"GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE"
Heb 12: 29
Intro:
There are many in our world today that are seeking inspiration. They are looking for an example, or a role model. For many, they have chosen to latch on to the world and follow it's lead.
Today, as we conclude our series, I would like to talk to you about the only true inspiration. I want to tell you that not only does God know, love, care, have ability, and reward, but also I want you to know that God is a consuming fire!
As in our previous lessons, “Conviction Determines Conduct.” If you are among the first group which we will examine, then you are both up lifted and inspired by the all-consuming fire that is our God. :However, If you are unfortunate enough to be found among the second group, then today is the day when your conviction must change. Today is the day when you must reexamine your conduct and determine to you’re your life in a different way!
Let's take a few moments, and examine the question, whom does god consume with his fire?
I GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE TO THOSE THAT LOVE HIM.
1. What is meant by the expression, "God is a consuming fire?"
A. First, God is a consuming fire in that he inspires all whom he comes into contact with!
2. Throughout the ages, god has often served as an inspiration.
A. Gen 12: 1 through a promise he inspired Abraham to go!
b. Ex 3: 12 through his presents, he inspired Moses to face his fears!
C. Acts 9: 4-5 through his son, he inspired Saul to turn away from his persecution!
D. Jer 20:9 he inspired Jeramiah to speak his word!
E. Heb 9: 26 through his sacrifice, he has inspired millions to follow him!
3. What does he inspire people to do?
A. 2Pet 3: 18 he inspires us to grow in knowledge of his will for our lives!
B. Mt 20: 28 he inspires us to serve those around us!
C. 1Jn 4: 19 he inspires us to put him first in our lives!
II GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE TO THOSE WHO ARE AGAINST HIM
1. As mentioned before, there are two groups.
A. Those who take God's inspiration, and follow his will.
B. Those who reject god, and instead receive his harsh judgment.
2. Unfortunately, of this latter group, there have been many.
A. Nu 3: 4 Nadab and Abihu disobeyed god, and he judged them.
B. Acts 5: 1 Ananias and Sapphira lied, and he judged them.
C. Acts 12: 23 Herod clamed the glory, and he judged him.
D. Rom 6: 23 we reject God, and he will judge us.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
SPIRITUAL BAILOUT
“REJOICING IN YOUR SPIRITUAL BAILOUT”
HEB. 10: 18 - 24
18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
21 And having an high priest over the house of God;
22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
We hear so much about bailouts today I was concerned with this topic. Bailouts today have a negative taste. Who is going to bail me out? Jesus Christ has already provide the bailout for all who will come to him.
I. THE CLEANSING POWER OF HIS BLOOD.
A. Romans 3: 22 – 26 All have sinned and needs redemption.
22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
B. Heb. 9: 20 – 22 Under the Old Law the tabernacle and all the vessels were cleansed by the blood of animals.
20 Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.
22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.
C. Heb. 9: 23 – 28 Under the New Testament or new law Jesus cleanses us through his blood.
23 ¶ It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
D. Matt. 26: 27 - 28 Jesus took the cup and said.
27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
E. Rom. 6: 9 –11 Jesus offered one sacrifice, himself.
9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
There are three ways the blood cleanses us.
1. All past sins are forgiven in baptism.
2. The child of God is continually forgiven day by day as they walk in the light of Christ.
3. The faithful Christian will be saved in heaven on that final day of judgment.
II. A CONVICTING POWER IN THE BLOOD TO BAIL US OUT.
A. Rom. 6: 23 One convicted of sin deserves death.
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The seriousness of sin is played down today. Did you hear of the woman that hit the man walking down the road and after he went through the windshield and was hanging there she drove home and put the car in the garage and left him till he died and then took him out of the windshield and dumped his body in a public park. She locked her car with all the blood and broken windshield in the garage. They are charging her with murder and she is pleading not guilty.
That is the world today. It does not want the responsibility of sin. Living together in fornication is considered a lack of commitment. Not ready to commit to marriage. Adultery is considered incompatibility and both parties are innocent and free to remarry. Sex outside of marriage to some is a trial to see if your compatible for marriage, and guess what, after a while many determine they are not ready for marriage so they find someone new. Lying, cheating, stealing are thought by some to be childhood diseases that they will grow out of. Sin is sin and only the blood of Christ can bail us out.
B. 1 Cor. 6: 9 – 11 The bible calls it sin of the unrighteous.
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
1. We are convicted of sin.
2. Our only hope is to be washed in the blood of Jesus Christ.
3. Through his blood we can be sanctified and justified in the name of Jesus Christ.
C. 2 Cor. 5: 21 Sin is so terrible that only the blood of Jesus Christ the only begotten Son of God can cleans us.
21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
In the darkness of the saviors death on the cross we are led to see just how bad sin is. The suffering of Christ, the shedding of his blood convicts us that sin is real, that it is a dreadful thing that can only bring death if we are not washed in Jesus blood for forgiveness.
III. THE DRAWING POWER OF THE BLOOD.
A. John 3: 16 - 17 Are we not drawn closer to God because He loved us so.
16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
B. John 15: 12 - 14 No greater love is shown.
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
C. Rom. 5: 6 – 10 Reconciled to God by the death of Jesus Christ his son.
6 ¶ For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
God’s love is seen in that Christ died for us when we were not his friends but his enemies. He loved our souls anyway.
D. 1 John 4: 7 - 13 Not that we loved God but:
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.
