Historical Posts
The High Cost of the Low Life
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34)
The high cost of sin is evident all around us
There is hardly a family that has remained untouched by the stigma of divorce. Modern sexual immorality will lead to the birth of thousands of illegitimate babies this year, while a million others will be murdered by abortion. Venereal disease is rampant, and homosexuality is not only tolerated, but even advocated by some as an acceptable lifestyle. Alcoholism is a real problem for millions of Americans of all ages. Drug abuse is a national disgrace. Crime statistics are ever climbing. The “good life” for many is really the “low life,” and the low life always has a high cost. The “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).
We can not play with sin
We are only kidding ourselves when we think we can play with sin and not suffer its consequences. A long time ago Moses warned the Israelites, “Be sure your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23). The low life always has a high price, though we may not realize it at the time. Tragically, the cost for some becomes intolerable (Matthew 27:3-5). No one can escape the consequences of low living for ever. A day of reckoning will come (2 Corinthians 5:10-11). Jesus offers an alternative to the low life. He offers His disciples the “abundant life” (John 10:10). Let’s dispel the myth once and for all that one can’t be a Christian and enjoy life too. Actually, you can’t really enjoy life and live it to its fullest apart from Christ. True, as a Christian we have to turn our backs on the momentary pleasure of sin (Hebrews 11:24-25), but we’re also turning our backs on the wretched consequences of sin as well. And, the consequences are always greater than the fleeting moments of pleasure sin offers! We can escape the high cost of the low life, but only by living by the Lord’s standards and not our own.
What ails us individually and as a nation is SIN.
Jesus Christ provides the only remedy.
It is our job as the church to model discipleship every day by a good example, and to proclaim the good news of Jesus everywhere we go. The world needs to see and hear the transforming power of Jesus in the lives of genuine disciples.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Do Not Lie
A certain woman, preparing to entertain guests, went to a small neighborhood grocery store to buy food. She stopped at the meat counter and asked the attendant for a large fresh chicken. He reached down into the cold storage compartment, grabbed the last chicken he had, and placed it on the scale. “This one weighs four pounds, ma’am,” he said. “I’m not sure that will be enough,” the woman replied. “Don’t you have a bigger one?” The attendant put the chicken back into the compartment, pretended to search through the melting ice for another one, and then brought out the same bird, discreetly applying some finger pressure to the scale. “Ah,” he said with a smile, “this one weighs six pounds.” “I’m just not sure,” the woman said with a frown. “I’ll tell you what-wrap them both up for me!”
It was Oliver Wendell Holmes who said, “Sin has many tools, but a lie is the handle that fits them all.” And, Abraham Lincoln is credited with the observation, “No man has a good enough memory to make a successful liar.”
A lie is the weapon of choice in Satan’s arsenal
From the Bible it would seem that a lie is the weapon of choice in Satan’s arsenal. It was certainly effective in the beginning (Genesis 3), and is still the cause of much sin and spiritual disease today. Jesus went so far as to say that Satan was “a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (John 8:44).
Do not lie to one another
One of the things which should distinguish Christians from all others is their absolute devotion to truth. Solomon admonished, “Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding” (Proverbs 23:23). Those sentiments seem to be echoed by the Apostle Paul when he cautioned Christians: “Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator” (Colossians 3:9-10). Lying, deception, and falsehood are all found in the devil’s tool chest.
The truth will set you free
To the very best of our ability, we must be honest and truthful in all our dealings with one another. We cannot alter the truth to spare feelings. The Bible doesn’t distinguish between white and black lies. We must always be kind, but truthful. There are going to be times when the truth will hurt, but lying will ultimately hurt even more. Jesus message still resonates: “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).
— Roger
MAY 13, 2012
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Living with Guilt
Guilt can be good or bad
Guilt (self-reproach and feelings of responsibility for an offense) can be a good thing, or a very bad thing. It’s good when it leads to repentance and reformation. It’s bad when it prevents us from moving forward, overcoming our failures, and experiencing the joys of a saving relationship with Christ.
Unfortunately, many become overcome with the burden of guilt
I spend a great deal of time with people who are overcome with the burden of guilt. Much of what I hear has to do with regrets over things not done: parents who failed to spend adequate time with growing children; husbands/wives who failed to show proper love and appreciation for a spouse; children who failed to attend to the needs of an aged parent. This list could be much longer. The remainder of guilt is generated when people do things they know in their own hearts they should not do. In some cases, but not all, these wrongs can be righted. When possible, that is what must be done.
But, we cannot go back and right every wrong
We cannot undo all the damage we have done. However, we can move forward with the determination to help others avoid the same mistakes. Carrying a heavy load of guilt over these matters will only retard our spiritual progress and destroy our inner peace.
If God could forgive Paul, He can forgive you
The story of the Saul of Tarsus (the Apostle Paul) is extremely helpful when confronting guilt (1 Timothy 1:12-16). Paul acknowledged his guilt. He had been a blasphemer, persecutor, and a violent man toward Christians. He had been as bad as they come. He called himself the “chief” or “worst” of sinners, but still, he found forgiveness. If God could forgive him and lift his burden of guilt, He could do it for anyone.
What did Paul do upon obeying Christ (Acts 22:16)?
- First, he put his past behind him (Philippians 3:13). He would learn from past mistakes, but he would not dwell on them.
- Second, he accepted the forgiveness provided through the grace of Christ (1 Timothy 1:14).
- Third, he changed his life and became a new man in Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17).
