Sunday, March 29, 2009

Worthy Of Our Praise - The Exceeding Power Of God

Temple Baptist Church - 3-29-2009

2 Samuel 22:4

Introduction

A. We have seen that the Lord is worthy of or praise because of His excellent name and His wondrous works. His name is truly wonderful and His works marvelous.

B. Today, I want to look at another aspect of God that is worthy of or praise: His power!

C. Each of us, in one manner or the other, have trouble in the area of faith. We can talk of faith when we are up on the mountain but, when we get in the valley, it is another thing. We believe and yet sometimes live in unbelief.

D. There is probably not one of us this morning that doubt that God can do anything! One of God’s attributes in omnipotence. Our Lord Jesus said, in Matthew 28:18, “All power is given unto me in heaven and earth!” Not just power but all power.

E. Many things have limited power in limited areas. Bulldozers can move great portions of earth; rockets can thrust great weights such as Space Shuttles through our earth’s gravitational pull into deep space; atomic power plants can generate enough power for millions of homes; etc. Limited power in limited areas!

F. God has unlimited power in unlimited areas!

Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Genesis 18:14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

Ephesians 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, (Exceeding – far above all men of men or our conception of power!)

Ephesians 1:21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

G. God can do anything! God can do any time! He is God! You may say, “Preacher, explain that to me.” My answer would be that “I cannot explain it. I simply believe it!”

H. Any yet, there are times when my faith wavers while knowing that God can and I ask, “Can God!”

I. What do you need today? What is it that God can do for you? His power is available and sufficient for any task before Him. I want to just look at a few areas of His power this morning that should make us shout in the valleys of this life that “GOD CAN!”

1. God Has Power Over All Creation

a. He Created The Earth – John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

Isaiah 45:12 I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, [even] my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded. (He made it and it is His. It does what He intended for it to do and it gives Him the glory. The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament His handiwork!)

b. He Controls The Earth - Matthew 8:26-27 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. 27 But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!

Colossians 1:17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

2. God Has Power Over All Creatures

a. He Controls The Animal World - Genesis 1:24-25 And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. 25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that [it was] good.

Revelation 19:17 And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God; (The animal world obeys the voice of their Creator in all things. God can even make a donkey speak to a preacher!)

b. He Controls Adam’s Descendants - Daniel 2:21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:

Psalms 139:1-5 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known [me]. 2 Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. 3 Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. 4 For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. 5 Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. (He rules and overrules in the affairs of men. He controls both the saved and the lost and no one can do anything without His permission!)

3. God Has Power Over All Circumstances

a. He Controls Our Diseases - James 5:14-15 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. (God can still heal the sick, make the lame to walk, make the dumb to speak, make the deaf to hear, give sight to the blind, take the cancer away, and raise the dead!)

b. He Controls Our Wealth - Job 1:21 And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (He controls your job, your boss, the economy, the stock market, the inflation rate, the Madoff and the “laid off!”)

c. He Controls Our Dire Circumstances - 1 Peter 1:6-7 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: 7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

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.

d. He Controls Our Destroyers - Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

Isaiah 35:4 Say to them [that are] of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come [with] vengeance, [even] God [with] a recompence; he will come and save you.

e. He Controls Our Destiny - Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it] until the day of Jesus Christ: (What a God! Sovereign and yet good, gracious, gentle!)

Psalms 49:15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah.

The Cross

Temple Baptist Church - 3-29-2009

1 Corinthians 1:18-25

Introduction

A. As we approach Resurrection Sunday, our thoughts should be turning to Calvary. Calvary, where our Lord Jesus Christ purchased the redemption of sinful man for all of eternity! Calvary, where God provided Himself a sacrifice! Calvary, where “greater love hath no man than this” was defined! Calvary, were we—as John the Baptist—can “behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.” Calvary, where the righteous demands of the Law were met and a holy God reconciled with sinful man.

B. No wonder Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, said, “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” (Galatians 6:14)

C. The old rugged cross, so despised by the world, still holds a “wondrous attraction” for the saved. It was there that I was made free some 32 years ago.

D. In these verses, we find:

1. The Revelation of God to Man (1:18)

a) The Revelation of the Power of God (1:24)

b) The Revelation of the Wisdom of God (1:24)

2. The Proclamation of God to Man (1:18)

a) Is Sometimes Offensive (1:23)

b) Is All Times Decisive (1:18)

c) Is Oft Times Redemptive (1:24)

3. The Invitation of God to Man (1:18)

a) God's Pleasure (1:21)

b) God's Purpose (1:18)

c) God's Process (1:21, 24)