John for certain was not writing to the world, but to Christians.
There is no greater power than the love of God to draw us to him. There is no greater demonstration of God’s love than the shedding of the blood of his only son. There is power in the blood to draw us to God.
There is power, power, wonder working power in the precious blood of the Lamb.
A Bail outPower to cleanse us from all sin. No matter how bad or big that sin may seem to be. For to God sin is sin Only man tries to grade sin.
Isa. 1: 18 The Lord said,
18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
There is power in the blood to convict us that we are sinners in need of salvation.
The reality of sin is convincingly displayed in the blood.
There is power in the blood to draw us near to God.
There is power in the blood to melt the cold heart of man as he thinks upon the love of God manifested in His sons blood.
Why not make up your mind now to come to Jesus. Let Him bail you out. What are you waiting on?
Why not be baptized into Jesus Christ for the remission of our past sins?
If you’re a Christian do you need to come back to your first love? Jesus has promised he will forgive all that repent. It is not to late.
Do not leave Jesus Christ on the desk like the donuts.
HEB. 10: 18 - 24
18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
21 And having an high priest over the house of God;
22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
We hear so much about bailouts today I was concerned with this topic. Bailouts today have a negative taste. Who is going to bail me out? Jesus Christ has already provide the bailout for all who will come to him.
I. THE CLEANSING POWER OF HIS BLOOD.
A. Romans 3: 22 – 26 All have sinned and needs redemption.
22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
B. Heb. 9: 20 – 22 Under the Old Law the tabernacle and all the vessels were cleansed by the blood of animals.
20 Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.
22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.
C. Heb. 9: 23 – 28 Under the New Testament or new law Jesus cleanses us through his blood.
23 ¶ It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
D. Matt. 26: 27 - 28 Jesus took the cup and said.
27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
E. Rom. 6: 9 –11 Jesus offered one sacrifice, himself.
9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
There are three ways the blood cleanses us.
1. All past sins are forgiven in baptism.
2. The child of God is continually forgiven day by day as they walk in the light of Christ.
3. The faithful Christian will be saved in heaven on that final day of judgment.
II. A CONVICTING POWER IN THE BLOOD TO BAIL US OUT.
A. Rom. 6: 23 One convicted of sin deserves death.
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The seriousness of sin is played down today. Did you hear of the woman that hit the man walking down the road and after he went through the windshield and was hanging there she drove home and put the car in the garage and left him till he died and then took him out of the windshield and dumped his body in a public park. She locked her car with all the blood and broken windshield in the garage. They are charging her with murder and she is pleading not guilty.
That is the world today. It does not want the responsibility of sin. Living together in fornication is considered a lack of commitment. Not ready to commit to marriage. Adultery is considered incompatibility and both parties are innocent and free to remarry. Sex outside of marriage to some is a trial to see if your compatible for marriage, and guess what, after a while many determine they are not ready for marriage so they find someone new. Lying, cheating, stealing are thought by some to be childhood diseases that they will grow out of. Sin is sin and only the blood of Christ can bail us out.
B. 1 Cor. 6: 9 – 11 The bible calls it sin of the unrighteous.
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
1. We are convicted of sin.
2. Our only hope is to be washed in the blood of Jesus Christ.
3. Through his blood we can be sanctified and justified in the name of Jesus Christ.
C. 2 Cor. 5: 21 Sin is so terrible that only the blood of Jesus Christ the only begotten Son of God can cleans us.
21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
In the darkness of the saviors death on the cross we are led to see just how bad sin is. The suffering of Christ, the shedding of his blood convicts us that sin is real, that it is a dreadful thing that can only bring death if we are not washed in Jesus blood for forgiveness.
III. THE DRAWING POWER OF THE BLOOD.
A. John 3: 16 - 17 Are we not drawn closer to God because He loved us so.
16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
B. John 15: 12 - 14 No greater love is shown.
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
C. Rom. 5: 6 – 10 Reconciled to God by the death of Jesus Christ his son.
6 ¶ For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
God’s love is seen in that Christ died for us when we were not his friends but his enemies. He loved our souls anyway.
D. 1 John 4: 7 - 13 Not that we loved God but:
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.
John for certain was not writing to the world, but to Christians.
There is no greater power than the love of God to draw us to him. There is no greater demonstration of God’s love than the shedding of the blood of his only son. There is power in the blood to draw us to God.
There is power, power, wonder working power in the precious blood of the Lamb.
A Bail outPower to cleanse us from all sin. No matter how bad or big that sin may seem to be. For to God sin is sin Only man tries to grade sin.
Isa. 1: 18 The Lord said,
18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
There is power in the blood to convict us that we are sinners in need of salvation.
The reality of sin is convincingly displayed in the blood.
There is power in the blood to draw us near to God.
There is power in the blood to melt the cold heart of man as he thinks upon the love of God manifested in His sons blood.
Why not make up your mind now to come to Jesus. Let Him bail you out. What are you waiting on?
Why not be baptized into Jesus Christ for the remission of our past sins?
If you’re a Christian do you need to come back to your first love? Jesus has promised he will forgive all that repent. It is not to late.
Do not leave Jesus Christ on the desk like the donuts.
GOD IS LOVE
“GOD IS.. HE IS LOVE”
1John 4: 7-8
Intro:
Sally was only eight years old when she heard Mommy and Daddy talking about her little brother, Georgi. He was very sick and they had done everything they
could afford to save his life. Only a very expensive surgery could help him now . . . and that was out of the financial question. She heard Daddy say it
with a whispered desperation,
"Only a miracle can save him now."