- Fourth, he forgave himself, and vowed not to repeat the mistakes of the past.
His focus was not on what he had done, but on what he could do! It worked for him, and it will work for us!
Jesus Christ can free us from the burden of guilt
No matter how great the burden of guilt we carry, Jesus Christ can free us from it. Follow the example of Paul. Turn to Christ. Obey His commands. Become a new creature. Forget the past, and move forward (Philippians 3:13, 14). Guilt is a heavy burden to bear. It saps life of peace, hope and joy. But, it’s a burden none of us need to bear. Jesus Christ can take the guilt away. Will we let Him do that for us? That’s the question we need to consider now!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Galatians 05:01 Standing Fast in the Liberty of Christ
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Text: Galatians 5:1
Introduction
1. Galatians has been called “The Magna Carta Of Christian Liberty”; ‘Magna Carta’ refers to the royal charter of political rights given to rebellious English barons by King John in 1215
2. The reason it has been so called is because of Paul’s discussion regarding ‘bondage’
a. In connection with the meeting in Jerusalem – Galatians 2:4-5
b. In arguing that we are justified by faith in Christ, not works of the Law – Galatians 4:3-5, 9, 24-25
c. With his climax found in the text for our study today – Galatians 5:1
3. The liberty we have in Christ is indeed precious, and it is imperative that we stand fast in it. Yet exactly what does that liberty entail…?
Body
I. THE LIBERTY WE HAVE IN CHRIST
A. FREEDOM FROM THE LAW OF MOSES
1. This is Paul’s primary concern in this epistle – Galatians 2:16
2. Upon which he expounded in the first four chapters – Galatians 3:23-25
3. Concerning which he wrote elsewhere – Romans 7:4-6
4. Christ has delivered the Jews from their obligation to keep the Law of Moses
B. FREEDOM FROM THE BONDAGE OF SIN
1. Writing of being “justified”, Paul refers to being “not guilty” of sin – Galatians 2:16-17
2. Concerning which he wrote elsewhere – Romans 8:1-2
3. Jesus also spoke of the deliverance from bondage of sin – John 8:31-34
4. Christ has delivered all men from the guilt and power of sin
C. FREEDOM FROM THE TRADITIONS OF MEN
1. Paul wrote of this in chapter four – Galatians 4:9-11
2. Also in his writing to the Colossians – Colossians 2:20-23
3. Jesus also spoke of the danger of human traditions – Matthew 15:3-9
4. Christ has delivered us from the need to keep human traditions
D. FREEDOM FROM WORKS OF THE FLESH
1. Paul will have much more to say about the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:13, 17, 19-21; 6:8
2. As he warned against in writing to the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
3. About which Jesus also warned – Mark 7:20-23
4. Christ offers deliverance from deeds of the flesh which endanger our salvation
E. Such are the things we experience through the liberty that we have in Christ. Of course, that presumes that we are indeed
II. STANDING FAST IN OUR LIBERTY
A. HANDLE THE LAW PROPERLY
1. The Law is good if used properly – 1 Timothy 1:8; 2 Timothy 2:15
2. It was written for our learning and admonition – Romans 15:4
3. It is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, instruction in righteousness – 2 Timothy 3:14-17
4. But it has its limitations
a. It has ceased as a system of justification – cf. Galatians 5:4
b. It has been replaced as a covenant – Hebrews 8:6-13
c. Its religious observances have been replaced – Hebrews 9:9-10
5. The Law must be properly handled if we are to preserve our liberty in Christ
B. APPLY OUR BLESSINGS IN CHRIST LIBERALLY
1. The blood of Christ frees us from the guilt of sin – Ephesians 1:4
a. The remission of sins is promised to those who repent and are baptized – Acts 2:38
b. The blood of Christ remains available for Christians who repent of sin – 1 John 1:7-10
c. Christians need to repent and pray when they sin – Acts 8:22
2. The Spirit of God can free us from the power of sin – Romans 8:12-13
a. God can strengthen us by His Spirit in the inner man – Ephesians 3:16
b. We can do all things through God and Christ – Philippians 4:13
3. We must not hesitate to access the blood of Christ and the Spirit of God to make use of our liberty in Christ
C. DEAL WITH TRADITIONS OF MEN CAUTIOUSLY
1. Traditions may have a place on an individual level – Romans 14:5-6
a. When not taught as a doctrine of God – Mark 7:7
b. When not done instead of keeping a command of God – Mark 7:8-9
2. But they must handled with the utmost of caution on a congregational level
a. Things done on a congregational level necessarily bind them upon all the members
b. That is why religious holidays are reasons for such grave concern – Galatians 4:10-11
3. We must be careful not to let human traditions destroy our liberty in Christ
D. FOLLOW THE SPIRIT DILIGENTLY
1. We must not use our liberty as an occasion for the flesh – Galatians 5:13
2. Our best weapon against the flesh is to follow the Spirit – Galatians 5:16-18
3. Those who are led by the Spirit will produce the fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23
4. Our new life in Christ makes it possible to walk in the Spirit – Galatians 5:25
5. We must be diligent to set our minds on the things of the Spirit if we want to enjoy life and peace – Romans 8:5-6
Conclusion
1. The liberty we enjoy in Christ is great
a. Freedom from the law of Moses
b. Freedom from the bondage of sin
c. Freedom from the traditions of men
d. Freedom from the works of the flesh
2. But it is not license to do whatever we want; we must
a. Handle the Law properly
b. Apply our blessings in Christ liberally
c. Deal with traditions of men cautiously
d. Follow the Spirit diligently
3. With the aid of Paul’s epistle to the Galatians, we will succeed in “Standing Fast In The Liberty Of Christ”. Have you begun to enjoy the liberty Christ offers through obedience to the gospel…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Galatians 02:01-05 Circumcision and the Gospel
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Text: Galatians 2:1-5
Introduction
1. Paul’s primary purpose in writing to the Galatians was to defend
a. His apostleship – Galatians 1:1
b. His gospel – Galatians 1:11-12
2. In doing so, he recounts a meeting that took place in Jerusalem, in which
a. He, Barnabas, and Titus attended – Galatians 2:1
b. He had the opportunity to relate the gospel he preached – Galatians 2:2
c. Some tried to compel Titus (a Greek) to be circumcised – Galatians 2:3-5
3. The issue of circumcision and the gospel was a major concern in the first century
a. Did Gentiles who became Christians have to be circumcised as per the Law?
