GREAT LESSONS FROM CONTEMPTABLE CREATURES
"THE DISGUSTING, YET UNITED LITTLE LOCUSTS"
(PROVERBS 30: 27)
Intro:
After high school, and a failed stint at MTSU, I move back home, signed up for classes AT DSCC, and found an apartment. I was so excited! I was to be "ON MY OWN!" My best friend and I were going to have our own place, and we could live how we thought we should. As a matter of fact, we were so excited, that we didn't fully investigate the complex into which we were to move. OH sure it had four walls, a sealing, and a floor: but that was about it. The kitchen was falling apart, the whole place had a funny smell, no matter how much you cleaned it, and then there were the bugs. At first, we didn't notice them. After all, we were both blind, and typically bugs and blind folks can coexist fairly well.
The first time that the bugs became a problem was after my friend had moved out, and I was living there by myself. My mom had come over to read me some of my homework, and as we were setting at the table, it happened. Mom looked up, and she gasped. I asked her what was wrong, and she said, "Get the bug spray." I really didn't think that much of it at first, I knew there were roaches after all, and I just figured she had seen one.
Well, mom took the spray I offered her, walked over to the area just beside the counter, and then began to spray. Now, I thought that she would be spraying around the counter, or perhaps around the garbage can. What I didn't expect was for her to spray up around the top of the wall. However, that was exactly what she did. No sooner had she began to spray than I heard a sound. At first, I thought it was rain falling out front, but I soon learned that it was the sound of roaches falling into the garbage can. They were coming out of the walls, and they were falling all over the place as they died! Mom sprayed and sprayed, and finally said that she had gotten all she could. However, soon after that episode, we began looking for me a house to move into.
Hopefully, you will forgive me if I tell you that I cannot stand bugs. I don't like it when they touch me, when they fly by me, when they are even in the same room as me. To me, roaches are just about the most disgusting insect of all time. I would vote them number 1, but there is a bug which, in my opinion, just might take the cake. It is spoken of in both the Old and New Testament. They are spoken of both as a plague, and even as a meal. The insect in question is the Locust.
Locusts, just like the Ant in our first study, are from the kingdom Animalia, and the phylum Arthropoda. Most folks identify these insects from the book of Exodus. In Ex 10: 1-15, we read of God's decision to send a plague of Locusts upon the land of Egypt. Many are under the mistaken impression that that was the only time in which Locusts have fallen upon a given territory. However, in 2004, there was what is referred to as a Locust Outbreak in Western Africa. Also, between May and October of 1915, Locusts fell upon the Palestinian region, doing damage to both land and crops. The Locust is very similar to a grasshopper. They can grow to be about six inches in length.
In spite of my personal aversion to them, the Bible actually pictures Locust in a positive light. In the book of Proverbs, we see Solomon, by inspiration of God, showing us that Locust just might have something to teach you and me. In Prov 30: 27, the scriptures say: "The Locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands."
Tonight, we want to continue our examination of God's little creatures. We will look at the lesson behind the, "Disgusting, Yet United Little Locust." I want to help you to see how we are different from them, and how we should be more like them.
My prayer, as it has been in each of these lessons, is that you will take what God has to say to you, examine it, and then apply it to your lives. Join me as we consider the lessons from Locusts.
I. HOW WE AR DIFFERENT
As in each of the previous two lessons, Solomon begins the verse by saying something, which might need explanation. "The Locusts have no king." What could this possibly have to do with anything? We can easily understand that there is no hierarchical system in the Locust community. They do not elect a president, nor do they have representation in government. If they did, I'm confident that they would work much harder to improve their image.
However, what needs to be understood is that some insects have leadership. They have queens and guides who instruct them on what to do. According to Solomon however, Locusts have no such leader. They are without a queen to command them, or a guide to lead them.
Brethren, we are different from these creatures. We have a system of guidance. We have a king, a ruler, a leader to point us in the direction we should go.
Now, this is not some self-appointed King of kings, such as Artaxerxes. (Ezra 7: 12) Our leader is also different from the flawed King of kings named Nebuchadnezzar. (Dan 2: 37)
Instead, this is the King of Kings spoken of by Paul in his letter to Timothy. (1Ti 6: 15) Our leader, our King of Kings doesn’t just proclaim that name for himself; instead he wares it both on his vesture, and on his person. (Rev 19: 16) His name is Jesus, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lord’s!
He is here to be our leader in terms of his words. (Mt 11: 28) We should follow his guidance in terms of his service of others. (Mk 2: 1-5) We should follow his example in terms of our practices! (Mt 4: 1-11)
Now, despite the fact that they have no leader, the Bible says that they go forth in bands. Another way of saying this would be that they are able to accomplish their goals. The question is, “How can they accomplish their goal without a leader?”
II. HOW WE SHOULD BE SIMULAR
Solomon informs us that the Locusts, “Go forth all of them by bands.” What exactly does this mean? The best way to understand this idea is by looking back in history. In 1926, there was a Locust outbreak which lasted for 14 years, and consumed somewhere in the neighborhood of five million square miles. Just to put that in perspective for you, that is almost twice the size of the United States. Consider the fact that in a one mile stretch, during a locust plague, there can be anywhere from 1 to 200,000,000 locusts. Think about the account given to us in the book of Exodus.
Beginning In exodus 10, we read of the eighth plague which God visited upon the land of Egypt. In fact, the Egyptians are told in ex 10: 5, that the Locusts would cover the face of the earth, and that the ground would not be seen. Do you realize what that means? Egypt covers roughly, 386,659 square miles. That means that God sent a plague, the likes of which haven’t been seen sense.
However, the point I want to make sure you see is that even without a leader, they managed to destroy the land of Egypt. We are told in ex 10: 15, that they ate every herb of the land, every fruit of the trees which had been left from the hail, and that there wasn’t anything green left in the land of Egypt. All of this damage caused by creatures without a leader.
Well, how did they do it? I think the answer is very simple. They were united. They had a common cause, and they didn’t allow anything to divide them. Solomon says that they go forth by bands. They go forth by bands because they are united in there mission.
Now, let’s bring our discussion forward to you and me. We to have a common cause. We are to seek and save the lost. (Lk 19: 10) We are to teach every nation. (Mt 28: 20) We are to preach the Gospel to every creature. (Mk 16: 15) We are to visit the widows and the orphans in their afflictions. (James 1: 27) We are to do good unto all men, especially them that are of the household of faith. (Gal 6: 10)
Not only are we to do these things, but we are to, “endeavor to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace.” (Eph 4: 3) In other words, we too must be united in our common cause, or we will fail.
The good news for us is that we have a leader, and he has shown us the way in which we are to work with one another.
First, we must be united in the cause of Kinship. In Acts 2: 44, we are told: “And all that believed were together, and had all things common.” This meant that they shared in good and in bad, in sickness and in health, and in times of wealth and times of poverty. However, it also means that they shared in their common mission! You didn’t have half a dozen different agendas working against one another! If we are to be like that first century church, then we must be united in this cause of kinship.
However, secondly, and most importantly, we must be united in the cause of the King. Folks, we need to be on the same page with God, or else we are writing our own book. The only problem is that it will be God’s book which shall judge us in the last day. (Jn 12: 48) No, at the end of our days, we want to be able to say that which Christ said near the end of his earthly life. In John 17: 4, as he prayed Christ said: “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.” Christ clearly states that he has glorified God during his time here on earth. How did he do it? By doing the work which God gave him. Christ didn’t come to do his will, but the will of the father! (John 6: 38)
If we are to be pleasing in the sight of God, and fulfill his work, then we must be united in both the cause of kinship, as well as the cause of the King!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
A PRAYER OF MOSES
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THE CLEVER CONIES
GREAT LESSONS FROM CONTEMPTABLE CREATURES
“THE FEEBLE, YET WISE ROCK BADGER”
(PROVERBS 30: 24, 26)
Intro:
I’m sure that you parents can relate to the following story. Two brothers came to their mother asking if they could have a hamster. Well, the mother didn’t think it to be a good idea, because she knew who would end up taking care of the creature. However, as millions have done before her, she bought in to the idea that her kids would feed it, water it, and clean up after it. The hamster was purchased, and after two weeks, mom became the full-time provider for the animal.
One day, mom decided that it was time for the hamster to find a new home. So, she told the boys that Danny, for so they had named the beast, would soon be leaving home. The boys actually took Danny’s departure better than she thought they would. One brother said, “Yeah, he has been around here for a long time, it is probably time for him to go.” Mom replied, “Yes he has been around here for a while, and he is just too much for one person to care for alone.” The other brother then chimed in and said, “Well, maybe if he didn’t eat so much and weren’t so messy we could have kept him.” Mom said, “Yes, maybe, but now it is time for Danny to go to his new home.” The children with shocked looks on their faces then shouted, “Danny! We thought you said Daddy!”
You will recall that last Sunday morning we began our sermon series examining the four wise creatures found in the book of Proverbs. In our first lesson, we noticed the little ant. We discovered that though he is small in stature, he is mighty in wisdom. This week, we want to continue with the next creature found in Proverbs 30: 26. There we are told: “The Conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks.”
The first question which we need to answer is, “what is a Conie?” According to the research which I conducted, the Conie is a cross between a rabbit and a wood chuck. Another name for the Conie is, “Rock Badger.” The Hebrew word for the Rock Badger means “The Hider”, owing to the way in which they make their homes in rocky areas.
Tonight, as we continue with our series, we want to consider this special creature. We want to try to discover what it is that God wanted us to see in terms of its wisdom. Join me as we look closer at the feeble, yet wise Rock Badger.
I. THE FEEBLENESS OF THE ROCK BADGER
As with the ant, Solomon makes a very interesting statement here in the beginning of verse 26. “The conies are but a feeble folk.” Have you ever stopped to consider the true meaning of the word, “FEEBLE?” According to Marion Webster’s Online Dictionary, the word Feeble is defined as:
“Marketable lacking in strength, devoid of qualities or resources that indicate vigor.” Some of the synonyms for feeble are, inadequate, inferior, and weak. To say the very least, being called feeble isn’t a good thing.
Here in Proverbs, Solomon, by the inspiration of God, says that these animals are marketably lacking in strength, devoid of qualities or resources that indicate vigor. He is saying that these creatures are inadequate, inferior, and weak.
Yet, despite this harsh pronouncement, we still find them listed in the section which states that there are four things little upon the earth, but exceeding wise. That means that there has to be something else to this idea of feebleness. There has to be another idea hiding under the surface.
If you believe this, then you are indeed correct. You see, the rock badger suffers with the same thing which you and me struggle with day to day. We are both small creatures, who cannot survive on our own. This rock badger needs a place of shelter into which he can hide from his enemies. He has to hide in the rocks, in order that he might survive.
Are you and I not the exact same way? Do not we struggle with the issues of life? How can we make it? Simple, God is here for us.
Look at Phil 4: 13. There we find one of the great affirmations of all time. “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” First, I need to show you the feebleness of man, which we can see in this verse. Notice again what it says, “I can do all things THROUGH Christ who gives me strength.” Did you catch it? IF you don’t have Christ, then you have no hope. If you don’t have him, then you can do nothing. Without him, you are the feeble rock badger without the rocks.
Just consider this. Without God, Elijah wouldn’t have stood a chance against the false prophets of Baal, who were 850 in number! (1Kings 18: 19) Without God, the Apostles would have been lost at sea! (Mark 4: 37-41) Without God, Jesus couldn’t have been raised from the dead! (Acts 2: 24)
As for you and I, we must have God just as much today! We cannot hope to defeat the enemies of the Lord if we do not put our feeble selves in his hand! If we do not place our feeble, fragile selves in his loving hands, then we will be lost in the sea of this world! If we do not have God on our side, and in our corner, then we have no hope of eternal life, because we are a feeble people!
II. WE SHOULD ALSO NOTICE THE HOUSES WHICH THEY MADE.
There is something very interesting about these creatures. Not only are they feeble, but they also have a great deal of ingenuity. Notice this, they are small creatures, and therefore, they can easily be devoured by creatures that are larger, not to mention meaner than them. So, they build their homes in places that their enemies will have trouble breaking in! They protect their homes, and therefore protect their future!
Folks, we need to learn this lesson from these small yet, wise creatures! We too are small in the big scheme of things! We also need a place of refuge from our enemies! In point of fact, we already have such a place. Paul called it, “The church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth!” (1Tim 3: 15)
Here’s the problem. We are taking that pillar and ground of the truth, and we are watching it fade away. Just last year, The Barna Group, a California based research organization, conducted a study which revealed that 61% of adults in their 20’s had at some point attended church services. However, at the time of the study, those same individuals stated that they no longer attend church, read the Bible, nor pray. Now, to be fair, the Church of Christ is doing slightly better than the denominational world.
Studies have shown that around one-third of the youth in the Church drop out at some point, and never return. About 12% of young people do at some point leave the church, but will return, often after they themselves have gotten married and had children. Regardless what the numbers show, there is a problem, and we need to find the solution.
How do we fix this problem? I would suggest to you that we need to rebuild the walls. Consider with me for just a moment the feeble little Rock Badger, or Coni. This animal understands that it needs the protection of its home. It will need to hide itself away in order to find safety from those who would seek to destroy it.
Brethren, as we illustrated for you in our previous lesson, there are those who are seeking to tare down the Church of our Lord and savior today. If we don’t begin rebuilding these walls, then we are finished!
Well, let’s ask the question which must be on your mind. How do we rebuild the walls of the Church? How do we repair the damage that has been done?
If you will, turn with me to the book of Nehemiah. For those who don’t know, Nehemiah was written by the king's cupbearer. The purpose of the book of Nehemiah was to recount the rebuilding of the wall surrounding Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. Brethren, if you want to know how to rebuild and refortify the walls which make up the house of the Lord, then we should consult how Nehemiah accomplished the task.
The first thing Nehemiah did, and therefore the first thing that we must do, is acknowledge that there is a problem. Notice in Nehemiah 1: 2, that he asks after his fellow Jews, and the city of Jerusalem. Now, when he is told in verse 3 that those that remain are suffering and that the walls of Jerusalem have been torn down and the gates burned, he does something interesting. He sees the problem and doesn’t try to deny its existence. In verse 4, we see his acceptance. The Bible tells us that he wept, mourned, and fasted. This is a man who didn’t try to deny the evidence which had been placed before him. Instead he, as we say today, owned it.