Sally went to her bedroom and pulled her piggybank from its hiding place in the closet. She shook all the change out on the floor and counted it carefully.
Three times. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Tying the coins up in a cold-weather-kerchief, she slipped out of the apartment
and made her way to the corner drug store.
She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her attention . . but he was too busy talking to another man to be bothered by an eight-year-old. Sally
twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise.
She cleared her throat. No good. Finally she took a quarter from its hiding place and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!
"And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. "I'm talking to my brother."
"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," Sally answered back in the same annoyed tone. "He's sick . .. . and I want to buy a miracle."
"I beg your pardon," said the pharmacist.
"My Daddy says only a miracle can save him now . . . so how much does a miracle cost?"
"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I can't help you."
"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. Just tell me how much it costs."
The well-dressed man stooped down and asked, "What kind of a miracle does you brother need?"
"I don't know," Sally answered. A tear started down her cheek. "I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my folks can't pay
for it . . . so I have my money.
"How much do you have?" asked the well-dressed man.
"A dollar and eleven cents," Sally answered proudly. "And it's all the money I have in the world."
"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the well-dressed man. A dollar and eleven cents . . . the exact price of a miracle to save a little brother.
He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your
parents."
That well-dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, renowned surgeon. . specializing in solving Georgi's malady. The operation was completed without charge
and it wasn't long until Georgi was home again and doing well. Mommy and Daddy were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this
place.
"That surgery," Mommy whispered. "It's like a miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?
Sally smiled to herself. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost... one dollar and eleven cents... plus the love and faith of a little child.
There are times in life, when each an every one of us is pushed to the breaking point. There is that moment in time that comes when we just aren’t sure we can go one more step. It is at this point when we should stop, and consider the amazing love of god for his children. God’s love never grows tired, or contrary. His love is so great, that it is able to forgive our sins. (Psa 103: 12)
Today, I would like for us to look at two ideas about the love of god. Someone once said, “In order to know God, we must know love.” Let us come to know love, that we might truly come to know God.
As in each of the previous lessons, conviction will determine conduct. If you believe that God loves you, then that will be one of the great guiding forces in your life. However, if you do not believe in God’s love, then you will live a lonely life. Join me then as we consider the wonderful love of God.
I WHAT IS LOVE?
1. First, we need to realize that God is love.
A. 1John 4: 8 That he is love is a part of his divine nature, and can not be denied.
B. This fact is obvious both in word and in deed.
2. What is love? First, love is giving.
A. Gen 2: 18-25 God’s love for Adam in that he gave him Eve!
B. Gen 21: 3 God’s love for Abraham, in that he gave him Isaac!
C. Ex 12: 51 God’s love for Israel, in that he gave them freedom!
D. Luke 23: 39-43 God’s love for the thief, in that he gave him peace of mind.
E. Ro 5: 8 God’s love for humanity, in that he gave us salvation!
3. Just as God is love, so love is also a teacher.
A. Jn 14: 21 Love teaches us to love Christ, and his commandments!
B. 1Th 4: 9 Love teaches us to care for one another!
C. Eph 3: 17 Love teaches us to be rooted and grounded in the truth of God’s word!
D. Mk 12: 30 Love teaches us to love God with all that we have!
II TO WHOM IS LOVE SHOWN?
1. There are three groups to whom God has shown his love.
A. god has shown his love to his CHILDREN.
B. God has shown his love to his CHURCH.
C. God has shown his love to his CREATION.
2. In what way has God shown his love to his children?
A. By the fulfilling of his promises.
B. Gen 22: 18 Through the fulfilling of the promise made to Abraham!
C. Jn 1: 29 Through the fulfilling of the promise made concerning the messiah!
D. Heb 9: 28 Through the fulfilling of the promise to return, and reward the faithful!
3. In what way has God shown his love to his church?
A. In the protection he has given.
B. So many times during the history of the Lord’s church, the future has looked so bleak.
C. Yet time and time again, just as the book of Revelation promises, God has seen us through!
4. In what way has god shown his love for his creation?
A. Through the giving of himself.
B. Jn 3: 16 God so loved his creation, that he gave his son.
C. Col 1: 19 In the person of Christ dwelt both man and God.
D. In the giving of his son, God also gave a part of himself, that we might have everlasting life.
1John 4: 7-8
Intro:
Sally was only eight years old when she heard Mommy and Daddy talking about her little brother, Georgi. He was very sick and they had done everything they
could afford to save his life. Only a very expensive surgery could help him now . . . and that was out of the financial question. She heard Daddy say it
with a whispered desperation,
"Only a miracle can save him now."
Sally went to her bedroom and pulled her piggybank from its hiding place in the closet. She shook all the change out on the floor and counted it carefully.
Three times. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Tying the coins up in a cold-weather-kerchief, she slipped out of the apartment
and made her way to the corner drug store.
She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her attention . . but he was too busy talking to another man to be bothered by an eight-year-old. Sally
twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise.
She cleared her throat. No good. Finally she took a quarter from its hiding place and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!
"And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. "I'm talking to my brother."
"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," Sally answered back in the same annoyed tone. "He's sick . .. . and I want to buy a miracle."
"I beg your pardon," said the pharmacist.
"My Daddy says only a miracle can save him now . . . so how much does a miracle cost?"
"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I can't help you."