b. The question preoccupied many churches, and much of Paul’s ministry
4. While the issue was resolved sufficiently that it is rarely a problem today, there are important lessons to be learned from a study of “Circumcision and the Gospel”.
Body
I. THE PRACTICE OF CIRCUMCISION
A. IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
1. As a sign of a covenant, it began with Abraham – Genesis 17:9-14, 23-27; Romans 4:11
2. It continued with Isaac, Jacob and his sons – Genesis 21:4; 34:14-17
3. Moses circumcised his sons, and gave the ordinance to Israel – Exodus 4:26;
4. It was required to observe the Passover – Exodus 12:48
5. Male children were to be circumcised the eighth day – Leviticus 12:1-3
6. The Jews born in the wilderness had not been circumcised, but were after they crossed the Jordan River – Joshua 5:1-8
B. IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
1. John the Baptist was circumcised as an infant – Luke 1:59
2. Jesus was likewise circumcised on the eighth day – Luke 2:21
3. It became an issue when the gospel was first preached to Gentiles – Acts 11:1-3
4. It was the focus of controversy in Antioch and Jerusalem – Acts 15:1-2, 4-6
5. Paul had Timothy circumcised – Acts 16:1-3
6. It was rumored that Paul taught Jews not to be circumcised – Acts 21:18-21
7. It was certainly a frequent subject in Paul’s epistles
a. To the Romans – Romans 2:25-29; 3:1,30; 4:9-12; 15:8
b. To the Corinthians – 1 Corinthians 7:18-19
c. Especially to the Galatians – Galatians 2:1-9, 12; 5:2-6,11; 6:12-15
d. Mentioned in Ephesians – Ephesians 2:11
e. Also to the Colossians – Colossians 2:11; 3:11; 4:11
8. Because of the role of circumcision in Israel’s history, and its significance in early history of the church, it is important that we properly understand it in relation to:
II. THE TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL
A. PHYSICAL CIRCUMCISION NOT REQUIRED
1. Evidenced by the conversion of Cornelius and his family – Acts 10:44-48; 11:17- 18
2. Confirmed at that conference in Jerusalem – Acts 15:7-21
3. Proclaimed by the letter sent by the apostles and elders – Acts 15:22-31
4. Expounded upon by Paul in his letters – Romans 4:8-12; 1 Corinthians 7:19; Galatians 5:1-6; 6:15
B. SPIRITUAL CIRCUMCISION NOW AVAILABLE
1. A circumcision made without hands, in which sins are cut away – Colossians 2:11
2. Which occurs when we buried with Christ in baptism, then raised with Him – Colossians 2:12
3. When God makes us alive with Christ, forgiving our sins – Colossians 2:13
4. The physical rite of circumcision has become a matter of indifference to God, though it can be used and misused. From both the practice of circumcision and the truth of the gospel as revealed in the Bible, let’s summarize.
III. THE LESSONS FROM CIRCUMCISION
A. RITUAL ALONE NOT ADEQUATE…
1. This was true even when circumcision was required of Israel
2. God desired circumcision of the heart as well as of the flesh – Deuteronomy 10:16; 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4
3. Paul explained that the true Jew was the one circumcised in heart – Romans 2:28-29
4. The same is true of baptism; it must be accompanied with faith and repentance – Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 8:36-37; Colossians 2:12
B. THE LAW HAS PASSED AWAY
1. Jesus said not one jot or tittle of the Law would pass until all was fulfilled – Matthew 5:17-18
2. Circumcision was required by the Law – Exodus 12:48; Leviticus 12:1-3
3. If circumcision is no longer binding, the change implies the passing away of the Law
4. A similar point is made with reference to the priesthood of Christ – Hebrews 7:12-19
C. ‘EVERLASTING’ MAY NOT MEAN ‘LASTING FOREVER’
1. Circumcision was described as the sign of an ‘everlasting covenant’ – Genesis 17:10-14
2. In the case of circumcision, ‘everlasting’ (Heb., olam) did not mean ‘lasting forever’
a. BDB defines olam as “long duration, antiquity, futurity, for ever, ever, everlasting, ever more, perpetual, old, ancient, world”
b. The Complete Word Study Dictionary defines olam as “meaning a very long time.”
c. “The term also applies to many things associated with God, such as His decrees, His covenants, and the Messiah (Genesis 9:16; Exodus 12:14; Micah 5:2).”