Brethren, we must do the same. It is time for us to stop saying that there is no problem. Folks, there is an entire generation that is missing out on a relationship with the Lord, and they aren’t coming back! Let’s acknowledge what is ahead of us.
Secondly, Nehemiah prayed. Notice again verse 4. Not only did he weep, mourn, and fast: but most importantly of all, he went to God in prayer.
Brethren, I don’t know about you, but this problem scares me out of my mind! This problem worries me night and day. With that being said, I also understand that worry will not help. (Matthew 6: 34) Instead, we should take all our worries, cares, and concerns to God in prayer. (Philippians 4: 6) When we do this: when we go to God and say, “I need your help!” When we do this, he will give us his peace. (Philippians 4: 7)
Finally, we need to work together. One of the most beautiful, yet often overlooked, passages in scripture is Nehemiah chapter 3. There we see the work being done. There we see the solution in action. What is wonderful about that account is that they worked together. Notice how the phrase “Next unto them” occurs over and over again. Folks, that phrase is reminding us that side by side they labored!
This is how we need to be if we are to rebuild and refortify the walls of God’s house. It is time for us to stop working against each other, and instead work “Next Unto Them.” Brethren, please remember, “There is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling.” (Ephesians 4: 4) Remember, he is the one true vine, we are his branches. (John 15: 5) However, if the branches of the tree attack one another, the tree will die!
Brethren, let us emulate that wise rock badger, and rely on God for our nurture! Let us build our walls so great that the world will stand no chance against God’s people!
“THE FEEBLE, YET WISE ROCK BADGER”
(PROVERBS 30: 24, 26)
Intro:
I’m sure that you parents can relate to the following story. Two brothers came to their mother asking if they could have a hamster. Well, the mother didn’t think it to be a good idea, because she knew who would end up taking care of the creature. However, as millions have done before her, she bought in to the idea that her kids would feed it, water it, and clean up after it. The hamster was purchased, and after two weeks, mom became the full-time provider for the animal.
One day, mom decided that it was time for the hamster to find a new home. So, she told the boys that Danny, for so they had named the beast, would soon be leaving home. The boys actually took Danny’s departure better than she thought they would. One brother said, “Yeah, he has been around here for a long time, it is probably time for him to go.” Mom replied, “Yes he has been around here for a while, and he is just too much for one person to care for alone.” The other brother then chimed in and said, “Well, maybe if he didn’t eat so much and weren’t so messy we could have kept him.” Mom said, “Yes, maybe, but now it is time for Danny to go to his new home.” The children with shocked looks on their faces then shouted, “Danny! We thought you said Daddy!”
You will recall that last Sunday morning we began our sermon series examining the four wise creatures found in the book of Proverbs. In our first lesson, we noticed the little ant. We discovered that though he is small in stature, he is mighty in wisdom. This week, we want to continue with the next creature found in Proverbs 30: 26. There we are told: “The Conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks.”
The first question which we need to answer is, “what is a Conie?” According to the research which I conducted, the Conie is a cross between a rabbit and a wood chuck. Another name for the Conie is, “Rock Badger.” The Hebrew word for the Rock Badger means “The Hider”, owing to the way in which they make their homes in rocky areas.
Tonight, as we continue with our series, we want to consider this special creature. We want to try to discover what it is that God wanted us to see in terms of its wisdom. Join me as we look closer at the feeble, yet wise Rock Badger.
I. THE FEEBLENESS OF THE ROCK BADGER
As with the ant, Solomon makes a very interesting statement here in the beginning of verse 26. “The conies are but a feeble folk.” Have you ever stopped to consider the true meaning of the word, “FEEBLE?” According to Marion Webster’s Online Dictionary, the word Feeble is defined as:
“Marketable lacking in strength, devoid of qualities or resources that indicate vigor.” Some of the synonyms for feeble are, inadequate, inferior, and weak. To say the very least, being called feeble isn’t a good thing.
Here in Proverbs, Solomon, by the inspiration of God, says that these animals are marketably lacking in strength, devoid of qualities or resources that indicate vigor. He is saying that these creatures are inadequate, inferior, and weak.
Yet, despite this harsh pronouncement, we still find them listed in the section which states that there are four things little upon the earth, but exceeding wise. That means that there has to be something else to this idea of feebleness. There has to be another idea hiding under the surface.
If you believe this, then you are indeed correct. You see, the rock badger suffers with the same thing which you and me struggle with day to day. We are both small creatures, who cannot survive on our own. This rock badger needs a place of shelter into which he can hide from his enemies. He has to hide in the rocks, in order that he might survive.
Are you and I not the exact same way? Do not we struggle with the issues of life? How can we make it? Simple, God is here for us.
Look at Phil 4: 13. There we find one of the great affirmations of all time. “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” First, I need to show you the feebleness of man, which we can see in this verse. Notice again what it says, “I can do all things THROUGH Christ who gives me strength.” Did you catch it? IF you don’t have Christ, then you have no hope. If you don’t have him, then you can do nothing. Without him, you are the feeble rock badger without the rocks.
Just consider this. Without God, Elijah wouldn’t have stood a chance against the false prophets of Baal, who were 850 in number! (1Kings 18: 19) Without God, the Apostles would have been lost at sea! (Mark 4: 37-41) Without God, Jesus couldn’t have been raised from the dead! (Acts 2: 24)
As for you and I, we must have God just as much today! We cannot hope to defeat the enemies of the Lord if we do not put our feeble selves in his hand! If we do not place our feeble, fragile selves in his loving hands, then we will be lost in the sea of this world! If we do not have God on our side, and in our corner, then we have no hope of eternal life, because we are a feeble people!
II. WE SHOULD ALSO NOTICE THE HOUSES WHICH THEY MADE.
There is something very interesting about these creatures. Not only are they feeble, but they also have a great deal of ingenuity. Notice this, they are small creatures, and therefore, they can easily be devoured by creatures that are larger, not to mention meaner than them. So, they build their homes in places that their enemies will have trouble breaking in! They protect their homes, and therefore protect their future!
Folks, we need to learn this lesson from these small yet, wise creatures! We too are small in the big scheme of things! We also need a place of refuge from our enemies! In point of fact, we already have such a place. Paul called it, “The church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth!” (1Tim 3: 15)
Here’s the problem. We are taking that pillar and ground of the truth, and we are watching it fade away. Just last year, The Barna Group, a California based research organization, conducted a study which revealed that 61% of adults in their 20’s had at some point attended church services. However, at the time of the study, those same individuals stated that they no longer attend church, read the Bible, nor pray. Now, to be fair, the Church of Christ is doing slightly better than the denominational world.
Studies have shown that around one-third of the youth in the Church drop out at some point, and never return. About 12% of young people do at some point leave the church, but will return, often after they themselves have gotten married and had children. Regardless what the numbers show, there is a problem, and we need to find the solution.
How do we fix this problem? I would suggest to you that we need to rebuild the walls. Consider with me for just a moment the feeble little Rock Badger, or Coni. This animal understands that it needs the protection of its home. It will need to hide itself away in order to find safety from those who would seek to destroy it.
Brethren, as we illustrated for you in our previous lesson, there are those who are seeking to tare down the Church of our Lord and savior today. If we don’t begin rebuilding these walls, then we are finished!
Well, let’s ask the question which must be on your mind. How do we rebuild the walls of the Church? How do we repair the damage that has been done?
If you will, turn with me to the book of Nehemiah. For those who don’t know, Nehemiah was written by the king's cupbearer. The purpose of the book of Nehemiah was to recount the rebuilding of the wall surrounding Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. Brethren, if you want to know how to rebuild and refortify the walls which make up the house of the Lord, then we should consult how Nehemiah accomplished the task.
The first thing Nehemiah did, and therefore the first thing that we must do, is acknowledge that there is a problem. Notice in Nehemiah 1: 2, that he asks after his fellow Jews, and the city of Jerusalem. Now, when he is told in verse 3 that those that remain are suffering and that the walls of Jerusalem have been torn down and the gates burned, he does something interesting. He sees the problem and doesn’t try to deny its existence. In verse 4, we see his acceptance. The Bible tells us that he wept, mourned, and fasted. This is a man who didn’t try to deny the evidence which had been placed before him. Instead he, as we say today, owned it.
Brethren, we must do the same. It is time for us to stop saying that there is no problem. Folks, there is an entire generation that is missing out on a relationship with the Lord, and they aren’t coming back! Let’s acknowledge what is ahead of us.
Secondly, Nehemiah prayed. Notice again verse 4. Not only did he weep, mourn, and fast: but most importantly of all, he went to God in prayer.
Brethren, I don’t know about you, but this problem scares me out of my mind! This problem worries me night and day. With that being said, I also understand that worry will not help. (Matthew 6: 34) Instead, we should take all our worries, cares, and concerns to God in prayer. (Philippians 4: 6) When we do this: when we go to God and say, “I need your help!” When we do this, he will give us his peace. (Philippians 4: 7)
Finally, we need to work together. One of the most beautiful, yet often overlooked, passages in scripture is Nehemiah chapter 3. There we see the work being done. There we see the solution in action. What is wonderful about that account is that they worked together. Notice how the phrase “Next unto them” occurs over and over again. Folks, that phrase is reminding us that side by side they labored!
This is how we need to be if we are to rebuild and refortify the walls of God’s house. It is time for us to stop working against each other, and instead work “Next Unto Them.” Brethren, please remember, “There is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling.” (Ephesians 4: 4) Remember, he is the one true vine, we are his branches. (John 15: 5) However, if the branches of the tree attack one another, the tree will die!
Brethren, let us emulate that wise rock badger, and rely on God for our nurture! Let us build our walls so great that the world will stand no chance against God’s people!
TRUE CHRISTIANITY
True Christianity
Matthew 16: 24 – 28
Mt 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
The world today doesn’t know what true Christianity is.
1. Some think it is being on a church roll.
2. Some think it is all that believe in God.
3. Some think it is no more than a social group.
True Christianity is a different life. True Christianity is a special life.
1. Matthew 16: 24 Jesus says it is a life surrendered to the Lord’s will.
2. Not our will by but his.
3. Romans 6: 18 Servants of righteousness.
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
I. True Christianity is a Surrounded Life.
A. Job. 1: 10 Satin says to God, “You are protecting Job”.
Job 1:10 Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.
God did not deny his protection. God aloud the devil to take all Job had, but he protected his life. A hedge of protection.
B. Ephesians 2: 6 – 10 The Christian life today is a surrounded life.
6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
A Hedge of grace.
1. Titus 2: 11 – 15 Titus assures us we are redeemed by God’s grace.
Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
Titus encourages them and us to speak and exhort these things.
2. 1 John 4: 4 We are God’s children.
4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
God dwells in us and we can overcome the world and it’s temptations through obeying God.
3. 1 John 2: 1 – 2 God’s grace covers the sins of the faithful.
1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
It is Christ blood that removes our sins. Christ died once for all.
Not all will obey and be saved.
II. True Christianity is a Serving Life.
A. Many today want to be served, to be entertained.
B. John 13 Jesus washes his disciples feet to show them how to humble themselves to serve others. Peter said you will never wash my feet.
Jesus told him, If I don’t wash you, you will have no part with me.
Peter wants his feet, his hands and his head, all that needs to be washed.
C. John 13: 15 – 17 Jesus gives an example.
Joh 13:15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
We must never forget we are here to serve. We will never be greater than Christ our savior. We should never think we are too good to serve one another. We must do our own serving. No one can serve for you.
III. True Christianity is a Spiritual Life.
A. Romans 8: 1 – 9 We are physical and spiritual. We are in the world, but not of the world.
Ro 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
A True Christian lives the spiritual life for God dwells with in. If we have not the Spirit of Christ we are not his and lost.
B. Galatians 2: 20 Paul says we must live after the Spirit.
20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
C. 1 Peter 2: 11 – 12 Peter says to serve where you can and when we can. 11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Avoid fleshly lust, be honest with all, do good that God might be glorified.
D. Matthew 6: 33 Christ will reward the faithful servant.
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
IV. True Christianity is a Shinning Life.
A. Matthew 5: 14 – 16 Jesus taught the multitude they must be a light.
Mt 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Does our life shine forth Christ?
B. We can hide our light with an ungodly attitude.
C. We can hide our light by being quiet, passive, going along with the world.
D. We can hide our light by justifying our sins with our own will.
Are you living a true Christian life? Jesus said one must hear and believe His word.
Jesus says one must repent of their sins, confessing Christ is the Son of God and to be baptized for the remission of their sins. Then and only then will Christ add one to His church. If your not a Christian today it is not too late. If you do not know what to do you can be taught. Are you willing to study Christ plan of salvation?
Are you a true Christian today? Have you fallen away? You can repent and obey Christ again. Do you need to come today? Will you obey Jesus Christ before it is too late.
Will you come now?
Matthew 16: 24 – 28
Mt 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
The world today doesn’t know what true Christianity is.
1. Some think it is being on a church roll.
2. Some think it is all that believe in God.
3. Some think it is no more than a social group.
True Christianity is a different life. True Christianity is a special life.
1. Matthew 16: 24 Jesus says it is a life surrendered to the Lord’s will.
2. Not our will by but his.
3. Romans 6: 18 Servants of righteousness.
18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
I. True Christianity is a Surrounded Life.
A. Job. 1: 10 Satin says to God, “You are protecting Job”.
Job 1:10 Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.
God did not deny his protection. God aloud the devil to take all Job had, but he protected his life. A hedge of protection.
B. Ephesians 2: 6 – 10 The Christian life today is a surrounded life.
6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
A Hedge of grace.
1. Titus 2: 11 – 15 Titus assures us we are redeemed by God’s grace.
Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
Titus encourages them and us to speak and exhort these things.
2. 1 John 4: 4 We are God’s children.
4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
God dwells in us and we can overcome the world and it’s temptations through obeying God.
3. 1 John 2: 1 – 2 God’s grace covers the sins of the faithful.
1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
It is Christ blood that removes our sins. Christ died once for all.
Not all will obey and be saved.
II. True Christianity is a Serving Life.
A. Many today want to be served, to be entertained.
B. John 13 Jesus washes his disciples feet to show them how to humble themselves to serve others. Peter said you will never wash my feet.