"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. Just tell me how much it costs."
The well-dressed man stooped down and asked, "What kind of a miracle does you brother need?"
"I don't know," Sally answered. A tear started down her cheek. "I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my folks can't pay
for it . . . so I have my money.
"How much do you have?" asked the well-dressed man.
"A dollar and eleven cents," Sally answered proudly. "And it's all the money I have in the world."
"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the well-dressed man. A dollar and eleven cents . . . the exact price of a miracle to save a little brother.
He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your
parents."
That well-dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, renowned surgeon. . specializing in solving Georgi's malady. The operation was completed without charge
and it wasn't long until Georgi was home again and doing well. Mommy and Daddy were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this
place.
"That surgery," Mommy whispered. "It's like a miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?
Sally smiled to herself. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost... one dollar and eleven cents... plus the love and faith of a little child.
There are times in life, when each an every one of us is pushed to the breaking point. There is that moment in time that comes when we just aren’t sure we can go one more step. It is at this point when we should stop, and consider the amazing love of god for his children. God’s love never grows tired, or contrary. His love is so great, that it is able to forgive our sins. (Psa 103: 12)
Today, I would like for us to look at two ideas about the love of god. Someone once said, “In order to know God, we must know love.” Let us come to know love, that we might truly come to know God.
As in each of the previous lessons, conviction will determine conduct. If you believe that God loves you, then that will be one of the great guiding forces in your life. However, if you do not believe in God’s love, then you will live a lonely life. Join me then as we consider the wonderful love of God.
I WHAT IS LOVE?
1. First, we need to realize that God is love.
A. 1John 4: 8 That he is love is a part of his divine nature, and can not be denied.
B. This fact is obvious both in word and in deed.
2. What is love? First, love is giving.
A. Gen 2: 18-25 God’s love for Adam in that he gave him Eve!
B. Gen 21: 3 God’s love for Abraham, in that he gave him Isaac!
C. Ex 12: 51 God’s love for Israel, in that he gave them freedom!
D. Luke 23: 39-43 God’s love for the thief, in that he gave him peace of mind.
E. Ro 5: 8 God’s love for humanity, in that he gave us salvation!
3. Just as God is love, so love is also a teacher.
A. Jn 14: 21 Love teaches us to love Christ, and his commandments!
B. 1Th 4: 9 Love teaches us to care for one another!
C. Eph 3: 17 Love teaches us to be rooted and grounded in the truth of God’s word!
D. Mk 12: 30 Love teaches us to love God with all that we have!
II TO WHOM IS LOVE SHOWN?
1. There are three groups to whom God has shown his love.
A. god has shown his love to his CHILDREN.
B. God has shown his love to his CHURCH.
C. God has shown his love to his CREATION.
2. In what way has God shown his love to his children?
A. By the fulfilling of his promises.
B. Gen 22: 18 Through the fulfilling of the promise made to Abraham!
C. Jn 1: 29 Through the fulfilling of the promise made concerning the messiah!
D. Heb 9: 28 Through the fulfilling of the promise to return, and reward the faithful!
3. In what way has God shown his love to his church?
A. In the protection he has given.
B. So many times during the history of the Lord’s church, the future has looked so bleak.
C. Yet time and time again, just as the book of Revelation promises, God has seen us through!
4. In what way has god shown his love for his creation?
A. Through the giving of himself.
B. Jn 3: 16 God so loved his creation, that he gave his son.
C. Col 1: 19 In the person of Christ dwelt both man and God.
D. In the giving of his son, God also gave a part of himself, that we might have everlasting life.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
GOD IS ALWAYS CARING
“GOD IS ALWAYS CARING”
1PETER 5: 4-8
Intro:
I think that most of us would agree that we live in a world today that doesn’t scream, “I care about you!” There are so many that go through life, having no idea that people all around them care about their welfare.
Today, as we continue with our series of sermons entitled, “God Is,” we want to examine the idea that God Cares. Again, as in the previous lessons, conviction determines conduct. If you believe in the existence of God, then you know without a doubt that God cares for you, and wants nothing but good for you. However, if on the other hand you don’t believe in God and his existence, then you believe yourself to be all alone, with no one to watch over you.
Today, I would like to examine two ideas in terms of God’s caring nature. Hopefully this lesson will serve to remind those who believe in God that he is still there for you, and will assist those who do not believe in God to see that he is there, and waiting for them.
I WHAT EVIDENCE IS THERE THAT GOD CARES?
1. There is a problem that we have today.
A. We believe that sense God doesn’t deal with us the way that he dealt with the men and women in the OT, then we believe God no longer cares for us.
B. While his method of dealing with us might be different, there is still more than enough evidence to suggest to us that God cares.
2. What is that evidence?
A. His track record proves that he cares.
B. Ex 14: 21-31 God cared for the nation of Israel, even when they went astray!
C. Dan 3: 1-28 God cared for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, even when they were in the fire!
D. Dan 6: 1-23 God cared for Daniel, even when the lions came to devour him!
E. Just as God’s track record indicates that he has always cared for his children, so he will continue to care for us.
3. God’s patience is evidence of his caring.
A. Gen 20: 1-11 through his patience, God showed that he cared for Abraham when he lied.
B. 1Sam 16: 7 through his patience, God showed he cared for Samuel when he judged.
C. MT 14: 31, Jo 21: 15-21, Gal 2: 11-14 through his patience, God showed he cared for Peter even when he made mistakes.
D. It is through this same patience that he continues to show us how much he cares!
II HOW DOES GOD CARE?