3. If ‘everlasting’ always meant ‘lasting forever’, then we should still be observing:
a. The Passover – Exodus 12:14
b. The Feast of Unleavened Bread – Exodus 12:17
c. The priesthood of Aaron – Exodus 29:9
d. The Sabbath – Exodus 31:16-17
e. The sacrifices, with their portions for the priests – Leviticus 6:18; 7:34-36; 10:15
f. Fasting and animal sacrifices on the Day of Atonement – Leviticus 16:29-34
g. The Feast of Tabernacles – Leviticus 23:39-42
h. …and many other elements of the Law described as ‘everlasting ordinances’
4. From the context of the Scriptures, one discerns when ‘everlasting’ means ‘lasting forever’
5. Since circumcision is no longer binding, we should not be surprised such is true with other elements of the Law – cf. Colossians 2:16-17; Hebrews 9:10
D. WHEN TRADITION BECOMES SINFUL
1. Paul did not hesitate to use the tradition of circumcision when expedient – Acts 16:3
a. The same with other Jewish traditions – Acts 18:18,21
b. Even some that involved animal sacrifices – Acts 21:18-26
2. Yet he opposed circumcision (and other elements of the Law) when people attempted to:
a. Bind it on Gentiles, as in the case of Titus – Galatians 2:3-5
b. Use it for the purpose of justification – Galatians 5:2-4
3. Thus Jesus also condemned traditions of men when they:
a. Are taught as commandments to be bound on others – Mark 7:6-7
b. By their observance prevent keeping the commandments of God – Mark 7:8-13
4. Under the right circumstances, traditions may be observed – cf. Romans 14:5-6
Conclusion
1. The issue of circumcision may seem antiquated and unimportant
a. It certainly is not one of the ‘hot issues’ of our day
b. Yet lessons learned from studying the issue can be very helpful
2. Understanding the issue of circumcision can help us preserve the truth of the gospel
a. We are saved by an obedient faith in Christ, not by keeping the Law of Moses
b. The Law as a system of justification came to an end at the cross of Christ
c. Elements of the Law, such as circumcision, the Passover, Sabbath, etc., are not binding today
d. Traditions of the Law might be observed on a personal level, but it is a sin to base one’s salvation on them, or to bind them on other people
3. While circumcision of the flesh is nonessential, the circumcision ‘without hands’ is certainly necessary if we are to have our sins ‘cut away’ Colossians 2:11-13
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Galatians 01:03-05 Deliverance from an Evil Age – powerpoint
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Galatians-01-03-05-Deliverance-from-an-Evil-Age.pdf
Galatians-01-03-05-Deliverance-from-an-Evil-Age.pptx
Text: Galatians 1:3-5
Introduction
1. Paul’s greeting to the churches of Galatia (Galatians 1:3) contains words of grace and peace
a. From God the Father
b. And our Lord Jesus Christ
2. As an illustration of such grace and peace, Paul continues in Galatians 1:4
a. “who gave Himself for our sins” (grace!)
b. “that He might deliver us from this present evil age” (peace!)
3. I would like to direct our attention to the latter phrase
a. Undoubtedly we have heard much about Jesus dying for our sins
b. But what of this idea of delivering us from an evil age?
4. The word “age” (aion) as used here means “period of time”
a. Paul has in mind the present period of time
b. Paul views this time as evil – cf. Ephesians 5:16; 6:13
5. Do we take seriously the evil of this age? Do we appreciate the deliverance that Jesus provides?
Body
I. THE EVIL OF THIS PRESENT AGE
A. EVIL IN PAUL’S DAY
1. Paul described the sins of those in his day – Romans 1:18-32
a. Against whom the wrath of God was coming
b. For denying the Creator and suppressing the truth
c. Given up to their own vile passions, they fell into depravity
d. They were filled with all sorts of unrighteousness
2. He called such sins ‘the works of the flesh’ – Galatians 5:19-21
a. Sins that are evident (to those not blinded by them)
b. Sins unrepented of that will keep one out of the kingdom of heaven – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
B. EVIL IN OUR DAY
1. Today, many think lightly of such things as: fornication, adultery, divorce
2. One is considered enlightened when they support: abortion, homosexuality, same -sex marriage
3. More and more our culture is accepting: lasciviousness, pornography, drug abuse
4. All of which reflect a world view impacted by: humanism, evolution, selfishness
5. Yes, things are not much different today than they were in Paul’s day. Yet Jesus gave Himself for our sins “that He might deliver us from this present evil age” (Galatians 1:4).
