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Questions and Answers 2010-05-30 – audio
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Podcast: Play in new window | Download
(audio is not great on this one)
I. Question One – Please discuss the withholding of physical intimacy in a marriage.
A. Sometimes, husbands or wives will withhold themselves from their spouse:
1. Because they are not getting along.
2. Because they want to punish their spouse.
B. 1 Corinthians 7:1-5.
Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
C. Several things are made clear from this passage:
1. In order to avoid sexual immorality in a marriage, the husband is not to withhold himself from his wife and the wife is not to withhold herself from her husband.
2. God created us with certain desires which need to be fulfilled. If a husband or wife does not get that need fulfilled by their spouse, the temptation is always there to get it fulfilled in another way.
3. Verse 5 very plainly states that husband and wife are not to deprive one another. To do so is sin!
4. The only exception to this is if the withholding is done…
a) By mutual consent.
b) And the intervening time is filled with fasting and prayer.
II. Question Two – “The Bible tells us to come together on the first day of the week, so we meet on Sunday morning. Why does the church of Christ meet on Sunday night and Wednesday night too? Where did this come from or start?”
A. While we are told to meet on the first day of the week, we must also realize that we certainly are not limited to meeting only once a week.
B. When we look at the practice of the New Testament church, we see that they met daily.
1. Acts 2:46-47. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
2. Verse 47 makes it clear that “continuing daily” involved praising God and evidently teaching because the Lord was adding to the church daily.
3. While they may not have had a full fledged worship service every day, it is clear that they met and worked every day.
4. Wednesday night is simply a time to get together for Bible study and mutual edification.
C. Authority for Wednesday and two services on Sunday is also implied in the charge to elders.
1. 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.
2. 1 Peter 5:2. Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;
3. In both of these passages, elders are told to “shepherd” or “feed” the flock.
a) The food is the word of God.
(1) 1 Peter 2:2. As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.
(2) Hebrews 5:12-14. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
b) In order to feed the flock, the elders have set aside certain times to gather together for Bible study.
c) We are obligated to submit to them. Hebrews 13:17. Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.
III. Question Three – “When was Sunday evening worship established in the church?”
A. Put simply, it was established in the first century.
B. Acts 20:7.
Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight.
C. Evidence seems to suggest that the first century church met in the evenings more often than not.
IV. Question Four – “At what age group should a woman not be allowed to teach in the church? How do you justify the cut-off age scripturally?”
A. Our key passage is 1 Timothy 2:12.
And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence.
B. A woman is not to teach over a man.
1. So the question is, “When does a boy change into a man?”
2. The Bible really doesn’t give us a specific age.
3. Therefore, it is left up to us (or the eldership if there is one) to decide on a policy.
C. One view is that after adolescence, a boy becomes a man.
1. This is more or less the policy followed by our eldership here (at Streetsboro).
2. We try to have men always teach the classes from junior high on up.
3. We have never had a woman teach any ages older than junior high unless the class was split into boys and girls and a woman would teach the girls.
4. Junior High is about right for when a boy enters puberty and begins to become a man physically.
5. Of course, the Jews counted the age of 12 to be when a boy became a man. This coincides with Junior High age.
V. Question Five – “Are members of denominational churches no better off spiritually than if they were not worshipping at all?”
A. Members of a denomination may have a better quality of life than someone who does not worship at all.
B. But in terms of salvation, we know that one must:
1. Hear, believe, confess, repent, and be baptized.
2. If a person is a member of a church that teaches otherwise, then how could they be better off?
3. We must also worship according to truth. John 4:24.
C. Simply being religious will not be enough to get one to heaven.
1. Matthew 7:21-23. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
2. Matthew 15:7-9. Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: ‘ These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’”
D. In some ways, people in man-made church are worse off because they have been convinced that they are alright.
VI. Question Six – “Why do we bow our heads when we pray?”
A. The Bible mentions several different postures in prayer.
1. Standing and kneeling.
2. While standing:
a) Arms upraised – 1 Kings 8:22
b) Head bowed – Luke 18:13
3. While kneeling:
a) Arms raised – 1 Kings 8:54
b) Prostrate – Matthew 26:39
B. Why do we often choose to say, “Please bow as we pray.”???
1. Luke 18:10-14.
“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
2. The tax collector had a humble attitude and would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven.
3. Bowing our heads is a way of showing submission, humility, and respect.
VII. Question Seven – “Outside of worship services, can a Christian listen to contemporary Christian music with instruments?”
A. Philippians 2:12.
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
B. We know that instrumental music is wrong in a worship service.
C. Therefore, the question is really, “What constitutes worship?”
D. There are varying opinions:
1. Some say, “When I am listening to music on the radio, I am not worshipping. It is only for entertainment. Therefore, it isn’t wrong.”
2. On the other hand some feel, “If I am listening to a spiritual song that gets me thinking about God and even praising God, then, by definition, I am worshipping.”
E. I choose not to listen to spiritual songs that have instrumental accompaniment.
F. Others see nothing wrong with it.
G. One thing is sure… Romans 14:22-24.
Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.
H. This is not an issue where we should draw lines of fellowship.
VIII. Question Eight – “Is there any evidence in the Bible to suggest that it would be wrong to go to the beach and for a man to wear only swimming trunks and a woman to wear a two-piece swimsuit?”
A. This is a question about modesty.
B. 1 Timothy 2:9-10.
In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.
1. Why is the command given to women?
2. Because men are affected a lot more by what women wear.
3. Men are stimulated visually.
4. Paul says that women are to dress in modest apparel.
a) So he is talking about what we wear.
b) We all know that it is wrong to go naked. Paul is not talking about that.
c) So think of it this way, if a two piece bathing suit is not immodest, what would be?
d) You can’t make it any more immodest. The next step is nudity.
e) If a 2 piece bathing suit is not immodest then nothing is.
C. What about men wearing only swimming trunks?
1. I am assuming we are talking about loose fitting, long shorts.
2. So the question is, “Is it wrong for a man to go shirtless?”
3. Definitely, the safest thing would be for a man to wear a shirt in the presence of women.
4. We need to think about the example we are setting.
5. “What’s good for the goose is good for the gander.”
6. However, some would say that their going shirtless would not invoke lust on the part of any woman. Therefore, it is not wrong.
7. In my mind, this is an area where we all have to make a decision for ourselves and live with it.
IX. Question Nine – “What would Jesus or God think of what’s going on now?”
A. Hebrews 13:8.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
B. God still hates sin.
C. God still loves the sinner.
D. God still wants all men to be saved. 1 Timothy 2:4.
Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
E. Perhaps, this question is asking, “Are things worse today then they have ever been?”
1. Certainly, sin is rampant and immorality is common.
2. However, I don’t think we’ve reached the conditions that existed at the time of the flood. Genesis 6:5. Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
Content by Ralph Price
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Daniel 01:08-21; 06:01-10 Children Today
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Text: Daniel 1:8-21; 6:1-10
Introduction
1. The Bible is filled with accounts of many godly men and women who are worthy of our emulation
2. One such person is Daniel, a man who obtained preeminence and power in his lifetime.
a. He started out preeminent among the children of Israel – Daniel 1:3-6
b. He gained preeminence among the wise of men of Babylon – Daniel 1:17-20
c. He was given power over all of Babylon – Daniel 2:48-49; 5:29
d. He received similar power over the Medo-Persian empire – Daniel 6:1-3, 28
3. How was Daniel able to reach these positions of power and influence without compromising his position as a godly man?
4. A close look at the book of Daniel reveals his secret, and shows how we too can be successful without selling our souls
Body
I. DANIEL WAS A MAN OF PURPOSE
A. DANIEL PURPOSED IN HIS HEART… – Daniel 1:8
1. A young boy in a strange land, Daniel was immediately faced with a challenge to violate God’s law by eating the king’s food
2. Despite his youth and the obvious pressures to conform, Daniel purposed in his heart to uphold the law of God, no matter the cost
3. Because of his willingness to put God first, God granted Daniel favor in the sight of others – Daniel 1:9
a. How God did this is not explained, but it happened in the case of Joseph also – Genesis 39:1-4; 21-23
b. By putting God first, God blessed Joseph in such a way that favorably impressed others
B. EVERY CHILD OF GOD NEEDS TO BE A PERSON OF PURPOSE
1. No one respects a wishy-washy person, someone with no direction in their lives
2. Whereas a strong sense of purpose often breeds respect and admiration in others
3. What should be the purpose of the Christian?
a. Jesus makes it clear in Matthew 6:33
b. to seek the will of God and fulfill it in our lives, no matter the circumstances
4. As Jesus promised, this will guarantee God’s favor toward us and in turn likely gain us favor in the eyes of those around us
II. DANIEL WAS A MAN OF PRINCIPLE
A. HE REFUSED TO COMPROMISE HIS CONVICTIONS
1. As a young man, by refusing to eat the king’s meat or drink his wine – Daniel 1:8
2. As an old man, by refusing the gifts of Belshazzar – Daniel 5:13-17
3. Under the threat of persecution, by refusing to obey the decree of Darius – Daniel 6:10
B. PEOPLE ADMIRE PERSONS OF PRINCIPLE
1. Outwardly they may ridicule them, but inwardly they wish they had the same intestinal fortitude
2. And when they need someone that can be trusted, and depended upon to carry through with an assigned task, who do you think they will turn to?