1. Again, the same problem exists.
A. We have a hard time with the fact that there are no miracles such as the lion’s den, the fiery furnace, or the parting of the water.
B. We think to ourselves, “God won’t do for me what he did for them, how can I know whether or not he cares?”
2. How can we kno without doubt that God cares?
A. We know he cares because he answers our prayers.
B. 1Sa 1: 20 He cares for he heard the prayer of Hannah!
C. 1Ch 4: 10 he cares for he heard the prayer of Jabez!
D. 1Jn 5: 14-15 he cares for he still hears our prayers!
3. We know he cares because he has given us his word.
A. Mt 4: 1-11 the word that is a weapon against Satan!
B. Psa 119 105 the word that guides our steps!
1PETER 5: 4-8
Intro:
I think that most of us would agree that we live in a world today that doesn’t scream, “I care about you!” There are so many that go through life, having no idea that people all around them care about their welfare.
Today, as we continue with our series of sermons entitled, “God Is,” we want to examine the idea that God Cares. Again, as in the previous lessons, conviction determines conduct. If you believe in the existence of God, then you know without a doubt that God cares for you, and wants nothing but good for you. However, if on the other hand you don’t believe in God and his existence, then you believe yourself to be all alone, with no one to watch over you.
Today, I would like to examine two ideas in terms of God’s caring nature. Hopefully this lesson will serve to remind those who believe in God that he is still there for you, and will assist those who do not believe in God to see that he is there, and waiting for them.
I WHAT EVIDENCE IS THERE THAT GOD CARES?
1. There is a problem that we have today.
A. We believe that sense God doesn’t deal with us the way that he dealt with the men and women in the OT, then we believe God no longer cares for us.
B. While his method of dealing with us might be different, there is still more than enough evidence to suggest to us that God cares.
2. What is that evidence?
A. His track record proves that he cares.
B. Ex 14: 21-31 God cared for the nation of Israel, even when they went astray!
C. Dan 3: 1-28 God cared for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, even when they were in the fire!
D. Dan 6: 1-23 God cared for Daniel, even when the lions came to devour him!
E. Just as God’s track record indicates that he has always cared for his children, so he will continue to care for us.
3. God’s patience is evidence of his caring.
A. Gen 20: 1-11 through his patience, God showed that he cared for Abraham when he lied.
B. 1Sam 16: 7 through his patience, God showed he cared for Samuel when he judged.
C. MT 14: 31, Jo 21: 15-21, Gal 2: 11-14 through his patience, God showed he cared for Peter even when he made mistakes.
D. It is through this same patience that he continues to show us how much he cares!
II HOW DOES GOD CARE?
1. Again, the same problem exists.
A. We have a hard time with the fact that there are no miracles such as the lion’s den, the fiery furnace, or the parting of the water.
B. We think to ourselves, “God won’t do for me what he did for them, how can I know whether or not he cares?”
2. How can we kno without doubt that God cares?
A. We know he cares because he answers our prayers.
B. 1Sa 1: 20 He cares for he heard the prayer of Hannah!
C. 1Ch 4: 10 he cares for he heard the prayer of Jabez!
D. 1Jn 5: 14-15 he cares for he still hears our prayers!
3. We know he cares because he has given us his word.
A. Mt 4: 1-11 the word that is a weapon against Satan!
B. Psa 119 105 the word that guides our steps!
GOD IS ABLE
“GOD IS ABLE”
Jer 32: 17-27
Intro:
It is amazing. We as humans might have all the understanding in the world, but not have the ability to carry out the task, which are asked of us. We may try and try to accomplish something, but in the end, we occasionally have to admit defeat dew to a lack of ability.
However, this is not the case when speaking of God. He is truly able to do anything. Again, conviction determines conduct. If you believe in god, then you believe that there is nothing that he cannot do. On the other hand, if you do not believe in the existence of God, then you believe that he is limited by the same rules that govern you and I.
Today, we continue with our series entitled, “God Is.” This morning, we want to examine the idea, that God is Able. Hopefully, through something that is said here, you will become convinced that with God, all things are possible.
I GOD IS ABLE TO CREATE
1. 1. All things were made by him, and without him, nothing was made.
A. Brother Robert Taylor once said, “Faith both begins and ends with creation.”
B. If we examine Gen 1: 1, and we do not believe that God is able to do all that we are told, then nothing else in the Bible will make any difference.
C. God was able to make the plants and trees, the land and seas; he even made the birds and me.
D. All by his spoken word!
2. However, not only is God the creator of physical life, but he is also the creator of second chances.
A. Jon 2: 10 Jonah ran, God rescued!
B. Ex 32: 14 Israel reverted, God relented!
C. Mt 26: 75 Peter Rejected, god renewed!
d. Ro 6: 23 Man refused, god redeemed!
II GOD IS ABLE TO SUSTAIN (Acts 17: 28)
1.
1. There are three ways in which god is able to sustain us.
A. God is able to sustain us physically.
B. God is able to sustain us mentally.
C. God is able to sustain us spiritually.
2. “For in him we live.”
A. There are those who believe that god can have no effect on we as people.
B. Gen 1812-13 God is able to bring a child to a barren woman.
C. Lk 1: 37 god is able to bring a child from a virgin.
D. Mt 7: 11 while his Method of dealing might have changed, god is still able to address our physical needs.
3. For in him we move.
A. This simply carries with it the idea of God giving strength to those in need.
b. John 19: 25 Just as he gave strength to Mary.