II. THE DELIVERANCE THE LORD PROVIDES
A. DELIVERANCE FROM THE GUILT OF SIN
1. Sin is a transgression of God’s law – 1 John 3:4
2. All have sinned, for which the punishment is death – Romans 3:23; 6:23
3. Jesus’ blood frees us from the guilt of sin – Ephesians 1:7
4. We receive remission of sins when we are baptized – Acts 2:38; 22:16
5. In Jesus, there is no condemnation for sin – Romans 8:1; 3:24
B. DELIVERANCE FROM THE POWER OF SIN
1. Sin enslaves, but Jesus provides freedom from the dominion of sin – John 8:31-36
2. This He does by giving us the Spirit – John 7:37-39
3. We receive the Spirit when we are baptized – Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:26-27; 4:6
4. With the Spirit’s aid, we can put to death the deeds of the flesh – Romans 8:12-13
5. In Jesus, we are set free from the law of sin and death – Romans 7:24-25; 8:2
C. DELIVERANCE FROM THE TEMPTATION OF SIN
1. We continue to be tempted by fleshly desires – 1 Peter 2:11; James 1:14
2. Jesus teaches us to watch and pray that we might avoid temptation – Matthew 26:41
3. His Father will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able to bear – 1 Corinthians 10:13a
4. In every temptation He will provide a way of escape – 1 Corinthians 10:13b
5. In Jesus, the godly can find deliverance out of temptations – 2 Peter 2:9
Conclusion
1. Living in a morally confused and spiritual dark world, in Jesus we find
a. Deliverance from the guilt of sin
b. Deliverance from the power of sin
c. Deliverance from the temptation of sin
d. Deliverance from the world that is passing away
2. We note that such deliverance is “according to the will of our God and Father” – Galatians 1:4c
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 02:01-13 The Sin of Partiality – audio
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Text: James 2:1-13
Introduction
1. In the first century, A.D., polarized conditions governed society; people were either rich or poor, slaves or free, Jew or Gentile, Greek or barbarian
2. However, part of the good news of the gospel was that in Christ Jesus social barriers lost much of their strength
a. As Paul wrote to the Galatians: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28
b. Again, in writing to the Colossians: “Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ is all, and in all.” – Colossians 3:11
3. But it took a while for this truth to sink into the hearts of those who were Christians; even the apostle Peter had to be told this truth through a vision and then a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit – Acts 10:34-35
4. From the second chapter of the epistle of James, it is apparent that showing partiality was still being practiced and its sinfulness needed to be pointed out
5. Because the sin of partiality is still prevalent in some forms today, let’s examine James 2:1-13 and consider what James has to say on this subject
Body
I. THE SIN OF PARTIALITY
A. AS MANIFESTED IN JAMES’ DAY
1. We know from other scriptures that Jewish Christians often showed partiality in regards to the Gentiles
2. But in this epistle, the problem was one of showing partiality between the rich and poor – James 2:2-4
B. TODAY, WE CAN ALSO BE GUILTY OF PARTIALITY
1. By showing partiality between rich and poor
a. For example, giving preferential treatment to visitors at our assemblies based upon their apparel
b. Or showing hospitality towards our rich friends, while ignoring those who are poor sometimes, it is the poor who despise the rich
2. By showing partiality between people of different races again, this can easily go both ways
3. Even by showing partiality between friends and visitors to our services
II. WHY CHRISTIANS CAN’T SHOW PARTIALITY
A. JESUS CHRIST IS A “GLORIOUS” LORD! (James 2:1)
1. It is possible that this point was being implied by James in using this description of Jesus to introduce the subject
2. What does OUR partiality have- to do with the LORD OF GLORY?
a. As Christians, we profess to be Christ’s disciples, or followers, whose goal is to imitate Him – Luke 6:40
b. As such, our actions are likely to be considered by others as a reflection of what Christ teaches
c. If we show partiality as Christians, we leave the impression that Jesus Himself is partial (prejudiced, biased, racist)
3. Therefore, if we are not careful, the glory of the Lord can be tainted by OUR partiality!
B. WE BECOME JUDGES WITH EVIL THOUGHTS (James 2:4)
1. God has always hated unjust judges
2. Jesus Himself warned about:
a. The dangers of judging – Matthew 7:1
b. The need to make righteous judgment – John 7:24
3. If we judge against the poor due to our prejudice against them, we will find ourselves fighting against God! – Psalm 109:31
C. WE DESPISE THOSE GOD HAS HONORED (James 2:5)
1. Both then and today God has chosen to honor the poor
a. The gospel was proclaimed to the poor – Luke 7:22
b. The majority of those who responded were from among the poor – 1 Corinthians 1:26-29
2. Both then and today God has chosen to honor ALL men – Acts 10:34-35
a. Therefore, when we show partiality because of a person’s race
b. Or because they are a stranger we do not know then we despise those whom God has honored by His offering to them salvation through the gospel!
3. Do we want to face God on the Day of Judgment guilty of such a crime?
D. WE HONOR THOSE MOST CAPABLE AND LIKELY OF OPPRESSING US (James 2:6-7)
1. The rich were doing this to the Christians in James’ day
2. Who are the ones most likely to oppress Christians today if it ever came down to “push and shove”?
a. Those who have the resources to do so
b. And most likely that would be the “majority” and the “affluent”
E. WE BREAK “THE ROYAL LAW” (James 2:8-11)
1. Which is “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”
2. This is one of the most fundamental laws that God has ever given!
a. As proclaimed by Christ – Matthew 22:36-40
b. As taught by Paul – Romans 13:8-10
3. And, as emphasized by James, by breaking one law, we become guilty of ALL the Law!
a. To show partiality is to make one as guilty as if they committed adultery or murder!
b. This illustrates just how terrible any sin is!
F. WE WILL ONE DAY BE JUDGED BY “THE LAW OF LIBERTY” (James 2:12-13)
1. This refers to the law of Christ, or the gospel
a. A law that has set us free from the bondage of sin through the mercy shown in Christ John 8:31-36
b. And a law that sets us free from man-made restrictions – Colossians 2:20-22
2. But if we:
a. Apply man-made restrictions upon others (like showing partiality)
b. Do not show mercy toward others then NO MERCY will be shown toward us! – Matthew 6:14-15
Conclusion
1. In view of all these things, we can understand why James would say: “My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.” – James 2:1
2. We can also better understand Peter’s reasoning why he had to accept the Gentiles: “Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as [he did] unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?” – Acts 11:17
3. And we are more likely to heed the prayer and admonition of Paul: Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind [and] one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. – Romans 15:5-7
4. Brethren, we serve A GLORIOUS LORD, we serve to do things to His glory; may we NEVER allow the sin of partiality, bias, prejudice, or racism to taint that wonderful glory in any way!
