and even each other in this manner, we are making great strides towards SPIRITUAL MATURITY!
3. A servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ – can this be said of us?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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