C. Gen 39: 21 Just as he gave strength to Joseph.
C. Phil 4: 13 Just as he gives strength to you and I.
4. For in him we do exist.
A. We exist in him not only physically and mentally, but also spiritually.
B. When we thirst, he is able to give us drink.
C. When we hunger, he is able to feed us.
III GOD IS ABLE TO DESTROY
1. There are two groups that will one day meet God's destructive hand.
A. His creation.
B. Those who stand against him.
2.His creation includes all that we see around us.
A. 2Pe 3: 10 the earth and all that are within will be destroyed.
3. However, more importantly, those who stand against him will be destroyed.
A. Mt 25: 30 "the unprofitable servant will be destroyed."
B. The unprofitable servant is that person who stands against god.
C. Those who are not with him are found to be against him.
Jer 32: 17-27
Intro:
It is amazing. We as humans might have all the understanding in the world, but not have the ability to carry out the task, which are asked of us. We may try and try to accomplish something, but in the end, we occasionally have to admit defeat dew to a lack of ability.
However, this is not the case when speaking of God. He is truly able to do anything. Again, conviction determines conduct. If you believe in god, then you believe that there is nothing that he cannot do. On the other hand, if you do not believe in the existence of God, then you believe that he is limited by the same rules that govern you and I.
Today, we continue with our series entitled, “God Is.” This morning, we want to examine the idea, that God is Able. Hopefully, through something that is said here, you will become convinced that with God, all things are possible.
I GOD IS ABLE TO CREATE
1. 1. All things were made by him, and without him, nothing was made.
A. Brother Robert Taylor once said, “Faith both begins and ends with creation.”
B. If we examine Gen 1: 1, and we do not believe that God is able to do all that we are told, then nothing else in the Bible will make any difference.
C. God was able to make the plants and trees, the land and seas; he even made the birds and me.
D. All by his spoken word!
2. However, not only is God the creator of physical life, but he is also the creator of second chances.
A. Jon 2: 10 Jonah ran, God rescued!
B. Ex 32: 14 Israel reverted, God relented!
C. Mt 26: 75 Peter Rejected, god renewed!
d. Ro 6: 23 Man refused, god redeemed!
II GOD IS ABLE TO SUSTAIN (Acts 17: 28)
1.
1. There are three ways in which god is able to sustain us.
A. God is able to sustain us physically.
B. God is able to sustain us mentally.
C. God is able to sustain us spiritually.
2. “For in him we live.”
A. There are those who believe that god can have no effect on we as people.
B. Gen 1812-13 God is able to bring a child to a barren woman.
C. Lk 1: 37 god is able to bring a child from a virgin.
D. Mt 7: 11 while his Method of dealing might have changed, god is still able to address our physical needs.
3. For in him we move.
A. This simply carries with it the idea of God giving strength to those in need.
b. John 19: 25 Just as he gave strength to Mary.
C. Gen 39: 21 Just as he gave strength to Joseph.
C. Phil 4: 13 Just as he gives strength to you and I.
4. For in him we do exist.
A. We exist in him not only physically and mentally, but also spiritually.
B. When we thirst, he is able to give us drink.
C. When we hunger, he is able to feed us.
III GOD IS ABLE TO DESTROY
1. There are two groups that will one day meet God's destructive hand.
A. His creation.
B. Those who stand against him.
2.His creation includes all that we see around us.
A. 2Pe 3: 10 the earth and all that are within will be destroyed.
3. However, more importantly, those who stand against him will be destroyed.
A. Mt 25: 30 "the unprofitable servant will be destroyed."
B. The unprofitable servant is that person who stands against god.
C. Those who are not with him are found to be against him.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
PROVERBS 31: 10 – 31
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
I. This is a Special Day set aside to honor mothers.
A. Exodus 20: 12 God tells us to honour father and mother.
12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
B. Deuteronomy 5: 16 God again says to honor father and mother.
16 Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
C. Let us this morning look at why God commanded that we honor mothers.
We should honor godly mothers because of:
II. THE QUANTITY OF THEIR WORK
A. Prov. 31 A godly mother is not lazy.
She works with her hands obtaining and preparing food.
She strengthens her self, she cares for the poor and needy.
She cloths her family and sells of that which she makes.
Who but mothers can work 12 jobs, 99 hours per week and not ask for a day off?
Why do we honor them?
III. Because of the quality of their work
A. Prov. 31 they cover so many different areas.
Husbands, children, house, food, helping others and are great examples to all.
B. Matt. 5: 16 They are a light.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
C. Prov. 31 the results of their work is both temporary and permanent.
1. Temporary in cooking, cleaning, making things for the family.
2. Permanent in loving their husbands and children.
Caring for the poor and needy.
Caring for her own needs.
Her example and love of God.
D. 1 Peter 3: 1 – 7 God is honored by her obedieance.
1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
A mother is honorable because:
III. She Gives Honor To God.
A. Prov. 31: 30 Godly fear, respect of God.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
B. Prov. 11: 16 She should retain honor.
16 A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.
C. A godly mother honoreth God by obeying the gospel, being faithful in attendance, faithful in her duties, realizing her limitations, faithful in her home and in the world around her.
IV, Her Labor is a Labor of Love
A. 1 Cor. 13: 4 – 8 Her love is real and everlasting
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8. Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away.