5. If you are not a Christian:
1) Notice that in our text James speaks of:
a) The terribleness of even one sin – James 2:10
b) The fact of judgment – James 2:12
2) Won’t you accept the mercy God offers to you in the gospel of His Son Jesus Christ?
a) Remember, God is not a partial judge – cf. Romans 2:4-11
b) Why should He show mercy to you when you despise His mercy just as much as the vilest sinner?
3) Accept His mercy in obedience to the gospel today!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Psalm 051:01-19 Confessing Our Sins
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(The Art of Confessing our Sins)
Text: Psalms 51:1-19
Introduction
1. Do you remember the joy and the relief you experienced when you were baptized?
a. Knowing that your sins had been washed away by the blood of Christ?
b. Knowing that you then stood before God holy and without blame?
— Wouldn’t it be great to experience that same joy and relief, time and again?
2. There is no reason why you cannot!
a. Even though you may have sinned terribly after your baptism
b. For God has made provision whereby we can enjoy the continual cleansing of the blood of Christ!
3. Not by being baptized again and again…
a. But by confessing our sins to God – cf. 1 John 1:9
b. For God who is faithful and just has promised to forgive our sins!
— Just as we were raised from the grave of baptism cleansed by the blood of Jesus, so we can rise from our prayers knowing that we have been cleansed from all unrighteousness!
4. The key is to confess our sins…
a. But how does one do that effectively?
b. Are there some things to keep in mind as we confess our sins?
5. In Psalms 51, we have what David wrote after he was guilty of adultery with Bathsheba…
a. He provides an example of how one should confess their sins to God
b. He provides what I like to call “The Art Of Confessing Our Sins”
[How should one go about confessing their sins to God? From the example of David, a good place to begin is…]
Body
I. APPEAL TO GOD’S MERCY AND LOVE (Psalms 51:1-2)
A. NOTE THE BASIS OF DAVID’S PLEA FOR FORGIVENESS…
1. “according to Your lovingkindness”
2. “according to the multitude of Your tender mercies”
— David sought forgiveness based upon God’s lovingkindness and tender mercies
B. THE PARDON WE SEEK SHOULD HAVE AS ITS BASIS…
1. Not in the merit or worthiness of man
2. But in the goodness and grace of God!
C. AS WE SEEK “WASHING” AND “CLEANSING” FROM OUR SINS…
1. Don’t base our appeal on our past accomplishments
a. E.g., how much we have done for the Lord
b. E.g., how long we have been a member of His church
2. But upon the goodness and mercy of God!
a. Appeal to His mercy and grace!
b. Knowing that He is slow to anger and abounding in mercy! – cf. Psalm 103:8-10
— Remember the parable of the Pharisee and the publican! – Luke 18:9-14
[As we seek forgiveness, we must of course…]
II. ACKNOWLEDGE OUR SINS TO GOD (Psalms 51:3-4)
A. NOTE HOW DAVID ACKNOWLEDGED HIS SIN…
1. He did not try to hide it: “my sin is ever before me”
2. He admitted that it was a sin against God Himself: “Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in your sight”
a. While it is true he had sinned against Bathsheba, Uriah, his own wife…
b. …David knew that it was ultimately against God Himself!
3. He accepted the condemnation of God against him
a. That God was both “just” and blameless” in judging him
b. As God did when He sent Nathan to condemn him
B. AS WE CONFESS OUR SINS…
1. Appreciate that this is key to receiving God’s grace – cf. 1 John 1:9
2. Acknowledge the sin; while we may at times simply confess tobe sinners, it never hurts to actually mention the sin for which we seek forgiveness
3. Understand that all sin is ultimately a sin against God Himself!
4. Don’t fault God (His Word or His messengers) when we are exposed and condemned for our sins!
— As we confess our sins, there is more that we should bear in mind. From David we learn that we should also…
III. UNDERSTAND WHERE WE ARE AND WHERE GOD WANTS US (Psalms 51:5-6)
A. UNTIL FORGIVEN, ONE IS DEEP IN SIN…
1. Using hyperbole so common in poetic language, David describes the depravity in which he finds himself
2. He is not trying to escape responsibility by saying he was born that way; only that he knows he is utterly sinful
B. BUT GOD DESIRES MUCH MORE…
1. David knew that God wanted:
a. “truth in the inward parts”
b. “wisdom in the hidden parts”
— Again, figurative hyperbole illustrating that truth and wisdom are to be as pervasive as sin had been!
2. David knew that God desired to provide more than just forgiveness, He also desires:
a. Total restoration, with understanding and wisdom on our part
b. That we be equipped for faithful service
[Understanding what God wants of us helps us to appreciate what David goes on to say. Indeed, confession of sins should also mean that we…]
IV. PRAY FOR RENEWAL AND RESTORATION (Psalms 51:7-12)
A. DAVID DESIRED MORE THAN JUST FORGIVENESS OF SIN…
1. He does pray for forgiveness, using figurative language in asking God…
a. To purge him with hyssop – Psalm 51:7
b. To wash him whiter than snow – Psalm 51:7
c. To hide His face from his sins – Psalm 51:9
d. To blot out all his iniquities – Psalm 51:9
2. But he also sought for more; he desired…
a. Joy and gladness – Psalm 51:8
b. A new heart, and renewal of a steadfast spirit – Psalm 51:10
c. Continuation of God’s presence and Spirit – Psalm 51:11
— As summarized in verse 12: “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me with Your generous Spirit.”
