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?
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