3. God also admires individuals who will stand by their principles, and by their words – Psalm 15:1-5
III. DANIEL WAS A MAN OF PURITY
A. HIS OPPONENTS COULD NOT FIND ANY FAULT
1. He was faultless when it came to management of his business affairs – Daniel 6:1-4
2. This would help to explain his rise to positions of great responsibility and power
3. Of course, his purity in business affairs was related to
a. His overall purpose to please God first
b. And the fact that as a man of principle he could be trusted
B. THE CHRISTIAN IS ALSO TO MAINTAIN PURITY OF CONDUCT
1. Whether young or old – 1 Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:6-8
2. Whether slave or free – Titus 2:9-10
3. People who maintain purity in their dealings with others are often given positions of great responsibility and privilege, because they can be trusted to use them wisely
IV. DANIEL WAS A MAN OF PRAYER
A. A GLIMPSE OF HIS PRAYER LIFE – Daniel 6:10
1. He knelt in prayer, a demonstration of his humility
2. He prayed three times daily, a demonstration of his continual dependence upon God
3. He gave thanks in the midst of persecution, a demonstration of his gratitude and the fact that he had not lost sight of God’s blessings
4. His prayers were a custom since early days, demonstrating his persistence and faithfulness in his service to God
5. Is it not likely that his custom to pray so diligently helped him to remain a man of purpose, principle and purity, despite his rise to power and preeminence over the empire?
B. CHRISTIANS WOULD DO WELL TO FOLLOW DANIEL’S EXAMPLE
1. “Let us learn the lesson that the finest of God’s servants must maintain regular and fixed prayer habits in order to continue steadfast in devotion to the Lord.” (Strauss)
2. As Christians, we too are to pray often – 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18; Colossians 4:2
3. If our efforts to live purposeful, principled, and pure lives are not what they should be, could an undisciplined prayer life be the reason?
4. Are we willing to Dare To Be A Daniel in regards to prayer?
Conclusion
1. There is a false assumption that to “get ahead” in this world one must conform to the sinful practices of the world
2. But even today there are many Christians who demonstrate that when one dares to be a Daniel they can succeed in the affairs of men without selling their souls to the world
3. How about you? Will you Dare To Be A Daniel by becoming a person of:
a. PURPOSE?
b. PRINCIPLE?
c. PURITY?
d. PRAYER?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Numbers 06:22-27 The Priestly Blessing
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Text: Numbers 6:22-27
Introduction
1. In a book filled with “numbers”, we find a beautiful blessing, which has been called “the Lord’s Prayer of the Old Testament”:
“The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
2. As noted in Numbers 6:22-27, it is the blessing of the Lord with which Aaron and his sons were to bless the children of Israel…
a. Aaron and his sons made up the priesthood for Israel
b. Therefore this passage as often been called “The Priestly Blessing”
3. In this passage, I believe we learn things about the Lord which are just as true today…
a. Even though we do not live under the Old Covenant, with its Aaronic priesthood
b. We do have a “High Priest”, who desires to bless us just as richly!
Body
I. THE PRIESTLY BLESSING DEFINED
A. “THE LORD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU”
1. The word “bless” means to confer well-being or prosperity
a. The promise of such blessings was conditional – Deuteronomy 28:1-6
b. Failure to meet God’s conditions brought curses, not blessings – Deuteronomy 28:15-19
2. The word “keep” means to provide and care, to guard and protect
a. A beautiful psalm which speaks of God’s care is Psalm 121:1-8
I will lift up my eyes to the hills From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; Hebrews who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, Nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; Hebrews shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in From this time forth, and even forevermore.
b. Like a shepherd guarding and providing his sheep, the benediction calls upon God to keep watch over Israel
B. “THE LORD MAKE HIS FACE SHINE UPON YOU, AND BE GRACIOUS TO YOU”
1. To “make His face shine” may be an idiom…
a. Indicating God’s smile of favor on His people, evidenced by His being “gracious
b. Note how it is used elsewhere –
Make Your face shine upon Your servant; Save me for Your mercies’ sake. (Psalm 31:16)
Restore us, O God; Cause Your face to shine, And we shall be saved! (Psalm 80:3)
Now therefore, our God, hear the prayer of Your servant, and his supplications, and for the Lord’s sake cause Your face to shine on Your sanctuary, which is desolate. (Daniel 9:17)
2. To “be gracious” means to bestow favor, especially that which is unmerited
a. The parallelism of this benediction suggests this favor refers to the blessing and keeping by the Lord mentioned previously
b. Perhaps emphasizing that such blessings are unmerited, even though conditional
C. “THE LORD LIFT UP HIS COUNTENANCE UPON YOU, AND GIVE YOU PEACE”
1. To “lift up His countenance” may be similar to smile
a. As such it suggests pleasure and affection
b. Also approval and recognition
2. The word “peace” is not just the absence of war, but a positive state of rightness and fullness of well-being
a. For the nation of Israel, God had promised peace if they were faithful – Leviticus 26:6
I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and none will make you afraid; I will rid the land of evil beasts, and the sword will not go through your land. (Leviticus 26:6)
b. There was also peace for the individual who trusted in God – Isaiah 26:3
You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. (Isaiah 26:3)
II. THE PRIESTLY BLESSING TODAY
A. “THE LORD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU”
1. Indeed the Lord does desire to bless us!
a. Today, those blessings come through Jesus Christ – Ephesians 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3)
b. They come especially to those described in Matthew 5:3-12
2. And the Lord desires to provide and care for us!
a. As described by Jesus in Matthew 6:25-32
b. But this care is conditional, the condition described in Matthew 6:33
B. “THE LORD MAKE HIS FACE SHINE UPON YOU, AND BE GRACIOUS TO YOU”
1. Just as all spiritual blessings come through Jesus, so God’s grace is now manifested through His Son – cf. John 1:17
For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (John 1:17)
2. Yes, God desires to show His smile of favor upon us, but it is imperative that we not receive it in vain! – cf. 2 Corinthians 6:1-3
We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For He says: “IN AN ACCEPTABLE TIME I HAVE HEARD YOU, AND IN THE DAY OF SALVATION I HAVE HELPED YOU.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed. (2 Corinthians 6:1-3)
C. “THE LORD LIFT UP HIS COUNTENANCE UPON YOU, AND GIVE YOU PEACE”
1. Through Christ, peace with God is now possible – Romans 5:1
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1)
2. And as we continue to pray, God bestows peace through His Son – Philippians 4:6-7
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Conclusion
1. We have been talking about “The Priestly Blessing”…
a. How God wanted to bless Israel under the Old Covenant
b. Through His priests in the Aaronic priesthood
2. We have noted that the same sort of blessings are available today…
a. But the blessings of God are bestowed through His Son, Jesus Christ
b. Who today is our “High Priest” – cf. Hebrews 4:14-16
3. The point of this lesson is simple, yet profound: If you desire “The Priestly Blessing” today, you must be in Christ and He must be your High Priest; for that is how God is blessing His people today! (cf. Ephesians 1:3)
4. Are you in Jesus Christ? How does one get “into” Christ, where they can receive the blessings He offers as our High Priest? Consider what is said in Galatians 3:26-27…
“For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:26-27)
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Daniel 09:01-19 Daniel’s Prayer
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Text: Daniel 9:1-19
Introduction
1. As we continue our survey of the book of Daniel, we come to a remarkable chapter…
a. In which we find a beautiful prayer expressed by Daniel – Daniel 9:1-19
b. In which we find an amazing revelation regarding “seventy sevens” – Daniel 9:20-27
2. Without question, the latter part of the chapter is difficult…
a. Edward J. Young describes it as “one of the most difficult in all the OT, and the interpretations which have been offered are almost legion.”
b. H.C. Leupold wrote “This is one of the grandest prophetic passages; and yet, if there was ever an exegetical crux, this is it.”
3. In light of its difficulty…
a. We should certainly approach this passage with humility, and not dogmatically
b. We should be careful not to draw conclusions that would contradict clear teachings of Scripture
4. But before we consider the actual vision of the seventy weeks, let’s take the time to consider the prayer offered by Daniel…
a. A beautiful example of confessing sin and seeking forgiveness
b. Akin to the prayer of David in Psalm 51
5. A wonderful blessing we enjoy as Christians is the cleansing blood of Jesus as we confess our sins (1 John 1:9). Daniel’s prayer in this chapter provides insight into the art of confessing sin.
Body
I. THE SETTING OF THE PRAYER
A. THE DATE OF THE PRAYER…
1. In the first year of Darius, son of Ahasuerus – Daniel 9:1
a. Of the lineage of the Medes
b. Made king over the Chaldeans (Babylonians) – Daniel 5:31; 6:1-28
2. The time is now about 538 B.C.
B. THE REASON FOR THE PRAYER…
1. Daniel knew the prophecy of Jeremiah, regarding 70 years of Babylonian captivity – Daniel 9:2; cf. Jeremiah 25:9-12; 29:10
2. The 70 years of Jerusalem began in 606 B.C., with the captivity of Daniel and the first devastation of Jerusalem – 2 Chronicles 36:5-7; Daniel 1:1-6
3. So with this first year of the Medo-Persian empire (With Darius the Mede over the Chaldeans, but with Cyrus the Persian over all), the prophecy of Jeremiah was about to be completed – 2 Chronicles 36:21-23; Ezra 1:1-4
C. THE PREPARATION FOR THE PRAYER…
1. Daniel set his face toward the Lord God – Daniel 9:3
a. To make request by prayer and supplications
b. This may have included facing toward Jerusalem – cf. Daniel 6:10-11
2. With fasting, sackcloth, and ashes
a. Physical preparations which illustrated his humility and contrition
b. Similar to the practice of others – e.g., Nehemiah 9:1-2; Jon 3:5-9
3. With the Word of God fresh on his mind, his heart humbled by his own sins and those of his people, even his physical body humbled into submission, Daniel begins his penitential prayer.