B. AS WE CONFESS OUR SINS…
1. We should look to God for more than just forgiveness!
2. We should also ask for:
a. A complete renewal and total restoration!
b. A return to “the joy of salvation” (that joy experienced when we first obeyed the gospel!) – Acts 8:35-39
[As we consider further David’s confession of sin, we find it proper to…]
V. RESOLVE TO OFFER GRATEFUL SERVICE (Psalms 51:13-17)
A. DAVID RESOLVES…
1. To teach other sinners and transgressors – Psalm 51:13
2. To praise God for His righteousness in delivering him from sin – Psalm 51:14-15
a. Knowing that God delights in something more than animal sacrifices – Psalm 51:16
b. A broken spirit and contrite heart is what really pleases God – Psalm 51:17; cf. Isaiah 66:1-2; 57:15
B. SUCH RESOLUTION IS IN KEEPING WITH TRUE REPENTANCE…
1. For God desires more than just forgiveness, but total restoration – cf. Psalm 51:6
2. And zealous service is indicative of true repentance, as taught in 2 Corinthians 7:10-11
C. AS WE CONFESS OUR SINS…
1. We should look beyond obtaining forgiveness for past sin
2. We should look beyond obtaining present joy and gladness of heart
— We should be making commitments regarding future service!
[Finally, as we come to the end of David’s psalm, we find that “The Art Of Confessing Our Sins” includes that we…]
VI. PRAY FOR GOD’S PURPOSES (Psalms 51:18-19)
A. DAVID OFFERED A PRAYER REGARDING GOD’S PURPOSES…
1. That God would fulfill His purpose for Zion – Psalm 51:18
2. That God would be pleased with Israel’s sacrifices – Psalm 51:19
— Thus his confession of sin ends with a desire for that which pleases God
B. AS WE CONFESS OUR SINS…
1. We should not be selfish, praying for only our needs
2. What about God’s desires? His purposes?
— As Jesus taught us in “The Lord’s Prayer”, it is important to pray for God’s will as well as our own (cf. “Thy Will be done on earth, as it is in heaven”)
Conclusion
1. I hope I have not made the practice of confessing sins sound complicated…
a. Certainly there are occasions where a simple “I have sinned…” may suffice
b. As illustrated in the prayer of the tax collector – Luke 18:13-14
2. Yet if we desire to be less self-centered in confessing our sins, we can follow David’s example:
a. Appeal to God’s mercy and lovingkindness
b. Acknowledge our sins to God
c. Understand where we are and where God wants us
d. Pray for renewal and restoration
e. Resolve to offer grateful service
f. Pray for God’s purposes
3. By praying as David did, we are to sure to experience two things:
a. Forgiveness itself
b. The joy of forgiveness
— As David expressed in Psalm 32:1-5, written after receiving forgiveness for his sins
4. The Christian who confesses his sins is the truly happy individual (“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven…”), for they have the assurance of salvation (cf. 1 John 1:9).
5. Have you confessed your sins to God today?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 10:26-39 A Warning Against Willful Sin – audio
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Text: Hebrews 10:26-39
Introduction
1. Immediately following a gracious exhortation to draw near to God and hold fast the confession of our hope, we find an ominous warning
a. It is a warning against willful sin – Hebrews 10:26-39
b. It speaks of reaching a terrible state in which:
1) There longer remains a sacrifice for sins
2) There is a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation
2. Is this a warning for Christians? Some would say no
a. They believe in the doctrine once saved, always saved
b. They hold that true Christians:
1) Cannot so sin to point of being eternally lost
2) If they begin to sin to the point where they might be lost, God will intervene and take their life to prevent it from happening
3. Does the Bible teach once saved, always saved?
a. It does teach the security of the believer (i.e., those who remain faithful are secure)
b. But it also teaches that a believer can become an unbeliever, at which point a person has every reason to fear for his or her salvation! – Hebrews 3:12-14
4. The possibility of apostasy (falling away) is taught in the Bible, especially in the epistle to Hebrews
a. We have already seen several warnings implying this possibility:
1) A warning against drifting – Hebrews 2:1-4
2) A warning against departing – Hebrews 3:12-14
3) A warning against disobedience – Hebrews 4:11
4) A warning against dullness, leading to apostasy – Hebrews 5:11-6:6
b. But perhaps now, with a warning against willful sin, we learn the real danger of losing our salvation if we despise what we have received! – Hebrews 10:26-39
Body
I. WHAT IT MEANS TO SIN WILLFULLY (Hebrews 10:26)
A. COMPARE OTHER TRANSLATIONS
1. If we deliberately keep on sinning… (NIV)
2. For if we go on sinning deliberately… (ESV)
3. For if we go on sinning willfully… (NASB)
B. THE SENSE OF THE GREEK IS ONE OF REPEATED ACTION
1. Implying not an act of sin, but a state of sin
a. All Christians have moments of weakness, or ignorantly sin – 1 John 1:8-10
b. It is not inadvertent sin, but deliberate sin that is under consideration
2. A state in which one:
a. Knows the truth – Hebrews 10:26b
b. Yet chooses to deliberately and continuously persist in sin!