Jesus told him, If I don’t wash you, you will have no part with me.
Peter wants his feet, his hands and his head, all that needs to be washed.
C. John 13: 15 – 17 Jesus gives an example.
Joh 13:15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
We must never forget we are here to serve. We will never be greater than Christ our savior. We should never think we are too good to serve one another. We must do our own serving. No one can serve for you.
III. True Christianity is a Spiritual Life.
A. Romans 8: 1 – 9 We are physical and spiritual. We are in the world, but not of the world.
Ro 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
A True Christian lives the spiritual life for God dwells with in. If we have not the Spirit of Christ we are not his and lost.
B. Galatians 2: 20 Paul says we must live after the Spirit.
20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
C. 1 Peter 2: 11 – 12 Peter says to serve where you can and when we can. 11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Avoid fleshly lust, be honest with all, do good that God might be glorified.
D. Matthew 6: 33 Christ will reward the faithful servant.
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
IV. True Christianity is a Shinning Life.
A. Matthew 5: 14 – 16 Jesus taught the multitude they must be a light.
Mt 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Does our life shine forth Christ?
B. We can hide our light with an ungodly attitude.
C. We can hide our light by being quiet, passive, going along with the world.
D. We can hide our light by justifying our sins with our own will.
Are you living a true Christian life? Jesus said one must hear and believe His word.
Jesus says one must repent of their sins, confessing Christ is the Son of God and to be baptized for the remission of their sins. Then and only then will Christ add one to His church. If your not a Christian today it is not too late. If you do not know what to do you can be taught. Are you willing to study Christ plan of salvation?
Are you a true Christian today? Have you fallen away? You can repent and obey Christ again. Do you need to come today? Will you obey Jesus Christ before it is too late.
Will you come now?
THE CLEVER LITTLE ANT
GREAT LESSONS FROM CONTEMPTABLE CREATURES
“THE CONTEMPTABLE YET CLEVER LITTLE ANT”
(PROVERBS 30: 24-25)
Intro:
There is a verse in the Bible which I have read over and over again. However, recently I think I might have finally understood it. 2Timothy 3: 16 states: “For all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” After years of hearing this passage, and reading it for myself, and quoting it in countless sermons, I think I finally understand. Each and every verse in the Bible is there for a reason. More importantly, each and every verse of the Bible has something to say to us. In Proverbs 30: 24-29, we find a series of verses which will test that theory.
In the text, the Lord is dealing with four small creatures, which are great in wisdom. An ant, rock badger, locus, and a lizard are usually thought of as annoying, troublesome, nasty, and some would say, contemptable. However, here in the book of Proverbs, they are shown in a different light. We see them through the eyes of the one who created them. For while we credit the sayings of Proverbs to Solomon, we need to remember that Solomon was the writer, but the Lord was the oraitor.
For the next four lessons, we want to notice the similarities between the four contemptable, yet wise, creatures of Proverbs 30, and Christians today. If we can learn the lessons which God wants us to learn from this passage, then hopefully we can also be called wise.
The first of these creatures is the tiny ant. In Proverbs 30: 24-25, we are told: “There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise: the ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer.” We see the writer of Proverbs beginning this section by speaking of the tiny ant. Ants are members of the kingdom Animalia, from the phylum Arthropoda. In short, Ants have long been regarded as mere scavengers. However, here Solomon, through the inspiration of God, calls them wise.
Tonight, we want to consider these small, yet wise creatures. We want to learn the lesson which God would have us see from this passage.
Join me as we consider the wisdom of, and the warning to, God’s little ant.
I. THE WISE LITTLE ANT
First, we need to make sure that we understand an important fact that is located in the first half of verse 25. There it says, “The ants are a people not strong.” There is an important lesson which we must see if we are to truly recognize the wisdom of the ant. In point of fact, Ants are extremely strong. They are capable of carrying objects many times their body weight. In scientific studies, there have been certain species of ants which have carried as much as five times their body weight, and have been shown to drag objects as large as 25 times their body weight by themselves.
However, regardless which species you are talking about, there is a point at which their strength gives out. There is always an OBJECT WHICH THEY IN counter which a single ant cannot move.
In Prov 30: 25, Solomon, by the inspiration of God, says that ants are not strong. Though they can drag up to 25 times their body weight, God says they are not strong, yet they are wise. Could it be that they are wise because they see that they are weak on their
own, but with help they can prepare and gather the food they need? Is the lesson for you and I that we need to comprehend our own personal weakness, and seek assistance from those who are around us? Could it be that God wants us to know that there is only so much that we can take alone, but with his help, we can move those obstacles in our path? When you stop and consider the scriptures, time and time again, we see great and powerfully spiritual men needed to admit their weakness. Elijah had to call for help in 1Kings19! Jonah had to call for help from the belly of the great fish in Jonah 2: 1-10! David, a man after God’s own heart, had to ask for forgiveness in Psalms 51: 1! The apostle Paul, who was responsible for thousands finding their way to the cross during the course of his life, had to ask for help in 2Cor 12: 7-9. Why, even Jesus himself called for the Father in heaven in Luke 22: 43. Why would God do this? He makes us strong enough to bear some, why not make us strong enough to bare it all? In my mind, the answer is given in 2Cor 12: 9. There, as he answers the Apostle Paul’s request for the removal of his thorn in the flesh, he says that, “my strength is made perfect in weakness!” We strengthen the name of the Lord through our weakness!
However, the ant is also said to be wise because of his preparation. You see, ants hibernate in the winter, and therefore they have a very small period of time in which they can gather food. They know that both the fall and spring will be very long and therefore they need to make all their preparations before it is too late. They know that the summer will be hot, and the work will be hard, but they know that it is in their best interest to take care of business.
If we hope to be called as wise as the little ant, we must see to our own preparations. Eternity is a long time to think about all the things we should have done. Think about the rich man in Luke 12: 16-20 who failed to make his proper preparations on this side of eternity, and was called a fool for his oversight. Brethren, take time to prepare for that great second coming. According to 2Timothy 4: 8, the Lord gives a crown to those who look forward to his coming with love. The only way you can do that is if you are prepared for that coming! The only way that ants can look forward to the fall and spring is if they have completed all their forging. Make sure that you are ready.
II. THE WARNING TO THE ANTS
The warning is not stated here, but it should go without saying. The ants that are truly wise will be aware of the fact, and will be on the lookout for it. IF you go a type in the word “ANT” into a Google search, you will come up with 70,100,000 results. Out of that number, most deal with the extermination of ants. There is every chemical, compound, and compact known to man to help eliminate the plethora of ants which plague us each and every day.
Folks that is what the world wants to do to the church. Each and every day there is a greater and greater push to leave God behind, and embrace this present world. There is a push to stamp out every trace of God from our society. It reminds me of the way Katie reacts when she sees an ant in the house. It doesn’t matter what the ant is doing, or where it’s is at. She wants her mother to kill it. If it is on the front porch, it must die. If it is in the front yard, miles from the house, it must die. Whether we like it or not, that is where we are heading. We are quickly approaching that time when man is no longer listening to sound doctrine; rather they want us to simply hush.
What we need are Christians who are willing to face this harsh reality, but will not back down. We need those who will rejoice that they are counted worthy to suffer for his name sake! (Acts 5: 40) We need those who will understand the danger, but will press upward to the call of God in Christ Jesus! (Phil 3: 14)
I hadn’t ever considered the true wisdom of an ant until I started preparing this lesson. However, having now a greater understanding of this tiny wise creature of God, I can only hope that my God will bless me with its wisdom.
“THE CONTEMPTABLE YET CLEVER LITTLE ANT”
(PROVERBS 30: 24-25)
Intro:
There is a verse in the Bible which I have read over and over again. However, recently I think I might have finally understood it. 2Timothy 3: 16 states: “For all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” After years of hearing this passage, and reading it for myself, and quoting it in countless sermons, I think I finally understand. Each and every verse in the Bible is there for a reason. More importantly, each and every verse of the Bible has something to say to us. In Proverbs 30: 24-29, we find a series of verses which will test that theory.
In the text, the Lord is dealing with four small creatures, which are great in wisdom. An ant, rock badger, locus, and a lizard are usually thought of as annoying, troublesome, nasty, and some would say, contemptable. However, here in the book of Proverbs, they are shown in a different light. We see them through the eyes of the one who created them. For while we credit the sayings of Proverbs to Solomon, we need to remember that Solomon was the writer, but the Lord was the oraitor.
For the next four lessons, we want to notice the similarities between the four contemptable, yet wise, creatures of Proverbs 30, and Christians today. If we can learn the lessons which God wants us to learn from this passage, then hopefully we can also be called wise.
The first of these creatures is the tiny ant. In Proverbs 30: 24-25, we are told: “There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise: the ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer.” We see the writer of Proverbs beginning this section by speaking of the tiny ant. Ants are members of the kingdom Animalia, from the phylum Arthropoda. In short, Ants have long been regarded as mere scavengers. However, here Solomon, through the inspiration of God, calls them wise.
Tonight, we want to consider these small, yet wise creatures. We want to learn the lesson which God would have us see from this passage.
Join me as we consider the wisdom of, and the warning to, God’s little ant.
I. THE WISE LITTLE ANT
First, we need to make sure that we understand an important fact that is located in the first half of verse 25. There it says, “The ants are a people not strong.” There is an important lesson which we must see if we are to truly recognize the wisdom of the ant. In point of fact, Ants are extremely strong. They are capable of carrying objects many times their body weight. In scientific studies, there have been certain species of ants which have carried as much as five times their body weight, and have been shown to drag objects as large as 25 times their body weight by themselves.
However, regardless which species you are talking about, there is a point at which their strength gives out. There is always an OBJECT WHICH THEY IN counter which a single ant cannot move.
In Prov 30: 25, Solomon, by the inspiration of God, says that ants are not strong. Though they can drag up to 25 times their body weight, God says they are not strong, yet they are wise. Could it be that they are wise because they see that they are weak on their
own, but with help they can prepare and gather the food they need? Is the lesson for you and I that we need to comprehend our own personal weakness, and seek assistance from those who are around us? Could it be that God wants us to know that there is only so much that we can take alone, but with his help, we can move those obstacles in our path? When you stop and consider the scriptures, time and time again, we see great and powerfully spiritual men needed to admit their weakness. Elijah had to call for help in 1Kings19! Jonah had to call for help from the belly of the great fish in Jonah 2: 1-10! David, a man after God’s own heart, had to ask for forgiveness in Psalms 51: 1! The apostle Paul, who was responsible for thousands finding their way to the cross during the course of his life, had to ask for help in 2Cor 12: 7-9. Why, even Jesus himself called for the Father in heaven in Luke 22: 43. Why would God do this? He makes us strong enough to bear some, why not make us strong enough to bare it all? In my mind, the answer is given in 2Cor 12: 9. There, as he answers the Apostle Paul’s request for the removal of his thorn in the flesh, he says that, “my strength is made perfect in weakness!” We strengthen the name of the Lord through our weakness!
However, the ant is also said to be wise because of his preparation. You see, ants hibernate in the winter, and therefore they have a very small period of time in which they can gather food. They know that both the fall and spring will be very long and therefore they need to make all their preparations before it is too late. They know that the summer will be hot, and the work will be hard, but they know that it is in their best interest to take care of business.
If we hope to be called as wise as the little ant, we must see to our own preparations. Eternity is a long time to think about all the things we should have done. Think about the rich man in Luke 12: 16-20 who failed to make his proper preparations on this side of eternity, and was called a fool for his oversight. Brethren, take time to prepare for that great second coming. According to 2Timothy 4: 8, the Lord gives a crown to those who look forward to his coming with love. The only way you can do that is if you are prepared for that coming! The only way that ants can look forward to the fall and spring is if they have completed all their forging. Make sure that you are ready.
II. THE WARNING TO THE ANTS
The warning is not stated here, but it should go without saying. The ants that are truly wise will be aware of the fact, and will be on the lookout for it. IF you go a type in the word “ANT” into a Google search, you will come up with 70,100,000 results. Out of that number, most deal with the extermination of ants. There is every chemical, compound, and compact known to man to help eliminate the plethora of ants which plague us each and every day.
Folks that is what the world wants to do to the church. Each and every day there is a greater and greater push to leave God behind, and embrace this present world. There is a push to stamp out every trace of God from our society. It reminds me of the way Katie reacts when she sees an ant in the house. It doesn’t matter what the ant is doing, or where it’s is at. She wants her mother to kill it. If it is on the front porch, it must die. If it is in the front yard, miles from the house, it must die. Whether we like it or not, that is where we are heading. We are quickly approaching that time when man is no longer listening to sound doctrine; rather they want us to simply hush.
What we need are Christians who are willing to face this harsh reality, but will not back down. We need those who will rejoice that they are counted worthy to suffer for his name sake! (Acts 5: 40) We need those who will understand the danger, but will press upward to the call of God in Christ Jesus! (Phil 3: 14)
I hadn’t ever considered the true wisdom of an ant until I started preparing this lesson. However, having now a greater understanding of this tiny wise creature of God, I can only hope that my God will bless me with its wisdom.
SUCCESS GOD'S WAY
SUCCESS GOD’S WAY
Joshua 1:1-11
1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying,
11 Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth you to possess it.
It was a time of uncertainty for Israel.
Moses had just died and God buried him on Mount Pisgah..
Joshua had just taken the reins of leadership in Israel.
He was to lead the children of Israel into the promised land.
To whom was he going to turn? What would he tell the people? Where would he go first?
There must have been a million questions going through his mind.
Then, God speaks directly to Joshua.
He tells Joshua to go over the Jordan and claim the land that God had given to them.
He tells Joshua to observe the law and keep it faithfully.
He then tells him to 1) be strong and of good courage, 2) be not afraid, neither be dismayed, and 3) the Lord thy God is with thee wherever he goes.
In essence he gives Joshua to keys to success.
If we desire to be spiritually successful we must . . .