II. THE CONTENT OF THE PRAYER
A. DANIEL’S CONFESSION…
1. Addressing the Lord his God – Daniel 9:4
a. As great and awesome
b. Who keeps His covenant and mercy with those who:
1) Love Him
2) Keep His commandments – cf. Psalm 103:17-18; John 14:15
2. Confessing in behalf of his people – Daniel 9:5-6
a. Of sinning and committing iniquity
b. Of doing wickedly and rebelling
c. Of departing from His precepts and judgments
d. Of failing to heed His servants the prophets, who spoke to their kings, princes, fathers, and all the people – cf. 2 Chronicles 36:15-21
3. Contrasting their shame with God’s righteousness – Daniel 9:7-9
a. To Judah, Israel, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem belong shame of face
1) Those both near and far off in countries where God had driven them
2) To them, their kings, princes, and fathers
3) Because of their unfaithfulness against God, their sin and rebellion – Ezra 9:6-7
b. To God belongs righteousness
1) To Him belongs mercy and forgiveness
2) Even though they had rebelled against Him – Ezra 9:8-9
4. Reviewing their sin, and the fulfillment of God’s warnings – Daniel 9:10-14
a. The nature of their sin – cf. Nehemiah 9:13-30
1) They have not obeyed the voice of the Lord
2) They have not walked in His laws set before by His prophets
3) They transgressed His law, and departed so as not to obey His voice
4) They had not prayed that they might turn from their iniquities and understand His truth
b. The fulfillment of God’s warnings – cf. Leviticus 26:14-39; Deuteronomy 28:15-68
1) The curse and oath written in the Law of Moses has been poured out
2) He has confirmed His words spoken against them by bringing a great disaster upon them
3) Especially the disaster which has come upon Jerusalem
5. Summarizing their sin – Daniel 9:15
a. To Him who delivered them from Egyptian bondage with a mighty hand
B. DANIEL’S PETITION…
1. His passionate plea for God to:
a. Turn away His anger and fury – Daniel 9:16
1) From His city Jerusalem, His holy mountain
2) Because of their sins and iniquities
3) For which they have become a reproach
b. Hear his prayer and supplications – Daniel 9:17a
c. Cause His face to shine on His sanctuary, which is desolate – Daniel 9:17b
d. See their desolation, and the desolation of the city called by His name – Daniel 9:18
e. Hear, forgive, act and not delay! – Daniel 9:19
2. His passionate plea based, not because of their righteous deeds, but upon:
a. God’s righteousness, and for His sake – Daniel 9:16-17
b. God’s great mercies, and for His city and His people called by His name – Daniel 9:18-19
Conclusion
1. Like the penitential prayer of David in Psalm 51, this prayer of Daniel is a classic example of how to confess our sins and seek God’s forgiveness…
a. To seek forgiveness on the basis of God’s loving kindness and mercy, not one’s own righteousness – cf. Psalm 51:1-2
b. To acknowledge one’s sins before God – cf. Psalm 51:3-4
c. As we confess our sins (cf. 1 John 1:9), remember the example of godly men like David and Daniel!
2. Daniel’s noble character is seen in how he identified himself with his people in their sins…
a. Even though he had been faithful to God throughout his life – Daniel 6:10
b. For such reasons he was “greatly beloved” by God – Daniel 9:23; 10:11,19
3. May the example of Daniel’s life and fait h inspire us in our own walk with God, for we too have been blessed to be “greatly beloved”:
4. “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” – 1 John 3:1a
5. Are we trusting in the love and mercy of God for the forgiveness of sins, and not our own righteousness?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Prayer Answers
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(How God Answers Prayer)
Introduction
1. In our study on prayer, we have examined
2. Why don’t people pray more often?
a. Perhaps they don’t believe their prayers are being answered
b. Not knowing how God answers, they may have lost faith in prayer
Body
I. Yes
A. God may answer yes
1. God often grants the petitions we ask of Him – Psalms 118:5; 138:3
2. Especially when we put Him first in our lives – Matthew 6:33; cf. Proverbs 3:5-10
B. For God to answer yes
1. We must ask according to His will – 1 John 5:14
2. We must be doing His will in our lives – 1 John 3:22
II. Yes, but not yet
A. God may answer yes, but wait
1. God may grant our request, but in time and according to His purpose – Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11
2. So we may think God is saying No, when He is really saying Yes, but wait – Luke 18:7
B. WHEN THE ANSWER SEEMS TO BE WAIT
1. We need to have patience – Hebrews 6:10-12
2. We need to keep asking, seeking, knocking – Luke 11:8-10
3. We need to remember God’s promise – Romans 8:24
III. Yes, but not as expected
A. God may answer yes, but not as you think
1. Sometimes God answers in a way differently than we may anticipate
2. Remember, His thoughts and methods are much different than ours – Isaiah 55:8, 9
3. For example, asking God for strength and perseverance
a. He may give us trials to bear – Philemon 1:29-30
b. Which in turn develops the virtues we prayed for! Romans 5:3-4
B. We must not limit God’s options
1. We should be careful and not dictate to God how to answer our prayers
a. There are forces at work beyond what we can imagine Ephesians 3:20
b. Plus, we do not always know what to pray for as we ought – Romans 8:26
2. Limit the how and we might limit the result; for example, when praying for the sick
a. Do we pray simply that God bless the use of natural means (doctors, medicine, etc.)?
b. If so, might we limit God as to how He might restore them? (in ways beyond what we are able to imagine)?
c. Is it not better to simply ask God to restore the sick, and leave the methods to Him?
IV. No
A. God may answer no
1. There may be times when God denies our requests – James 4:3
2. We must trust that God, who knows what is best, would do so only if granting our request might not be for our good – Hebrews 12:5-11
B. When God seems to say no
1. We may not fully understand, but we can still fully trust Him! – Habakkuk 3:17-19
2. Especially in light of the promise in 1 Corinthians 10:13
3. God will provide the grace and mercy to do without – 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
Conclusion
1. In at least four ways, then, God answers our prayers
a. Yes
b. Yes, but not yet
c. Yes, but not as expected
d. No
2. However God may choose to answer our prayers
a. We can have confidence that it will be for our good
b. We should never grow weary in praying to God
3. “The Lord has heard my supplication; The Lord will receive my prayer.” – Psalms 6:9
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Prayer Practice
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(The Practice of Prayer)
Introduction
1. In our study on prayer, we have examined
2. Hopefully this study has increased our desire to pray
a. To pray more fervently, with more consistency
b. To benefit from all that prayer has to offer
3. To encourage us even more to pray, let’s look closer at the practice of prayer
a. How should we pray?
b. When should we pray?
c. With whom should we pray?
d. For what should we pray?
Body
I. HOW TO PRAY
A. THE MODEL PRAYER
1. Jesus was asked by His disciples how to pray – Luke 11:1
a. They had just witnessed Jesus praying
b. They knew John the Baptist had taught his disciples to pray
c. While they had prayed as Jews, they recognized a need to learn more
2. In response, Jesus offered a model, a guide for learning to pray – Luke 11:2-4
a. Commonly called “The Lord’s Prayer”, also found in – Matthew 6:9-13
b. It was intended to serve as a model (“In this manner…”) – Matthew 6:9
3. The Lord’s Prayer serves as an example of how to pray, not just something to memorize
B. THE PROPER PRAYER
1. Addresses God the Father (“Our Father in heaven”) – Matthew 6:9
2. Expresses reverence toward God (“Hallowed be Your Name”) – Matthew 6:9
3. Includes supplication for such things as:
a. God’s purposes (“Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”) – Matthew 6:10
b. Our physical needs (“Give us this day our daily bread.”) – Matthew 6:11
c. Our spiritual needs (“And forgive us our debts…”) – Matthew 6:12
d. The spiritual needs of others (“…as we forgive our debtors.”) – Matthew 6:12
e. Guidance and help in our struggle against sin and Satan (“And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”) – Matthew 6:13
4. Praises God (“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.”) – Matthew 6:13
5. In teaching on prayer, Jesus stressed the importance of:
a. Simplicity in prayers – Matthew 6:7-8
b. Forgiving others – Matthew 6:14-15
c. Persistence in prayers – Luke 12:5-10
6. Memorize the Lord’s Prayer and it can serve to remind you how to pray
II. WHEN TO PRAY
A. SCHEDULED PRAYERS
1. Having set times to pray can help develop a habit of prayer
2. Consider the practice of two great men of God
a. David, whom God described as “a man after My own heart” – Psalms 55:17
b. Daniel, whom the angel of God described as “O man greatly beloved” – Daniel 6:10
3. They made it a habit to pray at set times during the day
a. It would not hurt to imitate them
b. Praying three times daily: morning, noon, and evening
4. At the very least, make time each day to spend time in prayer
B. SPONTANEOUS PRAYERS
1. Prayers should not be limited to set times
2. Jesus spent all night in prayer before selecting His apostles – Luke 6:12-13
3. Paul and Silas prayed when faced with trying circumstances – Acts 16:25
4. Nehemiah prayed silently on the spur of the moment – Nehemiah 2:4-5
5. The Israelites prayed to God in the heat of battle – 1 Chronicles 5:20
6. We should pray whenever and however the occasion calls for it
C. PRAY WITHOUT CEASING
1. The goal is to “pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
2. Having scheduled times to pray will develop experience in prayer
3. Praying spontaneously will develop a disposition to pray in every circumstance
4. Together, they help us reach the goal of praying without ceasing
III.WITH WHOM TO PRAY
A. PRAYING ALONE…
1. Jesus encouraged the practice of praying in secret – Matthew 6:5-6
2. Private prayer cultivates our spiritual nature through regular exercise
3. Private prayer forms a close union and fellowship with our Heavenly Father
a. It is just you and Him
b. Time spent together strengthens the bond of fellowship
4. Private prayer is a true test of your sincerity and devotion
a. You certainly are not doing it to please men (they cannot see you)
b. You can’t be trying to falsely impress God (He will see right through you)
5. Private prayer will be rewarded “openly” – Matthew 6:6
a. The answers to our prayer will be seen by others
b. Both here and in the hereafter
6. Private prayer should be a priority in the practice of praying
B. PRAYING WITH OTHERS…
1. Jesus also spoke of praying with others – Matthew 18:19-20
a. Where the requests of two or three are answered by our Father in heaven
b. For in their midst is Jesus Himself, who also intercedes for them – cf. Romans 8:34
2. Early Christians prayed together often…
a. In times of trouble – Acts 4:23-24; 12:5,12; 16:25
b. In times of departure – Acts 20:36; 21:5
3. Immediate blessings when God’s people pray together
a. A sweetness of fellowship
b. A sense of strength
4. Praying with others should be done whenever possible
IV. FOR WHAT TO PRAY
A. AS REVEALED IN SCRIPTURE…
1. Self
a. For physical daily needs – Matthew 6:11
b. For personal growth in Christ-likeness and devotion to God – Colossians 1:9-12
2. Family
a. For spouse, children, parents, siblings, etc.