1. Love for God.
2. Love for family
3. Love for friends and neighbors.
4. Love for self.
This love is Biblical and according to God’s will.
B. Often Mother do not get what they deserve
1. Thankfulness
2. Time for self
3. 1 Peter 3: 7 Honor
7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
C. God says, in His Holy Word, godly mothers deserve honor.
1. Prov. 15: 33 this honor is not sinful pride.
33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
Review:
Prov. 31: 10 – 12 A worthy woman is priceless whether a mother or not.
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
Eph. 6: 1 – 3
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)
3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
Let us learn to honor those deserving of honor.
Let us be an honor unto God for He above all deserves it.
May all godly mothers and godly woman receive due honor on this special day.
God made woman that she might be a help to man. In the final judgment we all must give an account to Jesus for our life. If we obey not God what will we say? There will no excuses, no second chances, and no exceptions. Only the faithful shall enter heaven. Faithful to God the end. Then and only then do we receive the crown of life. Then and only then can we enter heaven as our home.
Where will you be? What will Jesus say to you on that great day?
Will we hear well done thou good and faithful servant?
Or will Jesus say unto us, depart from me I never knew you?
Are you a child of God today or a child of the devil?
You can change and come to Jesus now, while we stand and sing.
PROVERBS 31: 10 – 31
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
I. This is a Special Day set aside to honor mothers.
A. Exodus 20: 12 God tells us to honour father and mother.
12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
B. Deuteronomy 5: 16 God again says to honor father and mother.
16 Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
C. Let us this morning look at why God commanded that we honor mothers.
We should honor godly mothers because of:
II. THE QUANTITY OF THEIR WORK
A. Prov. 31 A godly mother is not lazy.
She works with her hands obtaining and preparing food.
She strengthens her self, she cares for the poor and needy.
She cloths her family and sells of that which she makes.
Who but mothers can work 12 jobs, 99 hours per week and not ask for a day off?
Why do we honor them?
III. Because of the quality of their work
A. Prov. 31 they cover so many different areas.
Husbands, children, house, food, helping others and are great examples to all.
B. Matt. 5: 16 They are a light.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
C. Prov. 31 the results of their work is both temporary and permanent.
1. Temporary in cooking, cleaning, making things for the family.
2. Permanent in loving their husbands and children.
Caring for the poor and needy.
Caring for her own needs.
Her example and love of God.
D. 1 Peter 3: 1 – 7 God is honored by her obedieance.
1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
A mother is honorable because:
III. She Gives Honor To God.
A. Prov. 31: 30 Godly fear, respect of God.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
B. Prov. 11: 16 She should retain honor.
16 A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.
C. A godly mother honoreth God by obeying the gospel, being faithful in attendance, faithful in her duties, realizing her limitations, faithful in her home and in the world around her.
IV, Her Labor is a Labor of Love
A. 1 Cor. 13: 4 – 8 Her love is real and everlasting
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8. Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away.
1. Love for God.
2. Love for family
3. Love for friends and neighbors.
4. Love for self.
This love is Biblical and according to God’s will.
B. Often Mother do not get what they deserve
1. Thankfulness
2. Time for self
3. 1 Peter 3: 7 Honor
7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
C. God says, in His Holy Word, godly mothers deserve honor.
1. Prov. 15: 33 this honor is not sinful pride.
33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
Review:
Prov. 31: 10 – 12 A worthy woman is priceless whether a mother or not.
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
Eph. 6: 1 – 3
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)
3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
Let us learn to honor those deserving of honor.
Let us be an honor unto God for He above all deserves it.
May all godly mothers and godly woman receive due honor on this special day.
God made woman that she might be a help to man. In the final judgment we all must give an account to Jesus for our life. If we obey not God what will we say? There will no excuses, no second chances, and no exceptions. Only the faithful shall enter heaven. Faithful to God the end. Then and only then do we receive the crown of life. Then and only then can we enter heaven as our home.
Where will you be? What will Jesus say to you on that great day?
Will we hear well done thou good and faithful servant?
Or will Jesus say unto us, depart from me I never knew you?
Are you a child of God today or a child of the devil?
You can change and come to Jesus now, while we stand and sing.
THE MAKERS PERFECT GIFT TO MAN
THE MAKERS PERFECT GIFT TO MAN
Intro:
There was a local civic organization that was offered a seemingly unremarkable painting. The group declined the offer stating that the $100.00 price was simply too much to pay. The gentlemen who made the offer agreed to lower the price to $50.00, but they still refused. Finally, the man lowered his cost to $25.00, but the group continued to decline the offer.
Some time later, the man died. As his relatives were inventorying his possessions, they came across the painting. They decided to have the painting appraised, and you can imagine their surprise when they were informed that the painting was worth somewhere between $45,000 and $50,000. Needless to say, the civic organization regretted their lack of appreciation for such a wonderful gift.
We as people have been given so much. We have been given homes, jobs, financial security, friends, and most importantly, a son bearing salvation. However, we have also been given a gift which we frequently undervalue. It isn’t just a good gift, but in my eyes, it is a perfect gift. It is the gift of a mother.
This evening, for a few moments, I want us to look at the makers perfect gift to man. I want to help you to see the similarities between our mother’s and our God. Hopefully, through our study you can learn to appreciate the amazing gift of momma.
I SELF-SACRIFICE
1. Throughout the ages, many mothers have given up so much for their children.
A. Ex 2: 1-3 Jochebed sacrificed the privilege of being called the mother of Moses.
b. 1Sa 1: 22 Hannah sacrificed her Childs presents.