I. JOSHUA 1: 6 BE STRONG AND HAVE GOOD COURAGE.
A. Courage is Complete composure or self-assurance.
1. God tells Joshua to be strong.
2. To be courageous. Courage was something that he would need in facing his enemies.
3. Strength was what he needed to motivate his friends.
4. He would need both to be successful in leading the children of Israel into the land of Canaan.
B. As Christians we need to be courageous.
1. Courage is to be brave or bold in adverse circumstances.
2. We need to be bold, brave, and courageous to speak the truth in the face of opposition. It is not popular to stand for God, Christ and the Bible, but it is needed by every Christian today. We must oppose sin in every form.
3. Acts 4: 29 The apostles prayed for such,
29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,
Do we pray for courage and boldness in this sinful world? Are we willing to stand for that which is right even if we stand alone? God is with us.
4. Hebrews 13:6 Paul often asked for prayers on his behalf so that he would speak boldly.
6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
Do we sometimes have those fears? Do we pray to God for strength?
5. Ephesians 6:19 - 20 Paul request prayer for others
18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,
20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Do we pray that we might say the right thing? That we might speak boldly?
C. We also need strength as Christians to live faithfully and encourage our brethren.
Ephesians 6:10 Paul says in instruction to brethren.
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
1. Putting on the whole armor of God helps us to be strong.
a. Gird our loins with truth.
b. Breastplate of righteousness.
c. On our feet the preparation of the gospel.
d. Shield of faith.
e. Helmet of salvation.
f. Sword of the Spirit.
D. 2 Cor. 12: 10 Strength for the Christian, that may come from the unlikeliest of sources. Paul writes,
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Do we thing sometimes in our weakness we are defeated? Paul says he gained strength from his weakness.
E. Phill. 4: 13 Paul reminds us from where our strength comes.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Let us adopt courage, a determined spirit, with composed confidence, with Christ.
II. JOSHUA 1: 9 BE NOT AFRAID, BE NOT DISMAYED, AVOID ANXIETY
A. Anxiety is worrying about things over which we have no control. It leads to fear and dismay. God told Joshua to have no fear and be not dismayed. When we have this kind of fear, we will fail to act. To be dismayed is to be like a deer looking into the headlights. When we have such an attitude, we will be overcome and fail.
As Christians we must avoid anxieties.
Matt. 6: 33 Jesus tells us not to be anxious for food, clothing, and shelter but instead,
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
All the things and needs of this world will perish. Only the things done for God will last. These are spiritual and eternal things. God first.
B. Phill. 4: 6 Paul writes to let God know your request.,
“In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God”
C. Matthew 10:28 There is a type of fear that we must have, namely, Godly fear, a respectful fear.
“And be not afraid of them that kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Only God can destroy both soul and body.
III. JOSHUA 1: 9 ACCEPT GOD’S ASSURANCE.
. Josh. 1: 9 God assured Joshua. God said that He would be with Joshua wherever he went. What a great assurance knowing that God is on our side! The Creator, the Ruler of the Universe, the All Powerful – He is here and present with us! Could Joshua have greater assurance than that?
A. Jesus gave His disciples the same assurance.
1) In Matthew 28:20 Jesus promised to be with His disciples until the end.
2) John 14:23 Jesus said unto Judas.
23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
Do we believe Jesus?
B. The churches were also encouraged by Christ's present in the first century.
Philippians 4:9 Paul says do what we have shown and told you.
“The things which ye both learned and received and heard and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
The obedience is in the doing. Are we doers of the word?
C. Ephesians 4:6 Paul wrote there is one God for all.
6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
D. We need to accept God's assurance that He is with us and get busy doing His will in our lives regardless of what comes our way.
CONCLUSION:
1. God gave Joshua three attitudes for success. If we adopt these attitudes then we will be successful as well.
1) Adopt our courage in God
2) Avoid Anxiety, do what you can.
3) Accept God’s Assurance.
Are you a Christian? How do you know? Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God? Have you repented of your sins? Have you confessed Christ? Have you been baptized in water for the remission of your sins? Are you confused by these questions? How do you know you’re a Christian?
Jesus said, “if you love me you will keep my commandment.” Do you love Jesus? Are you obedient to his word, the Bible? Jesus said, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” Are you saved? Jesus said “be thou faithful until death and I will give thee a crown of life.” Are you in Christ today? Are you faithful? Will you come to Jesus and obey him?
Joshua 1:1-11
1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying,
11 Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth you to possess it.
It was a time of uncertainty for Israel.
Moses had just died and God buried him on Mount Pisgah..
Joshua had just taken the reins of leadership in Israel.
He was to lead the children of Israel into the promised land.
To whom was he going to turn? What would he tell the people? Where would he go first?
There must have been a million questions going through his mind.
Then, God speaks directly to Joshua.
He tells Joshua to go over the Jordan and claim the land that God had given to them.
He tells Joshua to observe the law and keep it faithfully.
He then tells him to 1) be strong and of good courage, 2) be not afraid, neither be dismayed, and 3) the Lord thy God is with thee wherever he goes.
In essence he gives Joshua to keys to success.
If we desire to be spiritually successful we must . . .
I. JOSHUA 1: 6 BE STRONG AND HAVE GOOD COURAGE.
A. Courage is Complete composure or self-assurance.
1. God tells Joshua to be strong.
2. To be courageous. Courage was something that he would need in facing his enemies.
3. Strength was what he needed to motivate his friends.
4. He would need both to be successful in leading the children of Israel into the land of Canaan.
B. As Christians we need to be courageous.
1. Courage is to be brave or bold in adverse circumstances.
2. We need to be bold, brave, and courageous to speak the truth in the face of opposition. It is not popular to stand for God, Christ and the Bible, but it is needed by every Christian today. We must oppose sin in every form.
3. Acts 4: 29 The apostles prayed for such,
29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,
Do we pray for courage and boldness in this sinful world? Are we willing to stand for that which is right even if we stand alone? God is with us.
4. Hebrews 13:6 Paul often asked for prayers on his behalf so that he would speak boldly.
6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
Do we sometimes have those fears? Do we pray to God for strength?
5. Ephesians 6:19 - 20 Paul request prayer for others
18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,
20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Do we pray that we might say the right thing? That we might speak boldly?
C. We also need strength as Christians to live faithfully and encourage our brethren.
Ephesians 6:10 Paul says in instruction to brethren.
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
1. Putting on the whole armor of God helps us to be strong.
a. Gird our loins with truth.
b. Breastplate of righteousness.
c. On our feet the preparation of the gospel.
d. Shield of faith.
e. Helmet of salvation.
f. Sword of the Spirit.
D. 2 Cor. 12: 10 Strength for the Christian, that may come from the unlikeliest of sources. Paul writes,
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Do we thing sometimes in our weakness we are defeated? Paul says he gained strength from his weakness.
E. Phill. 4: 13 Paul reminds us from where our strength comes.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Let us adopt courage, a determined spirit, with composed confidence, with Christ.
II. JOSHUA 1: 9 BE NOT AFRAID, BE NOT DISMAYED, AVOID ANXIETY
A. Anxiety is worrying about things over which we have no control. It leads to fear and dismay. God told Joshua to have no fear and be not dismayed. When we have this kind of fear, we will fail to act. To be dismayed is to be like a deer looking into the headlights. When we have such an attitude, we will be overcome and fail.
As Christians we must avoid anxieties.
Matt. 6: 33 Jesus tells us not to be anxious for food, clothing, and shelter but instead,
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
All the things and needs of this world will perish. Only the things done for God will last. These are spiritual and eternal things. God first.
B. Phill. 4: 6 Paul writes to let God know your request.,
“In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God”
C. Matthew 10:28 There is a type of fear that we must have, namely, Godly fear, a respectful fear.
“And be not afraid of them that kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Only God can destroy both soul and body.
III. JOSHUA 1: 9 ACCEPT GOD’S ASSURANCE.
. Josh. 1: 9 God assured Joshua. God said that He would be with Joshua wherever he went. What a great assurance knowing that God is on our side! The Creator, the Ruler of the Universe, the All Powerful – He is here and present with us! Could Joshua have greater assurance than that?
A. Jesus gave His disciples the same assurance.
1) In Matthew 28:20 Jesus promised to be with His disciples until the end.
2) John 14:23 Jesus said unto Judas.
23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
Do we believe Jesus?
B. The churches were also encouraged by Christ's present in the first century.
Philippians 4:9 Paul says do what we have shown and told you.
“The things which ye both learned and received and heard and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
The obedience is in the doing. Are we doers of the word?
C. Ephesians 4:6 Paul wrote there is one God for all.
6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
D. We need to accept God's assurance that He is with us and get busy doing His will in our lives regardless of what comes our way.
CONCLUSION:
1. God gave Joshua three attitudes for success. If we adopt these attitudes then we will be successful as well.
1) Adopt our courage in God
2) Avoid Anxiety, do what you can.
3) Accept God’s Assurance.
Are you a Christian? How do you know? Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God? Have you repented of your sins? Have you confessed Christ? Have you been baptized in water for the remission of your sins? Are you confused by these questions? How do you know you’re a Christian?
Jesus said, “if you love me you will keep my commandment.” Do you love Jesus? Are you obedient to his word, the Bible? Jesus said, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” Are you saved? Jesus said “be thou faithful until death and I will give thee a crown of life.” Are you in Christ today? Are you faithful? Will you come to Jesus and obey him?
Friday, October 30, 2009
HE WANTS AN ALERT CHURCH
LESSONS FROM THE LETTERS
“HE WANTS AN ALERT CHURCH”
(REVELATION 3: 14-22)
Intro:
How do you grow a church? What are the steps that should be taken if the Lord’s body is to experience numerical growth? For several years now, these are the questions which have plagued the church at large. During that same time span, there have been many suggested answers.
Some have said that our hope lies in programs. They propose that we should have more outreach, more benevolence, and more community oriented work. Still others say that we must learn to unite. They suggest that the many walls of division which we have erected are keeping us from our goals. There are even those who say that we should relax the standards which the Bible has set for us.
Today, as we conclude our sermon series in which we have examined the lessons from the letters of Revelation: we want to examine a church which seems to have had numerical growth down pat.
Laodicea was a wealthy region known for its banking. Also, thanks to the medical school located within its walls, the drug industry was very prosperous.
The Church in Laodicea was actually mentioned before Revelation 3: 14. In Colossians 4: 16, Paul tells the readers of the letter to Colosse to make sure that they share the word of the Lord with the church in Laodicea. Unfortunately, nothing remains of this church today.
This morning, I want us to see what Christ had to say to this final group. They were apparently successful at numerical growth. What is interesting however is the fact that Christ never once complements the Laodiceans. This would indicate to us that numerical growth isn’t necessarily the chief indicator of true spiritual success. Instead, Christ offers them warning. The underlying message of the words of Revelation 3: 14-22 is that Jesus is looking for an alert church. He wants a church that is paying attention to that which is going on around them.
Today, as we conclude, we want to examine two things that we need to be alert to if we are to experience true, authentic, numerical and spiritual growth. My prayer is that we can study together, and learn what it is that Christ would have us to know in order that we might become what he would have us to be.
I. BE ALERT TO THE FALSE SIGNS OF SUCCESS
1. As in the other letters, Christ begins by introducing himself to the church.
A. Rev 3: 14 first, Christ refers to himself as “the amen.”
B. As we know, the word “amen” means: “so be it.”
C. Literally speaking, Christ is reminding the church in Laodicea that he is the one who says how it will be.
D. John 5: 27 as the Son of God, he has the authority given to him by God to establish the ground rules for his church.
E. Rev 3: 14 Christ also says that he is the “faithful and true witness.”
F. John 14: 6 Jesus himself revealed to his disciples that he was the truth, meaning that no shadow could deceive, nor would he seek to cast any deception.
G. Rev 3: 14 finally, Jesus says that he is the beginning of the creation of God.”
H. John 1: 1 these words serve as a reminder that the one who writes is the same who was present from the beginning.
2. As interesting as it is to hear Christ introducing himself, it is equally informative to hear the Laodiceans opinion of themselves.
A. Rev 3: 17 “I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.”
B. Translation? “We have a lot of money! People think we are so great! There is nothing that anyone can tell us!”
C. They are judging themselves based upon earthly standards, and they seem to think that everything is great.
3. However, in that very same verse, Christ reveals to them that they shouldn’t trust in those false standards.
A. Rev 3: 17 “Thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.”
B. Rev 3: 18 in fact, Christ goes on to say that he wishes that they were either hot or cold, because at the current time they are neither.
C. Rev 3: 16 this church so distresses Christ with their lackluster service that he says that he will soon vomit them out of his mouth.
D. Christ wants them to understand that earthly standards do not matter; rather it is the opinion of the head of the church that truly matters!
II. BE ALERT TO THE TRUE SIGNS OF SUCCESS
1. Christ makes it clear that earthly standards are no way to judge success. Then what is our true standard?
A. Rev 3: 18 “I counsel thee to buy from me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich.”
2. The key word to notice is “BUY.”
A. In order to buy, you must have something to spend.
B. Christ here is making a very simple offer.
C. Heb 5: 9 the offer is your heart, mind, and soul, through obedience, in exchange for salvation.
D. Notice that he wants you to purchase gold tried in the fire.
E. Without question, salvation is the gold with which we want to line our pockets.
F. Heb 12: 2-3 we also know that in order to bring salvation to mankind, Christ was indeed tried by fire.
“HE WANTS AN ALERT CHURCH”
(REVELATION 3: 14-22)
Intro:
How do you grow a church? What are the steps that should be taken if the Lord’s body is to experience numerical growth? For several years now, these are the questions which have plagued the church at large. During that same time span, there have been many suggested answers.
Some have said that our hope lies in programs. They propose that we should have more outreach, more benevolence, and more community oriented work. Still others say that we must learn to unite. They suggest that the many walls of division which we have erected are keeping us from our goals. There are even those who say that we should relax the standards which the Bible has set for us.
Today, as we conclude our sermon series in which we have examined the lessons from the letters of Revelation: we want to examine a church which seems to have had numerical growth down pat.
Laodicea was a wealthy region known for its banking. Also, thanks to the medical school located within its walls, the drug industry was very prosperous.
The Church in Laodicea was actually mentioned before Revelation 3: 14. In Colossians 4: 16, Paul tells the readers of the letter to Colosse to make sure that they share the word of the Lord with the church in Laodicea. Unfortunately, nothing remains of this church today.