b. For their nurture and growth in the teaching of the Lord – Ephesians 6:4
3. Community
a. For peace to prevail
b. E.g., Jeremiah 29:7
4. Church
a. For love and unity to prevail – John 13:35; 17:20-21
b. For the spiritual growth of each member – Philippians 1:9-11
c. For the gospel to have free course – 2 Thessalonians 3:1
5. Nation
a. For national repentance and consciousness of who God is – Psalm 33:12; Proverbs 14:34
b. For leaders to rule wisely – 1 Timothy 2:2
6. Nonbelievers
a. For their salvation – Romans 10:1
b. For the effort of those involved in teaching them – Ephesians 6:18-20
7. The sick
a. For their restoration to health – James 5:14-15
b. For spiritual strength and peace of mind – James 5:16
8. The poor and oppressed
a. Such as the homeless, fatherless, unborn children – Proverbs 29:7
b. Those in other nations oppressed by their own rulers or outside influences
9. There is certainly much for which we ought to pray!
B. USING A PRAYER STRATEGY…
1. On Monday – Family
a. Pray for both immediate and extended family members
b. For both their physical and spiritual well-being
2. On Tuesday – Church
a. For members in the local congregation
b. For Christians and congregations throughout the world
3. On Wednesday – Community
a. For community leaders
b. For your neighbors
4. On Thursday – Nation
a. For elected officials
b. For efforts to bring peace and righteousness
5. On Friday – World
a. For world peace
b. For nations that are “closed” to the gospel
6. On Saturday – Afflicted
a. For the poor, homeless, jobless
b. For those in prison
c. For those who are sick
d. For widows, single mothers, fatherless children
7. A simpler prayer strategy: morning-family; noon-church; evening-community
Conclusion
1. Such strategies are simply suggestions to provide some direction in prayer…
a. Develop one that suits you
b. One might also keep a list or journal of those for whom you are praying
2. The important thing is to PRAY, and to do so:
a. “always”
b. “in everything”
c. “earnestly”
d. “being vigilant”
e. “without ceasing”
3. I pray this study on prayer will encourage us to be more diligent in utilizing this wonderful privilege of prayer…!
“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;” – Colossians 4:2
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Prayer Persistence
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(The Persistence of Prayer)
Introduction
1. In our study last week, we surveyed several essential principles:
a. We must pray in faith
b. We must pray with humility
c. We must pray in harmony with the will of God
d. We must pray with thanksgiving
e. We must pray in the name of Jesus
2. There is another aspect of prayer worthy of careful consideration
a. We must pray with persistence
b. An aspect of prayer that was very important to Jesus
3. The importance of the persistence of prayer can be shown from the attention given to it in the Scriptures.
Body
I. TEACHINGS OF PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER
A. THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT FRIEND — Luke 11
1. Told in connection with a request for teaching on prayer – Luke 11:1
2. Following instruction providing a model for prayer – Luke 11:2-4
3. The parable itself, easy enough to understand – Luke 11:5-8
4. Followed with an emphasis on being persistent in asking, seeking, knocking – Luke 11:9-10
5. Note how persistence is connected to learning how to pray!
B. THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW – Luke 18
1. Told that men always ought to pray and not lose heart – Luke 18:1
2. The parable itself, illustrating the value of persistence Luke 18:2-5
3. Adding that God will certainly heed His chosen who cry out day and night – Luke 18:6-8a
4. Followed by concern for whether such faith will be found when He returns – Luke 18:8b
5. Note how persistence is related to having faith in the Lord!
C. THE TEACHING OF PAUL
1. “… continuing steadfastly in prayer” – Romans 12:12
2. “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints” – Ephesians 6:18
3. “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;” Colossians 4:2
4. “pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
5. Note how often persistence in mentioned in exhortations to pray!
II. EXAMPLES OF PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER
A. JESUS IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE – Matthew 26
1. When deeply distressed over His impending suffering – Matthew 26:36-39
2. While His closest disciples slept, he prayed three times – Matthew 26:40-44
3. In which He received the necessary help to face what lay ahead Matthew 26:45-47
a. Strengthened by an angel; Luke 22:41-44
b. Heard by God, though His actual request was not answered Hebrews 5:7
4. If the Son of God needed persistence in prayer, do not we?
B. PAUL AND HIS THORN IN THE FLESH – 2 Corinthians 11
1. Paul endured his thorn – 2 Corinthians 11:30-33; 12:7, 10
2. He prayed three times that it might be removed – 2 Corinthians 11:8
3. It was not, but the Lord provided what he needed
a. Sufficient grace and the strength of Christ to endure – 2 Corinthians 11:9
b. Enabling him to even take pleasure in his infirmities – 2 Corinthians 11:10
4. If the apostle of Christ needed persistence in prayer, do not we?
C. THE PRAYERS OF THE EARLY CHRISTIANS
1. The church in Jerusalem continued steadfastly in prayer – Acts 2:42
2. When Peter was imprisoned, constant prayer was offered for him – Acts 12:5, 12
3. Epaphras labored fervently in prayer for his brethren at Colosse – Colossians 4:12
4. Widows were assumed to be devoted to prayer – 1 Timothy 5:5 (like Anna — Luke 2:36-37)
5. If the early church needed persistence in prayer, do not we?
Conclusion
1. With such examples and teaching on persistence in prayer
a. The importance of persistence cannot be overemphasized
b. Persistence in general (keep praying!); persistence in particular (don’t ask just once!)
2. Note well: persistence does not ensure God answers we may desire
a. Jesus still had to drink the cup of suffering by going to the cross
b. Paul still had to bear his thorn in the flesh by enduring persecution for Christ
3. Yet persistence in prayer is the key to receiving answers we need
a. Grace and mercy to help in time of need
b. Strength to endure whatever it is we must face
4. And so, through persistence in prayer, let us “ask, seek, knock” ( Matthew 7:7-8), until God provides the answer to our prayers, giving whatever He graciously determines we really need!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Prayer Principles
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(The Principles of Prayer)
Introduction
1. In last weeks sermon we saw that few truly benefited from prayer
a. Children of God, who became such through obedience to Jesus Christ
b. Sinners, seeking after truth and righteousness, who will be heard in that God will provide them opportunity to hear and obey the truth
2. The full benefit of prayer comes only as the principles of prayer are observed
a. Principles laid down by Jesus and His inspired apostles
b. Principles that determine the final outcome of our prayers
Body
I. WE MUST PRAY IN FAITH
A. PRAYER REQUIRES FAITH…
1. And all things, whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive. – Matthew 21:22
2. Otherwise, prayer will not be answered – cf. James 1:5-8
B. FAITH IN GOD
1. That He is, and is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him – Hebrews 11:6
2. Such faith comes from the Word of God – Romans 10:17
II. WE MUST PRAY WITH HUMILITY
A. HUMILITY BEFORE GOD
1. A virtue highly valued by God – Isaiah 57:15; 66:1-2
2. The Lord is near, and saves those with contrite spirits – Psalm 34:18
3. He gives grace to the humble – Proverbs 3:34
B. HUMILITY IN PRAYER
1. Exemplified in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector – Luke 18:9-14
2. Humility leads to exaltation by God – Luke 18:14; James 4:10
III.WE MUST PRAY IN HARMONY WITH GOD’S WILL
A. GOD’S WILL AND OUR PRAYERS…
1. Prayers are answered favorably if we ask according to His will – 1 John 5:14
2. Prayers more concerned with our will than God’s are turned down – James 4:3
B. HIS WILL BE DONE
1. So Jesus taught us to pray – Matthew 6:9-10
2. So He prayed in the garden at Gethsemane – Luke 22:42
3. Such praying made easier when our will is to do God’s will – John 4:34
IV. WE MUST PRAY WITH THANKSGIVING
A. PRAYER AND THANKSGIVING…
1. Giving thanks always for all things to God – Ephesians 5:20
2. in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving – Philippians 4:6
3. prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving – Colossians 4:2
4. “pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
B. THE ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE
1. God’s people were always to be thankful – Psalm 100:4; Colossians 3:15
2. Ingratitude an indication of apostasy – Romans 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:2
3. Do we seriously think God will help us with our present burdens if don’t take the time to thank Him for past blessings?