C. CAN A TRUE CHRISTIAN EVER REACH THIS POINT? YES!!!
1. Note the pronoun we (the author includes himself in the warning) – Hebrews 10:26a
2. He later describes one who was sanctified by the blood of the covenant – Hebrews 10:29
3. This warning is directed to those who have been sanctified by the blood of Jesus!
4. When one persists in sin willfully, they are in grave danger. This is especially true when one is a Christian!
II. THE CONSEQUENCES OF WILLFUL SIN (Hebrews 10:26-27)
A. THERE NO LONGER REMAINS A SACRIFICE FOR SIN
1. What sacrifice is under consideration here? Christ’s sacrifice!
2. What sacrifice no longer remains? Christ’s sacrifice!
3. The blood of Christ is no longer available for one who persists in willful sin!
B. WHAT DOES REMAIN?
1. a certain fearful expectation of judgment – Hebrews 10:27a
a. One can expect a judgment that is certain! – Hebrews 9:27; Acts 17:30-31
b. One can expect a judgment that is fearful!
1) For we must answer to Christ Himself – 2 Corinthians 5:10-11
2) And we will be in the hands of the living God! – Hebrews 10:30-31
2. A fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries – Hebrews 10:27b
a. A judgment involving fire – Revelation 21:8
b. A judgment involving indignation (the wrath of God) – Romans 2:5-11
c. Such a judgment will devour – Matthew 10:28
III. THE JUSTIFICATION FOR PUNISHING WILLFUL SIN (Hebrews 10:28-31)
A. WHAT WAS REQUIRED UNDER THE OLD COVENANT?
1. Death without mercy! – Hebrews 10:28
2. Such was the punishment for a particular kind of sin:
a. Sin that was deliberate
1) In which one rejected Moses’ law (NKJV)
2) In which one despised Moses’ law (KJV)
b. Sin that was open
1) It had to be seen by two or more
2) For death was not rendered unless there were two or three witnesses
c. Again, it is WILLFULL sin that is under discussion
3. While there was mercy for sins of weakness or ignorance, there was none for open and deliberate sin under the Old Covenant!
B. WHAT IS REQUIRED UNDER THE NEW COVENANT?
1. One is worthy of much worse punishment! – Hebrews 10:29
a. What could be worse than physical death?
b. Only fiery indignation! (hell)
2. Why? Because a Christian who sins willfully has:
a. trampled the Son of God underfoot
1) It denotes contempt of the most flagrant kind
2) Such a person treats Jesus who died for him like dirt!
b. counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing
1) The blood of the covenant clearly refers to Jesus’ blood – Hebrews 9:14-22; Hebrews 13:20
2) It is by this blood one is sanctified
3) Such a person considered Jesus’ blood a common thing!
c. insulted the Spirit of grace
1) A reference to the Holy Spirit
a) Through Whom the message of salvation was given – John 16:13-14
b) Through Whom our sanctification takes place – 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5-7
2) A person who openly and deliberately sins insults God’s grace!
3. This passage clearly teaches two things:
a. That a Christian can so sin as to reach this point of open rebellion against Jesus!
b. That the punishment reserved for such is worse than death!
C. IS THIS CONSISTENT WITH GOD’S NATURE?
1. Isn’t God a God of love? Of course! – 1 John 4:8
2. But He is also a God of justice, One who judges His people – Hebrews 10:30
a. To who much is given, much is required – Luke 12:47-48
b. Those who despise His love, set themselves up to be recipients of His wrath – Romans 2:4-6
3. Therefore it truly is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God – Hebrews 10:31
IV. THE SOLUTION TO AVOIDING WILLFUL SIN (Hebrews 10:32-39)
A. REMEMBER YOUR EARLY CONFIDENCE
1. The writer reminds his readers of their former days
a. Those days after they were illuminated (enlightened) – Hebrews 10:32
1) Shortly after their conversion
2) In the days of Justin (ca. 167 A.D.), this term was a synonym for baptism
b. Those days in which they were made a spectacle – Hebrews 10:32-34
1) By their own sufferings
2) And by sharing in the sufferings of others, including those of the author
a) In whom they had compassion in his chains
b) In which they joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods
3) Knowing that they had a better and enduring possession in heaven!
2. It is such confidence they must be careful not to cast away – Hebrews 10:35
a. To cast away is the opposite of hold fast
b. Only in holding fast our confidence is there great reward – Hebrews 3:6, Hebrews 3:14
3. Likewise, we need to rekindle the fire of that newfound faith we had when we first responded to the gospel! – Revelation 2:4-5
B. ENDURE TO THE END
1. Endurance is needed to receive the promise – Hebrews 10:36
a. For the Lord is coming – Hebrews 10:37
b. And the just lives by faith – Hebrews 10:38
c. If we draw back (become unfaithful), the Lord will not be pleased! (My soul has no pleasure in him.)
2. The author speaks of his own confidence – Hebrews 10:39
a. He is not of those who draw back to perdition (who cast away their faith)
b. But of those who believe to saving of the soul (who remain faithful to the end)
3. We too need to believe to the saving of the soul, or to put it in the words of Jesus, be faithful unto death – Revelation 2:10
Conclusion
1. We can look forward with great anticipation to the saving of our souls, if we:
a. Remember (and rekindle) that confidence early in our conversion
b. Endure to the end with the faith that saves
2. But with a warning against willful sin, we must never forget that one can
a. Fall from grace!
b. Fall into the hands of the living God!
c. Which is a terrifying thing!
3. How much better, though, to be upheld by the hand of God, as the Psalmist wrote: The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand. – Psalm 37:23-24
4. Such is the case of those who remain strong in their faith and trust in the Lord. Are you believing to the saving of your soul…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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