This morning, I want us to see what Christ had to say to this final group. They were apparently successful at numerical growth. What is interesting however is the fact that Christ never once complements the Laodiceans. This would indicate to us that numerical growth isn’t necessarily the chief indicator of true spiritual success. Instead, Christ offers them warning. The underlying message of the words of Revelation 3: 14-22 is that Jesus is looking for an alert church. He wants a church that is paying attention to that which is going on around them.
Today, as we conclude, we want to examine two things that we need to be alert to if we are to experience true, authentic, numerical and spiritual growth. My prayer is that we can study together, and learn what it is that Christ would have us to know in order that we might become what he would have us to be.
I. BE ALERT TO THE FALSE SIGNS OF SUCCESS
1. As in the other letters, Christ begins by introducing himself to the church.
A. Rev 3: 14 first, Christ refers to himself as “the amen.”
B. As we know, the word “amen” means: “so be it.”
C. Literally speaking, Christ is reminding the church in Laodicea that he is the one who says how it will be.
D. John 5: 27 as the Son of God, he has the authority given to him by God to establish the ground rules for his church.
E. Rev 3: 14 Christ also says that he is the “faithful and true witness.”
F. John 14: 6 Jesus himself revealed to his disciples that he was the truth, meaning that no shadow could deceive, nor would he seek to cast any deception.
G. Rev 3: 14 finally, Jesus says that he is the beginning of the creation of God.”
H. John 1: 1 these words serve as a reminder that the one who writes is the same who was present from the beginning.
2. As interesting as it is to hear Christ introducing himself, it is equally informative to hear the Laodiceans opinion of themselves.
A. Rev 3: 17 “I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.”
B. Translation? “We have a lot of money! People think we are so great! There is nothing that anyone can tell us!”
C. They are judging themselves based upon earthly standards, and they seem to think that everything is great.
3. However, in that very same verse, Christ reveals to them that they shouldn’t trust in those false standards.
A. Rev 3: 17 “Thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.”
B. Rev 3: 18 in fact, Christ goes on to say that he wishes that they were either hot or cold, because at the current time they are neither.
C. Rev 3: 16 this church so distresses Christ with their lackluster service that he says that he will soon vomit them out of his mouth.
D. Christ wants them to understand that earthly standards do not matter; rather it is the opinion of the head of the church that truly matters!
II. BE ALERT TO THE TRUE SIGNS OF SUCCESS
1. Christ makes it clear that earthly standards are no way to judge success. Then what is our true standard?
A. Rev 3: 18 “I counsel thee to buy from me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich.”
2. The key word to notice is “BUY.”
A. In order to buy, you must have something to spend.
B. Christ here is making a very simple offer.
C. Heb 5: 9 the offer is your heart, mind, and soul, through obedience, in exchange for salvation.
D. Notice that he wants you to purchase gold tried in the fire.
E. Without question, salvation is the gold with which we want to line our pockets.
F. Heb 12: 2-3 we also know that in order to bring salvation to mankind, Christ was indeed tried by fire.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD!
FAITH WITHOUT WORKS
JAMES 2: 17 - 26
17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend Of God.
24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
The world is just wrong about faith only or saved by faith only. Faith is one basic part of our obedience to Christ.
I. Matthew 16: 24 – 27 Jesus taught the reward for works.
Mt 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
When Jesus come to receive the faithful home he will reward according to their works. That alone makes works necessary to enter heaven. That is enough for every Christian to want to do good works for God. That God would be glorified by our good works.
A. Mt 5:16 Jesus said to let our light shine before men.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which
is in heaven.
Here “men” is generic for all people. Good works is that which glorifies God. We are to do good in God’s name that he might be glorified and not ourselves. If we do it for our own glory we have received all the reward we will receive.
B. Philippians 2: 12 – 13 Paul says to work.
Philippians 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye 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.
13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
We cannot do it alone for God must be working in us.
C. James 1: 21 – 25 James writes we must be doers.
Jas 1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
A lot of people hear the truth, but never do it. If we hear and do we will be blessed. If one hears only they deceive themselves and are lost.
D. Matthew 16: 26 What is your soul worth?
Mt 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Are you risking your soul? Some might ask, What should I do?
II. Colossians 1: 9 – 10 Paul writes to be fruitful in every good work.
Col 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
We are to be doing good. Some may ask, What is good in God’s sight?
A. Galatians 5: 19 – 21 Let us look at the works of the flesh. This is what God does not want. Paul writes, NKJ
5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,
idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,
21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
This is not what God wants from his children. These are the works of the sinful world. These are to be put off when we obey Jesus Christ in baptism.
What does God want?
B. Galatians 5: 22 – 26 Paul continues with the works or fruit of the Spirit. NKJ
5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
These are good works, fruits of the Spirit. Those who are Christ, will develop these and show forth Christ in their life. They are doers of the word.
C. Titus 2: 1 – 8 Titus says to show a pattern of good works. Which pattern? The one of sound doctrine, God’s word.
1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
8. Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.
There is a pattern for young, old, male and female.
Everyone faithful to God will follow His pattern found in the NT.
III. 1 Corinthians 1: 10 Christians are to be Workers together with God in unity.
10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
The same mind and same judgment was that of Jesus Christ.
A. 1 Corinthians 3: 5 – 9 Working together in God plan.
5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
9. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.
We must learn to do the work of the Lord together in love.
B. John 13: 34 – 35 Jesus gave the commandment to love one another.
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Working together takes loving one another. I was told of a conversation where the length of time a preacher had served. One of our members commented that one of the preachers here had been here 21 years. One in the group commented that was because this church was a family. Their churches were organizations, North Jackson was a family. That says a lot for how some outside the church perceive those in the church. This is as it should be. We should be seen as Christians because we love one another.
Are we doing the work of the Lord by faith? Faith without works is dead being alone. Works without faith must be dead also. We must have both. We must have love for God and one another. We must obey from the Bible that which God commands.
Who are you serving today? God or the world?
Matthew 6: 19 We can not serve both.
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!
24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
When we seek Christ first we will find him.
When we obey Him in baptism for the remission of our sins we will be forgiven. Then and only then can we be added by Christ to his church. Then we are to get busy in good works to glorify God. Being busy in the Lord will keep us out of trouble with the worldly temptations. We can rejoice in Jesus Christ that we are not the person we once were, but now faithful Christians.
Are you a Christian today? A NT Christian? Many believe that if they believe in Christ you are a Christian. That is far from true. Do you need to obey Christ now, before it is too late?
Are you an unfaithful Christian. You obeyed Christ and was baptized, but he is no longer first in your life. You live by faith, but are no longer working for the Lord. Do you want to come back to Jesus Christ, repenting of your sins and obeying him once again?
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Will you come as we stand and sing.
JAMES 2: 17 - 26
17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend Of God.
24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
The world is just wrong about faith only or saved by faith only. Faith is one basic part of our obedience to Christ.
I. Matthew 16: 24 – 27 Jesus taught the reward for works.
Mt 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.
When Jesus come to receive the faithful home he will reward according to their works. That alone makes works necessary to enter heaven. That is enough for every Christian to want to do good works for God. That God would be glorified by our good works.
A. Mt 5:16 Jesus said to let our light shine before men.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which
is in heaven.
Here “men” is generic for all people. Good works is that which glorifies God. We are to do good in God’s name that he might be glorified and not ourselves. If we do it for our own glory we have received all the reward we will receive.
B. Philippians 2: 12 – 13 Paul says to work.
Philippians 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye 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.
13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
We cannot do it alone for God must be working in us.
C. James 1: 21 – 25 James writes we must be doers.
Jas 1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
A lot of people hear the truth, but never do it. If we hear and do we will be blessed. If one hears only they deceive themselves and are lost.
D. Matthew 16: 26 What is your soul worth?
Mt 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Are you risking your soul? Some might ask, What should I do?
II. Colossians 1: 9 – 10 Paul writes to be fruitful in every good work.
Col 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
We are to be doing good. Some may ask, What is good in God’s sight?
A. Galatians 5: 19 – 21 Let us look at the works of the flesh. This is what God does not want. Paul writes, NKJ
5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,
idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,
21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
This is not what God wants from his children. These are the works of the sinful world. These are to be put off when we obey Jesus Christ in baptism.
What does God want?
B. Galatians 5: 22 – 26 Paul continues with the works or fruit of the Spirit. NKJ
5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
These are good works, fruits of the Spirit. Those who are Christ, will develop these and show forth Christ in their life. They are doers of the word.
C. Titus 2: 1 – 8 Titus says to show a pattern of good works. Which pattern? The one of sound doctrine, God’s word.
1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
8. Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.
There is a pattern for young, old, male and female.
Everyone faithful to God will follow His pattern found in the NT.
III. 1 Corinthians 1: 10 Christians are to be Workers together with God in unity.
10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
The same mind and same judgment was that of Jesus Christ.
A. 1 Corinthians 3: 5 – 9 Working together in God plan.
5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
9. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.
We must learn to do the work of the Lord together in love.
B. John 13: 34 – 35 Jesus gave the commandment to love one another.
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Working together takes loving one another. I was told of a conversation where the length of time a preacher had served. One of our members commented that one of the preachers here had been here 21 years. One in the group commented that was because this church was a family. Their churches were organizations, North Jackson was a family. That says a lot for how some outside the church perceive those in the church. This is as it should be. We should be seen as Christians because we love one another.
Are we doing the work of the Lord by faith? Faith without works is dead being alone. Works without faith must be dead also. We must have both. We must have love for God and one another. We must obey from the Bible that which God commands.
Who are you serving today? God or the world?
Matthew 6: 19 We can not serve both.
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
22 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!
24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
When we seek Christ first we will find him.
When we obey Him in baptism for the remission of our sins we will be forgiven. Then and only then can we be added by Christ to his church. Then we are to get busy in good works to glorify God. Being busy in the Lord will keep us out of trouble with the worldly temptations. We can rejoice in Jesus Christ that we are not the person we once were, but now faithful Christians.
Are you a Christian today? A NT Christian? Many believe that if they believe in Christ you are a Christian. That is far from true. Do you need to obey Christ now, before it is too late?
Are you an unfaithful Christian. You obeyed Christ and was baptized, but he is no longer first in your life. You live by faith, but are no longer working for the Lord. Do you want to come back to Jesus Christ, repenting of your sins and obeying him once again?
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Will you come as we stand and sing.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
PUTTING AWAY CHILDISH THINGS
PUT AWAY CHILDISH THINGS
1 CORINTHIANS 13: 11
11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
Paul expresses that childish things are not becoming of a chirstian. Jesus says there are some aspects of children we should keep. Let us look at that which Paul was speaking compared to that which Christ was speaking.
I. Some childish things should be out grown.
A. 1 Timothy 5: 13 Tattling is a childish thing. Gossip is the adult version.
13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
Here young widows are encouraged to remarry because it is too easy to become idle and fall into gossip crowd. Let us not fall into the temptation to carry stories or even truths that do not need to be told.
Let us be busy in the Lord’s work. Doing good.
B. Matt. 32: 12 Children desire and demand attention. If a child does not get attention doing good they will do something bad to get attention. They will get your attention. We should not have to be the center of attention all the time.
12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
We should not show ourselves or show off to gain attention.
If we bring attention unto ourselves let it with good works to glorify God and not ourselves.
1. 1 Peter 5: 6 Peter says let God do the exalting.
6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
2. Matt. 6: 5 They prayed to be seen.
5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
C. James 3: 13 – 18 Envious, Jealousy, and Strife are not from God.
13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
A child may envy another child’s hear, shoes, cloths. They can become jealous over the least little thing. They can make a fuse over nothing.
A child needs to be corrected and directed in the right way. An adult christian should have grown up out of these childish behaviors.
1. Gal 5: 26 Paul teaches and includes himself.
26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
To many are seeking the glory of man. People have not changed that much. Paul says not to provoke one another, not to envy one another. What does the world do today? Just exactly as they were doing in Paul’s day, provoking and envying one another. Don’t do that any more.
2. Proverbs 14: 30 The Proverb writer says what envy does.
30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Let us strive to have a sound heart in Christ Jesus.
3. Romans 13: 13 – 14 Paul says walk without strife and envy.
13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
The christian life is a walk of faith with honesty and obedienance to God. Running the race for the crown.
II. Matthew 18: 1 - 6 Jesus contrast this with “become as little children.”
1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
A. Matt. 18: 2 - 3 Innocence of a child.
2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
A child is innocent, free of guilt, sin, unacquainted with evil and pure. Adults know right from wrong and should seek that innocence, acceptable to God.
B. Isaiah 12: 2 – 3 Simple faith and trust.
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. 3 Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.
A child jumps time after time into the outstretched arms of a parent with no fear. They have the faith that they will always be safe. We must have that faith and trust in our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
C. Romans 12: 15 Sympathy and compassion.
15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
A little child is concerned by a injured bird or when a gold fish dies. We should have that compassion for one another.
1. Eph. 4: 31 – 32
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
If we can not do that now why would we think we could do it in heaven?
2. Heb. 10: 34 The Hebrew writer to those that helped him writes.
34 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.
We must believe that what we do for God today will be rewarded to us in heave.
3. Gal. 6: 10 Using every opportunity for good.
Ga 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
Are we ready, willing and able. Yes we can all do good for someone. A lessoning ear, a kind word, a cup of cold water.
If we do it unto the least we do it unto Christ.
D. Colossians 3: 12 – 14 Forgiving one another.
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Children can fuss and fight one minute and be best friends the next.
Let us not carry a grudge. Forgive even when not ask.
1. Eph. 4: 26 Paul says we will be agree.
Eph 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
Don’t sleep on it because it will grow and fester in the night.
Let it go, give it to God.
2. Mark 11: 25 Forgive to be forgiven.
25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
God will not forgive the non-forgiver. Our forgiveness depends on our forgiving others.
3. Luke 17: 3 – 4 When offended let them know with love.
3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.
4 And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.
When they repent forgive. Let it go.
Grow up in Christ. Mature as a christian. Let Christ dwell in you richly
Col. 3: 14 – 17 Paul tells the brethren in Colosse to put off the things of the world. Put off childish things and put on Christ.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 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.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Do good so it can be done in the name of the Lord Jesus.
1 CORINTHIANS 13: 11
11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
Paul expresses that childish things are not becoming of a chirstian. Jesus says there are some aspects of children we should keep. Let us look at that which Paul was speaking compared to that which Christ was speaking.