C. Jn 19: 25 Mary sacrificed the blessing of watching her son grow old.
2. The sacrifices made by mothers are made with others best interest in mind.
A. Ex 1: 22 Jochebed sacrificed that Moses might live.
B. 1Sa 7: 15 Hannah sacrificed that Israel might have their greatest judge.
C. Jn 1: 29 Mary sacrificed that the world might find salvation!
3. This same thing can be said of God's love for his children.
A. Jn 10: 10 God sacrificed that we might live more abundantly!
B. 2Ti 4: 8 God sacrificed that we might know our one true judge!
C. Jn 3: 16 God sacrificed that we might have everlasting life!
II COMPASSION
1. In Ex 2: 5-10, we are told that Pharaoh's daughter had compassion on the baby Moses. Think of all the good that sprang from this one act of compassion by this surrogate mother.
A. Ex 3: 10 because of her compassion, a plan was put into motion.
B. Ex 12: 51 because of her compassion, a nation was freed from bondage.
C. De 1: 8 because of her compassion, the Promised Land was opened.
2. In the same way that a mother's compassion leads to many good things, so the compassion of God for his children has led too much good.
A. Gen 3: 15 because of his compassion, another very important plan went into motion!
B. Jn 12: 46 because of his compassion, all of mankind has been freed from the bondage of sin!
C. Rev 21: 1-7 because of his compassion, we too are offered the hope of the Promise Land!
III A CARING NATURE.
1. The caring nature of a mother leads her to do many things.
A. 2Kings 4: 8-11 her caring nature led her to serve others.
B. 2kings 4: 12-13 her caring nature led her to forsake her own needs.
C. 2kings 4: 28 her caring nature led her to provide at all cost.
2. We also know that in the same way that the Shunammite woman cared for her child, so God cares for his children!
A. Mt 20: 28 Christ came not to be served, but to serve!
B. Heb 12: 2 Christ ignored his shame and agony for our sake!
C. Ro 5: 8 God paid the ultimate cost, in that he gave his son for those who were not worthy!
Intro:
There was a local civic organization that was offered a seemingly unremarkable painting. The group declined the offer stating that the $100.00 price was simply too much to pay. The gentlemen who made the offer agreed to lower the price to $50.00, but they still refused. Finally, the man lowered his cost to $25.00, but the group continued to decline the offer.
Some time later, the man died. As his relatives were inventorying his possessions, they came across the painting. They decided to have the painting appraised, and you can imagine their surprise when they were informed that the painting was worth somewhere between $45,000 and $50,000. Needless to say, the civic organization regretted their lack of appreciation for such a wonderful gift.
We as people have been given so much. We have been given homes, jobs, financial security, friends, and most importantly, a son bearing salvation. However, we have also been given a gift which we frequently undervalue. It isn’t just a good gift, but in my eyes, it is a perfect gift. It is the gift of a mother.
This evening, for a few moments, I want us to look at the makers perfect gift to man. I want to help you to see the similarities between our mother’s and our God. Hopefully, through our study you can learn to appreciate the amazing gift of momma.
I SELF-SACRIFICE
1. Throughout the ages, many mothers have given up so much for their children.
A. Ex 2: 1-3 Jochebed sacrificed the privilege of being called the mother of Moses.
b. 1Sa 1: 22 Hannah sacrificed her Childs presents.
C. Jn 19: 25 Mary sacrificed the blessing of watching her son grow old.
2. The sacrifices made by mothers are made with others best interest in mind.
A. Ex 1: 22 Jochebed sacrificed that Moses might live.
B. 1Sa 7: 15 Hannah sacrificed that Israel might have their greatest judge.
C. Jn 1: 29 Mary sacrificed that the world might find salvation!
3. This same thing can be said of God's love for his children.
A. Jn 10: 10 God sacrificed that we might live more abundantly!
B. 2Ti 4: 8 God sacrificed that we might know our one true judge!
C. Jn 3: 16 God sacrificed that we might have everlasting life!
II COMPASSION
1. In Ex 2: 5-10, we are told that Pharaoh's daughter had compassion on the baby Moses. Think of all the good that sprang from this one act of compassion by this surrogate mother.
A. Ex 3: 10 because of her compassion, a plan was put into motion.
B. Ex 12: 51 because of her compassion, a nation was freed from bondage.
C. De 1: 8 because of her compassion, the Promised Land was opened.
2. In the same way that a mother's compassion leads to many good things, so the compassion of God for his children has led too much good.
A. Gen 3: 15 because of his compassion, another very important plan went into motion!
B. Jn 12: 46 because of his compassion, all of mankind has been freed from the bondage of sin!
C. Rev 21: 1-7 because of his compassion, we too are offered the hope of the Promise Land!
III A CARING NATURE.
1. The caring nature of a mother leads her to do many things.
A. 2Kings 4: 8-11 her caring nature led her to serve others.
B. 2kings 4: 12-13 her caring nature led her to forsake her own needs.
C. 2kings 4: 28 her caring nature led her to provide at all cost.
2. We also know that in the same way that the Shunammite woman cared for her child, so God cares for his children!
A. Mt 20: 28 Christ came not to be served, but to serve!
B. Heb 12: 2 Christ ignored his shame and agony for our sake!
C. Ro 5: 8 God paid the ultimate cost, in that he gave his son for those who were not worthy!
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