V. WE MUST PRAY IN THE NAME OF JESUS
A. PRAYING IN THE NAME OF JESUS
1. Taught by Jesus Himself to His disciples – John 14:13-14; 16:23
2. Commanded by Paul to the Christians at <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Ephesus”>Ephesus</a> – Ephesians 5:20
B. THE NAME OF JESUS AND PRAYER
1. Means more than simply adding “in Jesus’ name” at the end of our prayers
2. We acknowledge Jesus as the only way by which we can approach God – John 14:6
3. We recognize Him as our high priest who intercedes for us – Hebrews 7:24-25; John 14:13
Conclusion
1. In summary, the principles of prayer we have examined are these
a. We must pray in faith
b. We must pray with humility
c. We must pray in harmony with the will of God
d. We must pray with thanksgiving
e. We must pray in the name of Jesus
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Prayer Privileges
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(The privileges of prayer)
Introduction
1. In the power of prayer we saw where prayer can provide
a. Forgiveness from God
b. Peace from God
c. Strength from God
d. Wisdom from God
h. Tranquility from God
e. Boldness from God
f. Opportunity from God
g. Healing from God
2. Yet the privilege of prayer is not available to all who pray; for some
a. Their prayers will be an abomination to God
b. Their prayers will fall on deaf ears
c. Their prayers will be hindered
d. Their prayers will not be answered favorably
3. We might be praying people, even pray fervently; but do we have the right to pray, to expect God to heed us when we pray?
Body
I. FOR WHOM PRAYER IS NOT A PRIVILEGE
A. THOSE WHO WILL NOT HEED GOD’S WORD.
1. Those who turn their ears from the law, their prayers are an abomination – Proverbs 28:9
2. Such is the case of those who will not endure sound doctrine – 2 Timothy 4:3-4
3. If we will not listen to God, why should He listen to us?
B. THOSE WHOSE SINS SEPARATE THEM FROM GOD
1. Sins can separate one from God so He will not hear – Isaiah 59:1-2
2. Such is the condition of those who will not seek God’s forgiveness Romans 6:23
3. If we reject God’s forgiveness of sins, can we expect Him to listen to us?
C. THOSE WHO FAIL TO TREAT OTHERS JUSTLY
1. Who fail to treat their wives as they should – 1 Peter 3:7
2. Who fail to make things right with those they have offended Matthew 5:23-24
3. Who fail to forgive those who sinned against them – Matthew 18:21-35
4. If we will not treat others justly, how can we hope to receive God’s mercy?
D. THOSE WHO PRAY WITHOUT FAITH
1. Without faith it is impossible to please God – Hebrews 11:6
2. Asking with doubt in our hearts ensures failure – James 1:5-8
3. If we doubt God’s existence and ability to provide, why should God answer us?
II. FOR WHOM PRAYER IS A PRIVILEGE
A. THE SINNER SEEKING TRUTH AND RIGHTEOUSNESS…
1. This we learn from the example of Cornelius
a. He was a good man, but still in need of salvation – Acts 10:1-2; 11:14
b. His prayers and alms had been noticed by God – Acts 10:4, 31
c. Thus God saw to it that he had an opportunity to hear the words whereby he could be saved (i.e., the gospel of Christ) – Acts 11:14
2. Note well: he was not saved by praying per se!
a. He needed to hear words by which he would saved – Acts 11:14
b. The gospel of Christ, which is God’s power to salvation Romans 1:16
c. Just as Saul of Tarsus was still in his sins, despite praying – Acts 9:11; 22:16
3. Yet God heard the prayer of a sinner like Cornelius
a. Who was hungering and thirsting for righteousness – Matthew 5:6
b. Who was asking, seeking, knocking – Matthew 7:7-8
c. Providing an opportunity to one day hear and obey the gospel of Christ
d. For a sinner seeking truth and righteousness, such prayers will be heard!
B. THE CHRISTIAN WITH JESUS AS THEIR HIGH PRIEST
1. Jesus has become our High Priest
a. He is now a merciful and faithful high priest, able to aid His brethren – Hebrews 2:17-18
b. Making it possible to approach God’s throne boldly Hebrews 4:14-16
c. Able to save to the uttermost, since He ever lives to intercede – Hebrews 7:25
2. Jesus has now become our Advocate and Mediator:
a. Our advocate with the Father – 1 John 2:1
b. The one mediator between God and man – 1 Timothy 2:5
c. Who makes intercession for us at the right hand of God Romans 8:34
3. Such is the blessing of those who have put on Christ in baptism and become children of God through faith (Galatians 3:26-27)
Conclusion
1. The ears of the Lord are open to the prayer of the righteous… – 1 Peter 3:12
a. We must submit to the righteousness of God offering in Christ – Romans 10:1-4
b. We must respond to the gospel of Christ – Romans 1:16-17
2. If we desire the privilege of prayer, then we must be either
a. A faithful child of God through obedience to Jesus Christ
b. A sinner with a good and noble heart, seeking after truth and righteousness
3. The sinner hungering and thirsting for righteousness will be filled; how much more the child of God when he or she experiences the privilege of prayer in all its fullness!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Prayer Power
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(The Power of Prayer)
Introduction
1. Jesus anticipated that people would become slack in their prayers…
a. Telling the parable of the persistent widow, that people might always pray – Luke 18:1-7
b. Wondering if He would find faith on earth (i.e., people praying) when He returned – Luke 18:8
2. Paul frequently exhorted Christians to be diligent in their prayers…
a. “praying always with all prayer and supplication…” – Ephesians 6:18
b. “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving” – Colossians 4:2
c. “Pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalians 5:17
3. If we have become slack in our prayers, might that be an indication that we do not appreciate the power of prayer? Have we forgotten what a privilege it is to pray?
Body
I. EXAMPLES OF THE POWER OF PRAYER
A. THERE IS FORGIVENESS FROM GOD…
1. The Christian can find forgiveness through the blood of Christ – 1 John 1:7-10
2. Thus the erring Christian is told to repent and pray – Acts 8:22
3. Don’t you want the assurance of knowing that your sins are forgiven?
B. THERE IS PEACE FROM GOD…
1. The antidote to anxiety is to pray – Philippians 4:6
2. The Christian will find their hearts and minds guarded by the peace of God – Philippians 4:7
3. Don’t you want the peace of mind and heart that surpasses understanding?
C. THERE IS STRENGTH FROM GOD…
1. Paul prayed that the Ephesians might be strengthened in the inner man – Ephesians 3:14-16, 20
2. When we need to be strong, Christians can likewise pray for themselves!
3. Don’t you want the power that is beyond our comprehension?
D. THERE IS OPPORTUNITY FROM GOD…
1. Paul realized that God provided him opportunity to teach others – 1 Corinthians 3:5 (NASB)
2. He knew that the Lord often opened doors for such opportunities – 1 Corinthians 16:9; 2 Corinthians 2:12
3. He therefore requested prayer that such opportunities would continue – Colossians 4:3
4. Don’t you want the Lord to give you opportunity to lead others to Christ?
E. THERE IS BOLDNESS FROM GOD…
1. When the apostles needed boldness, they prayed and God delivered – Acts 4:23-31
2. When Paul needed boldness, he asked for prayers in his behalf – Ephesians 6:19-20
3. Don’t you want boldness when you speak to others about Christ?
F. THERE IS WISDOM FROM GOD…
1. Wisdom is not knowledge, but insight that makes the best use of the knowledge one has
2. The Christian is promised wisdom through prayer without doubt – James 1:5-8
3. Don’t you want the wisdom that comes from above?
G. THERE IS HEALING FROM GOD…
1. Those who are sick should ask elders to pray for them – James 5:14-15
2. Those who have sinned should confess, and we should pray for one another – James 5:16
3. Don’t you want the aid of God whenever in need of physical or spiritual healing?
H. THERE IS TRANQUILITY FROM GOD…
1. The Scriptures proclaim God has ultimate control over the nations – Daniel 4:17; Romans 13:1-7
2. Thus we are commanded to pray for our rulers, that we may lead a quiet (tranquil, ASV) and peaceable life – 1 Timothy 2:1-4
3. Don’t you want to live in peace and tranquility and for others to as well?
Conclusion
1. The power of prayer can indeed be a blessing…
a. To the one who prays in faith
b. For those for whom prayers are offered
2. There is help in time of need from God…
a. We have a wonderful High Priest who understands our problems – Hebrews 4:14-15
b. Thus we can at anytime approach God boldly in prayer, to obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need – Hebrews 4:16
3. Don’t you want mercy and grace whenever needed, for yourself and for others?
4. Indeed, the effective fervent prayer of a righteous man (cf. James 5:16)…
a. “avails much” (NKJV)
b. “can accomplish much (NASB)
c. “has great power” (ESV)
d. “is powerful and effective” (NIV)
e. If such is true of one righteous man, how about the prayers of many righteous?