I. Some childish things should be out grown.
A. 1 Timothy 5: 13 Tattling is a childish thing. Gossip is the adult version.
13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
Here young widows are encouraged to remarry because it is too easy to become idle and fall into gossip crowd. Let us not fall into the temptation to carry stories or even truths that do not need to be told.
Let us be busy in the Lord’s work. Doing good.
B. Matt. 32: 12 Children desire and demand attention. If a child does not get attention doing good they will do something bad to get attention. They will get your attention. We should not have to be the center of attention all the time.
12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
We should not show ourselves or show off to gain attention.
If we bring attention unto ourselves let it with good works to glorify God and not ourselves.
1. 1 Peter 5: 6 Peter says let God do the exalting.
6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
2. Matt. 6: 5 They prayed to be seen.
5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
C. James 3: 13 – 18 Envious, Jealousy, and Strife are not from God.
13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
A child may envy another child’s hear, shoes, cloths. They can become jealous over the least little thing. They can make a fuse over nothing.
A child needs to be corrected and directed in the right way. An adult christian should have grown up out of these childish behaviors.
1. Gal 5: 26 Paul teaches and includes himself.
26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
To many are seeking the glory of man. People have not changed that much. Paul says not to provoke one another, not to envy one another. What does the world do today? Just exactly as they were doing in Paul’s day, provoking and envying one another. Don’t do that any more.
2. Proverbs 14: 30 The Proverb writer says what envy does.
30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Let us strive to have a sound heart in Christ Jesus.
3. Romans 13: 13 – 14 Paul says walk without strife and envy.
13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
The christian life is a walk of faith with honesty and obedienance to God. Running the race for the crown.
II. Matthew 18: 1 - 6 Jesus contrast this with “become as little children.”
1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
A. Matt. 18: 2 - 3 Innocence of a child.
2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
A child is innocent, free of guilt, sin, unacquainted with evil and pure. Adults know right from wrong and should seek that innocence, acceptable to God.
B. Isaiah 12: 2 – 3 Simple faith and trust.
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. 3 Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.
A child jumps time after time into the outstretched arms of a parent with no fear. They have the faith that they will always be safe. We must have that faith and trust in our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
C. Romans 12: 15 Sympathy and compassion.
15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
A little child is concerned by a injured bird or when a gold fish dies. We should have that compassion for one another.
1. Eph. 4: 31 – 32
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
If we can not do that now why would we think we could do it in heaven?
2. Heb. 10: 34 The Hebrew writer to those that helped him writes.
34 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.
We must believe that what we do for God today will be rewarded to us in heave.
3. Gal. 6: 10 Using every opportunity for good.
Ga 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
Are we ready, willing and able. Yes we can all do good for someone. A lessoning ear, a kind word, a cup of cold water.
If we do it unto the least we do it unto Christ.
D. Colossians 3: 12 – 14 Forgiving one another.
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Children can fuss and fight one minute and be best friends the next.
Let us not carry a grudge. Forgive even when not ask.
1. Eph. 4: 26 Paul says we will be agree.
Eph 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
Don’t sleep on it because it will grow and fester in the night.
Let it go, give it to God.
2. Mark 11: 25 Forgive to be forgiven.
25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
God will not forgive the non-forgiver. Our forgiveness depends on our forgiving others.
3. Luke 17: 3 – 4 When offended let them know with love.
3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.
4 And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.
When they repent forgive. Let it go.
Grow up in Christ. Mature as a christian. Let Christ dwell in you richly
Col. 3: 14 – 17 Paul tells the brethren in Colosse to put off the things of the world. Put off childish things and put on Christ.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 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.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Do good so it can be done in the name of the Lord Jesus.
LESSONS FROM THE LETTERS 4
LESSONS FROM THE LETTERS
“HE WANTS A LIVING CHURCH”
(REVELATION 3: 1-6)
Intro:
How do you decide whether or not a church is dead? What criteria do you establish when you are examining a congregation? Some say that a church that is alive has parking problems, while the dead church has plenty of spots available. Others say that a lively church has lots of noisy children, while a dead church is stone cold quiet. There are those who feel that a lively church sings nothing but the latest greatest praise songs, while a dead church is stuck with nothing but the greatest hits from the late 1800’s. There are even those who believe that only living churches possess the knowledge, skill, and ability to use PowerPoint and other technology, while dead churches simply use that old standard known as the Bible.
When you hear this list, you might be tempted to agree with some of these suppositions. However, can I suggest something to you? I want to suggest that true though some of these may be, partial indicators, but they are not 100% reliable. After all, there are many large churches, who couldn’t possibly fit one more car on the lot come Sunday morning, who are dead. Also, there are many churches that have an enormous youth group, but are D.R.T. (Dead Right There) finally; the use of PowerPoint isn’t an indication of deep spirituality, but simply shows an eldership that are willing to try new things in order to help the membership.
Well, what does constitute a dead church? If you will turn to Revelation 3, and examine verses 1-6, you will find a church that isn’t dead, but it has a serious choice to make if they are to avoid death.
Sardis was the capital city of the Lydian monarchy. It was well-known for its vast wealth and riches. This once great city stood until 1402 A.D, at which time it was all but destroyed. By the year 1850, it was reported that no human dwelt within the land which once made up the mighty city of Sardis.
During the height of its might, a congregation of the Lord’s church existed inside the walls of Sardis. In Revelation 3: 1-6, we find Christ addressing those brethren.
The subject of his address is quite simple. He wants the church at Sardis to see that they are dying! The problem for the church is that Christ doesn’t want a dead body, but a living servant!
Today, as we continue to examine the lessons from the letters of Revelation, we want to examine the idea that we need to be alive, if we are to be affective in our work for the Lord.
I. HOW TO KNOW IF A CHURCH IS DEAD
1. Notice what Christ says in verse 1.
A. Rev 3: 1 “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.”
B. Christ has just revealed that though they ware the name of Christian, they are in fact dead inside.
2. How does Christ make this assertion?
A. Rev 3: 5 “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.”
B. Matt 10: 32-33 I would suggest to you that one of the problems which Sardis faced was that they were not confessing Christ before men.
C. This means that we confess Christ’s supremacy in terms of salvation, as well as in terms of cultural issues.
3. Secondly, the Church in Sardis was dead because of the sin which stained some of them.
A. Rev 3: 4 “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.”
B. You see, the church was being strangled by the sin which plagued some of the members.
C. At the time of the letter, they were unworthy because of their unconfessed sin.
D. So, we understand that a church is dead when it stops confessing Jesus, and allows sin to stain its members.
II. HOW TO BRING A CHURCH BACK FROM THE DEAD
1. The truth is that Christ could have simply dismissed them, and put them out of mind.
A. However, what is interesting is that he took the time to breathe new life into this floundering congregation.
B. Instead of leaving them for dead, Christ offers THREE steps to life.
2. First, they must know that help is available.
A. Rev 3: 1 Christ says that he is the one with the “seven spirits of God”, and “the seven stars.”
B. Rev 1: 20 we know from that first chapter that the stars represent the seven churches.
C. The seven spirits, as noted by Coffman’s commentary, represent The Holy Spirit sent out to the seven churches.
D. What Christ is pointing out to them is that they need God in their midst!
E. Gal 5: 19-23 rather than the spirit of the world, a church wishing to return from the dead need the presence of God, in the form of the fruit of the spirit.
F. Rom 4: 17 God is able to recall the living from the dead, but only when we turn to him for help.
3. Also, they need to pay attention to what’s going on.
A. Rev 3: 2 “Be watchful.”
B. Christ is telling them that they are dying and don’t see it, but they must wake up before it is too late!
C. Christ tells them in verse 2 that they need to build on what is left before it fades away as well.
D. Phil 2: 12 Christ wants to encourage them to take responsibility.
4. Finally, they must remember.
A. Rev 3: 3 “Remember how thou hast received and heard.”
B. Christ wants them to remember all that was suffered that they might call themselves the Church of Christ.
C. Heb 12: 2 remember all that Christ endured!
D. 2Cor 11: 23-27 remember all who suffered to bring the word to you!
E. The church who wants to return from the dead will take these steps quickly, before it is too late!
“HE WANTS A LIVING CHURCH”
(REVELATION 3: 1-6)
Intro:
How do you decide whether or not a church is dead? What criteria do you establish when you are examining a congregation? Some say that a church that is alive has parking problems, while the dead church has plenty of spots available. Others say that a lively church has lots of noisy children, while a dead church is stone cold quiet. There are those who feel that a lively church sings nothing but the latest greatest praise songs, while a dead church is stuck with nothing but the greatest hits from the late 1800’s. There are even those who believe that only living churches possess the knowledge, skill, and ability to use PowerPoint and other technology, while dead churches simply use that old standard known as the Bible.
When you hear this list, you might be tempted to agree with some of these suppositions. However, can I suggest something to you? I want to suggest that true though some of these may be, partial indicators, but they are not 100% reliable. After all, there are many large churches, who couldn’t possibly fit one more car on the lot come Sunday morning, who are dead. Also, there are many churches that have an enormous youth group, but are D.R.T. (Dead Right There) finally; the use of PowerPoint isn’t an indication of deep spirituality, but simply shows an eldership that are willing to try new things in order to help the membership.
Well, what does constitute a dead church? If you will turn to Revelation 3, and examine verses 1-6, you will find a church that isn’t dead, but it has a serious choice to make if they are to avoid death.
Sardis was the capital city of the Lydian monarchy. It was well-known for its vast wealth and riches. This once great city stood until 1402 A.D, at which time it was all but destroyed. By the year 1850, it was reported that no human dwelt within the land which once made up the mighty city of Sardis.
During the height of its might, a congregation of the Lord’s church existed inside the walls of Sardis. In Revelation 3: 1-6, we find Christ addressing those brethren.
The subject of his address is quite simple. He wants the church at Sardis to see that they are dying! The problem for the church is that Christ doesn’t want a dead body, but a living servant!
Today, as we continue to examine the lessons from the letters of Revelation, we want to examine the idea that we need to be alive, if we are to be affective in our work for the Lord.
I. HOW TO KNOW IF A CHURCH IS DEAD
1. Notice what Christ says in verse 1.
A. Rev 3: 1 “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.”
B. Christ has just revealed that though they ware the name of Christian, they are in fact dead inside.
2. How does Christ make this assertion?
A. Rev 3: 5 “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.”
B. Matt 10: 32-33 I would suggest to you that one of the problems which Sardis faced was that they were not confessing Christ before men.
C. This means that we confess Christ’s supremacy in terms of salvation, as well as in terms of cultural issues.
3. Secondly, the Church in Sardis was dead because of the sin which stained some of them.
A. Rev 3: 4 “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.”
B. You see, the church was being strangled by the sin which plagued some of the members.
C. At the time of the letter, they were unworthy because of their unconfessed sin.
D. So, we understand that a church is dead when it stops confessing Jesus, and allows sin to stain its members.
II. HOW TO BRING A CHURCH BACK FROM THE DEAD
1. The truth is that Christ could have simply dismissed them, and put them out of mind.
A. However, what is interesting is that he took the time to breathe new life into this floundering congregation.
B. Instead of leaving them for dead, Christ offers THREE steps to life.
2. First, they must know that help is available.
A. Rev 3: 1 Christ says that he is the one with the “seven spirits of God”, and “the seven stars.”
B. Rev 1: 20 we know from that first chapter that the stars represent the seven churches.
C. The seven spirits, as noted by Coffman’s commentary, represent The Holy Spirit sent out to the seven churches.
D. What Christ is pointing out to them is that they need God in their midst!
E. Gal 5: 19-23 rather than the spirit of the world, a church wishing to return from the dead need the presence of God, in the form of the fruit of the spirit.
F. Rom 4: 17 God is able to recall the living from the dead, but only when we turn to him for help.
3. Also, they need to pay attention to what’s going on.
A. Rev 3: 2 “Be watchful.”
B. Christ is telling them that they are dying and don’t see it, but they must wake up before it is too late!
C. Christ tells them in verse 2 that they need to build on what is left before it fades away as well.
D. Phil 2: 12 Christ wants to encourage them to take responsibility.
4. Finally, they must remember.
A. Rev 3: 3 “Remember how thou hast received and heard.”
B. Christ wants them to remember all that was suffered that they might call themselves the Church of Christ.
C. Heb 12: 2 remember all that Christ endured!
D. 2Cor 11: 23-27 remember all who suffered to bring the word to you!
E. The church who wants to return from the dead will take these steps quickly, before it is too late!
FIREPROOFING GOD IN OUR LIVES
FIREPROOFING GOD IN OUR LIFE
PROVERBS 3: 5 – 10
5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
10. So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
Fireproofing is preparing for the fire when it comes. There will be fires in life that try to separate us from God. The devil will bring temptations that can separate us if we are not prepared to fight the fire. I hope in your home you have fire and smoke detectors. I hope you have a fire extinguisher in your home. I hope you have a plan incase of fire that you know what you will do. This is being prepared. If we have a fire we need to be prepared.
I. Proverbs 3: 5 Trust In The Lord With All Thine Heart.
Oh we will trust him some, but it says with “all thy heart.”
Not some times, not part time, not just when we think we need him.
But, With all thy heart. This fireproofs our heart.
A. Psalms 18: 1 – 2 Look what David said.
1. I will love thee, O LORD, my strength.
2. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
The Lord was David’s strength in all things. He trusted in the Lord.
B. Job 13: 15 – 16 Job trusted in God.
15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.
16 He also shall be my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before him.
Job said his trust was not an act, it was the real thing. He trusted God because his salvation depended on it.
C. Eph. 3: 16 – 19 Trust in the Lord and he will fireproof you.
16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
Will you trust in the Lord with all your understanding?
II. Proverbs 3: 5 Lean not to Our Own Understanding.
A. Jeremiah 10: 23 We are created in God’s image, but we need
direction. Jeremiah prays:
23 O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.
Jeremiah new we had a need to follow God. When we accept that we can not walk alone and please God we will be closer to God.
B. Isaiah 55: 8 – 9 God tells Isaiah that our thoughts are not His.
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
We are not equal to God so it must be accepted that our ways and thoughts are nor equal to God. We can not just do it our way and please God.
C. John 6: 67 – 69 We must accept God’s will as our will. Peter expressed there was no where else to go. They believed the words of Christ.
67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?
68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.
69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.
When we only lean on the Lord we are fireproofing our life from false doctrine and the will’s of men. The word of the Lord and His word only will be our guide.
D. Matthew 26: 39 Jesus prayed unto God, pleading and accepting.
39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
If the Son of God knew he had to accept God’s will, who are we to think we are better than Christ.
When we accept God’s will be will be able to do all things pertaining to God and His church. We will be able to do the will of the Lord. Will you accept God’s will?
III. Proverbs 3: 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Some do not acknowledge him as God. The humanist says they are god.
The atheist says there is no god. The world says there are many gods.
We have to decide. Do we believe there is one God?
A. James 2: 19 – 20 It is good to believe in God, even greater to believe there is one God, but that is not enough. Even the devils believe. We must have a belief that will cause action. More than fear. Faith in action from love. Love overcomes fear and never fails.
James says:
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
To fireproof our life we must do more than just believe, we must acknowledge him in all our ways.
B. 1 Thessalonians 5: 18 Acknowledge God by giving thanks.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Some 30 times in the Old Testament it says give thanks. It is the will of God.
C. 2 Corinthians 9: 7 Acknowledge God in our giving.
7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
Giving as we are prospered. Giving our time, talents, opportunities to do good. Acknowledging God with all we have. Acknowledging that all good things come from God. All we have belongs to God and let us acknowledge that to the world. We are not laying up treasures on earth, but in heaven.
This fireproofs our life against greed and self righteousness. The world says look at me and my accomplishments. The christian says look at Christ and his sacrifices. I give my life to Christ and Him crucified. I live that Christ might be glorified by my life. Bringing glory to God the Father.
Fireproofing God in our life requires we Trust in the Lord above all else, Accepting His will above our own and living according to His will as our own, and acknowledging Him in all things.
Then we are prepared to fight the devils of this world with the Gospel armor.
Are you a christian? Many think they are, but have never obeyed Christ. If you believe in Jesus Christ and want to be saved you must be baptized for the remission of sins. The world says Baptism does not save, but
1 Peter 3: 21 says it does. I am going to go with the Bible.
1Pe 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
All scripture is inspired by God. This is scripture. So God wanted us to be baptized to be saved. Not babies, or children, but those with a conscience toward God that believe they must be baptized for the remission of their sins. Have you been baptized for the remission of your sins? You can not fireproof that which will not obey God.
Are you a christian today but not ready to meet God because your life is not right with God? Why as a christian would you remain in a lost condition? You know and believe that God has appointed a day when all will be judged according to his word. Will you come back to Christ today? Fireproofing once again your life in Christ.
PROVERBS 3: 5 – 10
5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
10. So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
Fireproofing is preparing for the fire when it comes. There will be fires in life that try to separate us from God. The devil will bring temptations that can separate us if we are not prepared to fight the fire. I hope in your home you have fire and smoke detectors. I hope you have a fire extinguisher in your home. I hope you have a plan incase of fire that you know what you will do. This is being prepared. If we have a fire we need to be prepared.
I. Proverbs 3: 5 Trust In The Lord With All Thine Heart.
Oh we will trust him some, but it says with “all thy heart.”
Not some times, not part time, not just when we think we need him.
But, With all thy heart. This fireproofs our heart.
A. Psalms 18: 1 – 2 Look what David said.
1. I will love thee, O LORD, my strength.
2. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
The Lord was David’s strength in all things. He trusted in the Lord.
B. Job 13: 15 – 16 Job trusted in God.
15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.
16 He also shall be my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before him.
Job said his trust was not an act, it was the real thing. He trusted God because his salvation depended on it.
C. Eph. 3: 16 – 19 Trust in the Lord and he will fireproof you.
16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
Will you trust in the Lord with all your understanding?
II. Proverbs 3: 5 Lean not to Our Own Understanding.
A. Jeremiah 10: 23 We are created in God’s image, but we need
direction. Jeremiah prays:
23 O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.
Jeremiah new we had a need to follow God. When we accept that we can not walk alone and please God we will be closer to God.
B. Isaiah 55: 8 – 9 God tells Isaiah that our thoughts are not His.
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
We are not equal to God so it must be accepted that our ways and thoughts are nor equal to God. We can not just do it our way and please God.
C. John 6: 67 – 69 We must accept God’s will as our will. Peter expressed there was no where else to go. They believed the words of Christ.
67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?
68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.
69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.
When we only lean on the Lord we are fireproofing our life from false doctrine and the will’s of men. The word of the Lord and His word only will be our guide.
D. Matthew 26: 39 Jesus prayed unto God, pleading and accepting.
39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
If the Son of God knew he had to accept God’s will, who are we to think we are better than Christ.
When we accept God’s will be will be able to do all things pertaining to God and His church. We will be able to do the will of the Lord. Will you accept God’s will?
III. Proverbs 3: 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Some do not acknowledge him as God. The humanist says they are god.
The atheist says there is no god. The world says there are many gods.
We have to decide. Do we believe there is one God?
A. James 2: 19 – 20 It is good to believe in God, even greater to believe there is one God, but that is not enough. Even the devils believe. We must have a belief that will cause action. More than fear. Faith in action from love. Love overcomes fear and never fails.
James says:
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
To fireproof our life we must do more than just believe, we must acknowledge him in all our ways.
B. 1 Thessalonians 5: 18 Acknowledge God by giving thanks.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Some 30 times in the Old Testament it says give thanks. It is the will of God.
C. 2 Corinthians 9: 7 Acknowledge God in our giving.
7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
Giving as we are prospered. Giving our time, talents, opportunities to do good. Acknowledging God with all we have. Acknowledging that all good things come from God. All we have belongs to God and let us acknowledge that to the world. We are not laying up treasures on earth, but in heaven.
This fireproofs our life against greed and self righteousness. The world says look at me and my accomplishments. The christian says look at Christ and his sacrifices. I give my life to Christ and Him crucified. I live that Christ might be glorified by my life. Bringing glory to God the Father.
Fireproofing God in our life requires we Trust in the Lord above all else, Accepting His will above our own and living according to His will as our own, and acknowledging Him in all things.
Then we are prepared to fight the devils of this world with the Gospel armor.
Are you a christian? Many think they are, but have never obeyed Christ. If you believe in Jesus Christ and want to be saved you must be baptized for the remission of sins. The world says Baptism does not save, but
1 Peter 3: 21 says it does. I am going to go with the Bible.
1Pe 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
All scripture is inspired by God. This is scripture. So God wanted us to be baptized to be saved. Not babies, or children, but those with a conscience toward God that believe they must be baptized for the remission of their sins. Have you been baptized for the remission of your sins? You can not fireproof that which will not obey God.
Are you a christian today but not ready to meet God because your life is not right with God? Why as a christian would you remain in a lost condition? You know and believe that God has appointed a day when all will be judged according to his word. Will you come back to Christ today? Fireproofing once again your life in Christ.
FIREPROOFING YOUR BRETHREN
FIREPROOFING OUR CONGREGATION
“NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND”
(ACTS 2: 42-47)
Intro:
A minister by the name of James Thompson once stated, “I’m not afraid of anything that the world can do to us. What I’m more fearful of is what we can do to ourselves.” If we are strong inside, then nothing that the world can do will hold us back from accomplishing the task which God has given us.
However, how many times do we see it? A faithful church, a loving church, a working church divided by the problems which they are experiencing on the inside. We frequently speak of the laws and regulations which are impeding upon our worship, but seldom do we mention the strife which exists among our number. Instead, we bury our heads in the sand, and wait until our fellowship is broken to acknowledge the pink elephant in the room which our problems have become.
This morning, we come to the third lesson in our homecoming series. You will recall that our over-all theme is, “Fireproofing our Congregation.” Along those lines, Brother John and I have suggested to you that we need to remember to never leave behind our marriage or our children if we are to be successful in this attempt to withstand the issues which we face. Today, I want to continue in this same vain by encouraging you to, “Never Leave Your Brethren Behind.”
I want to begin this lesson with a little honesty. I’m afraid that we have missed the true meaning of the word which our Bibles translate as fellowship. The Greek word “koinwonia” means more than a party, or dinner, or 10 to 15 minutes of talking before or after services. Literally, this word carries with it the idea of intimacy, or a collection, or a group working together.
Folks, I want to stress to you like never before the need to continue in fellowship. I want to encourage you to follow the word of the Lord when it instructs us in Hebrews 13: 1 to: “Let brotherly love continue.”
I want to invite you to join me as we consider what it is that we need to do if we are to avoid leaving our brethren behind. In order to reach our goal, I want us to consider the First Century Church. Let’s look at that Church found in Acts 2: 42-47. Let’s examine what they did to fireproof the Church in its early days.
I. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FAITH
1. Notice carefully what it says in Acts 2: 42.
A. Acts 2: 42 “And they continued steadfastly in the Apostles Doctrine.”
B. The recorder of these early days wants us to see the commitment which the church had to following the words which the apostles had given to them.
C. Understand that this was not the doctrine designed by the apostles, rather it was the doctrine reported by the apostles.
2. There are two things which we want to see if we are to remain united with our brethren in respect to the word of the Lord.
A. Acts 2: 42 we see the procedure for staying together.
B. Acts 2: 43 we see what is produced by staying together.
3. First, notice what procedure they followed in order to stay together.
A. Acts 2: 42 “And they continued steadfastly.”
B. This indicates to me that they took an active roll in the work and word of the Lord.
C. Phil 2: 1 as Paul stated, they were of the same mind in the fellowship of the Spirit.
D. Now, the only way that you can follow this procedure is by continuing to show up and observe and participate in this “apostle’s doctrine.”
4. However, if we are to learn to never leave our brethren behind in faith, then we should also see what is produced when we remain together.
A. Acts 2: 43 “And fear came upon every soul.”
B. Please, once and for all, let’s make sure we understand what it is that this phrase is telling us.
C. They were not afraid because of the signs and wonders done by the apostles, rather they developed a healthy fear of the Lord because of their growth in the Church.
D. Psalms 19: 9 as David told us, fear of the Lord isn’t a dark and gloomy process, but it is clean and ever enduring!
II. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FELLOWSHIP
1. As stated in the introduction, we have lost touch with the true meaning of this word.
A. Folks, it doesn’t just mean that you come to know these men and women setting around you in a surface manor.
B. This word carries with it the idea of deep, intimate, connecting relationships.
2. Look at the early Church, and the fellowship they enjoyed.
A. Acts 2: 44 they were together and had all things common.
B. Acts 2: 45 they reached out and met the needs of the brethren, even if it meant personal sacrifice.
C. Acts 2: 46 this togetherness, this sharing, this sacrifice produced not anger, but gladness!
3. What about you and me?
A. Phil 2: 5 Paul encourages us by the inspiration of God to, “Have this mind in you which was also in Christ Jesus.”
B. Mark 4: 1 even when it meant more work for him, Christ sought fellowship!
C. Mark 3: 31-35 even when it meant personal sacrifice, Christ sought fellowship!
D. 1Thess 4: 9 let us follow the teachings of God, and love one another in true fellowship.
III. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FOCUS
1. Again, notice carefully what it was that they continued steadfastly in.
A. Acts 2: 42 “in breaking of bread.”
B. They did just what Christ had commanded on the night he was arrested, and continued to remember his death by partaking of the Lord’s Supper.
2. What does this have to do with focus?
A. 1Cor 11: 24 Christ himself said: “Do this in remembrance of me.”
B. Christ is to be the focus of the Lord’s Supper, in fact he is to be the focus of all that we do and say!
C. That early Church reminded themselves of this central fact through their continuing efforts.
3. The message remains for us today.
A. Yes, we partake of the Lord’s Supper each Lord’s day.
B. However, we should not lose sight of the fact that Christ is to be at the center of everything.
C. Phil 2: 2 let us be of one love, and one accord, and of one mind when it comes to serving God!
D. Acts 2: 46 if we too have this singleness of heart, we will not leave our brethren behind!
IV. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FORBEARANCE
1. Finally, we are told that those first century Christians continued steadfastly in prayer.
A. Acts 2: 45 it is very apparent from this passage that they cared about the needs of their brothers and sisters.
B. They met the physical needs of the brethren, but they also took time to pray for one another.
2. Often this is one of the things which we overlook.
A. Gal 6: 2 Paul says that we are to bear one another’s burdens, and we automatically assume that this means that we need to “DO” something.
B. If marriage has taught me anything, it is that sometimes there isn’t anything you can do, and that by not trying, but simply praying or listening, you are doing the best thing anyway.
C. The most beautiful thing that you can tell a brother or sister in Christ is, “I’m praying for you.”
“NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND”
(ACTS 2: 42-47)
Intro:
A minister by the name of James Thompson once stated, “I’m not afraid of anything that the world can do to us. What I’m more fearful of is what we can do to ourselves.” If we are strong inside, then nothing that the world can do will hold us back from accomplishing the task which God has given us.
However, how many times do we see it? A faithful church, a loving church, a working church divided by the problems which they are experiencing on the inside. We frequently speak of the laws and regulations which are impeding upon our worship, but seldom do we mention the strife which exists among our number. Instead, we bury our heads in the sand, and wait until our fellowship is broken to acknowledge the pink elephant in the room which our problems have become.
This morning, we come to the third lesson in our homecoming series. You will recall that our over-all theme is, “Fireproofing our Congregation.” Along those lines, Brother John and I have suggested to you that we need to remember to never leave behind our marriage or our children if we are to be successful in this attempt to withstand the issues which we face. Today, I want to continue in this same vain by encouraging you to, “Never Leave Your Brethren Behind.”
I want to begin this lesson with a little honesty. I’m afraid that we have missed the true meaning of the word which our Bibles translate as fellowship. The Greek word “koinwonia” means more than a party, or dinner, or 10 to 15 minutes of talking before or after services. Literally, this word carries with it the idea of intimacy, or a collection, or a group working together.
Folks, I want to stress to you like never before the need to continue in fellowship. I want to encourage you to follow the word of the Lord when it instructs us in Hebrews 13: 1 to: “Let brotherly love continue.”