5. Do we believe in the power of prayer…?
a. Then let us pray always
b. Let us continue earnestly in prayer
c. Yes, let us “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)!
6. But not all have the privilege of the power of prayer. In our next study, we will see why
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Prayer Purposes
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(The Purpose Of Prayer)
Introduction
1. In August 2005, Newsweek and Beliefnet asked 1,004 Americans what they believe and how they practice their faith
2. One of the questions was this: What do you think is the most important purpose of prayer?
3. Here are their responses…
a. To seek God’s guidance (27%)
b. To thank God (23%)
c. To be close to God or the divine (19%)
d. To help others (13%)
e. To improve a person’s life (9%)
f. Other (4%)
g. Don’t know (5%)
[What is the purpose of prayer? As the answers above suggest, there are many reasons to pray. One way to remember “The Purpose Of Prayer” is with the acronym ACTS, where “A” stands for…]
I. ADORATION
A. EXPRESSING ADORATION…
1. God is certainly worthy of our praise, our adoration
2. While we can praise God in song, we can also praise God in prayer
B. EXAMPLES OF ADORATION IN PRAYER…
1. When Paul prayed for the Ephesians, he took time to praise God – Ephesians 3:14-21
2. David provides an example of offering adoration and praise – 1 Chronicles 29:10-13
[Expressing adoration was not one of the responses in the aforementioned survey, but it is certainly an important purpose of prayer. Continuing with our acronym ACTS , “C” stands for…]
II. CONFESSION
A. CONFESSING OUR SINS…
1. There is mercy to be found in confessing one’s sins – Proverbs 28:13
2. The Christian enjoys cleansing of sin by the blood of Jesus – 1 John 1:7-10
B. EXAMPLES OF CONFESSING SINS…
1. Jesus provided an example in the parable of the Pharisee and the publican – Luke 18:10-14
2. Again, David provides an example with his confession of sin – Psalm 51:1-13
[Obtaining forgiveness by confessing sins is a blessing now enjoyed only through Christ (John 14:6). Once we have put on Christ (cf. Galatians 3:27),prayer is crucial to remaining forgiven. “T” stands for…]
III. THANKSGIVING
A. OFFERING THANKSGIVING…
1. Being thankful is emphasized repeatedly in exhortations to pray – Ephesians 5:20; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
2. The antidote to anxiety is to pray for everything, with thanksgiving – Philippians 4:6
B. EXAMPLES OF OFFERING THANKSGIVING…
1. Christ set an example of thanksgiving – Matthew 11:25; 26:27; John 6:11; 11:41
2. Daniel had the custom to thank God three times a day – Daniel 6:10
[We cannot discount the importance of thanksgiving in our prayers. Especially if we expect God to answer us as we make requests for future blessings. This leads to the final letter, where “S” is for…]
IV. SUPPLICATION
A. MAKING SUPPLICATION…
1. We are encouraged to let our requests be known to God – Philippians 4:6
2. We are commanded to make supplications for all men – 1 Timothy 2:1-2
B. EXAMPLES OF MAKING SUPPLICATION…
1. “Real widows” are known for their supplications night and day – 1 Timothy 5:5
2. Solomon made supplication at dedication of the temple – 1 Kings 8:28-29
3. Jesus made supplication as He was crucified; Stephen also, as he was being stoned – Luke 23:34; Acts 7:59-60
Conclusion
1. With the aid of a simple acronym (ACTS), we should never forget “The Purpose Of Prayer”…
a. Adoration
b. Confession
c. Thanksgiving
d. Supplication
2. It is good to understand prayer’s purpose, but do we also…
a. Appreciate the power of prayer?
b. Even have the privilege of prayer?
c. Understand the principles of prayer?
d. Manifest the persistence of prayer?
e. Engage in the practice of prayer?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Take Time to be Holy
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Introduction
1. Our songs in worship are designed to instruct as well as praise
a. For in them we teach and admonish one another
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
b. By them the Word of Christ can dwell in us richly – Colossians 3:16
2. A familiar song with an important message is “Take Time To Be Holy”
a. Words written by W.D. Longstaff
b. Music composed by GeorgeC. Stebbins
3. Certainly the children of God are to be holy
a. We are to be holy in our conduct
1 Peter 1:15 but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
b. Even as our Father who calls us is holy
1 Peter 1:16 because it is written, “BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.”
4. Indeed, holiness is to be pursued, for without it one will not see the Lord
Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord
5. In this lesson, we will let the words of this song serve as the basis for our study. Note first that the song assumes…
Body
I. THE NEED TO TAKE TIME
A. THE WORLD RUSHES ON
1. As expressed in the beginning of the second verse
2. Our lives are certainly hectic and fast-paced
3. Filled with activities that consume our time
4. And our lives are but a vapor
James 4:13-14 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
5. Before we know it, time will have slipped by
B. IT TAKES TIME TO BE HOLY
1. The key presumption upon which this song is based
2. Holiness must be pursued
Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord
3. Holiness is the fruit of service to God
Romans 6:22 But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life.
4. Holiness must be perfected
2 Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
5. If we are not careful, time to develop holiness will be gone
a. So we must “Take Time To Be Holy.”
b. It needs to be a priority in our lives.
c. How does one take time?
II. THE WAY TO TAKE TIME
A. SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD
1. The song encourages us to:
a. “Abide in Him always”
b. “Spend much time in secret with Jesus alone”
2. The means to do so involve:
a. Prayer, as suggested by the song
1) “Speak oft with thy Lord”
2) “Forgetting in nothing His blessings to seek”
b. The Word of God (“Feed on His Word”)
3. Do we take time to be with the Lord?
a. Through prayer, where the Lord is ready to intercede?
Hebrews 4:14-16 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 7:25 Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
b. Through the Word, which testifies of our gracious Lord?
John 5:39 You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.
1 Peter 2:2-3 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
4. We cannot overestimate the importance of finding time to be with the Lord alone through prayer and the Word!
B. SPEND TIME WITH OTHERS
1. This includes fellowship with other Christians (“Make friends of God’s children”)
a. Which the early Christians continued in steadfastly
Acts 2:42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.
b. Which helps to ensure faithfulness and steadfastness
Hebrews 3:12-14 Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; but exhort one another daily, while it is called “TODAY,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end
c. Which includes the idea of frequent assembling
Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 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.
2. This includes service to our fellowman (“Help those who are weak”)
a. A duty enjoined upon Christians
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
Acts 20:35 I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ “
b. Service toward all, but especially our brethren
Galatians 6:10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
c. Ministering our abilities to one another
1 Peter 4:10-11 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
d. We must not be so busy that we don’t have time to be with brethren and to help others as we have opportunity!
[As one takes time to be with the Lord, His people, and in service to them and others, a transformation slowly takes place…]
III. THE BENEFITS OF TAKING TIME
A. YOU WILL BE BLESSED
1. With inner peace and happiness (“Be calm in thy soul”)
a. Through frequent prayer
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
b. Through frequent meditation upon the Word
Psalms 1:1-3 Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.
Psalms 119:165 Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.
2. With renewed strength (“Each thought and each motive beneath His control”)
a. Through your relationship with Christ
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
b. Through the indwelling of the Spirit
Romans 8:12-13 Therefore, brethren, we are debtorsnot to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.
3. With increasing realization of God’s love (“Led by His Spirit to fountains of love”)
a. A manifestation of the Spirit in our lives
Romans 5:5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
b. Whose fruit produces love
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
4. Is this not sufficient motivation to “take time to be holy”?
B. YOU WILL BE MORE CHRIST-LIKE…
1. The ultimate goal of discipleship (“Like Him thou shalt be”)
a. As explained by Jesus
Luke 6:40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
b. As foreordained by God
Romans 8:29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.
2. A transformation noticed by others (“Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see”)
a. The result of spending time with Jesus – e.g., Peter and John
Acts 3:12 So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people: “Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?
b. The result of giving yourself to such things – e.g.,Timothy,
1 Timothy 4:15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.
3. Prepared for greater service (“Thou soon shall be fitted for service above”)
a. For we will serve God in heaven, and in the new Jerusalem
Revelation 22:3 And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him.
b. Indeed, we will reign with Christ and God forever!
Revelation 22:5 There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.
4. Is this not even more motivation to “take time to be holy”?
Conclusion
1. Remember the need to take time
a. The world rushes on, and would carry us along with it
b. Our time in this life is short, we must have our priorities straight
2. Are you taking time, indeed, making time?
a. To spend time alone with God, in prayer and the Word?
b. To spend time with others, in fellowship and service?
3. We must take time, if we desire to
a. Experience the blessed life Jesus offers
b. Become more Christ-like in our conduct
4. May this song (“Take Time To Be Holy”) always remind us of the need to slow down, and to do those things so crucial to our spiritual growth and happiness!
5. Have you taken the time to respond to the gospel of Christ…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Luke 18:01-08 Power of Prayer
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Text: Luke 18:1-8
Introduction
1. Jesus anticipated that people would become slack in their prayers
a. Telling the parable of the persistent widow, that people might always pray-Luke 18:1-7
b. Wondering if He would find faith on earth (i.e., people praying) when He returned – Luke 18:8
2. Paul frequently exhorted Christians to be diligent in their prayers
a. “praying always with all prayer and supplication…” – Ephesians 6:18
b. “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving” – Colossians 4:2
c. “Pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
3. If we have become slack in our prayers, might that be an indication that we do not appreciate the power of Prayer? Have we forgotten what a privilege it is to pray?