I want to invite you to join me as we consider what it is that we need to do if we are to avoid leaving our brethren behind. In order to reach our goal, I want us to consider the First Century Church. Let’s look at that Church found in Acts 2: 42-47. Let’s examine what they did to fireproof the Church in its early days.
I. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FAITH
1. Notice carefully what it says in Acts 2: 42.
A. Acts 2: 42 “And they continued steadfastly in the Apostles Doctrine.”
B. The recorder of these early days wants us to see the commitment which the church had to following the words which the apostles had given to them.
C. Understand that this was not the doctrine designed by the apostles, rather it was the doctrine reported by the apostles.
2. There are two things which we want to see if we are to remain united with our brethren in respect to the word of the Lord.
A. Acts 2: 42 we see the procedure for staying together.
B. Acts 2: 43 we see what is produced by staying together.
3. First, notice what procedure they followed in order to stay together.
A. Acts 2: 42 “And they continued steadfastly.”
B. This indicates to me that they took an active roll in the work and word of the Lord.
C. Phil 2: 1 as Paul stated, they were of the same mind in the fellowship of the Spirit.
D. Now, the only way that you can follow this procedure is by continuing to show up and observe and participate in this “apostle’s doctrine.”
4. However, if we are to learn to never leave our brethren behind in faith, then we should also see what is produced when we remain together.
A. Acts 2: 43 “And fear came upon every soul.”
B. Please, once and for all, let’s make sure we understand what it is that this phrase is telling us.
C. They were not afraid because of the signs and wonders done by the apostles, rather they developed a healthy fear of the Lord because of their growth in the Church.
D. Psalms 19: 9 as David told us, fear of the Lord isn’t a dark and gloomy process, but it is clean and ever enduring!
II. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FELLOWSHIP
1. As stated in the introduction, we have lost touch with the true meaning of this word.
A. Folks, it doesn’t just mean that you come to know these men and women setting around you in a surface manor.
B. This word carries with it the idea of deep, intimate, connecting relationships.
2. Look at the early Church, and the fellowship they enjoyed.
A. Acts 2: 44 they were together and had all things common.
B. Acts 2: 45 they reached out and met the needs of the brethren, even if it meant personal sacrifice.
C. Acts 2: 46 this togetherness, this sharing, this sacrifice produced not anger, but gladness!
3. What about you and me?
A. Phil 2: 5 Paul encourages us by the inspiration of God to, “Have this mind in you which was also in Christ Jesus.”
B. Mark 4: 1 even when it meant more work for him, Christ sought fellowship!
C. Mark 3: 31-35 even when it meant personal sacrifice, Christ sought fellowship!
D. 1Thess 4: 9 let us follow the teachings of God, and love one another in true fellowship.
III. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FOCUS
1. Again, notice carefully what it was that they continued steadfastly in.
A. Acts 2: 42 “in breaking of bread.”
B. They did just what Christ had commanded on the night he was arrested, and continued to remember his death by partaking of the Lord’s Supper.
2. What does this have to do with focus?
A. 1Cor 11: 24 Christ himself said: “Do this in remembrance of me.”
B. Christ is to be the focus of the Lord’s Supper, in fact he is to be the focus of all that we do and say!
C. That early Church reminded themselves of this central fact through their continuing efforts.
3. The message remains for us today.
A. Yes, we partake of the Lord’s Supper each Lord’s day.
B. However, we should not lose sight of the fact that Christ is to be at the center of everything.
C. Phil 2: 2 let us be of one love, and one accord, and of one mind when it comes to serving God!
D. Acts 2: 46 if we too have this singleness of heart, we will not leave our brethren behind!
IV. NEVER LEAVE YOUR BRETHREN BEHIND IN FORBEARANCE
1. Finally, we are told that those first century Christians continued steadfastly in prayer.
A. Acts 2: 45 it is very apparent from this passage that they cared about the needs of their brothers and sisters.
B. They met the physical needs of the brethren, but they also took time to pray for one another.
2. Often this is one of the things which we overlook.
A. Gal 6: 2 Paul says that we are to bear one another’s burdens, and we automatically assume that this means that we need to “DO” something.
B. If marriage has taught me anything, it is that sometimes there isn’t anything you can do, and that by not trying, but simply praying or listening, you are doing the best thing anyway.
C. The most beautiful thing that you can tell a brother or sister in Christ is, “I’m praying for you.”
FIREPROOFING YOUR CHILDREN
FIREPROOFING YOUR CHILDREN
Proverbs 22: 6
6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Solomon in all his wisdom gave unto us many proverbs or maxims. general truths, principles to live by.
Proverbs 29: 15 If we do not train up a child in the way they should go and leave to learn on their own is disastrous.
15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
We know we must train children.
Training them up in Love, Faith and by Example that we might know we have done our best. Eph. 6: 4 We are to bring them up in the Lord.
4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
I. Deuteronomy 6: 5 Bring Them Up In The Love Of The Lord.
Moses writes what we should be already doing when we are blessed with children.
5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
Children must be given love that they might learn to give love.
We need to begin at birth to teach them love. Talking to them, singing to them and holding them is natural with a mother and father that has been brought up in the Lord. Sadly today we have children giving birth to children. Even with proper teaching mistakes are made and children are born.
A. Matthew 6: 24 Jesus says we can not love the world and God.
24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Parents need to teach a child to love God more than the things of the world while they are young. In their developing years, years 1 – 6.
1. Teaching them at home. Singing bible songs, telling them bible stories. Bringing them to Bible class. Showing interest in what they are learning. Asking questions and then lessening to their answers. When was the last time you ask your child what they did in Bible class. When was the last time you ask their teacher how they were doing in Bible class. We have parent teachers night in regular school, did you ever have a meeting with your Bible teacher. My parents did a couple times and I straightened up, I had to because I could set down for a while.
B. Matthew 22: 37 - 38 as well as Mark and Luke record Jesus answer.
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
We must teach them to love God with all their being. Heart, soul and mind. A child needs to know that God dwells in them. They may not understand it yet, but they need to have the security, the comfort that God is watching over them.
1. Amos 5: 14 Teach them to seek good and not evil.
14 Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken.
We need to teach them there are good and evil and to choose good and why to choose good.
2. 1 John 4: 7 – 8 John says what to do, why to do it, and what happens if we do not do it.
7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
If we do not teach our children to love who will and what will they teach them. Love your children enough to teach them love.
II. Deuteronomy 7: 9 Train a Child In Faith.
9 Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;
Bill Cosby said to his children, “I brought you into this world and I can take you out of it.” Where did he get that principle? I think his mother probably taught him that from the Bible. Here Moses told them God brought Israel out of Egypt, but he could also bring them down again.
Children need to be taught that God loves them and they need to love God..
God has always provided for those that love and obey Him and will for ever.
A. 1 Corinthians 8: 1 – 3 Paul writes to the christians at Corinth.
1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
3 But if any man love God, the same is known of him.
Knowledge is important, that is true knowledge. Children some time think they know something when they don’t know what they know. If we can teach them truth, God’s word is the truth we need to teach them.
1. John 17: 17 Jesus prayed to God.
17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
We need to teach our young people the truth. We need to teach them that there is a truth.
2. John 14: 6 Jesus told Thomas and the other disciples.
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Teaching them that Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. He is the way of salvation, the truth of salvation and the salvation, eternal life.
B. 1 Thessalonians 1: 2 – 3 Paul writes that they are praying for them.
2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;
3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;
We need to teach that there is more to Christianity than just coming to worship. Our faith must include work, labor, love, patience and hope.
All of this is in Christ Jesus and is something seen by God. We must teach developing a working faith, a loving faith for the lost as well as the saved souls. Teaching a patience of the hope that is in Christ Jesus. God is not tolerant with sin, but he is patient with us to repent of our sins.
Let us teach the faith that Jesus taught. Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Let us not only teach in word but also by our example.
III. 1 Peter 2: 17 Peter writes to those scattered throughout all the regions.
17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
He taught them they were free in Christ Jesus, but that did not change their obligations if they were slaves to a master.
We are still subject the laws of the land. We need to teach by example to honor people in positions of power. Most often we will have a boss to report to. We must teach young people to honor others. Be respective, not only in word but in actions.
A. 1 John 3: 1 – 3 Teaching them that they must not only obey Jesus Christ in baptism, but that they must strive to keep themselves pure until we go to be with God. It is a way of life to be a christian.
1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
B. 1 John 3: 14 – 19 Can Christ be seen in your life by your family
14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.
Do not think your children do not see and know the true you. You can fool them when they are young, but as they grow older they begin to see you as you are. Are you the example Christ would have you be?
Are you in worship, on time, with your Bible and have your lesson studied? Do your children see and hear you read the Bible at home.
C. 1 John 4: 7 – 13 John writes of love for one another.
7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
If they can not see Christ in our life, why would they want to know more about Christ. If we fill their life with activities of the world, even good things, but make them seem more important that the church what have they learned? If we make their home work more important that coming to Bible class what have they learned?
If we will teach our children to love God, to love and obey his word, Jesus Christ and we show them God, Christ and our love for them and one another we can show them a faith that is worth living and dieing for. An eternal life in Christ Jesus. Then and only then can the proverb be fulfilled
Proverbs 22: 6
6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Then we can sleep at night knowing we have shown them Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Eternal life can be theirs. They make the choice, we can not make it for them. We have shown them the way, the truth, and the life.
Jesus Christ..
Proverbs 22: 6
6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Solomon in all his wisdom gave unto us many proverbs or maxims. general truths, principles to live by.
Proverbs 29: 15 If we do not train up a child in the way they should go and leave to learn on their own is disastrous.
15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
We know we must train children.
Training them up in Love, Faith and by Example that we might know we have done our best. Eph. 6: 4 We are to bring them up in the Lord.
4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
I. Deuteronomy 6: 5 Bring Them Up In The Love Of The Lord.
Moses writes what we should be already doing when we are blessed with children.
5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
Children must be given love that they might learn to give love.
We need to begin at birth to teach them love. Talking to them, singing to them and holding them is natural with a mother and father that has been brought up in the Lord. Sadly today we have children giving birth to children. Even with proper teaching mistakes are made and children are born.
A. Matthew 6: 24 Jesus says we can not love the world and God.
24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Parents need to teach a child to love God more than the things of the world while they are young. In their developing years, years 1 – 6.
1. Teaching them at home. Singing bible songs, telling them bible stories. Bringing them to Bible class. Showing interest in what they are learning. Asking questions and then lessening to their answers. When was the last time you ask your child what they did in Bible class. When was the last time you ask their teacher how they were doing in Bible class. We have parent teachers night in regular school, did you ever have a meeting with your Bible teacher. My parents did a couple times and I straightened up, I had to because I could set down for a while.
B. Matthew 22: 37 - 38 as well as Mark and Luke record Jesus answer.
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
We must teach them to love God with all their being. Heart, soul and mind. A child needs to know that God dwells in them. They may not understand it yet, but they need to have the security, the comfort that God is watching over them.
1. Amos 5: 14 Teach them to seek good and not evil.
14 Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken.
We need to teach them there are good and evil and to choose good and why to choose good.
2. 1 John 4: 7 – 8 John says what to do, why to do it, and what happens if we do not do it.
7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
If we do not teach our children to love who will and what will they teach them. Love your children enough to teach them love.
II. Deuteronomy 7: 9 Train a Child In Faith.
9 Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;
Bill Cosby said to his children, “I brought you into this world and I can take you out of it.” Where did he get that principle? I think his mother probably taught him that from the Bible. Here Moses told them God brought Israel out of Egypt, but he could also bring them down again.
Children need to be taught that God loves them and they need to love God..
God has always provided for those that love and obey Him and will for ever.
A. 1 Corinthians 8: 1 – 3 Paul writes to the christians at Corinth.
1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
3 But if any man love God, the same is known of him.
Knowledge is important, that is true knowledge. Children some time think they know something when they don’t know what they know. If we can teach them truth, God’s word is the truth we need to teach them.
1. John 17: 17 Jesus prayed to God.
17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
We need to teach our young people the truth. We need to teach them that there is a truth.
2. John 14: 6 Jesus told Thomas and the other disciples.
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Teaching them that Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. He is the way of salvation, the truth of salvation and the salvation, eternal life.
B. 1 Thessalonians 1: 2 – 3 Paul writes that they are praying for them.
2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;
3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;
We need to teach that there is more to Christianity than just coming to worship. Our faith must include work, labor, love, patience and hope.
All of this is in Christ Jesus and is something seen by God. We must teach developing a working faith, a loving faith for the lost as well as the saved souls. Teaching a patience of the hope that is in Christ Jesus. God is not tolerant with sin, but he is patient with us to repent of our sins.
Let us teach the faith that Jesus taught. Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Let us not only teach in word but also by our example.
III. 1 Peter 2: 17 Peter writes to those scattered throughout all the regions.
17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
He taught them they were free in Christ Jesus, but that did not change their obligations if they were slaves to a master.
We are still subject the laws of the land. We need to teach by example to honor people in positions of power. Most often we will have a boss to report to. We must teach young people to honor others. Be respective, not only in word but in actions.
A. 1 John 3: 1 – 3 Teaching them that they must not only obey Jesus Christ in baptism, but that they must strive to keep themselves pure until we go to be with God. It is a way of life to be a christian.
1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
B. 1 John 3: 14 – 19 Can Christ be seen in your life by your family
14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.
Do not think your children do not see and know the true you. You can fool them when they are young, but as they grow older they begin to see you as you are. Are you the example Christ would have you be?
Are you in worship, on time, with your Bible and have your lesson studied? Do your children see and hear you read the Bible at home.
C. 1 John 4: 7 – 13 John writes of love for one another.
7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
If they can not see Christ in our life, why would they want to know more about Christ. If we fill their life with activities of the world, even good things, but make them seem more important that the church what have they learned? If we make their home work more important that coming to Bible class what have they learned?
If we will teach our children to love God, to love and obey his word, Jesus Christ and we show them God, Christ and our love for them and one another we can show them a faith that is worth living and dieing for. An eternal life in Christ Jesus. Then and only then can the proverb be fulfilled
Proverbs 22: 6
6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Then we can sleep at night knowing we have shown them Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Eternal life can be theirs. They make the choice, we can not make it for them. We have shown them the way, the truth, and the life.
Jesus Christ..
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