Body
I. EXAMPLES OF THE POWER IN PRAYER
A. THERE IS FORGIVENESS FROM GOD
1. The Christian can find forgiveness through the blood of Christ – 1 John 1:7-10
2. Thus the erring Christian is told to repent and pray – Acts 8:22
3. Don’t you want the assurance of knowing that your sins are forgiven?
B. THERE IS PEACE FROM GOD
1. The antidote to anxiety is to pray – Philippians 4:6
2. The Christian will find their hearts and minds guarded by the peace of God – Philippians 4:7
3. Don’t you want the peace of mind and heart that surpasses understanding?
C. THERE IS STRENGTH FROM GOD
1. Paul prayed that the Ephesians might be strengthened in the inner man – Ephesians 3:14-16, 20
2. When we need to be strong, Christians can likewise pray for themselves!
3. Don’t you want the power that is beyond our comprehension?
D. THERE IS OPPORTUNITY FROM GOD
1. Paul realized that God provided him opportunity to teach others – 1 Corinthians 3:5
2. He knew that the Lord often opened doors for such opportunities – 1 Corinthians 16:9; 2 Corinthians 2:12
3. He therefore requested prayer that such opportunities would continue – Colossians 4:3
4. Don’t you want the Lord to give you opportunity to lead others to Christ?
E. THERE IS BOLDNESS FROM GOD
1. When the apostles needed boldness, they prayed and God delivered – Acts 4:23-31
2. When Paul needed boldness, he asked for prayers in his behalf – Ephesians 6:19-20
3. Don’t you want boldness when you speak to others about Christ?
F. THERE IS WISDOM FROM GOD
1. Wisdom is not knowledge, but insight that makes the best use of the knowledge one has
2. The Christian is promised wisdom through prayer without doubt – James 1:5-8
3. Don’t you want the wisdom that comes from above?
G. THERE IS HEALING FROM GOD
1. Those who are sick should ask elders to pray for them – James 5:14-15
2. Those who have sinned should confess, and we should pray for one another – James 5:16
3. Don’t you want the aid of God whenever in need of physical or spiritual healing?
H. THERE IS TRANQUILITY FROM GOD
1. The Scriptures proclaim God has ultimate control over the nations – Daniel 4:17; Romans 13:1-7
2. Thus we are commanded to pray for our rulers, that we may lead a quiet (tranquil, ASV) and peaceable life – 1 Timothy 2:1-4
3. Don’t you want to live in peace and tranquility and for others to as well?
Conclusion
1. The power of prayer can indeed be a blessing
a. To the one who prays in faith
b. For those for whom prayers are offered
2. There is help in time of need from God
a. We have a wonderful High Priest who understands our problems – Hebrews 4:14-15
b. Thus we can at anytime approach God boldly in prayer, to obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need – Hebrews 4:16
c. Don’t you want mercy and grace whenever needed, for yourself and for others?
3. Indeed, the effective fervent prayer of a righteous man (cf. James 5:16)
a. “avails much” (NKJV)
b. “can accomplish much (NASB)
c. “has great power” (ESV)
d. “is powerful and effective” (NIV)
e. If such is true of one righteous man, how about the prayers of many righteous?
4. Do we believe in the power of prayer?
a. Then let us pray always
b. Let us continue earnestly in prayer
5. Yes, let us “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Private Devotion
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Introduction
1. Great men of God were noted for engaging in private devotion
a. Isaac meditated in the field at evening – Genesis 24:63
b. David prayed three times daily, meditated on his bed at night – Psalm 55:17; 63:6
c. Daniel’s custom was to pray three times daily – Daniel 6:10
2. Private devotion is encouraged by the Son of God…
a. Jesus sought solitary places at early morn and late night – Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12
b. He counseled His disciples to pray in secret – Matthew 6:6
Body
I. WHY HAVE PRIVATE DEVOTION?
A. TO DRAW NEAR TO GOD
1. God is found by those who seek Him
a. As David advised his son Solomon – 1 Chronicles 28:9
b. As Azariah told the king Asa – 2 Chronicles 15:2
2. God draws near to those who draw near to Him – James 4:8
3. Do you want a closer walk with God?
B. TO RECEIVE SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT
1. We need spiritual nourishment in our lives – Matthew 4:4
a. Man cannot thrive on physical food alone
b. We need spiritual food that nourishes the soul
2. Spiritual growth comes from the Word of God – 1 Peter 1:23; 2:2
a. We are born again through the incorruptible seed
b. We continue to grow by the Word of God
3. God’s Word provides spiritual strength – Ephesians 6:10-17; cf. Psa119:7-11
a. We need God’s help to fight our spiritual battles
b. The Word of God provides such help!
4. Do you want a stronger, spiritual life?
C. TO FIND PEACE AND STABILITY
1. We live in a world filled with anxiety; prayer provides theantidote – Philippians 4:6-7
2. We live in a world filled with pitfalls; God’s Word keeps us from falling – Psalm 119:105,165
3. Do you want inner peace and outer stability?
II. HOW TO HAVE PERSONAL DEVOTION
A. FIND A TIME AND PLACE
1. The time may vary for different individuals
a. For “night owls”, the best time may be late at night, after the children are in bed
b. For “morning larks”, early morning before the children wake up might be better
c. The key is to find a quiet time, free from worldly distractions
2. The place may also vary for different people
a. Some may prefer a place outside, following the example of Jesus – Mark 1:35
b. Some may prefer a place inside, following the teaching of Jesus – Matthew 6:6
c. The key is to find a solitary place, free from worldly distractions
3. To develop a habit, the time and place should be the same each day
B. ENGAGE IN PRAYER, MEDITATION, AND PRAISE
1. Approach God in prayer
a. Thank Him for your blessings – cf. Colossians 4:2
b. Confess your sins – cf. 1 John 1:9
c. Make supplication for your needs – cf. Philippians 4:6
d. Intercede on behalf of others – cf. 1 Timothy 2:1-2
2. Spend time in meditation – contemplate on such things as:
a. The Lord Himself (His character) – Psalm 63:6
b. His wonderful Works (both creative and redemptive) – cf. Psalm 77:12
c. His revealed Word – Psalm 119:15,23,48,97-99,148
d. Things that are wholesome and praiseworthy – cf. Philippians 4:8
3. Praise God in song – perhaps aided by recorded hymns
a. A natural response to joy in the heart – cf. James 5:13
b. Making melody in your heart – cf. Ephesians 5:19
4. Talk with God through prayer, praise; listen to Him by contemplating His Word
Conclusion
1. Living in world filled with sin, there is much that would
a. Fill our lives with stress and anxiety
b. Pull us away from God and things that are good
2. Making room for private devotion in our lives, will help greatly to:
a. Walk closer with our Father in heaven
b. Receive strength of heart and peace of mind in doing His will
3. If David, a man after God’s own heart, and Jesus, the Son of God Himself, found it needful to spend time alone with God, how much more do we…!
“I rise before the dawning of the morning, And cry for help; I hope in Your word. My eyes are awake through the night watches, That I may meditate on Your word.” – Psalm 119:147-148
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Discipline of Prayer
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Introduction
1. In our previous study we defined the spiritual disciplines as
a. Spiritual exercises that one engages in habitually which bring one closer to God and thus become more godly in character and behavior
b. Spiritual activities such as prayer, meditation, fasting, singing, giving, etc.
2. Now we shall consider such disciplines more carefully, beginning with prayer
a. An activity in which Jesus Himself frequently practiced – Luke 5:16
b. A spiritual exercise enjoined upon Christians – Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Body
I. THE PURPOSE OF PRAYER
A. AS TAUGHT BY JESUS
1. To praise God, expressing adoration
a. As indicated by the phrase “Hallowed be Your name…” – Matthew 6:9
b. As exemplified in one of David’s prayer – 1 Chronicles 29:10-13
2. To pray that God’s will to be done
a. As indicated by the phrase “Your kingdom come…” – Matthew 6:10
b. As exemplified in the Lord’s own prayer – Matthew 26:39,42
3. To make requests for our daily needs
a. Such as our daily food – Matthew 6:11
b. Such as our bodily health – 3 John 2
4. To confess our sins, seeking mercy
a. Asking forgiveness, as we forgive others – Matthew 6:12
b. Assured that God will justly and faithfully cleanse through Jesus’ blood – 1 John 1:9
5. To ask for God’s providential care
a. Keeping us away from evil – Matthew 6:13
b. Directing our path if it be His will – Romans 1:9-10
6. From “The Lord’s Prayer”, we can learn much about the purpose of prayer
B. AS TAUGHT BY HIS APOSTLES
1. To express thanksgiving – 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
2. To find peace in the midst of anxiety – Ph 4:6-7
3. To receive strength and boldness from God – Ephesians 3:14-16,20; 6:18-20
4. To find opportunity for service to God – Colossians 4:3
5. To receive wisdom from God – James 1:5-8
6. To intercede on behalf of others – James 5:14-16; 1 Timothy 2:1-2
7. From the apostles’ writings, we learn much about the purpose of prayer
There is much good that can come from prayer, both for ourselves and those for whom we pray. It is an activity in which Jesus and His apostles engaged in frequently, so now let’s consider more closely
II. THE PRACTICE OF PRAYER
A. AS TAUGHT BY JESUS
1. Jesus taught the value of secret prayer
a. By precept, in His sermon on the mount – Matthew 6:5-6
b. By example, in finding solitary places to pray – Mark 1:35
2. Jesus taught the value of simple prayer
a. Many words are not necessary – Matthew 6:7
b. Our Father already knows our needs – Matthew 6:8; cf. Romans 8:26-27
3. Jesus taught the value of steadfast prayer
a. In response to His disciples’ request to teach them to pray- Luke 11:1,5-10
b. In telling them the parable of the persistent widow – Luke 18:1-8
4. Thus the discipline of prayer should include the elements of secrecy, simplicity, and steadfastness
B. AS PRACTICED BY GODLY MEN AND WOMEN
1. David, a man after God’s own heart, prayed morning, noon, and evening – Psalm 55:17
2. Daniel, a man greatly beloved by God, prayed thrice daily for many years – Daniel 6:10
3. Anna, a prophetess, served God in prayers night and day – Luke 2:36-37
4. Real widows continue in prayers night and day – 1 Timothy 5:5
5. Epaphras labored fervently in prayers for those in his church- Colossians 4:12
6. Paul prayed frequently for his brethren in other churches – Romans 1:9; Philippians 1:3-4; Ephesians 1:15-16; 1 Thessalonians 1:2
7. Clearly the discipline of prayer involves a habitual, daily practice of prayer
Conclusion
1. The discipline of prayer, done habitually, is truly a spiritual exercise
a. “Prayer is the spiritual gymnasium in which we exercise and practice godliness.”
b. “…Prayer is educative. The man who prays grows; and the muscles of the soul swell from this whipcord to iron bands.”
c. The opposite is also true: “Seven days without prayer makes one weak.”
2. The discipline of prayer is truly an exercise that leads to godliness
a. For Jesus, at the right hand of God, makes intercession for us – Romans 8:34
b. Indeed, Jesus always lives to make intercession – Hebrews 7:25
3. If we desire to be true disciples of Christ, if we want to become more like Him, then “The Discipline Of Prayer” is a spiritual exercise that we must engage in frequently.
And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. – Matthew 14:23
Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. – Mark 1:35
So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed. – Luke 5:16
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Do You Ever Have Doubts? Mark 9:14-29
Text: Mark 9:14-29
Do you ever have doubts?
Doubts, perhaps, about God, perhaps, or Jesus, or the Holy Spirit. Or maybe your own salvation, or that of someone you love.
Some days you believe without reservation, but other days you struggle.
What do you do on those days?
You may not discuss it, at least not openly, fearing that other Christians will question your faithfulness or doubt your integrity.
If you were a good Christian, Satan whispers, you wouldn’t have doubts. Ever.
Which isn’t even close to the truth.
I love the story of a father whose son was possessed by a demon. In desperation he brought the boy to the Lord’s disciples, but they couldn’t help.
Jesus could, of course, and he did, but not before he engaged the man in a short dialogue.
Please read with me and reflect on this story, particularly notice the conversation between Jesus and the worried father:
Read Mark 9:14-29
We have no idea what this man’s background was, but I’m encouraged by his honest response to the Lord’s mild rebuke:
Lord, I believe; help my unbelief! – Mark 9:24
That’s something I’ve asked the Lord many times.
On the surface it sounds contradictory, but it’s not.
As one commentator writes, it’s been the “frequent experience of disciples of all times” (J.A. Brooks).
We believe, but that faith is sometimes (often?) tinged by doubt. We hope, but that hope is sometimes dampened by uncertainty.
If you doubt, it means you’re in the flesh and therefore fallible. In a place where we all live, at least for now.
It doesn’t mean you’re a skeptic or an agnostic or that you’re weak.
It means you live on this side of that final day.
Don’t lose heart. Strengthen your faith… pray what this boy’s father prayed.
Ask the Lord to strengthen your faith and shine his light into the dark corners of doubt.
Do you believe?
Of course you do.
Now ask the Lord to start working on those areas of uncertainty. He still answers those prayers today.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 13:18-25 Closing Words – audio
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Text: Hebrews 13:18-25
Introduction
1. We now come to the closing words of Hebrews
2. With the last eight verses, we find:
a. A request for prayer in behalf of the author – Hebrews 13:18-19
b. A prayer offered in behalf of the readers – Hebrews 13:20-21
c. A final exhortation, comment and farewell – Hebrews 13:22-25
Body
I. REQUEST FOR PRAYER (Hebrews 13:18-19)
A. ONE REASON FOR HIS REQUEST
1. He is confident of “a good conscience”, desiring to live honorably
a. The mention of a good conscience brings to mind several verses – Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 9:14; Hebrews 10:22
b. Through the blood of Christ, his conscience has made clean to serve God
2. Certainly their prayers in his behalf would be for a good purpose
a. To bless a man whose has been cleansed by the blood of Christ!
b. To bless a man who desires to live honorably!
B. ANOTHER REASON FOR HIS REQUEST
1. To be restored to them sooner
2. Thus he expresses his intention to come them
II. PRAYER OFFERED IN THEIR BEHALF (Hebrews 13:20-21)
A. MAY GOD
1. Described as “the God of peace”
a. A description found often in Paul’s letters – Romans 15:33; 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Philippians 4:9
b. He is the source of peace (note the salutations in most epistles)
2. “who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead”
a. This is the only explicit reference to Jesus’ resurrection in the epistle
b. Though it is assumed in passages which speak of Christ at the right hand of God – Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 4:14; Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 10:12; Hebrews 12:2
3. Jesus is described as “that great Shepherd of the sheep” – John 10:11; John 10:14; 1 Peter 5:4
B. MAKE YOU COMPLETE
1. “in every good work to do His will”
a. The author wants them to be complete in doing God’s will
b. Yet he recognizes that they cannot do it on their own, they will need God’s help!
2. How will God make them complete in every good work to do His will?
a. “through the blood of the everlasting covenant”
1) This refers, of course, to the blood of Jesus
a) Which is able to purge our conscience from dead works – Hebrews 9:14
b) By which Jesus has become the Mediator of the New Covenant – Hebrews 9:15
2) By this blood Jesus has perfected forever those who are being sanctified – Hebrews 10:10; Hebrews 10:14
3) Through the blood of Jesus, then, God is able to make us complete in every good work to do His will
b. “working in you what is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ”
1) Not only are we cleansed by the blood of Jesus, but God works in us to do what pleases Him!
a) This is reminiscent of Paul’s comments – Philippians 2:12-13
b) That as we “work out” our salvation, God “works in” us!
2) Instrumental in God working in us is the role of His Spirit
a) We are strengthened by God’s Spirit in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16
b) It is by the Spirit we can put to death the deeds of the body – Romans 8:13
3) It is by both the blood of Jesus and the work of the Spirit that we are truly “washed”, “justified” and “sanctified” – 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5-7
III. A FINAL EXHORTATION, COMMENT, AND FAREWELL (Hebrews 13:22-25)
A. HIS FINAL EXHORTATION (Hebrews 13:22)
1. To “bear with the word of exhortation”
a. This epistle has truly been one of exhorting them; we have exhortations against:
1) Drifting from what they have heard – Hebrews 2:1-4
2) Departing from the living God – Hebrews 3:12-15
3) Disobedience to His Word – Hebrews 4:11-13
4) Dullness of hearing – Hebrews 5:11-6:6
5) Despising God’s grace – Hebrews 10:26-39
6) Defying Him who now speaks from heaven – Hebrews 12:14-29
b. While at times he has written rather strongly, he encourages them to bear with it
2. While one of the longer epistles in the New Testament, it was still “written to you in few words” (compare it with some of the writings of the “church fathers”!)
B. A COMMENT REGARDING TIMOTHY (Hebrews 13:23)
1. “Our brother Timothy” – most likely he who was Paul’s constant companion
2. Evidently just released from prison, and likely to join the author in coming to them
C. GREETINGS AND FAREWELL (Hebrews 13:24-25)
1. Greetings from the author
a. To “all those who rule over you”, i.e., their elders (Hebrews 13:7; Hebrews 13:17)
b. To “all the saints”, i.e., the rest of the Christian
2. Greetings from “those from Italy”; this suggests two possibilities
a. The author was writing from Italy, passing along greetings from those present
b. The author was writing to Italy, sending greetings from those with him who were from there
3. A simple farewell: “Grace be with you all. Amen”
Conclusion
1. So ends “the word of exhortation”, the epistle known simply as, “The Epistle To The Hebrews”
2. Though written to Jewish Christians, with their particular need in mind
a. It is of great value to all Christians
b. It tells us more about the intercessory work of our Lord as High Priest than any other book of the New Testament
c. Its warnings and exhortations are needed just as much today by Christians who are being tempted to leave Christ and go back into the world
3. Especially these words:
“Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 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.” – Hebrews 10:19-25
4. I pray that our study has served the same purpose, to encourage us all to “draw near” to God, to “hold fast” the hope we confess, and to stir us up “love and good works”.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Nehemiah Champion Builder – powerpoint
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Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem. He truly desired God’s work and people prosper, seeking God’s help in prayer and trusting in Him as he obtained permission from the King.
Nehemiah-Champion-Builder Powerpoint
Content by Andrew Perkins
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