E. The invitation of God to man demands a verdict. If man believes, he is saved; if he rejects, he perishes.

1. The Story of The Cross - vs. 17 “gospel”

2. The Simplicity of The Cross - vs. 17 “wisdom...lest...none effect”

3. The Salvation of The Cross - vs. 18 “saved...power of God”

4. The Stumbling of The Cross – vs. 19-23 “stumblingblock...foolishness”

5. The Sanctification of The Cross – vs. 24-30 “ye in Christ Jesus”

6. The Satisfaction of The Cross - vs. 31 “let him glory in the Lord”

1. The Preaching of the Cross - vs. 17

a. Plain (simple) - 2 Corinthians 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

b. Pointed (gospel) - 1 Corinthians 2:2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.

c. Purposed (effective) - 1 Corinthians 2:2-5 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

2. The Prerogative of the Cross – vs. 18 - A Choice to be made

a. It is Foolishness to the Lost (Void of understanding or sound judgment; weak in intellect; applied to general character. Unwise; imprudent; acting without judgment or discretion in particular things; proceeding from folly, or marked with folly; silly; vain; trifling; ridiculous; despicable.)

b. It is Faith to the saved - Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

3. The Pleasing of the Cross – vs. 21

a. The Wisdom of God - 1 Corinthians 2:7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:

Ephesians 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

b. The Word of God - 1 Corinthians 1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

Acts 6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

c. The Will of God - Galatians 1:4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:

4. The Power of the Cross – vs. 24

a. Power to Convert the Sinner - Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

b. Power to Change the Saint - 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

5. The People of the Cross – vs. 25-28

a. Not Many Wise (Not many intellectual and or highly educated because it links them to the not so intellectual and the uneducated.) - Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

b. Not Many Mighty (Not many of the rich because they have to mix and mingle with the poor!) - James 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

c. Not Many Noble (Not many of the wealthy and aristocratic because they have to humble themselves with the baser sort!) - Luke 5:30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?

6. The Pride of the Cross – vs. 29-31

a. The Realization of Salvation (But of him are ye in Christ Jesus) - Colossians 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

b. The Rejoicing of Salvation (glory in the Lord) - Galatians 6:14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

The Gospel of God

Temple Baptist Church - 3-25-2009

Galatians 1:10-24

Introduction:
A. Paul spent the first nine verses glorifying:

1. Glorifying the Gospel of God – vs. 1-5

a. Glorifying God for the gift of His Son – vs. 3
b. Glorifying Jesus Christ for the sacrifice of Himself – vs. 4
c. Glorifying the Gospel for being all of grace – vs. 4

2. Warning the Galatians – vs. 6-9

a. Concerning “Another” Gospel – vs. 6-7a
b. Concerning the Accursed Preachers – vs. 7b-9

B. Paul now turns to vindicating:

1. The Authorship of the Gospel – vs. 10-12
2. The Apostleship of the Missionary – vs. 11-19

C. In these verses, Paul gives his personal testimony of the saving grace and life changing grace of the gospel of Christ.

1. The Possession Of The Gospel – vs. 10-11 - Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it (and it only) is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

a. If Paul pleased men he had to “persuade” God which is ludicrous! He then became servant to men. It is a lot easier to please men as that is the easy road. The road may be easy but the end is one of regret and sorrow for the Judgment Seat of Christ lies ahead!

b. If Paul pleased God he had to “persuade” men. He then became servant to God. To please God will make things more difficult for the man of God but end will be a “well done, thou good and faithful servant” at the Judgment Seat of Christ.

Ephesians 6:5-7 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; 6 Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; 7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:

c. Man made gospels always add or take away which makes them “another gospel which is not another.” A “gospel” that cannot save!

2. The Power Of The Gospel – vs. 12-13

a. Paul’s Past – Power to save from religion.

Acts 26:5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

b. Paul’s Persecution – Power to save from righteous wrong doing.

Galatians 1:13 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

c. Paul’s Profiting – Power to save from riches.

Matthew 19:24-26 And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. 25 When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? 26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

3. The Performance Of The Gospel – vs. 14-16

a. God Called Him On Time – “When it pleased God!”

2 Corinthians 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

b. God Called Him Through Grace – “Called me by his grace!”

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

c. God Called Him In Assurance – “Conferred not”

Isaiah 32:17 And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.

4. The Propagation Of The Gospel – vs. 16-22

a. The Person Of Christ In Paul – “reveal his Son in me”

2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

b. The Preaching Of Christ In Paul – “that I might preach him”

1 Corinthians 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

c. The Preparation Of Christ In Paul – “conferred not with flesh and blood”

1 Timothy 3:6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.

5. The Praise Of The Gospel – vs. 23-24

a. They Saw The Grace Of God In Paul – “persecuted…preached”

1 Peter 2:12 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.

b. They saw The Glory Of God In Paul – “they glorified God in me”

1 Peter 2:12 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.

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven

Sunday, March 22, 2009

The Satisfying Life

Temple Baptist Church - 3-22-2009

Matthew 11:28-30

Introduction:


A. This is an age of generally dissatisfied people. It is an age of unrest!

1. The things of this world will never satisfy the inward cravings of the soul! Things, things, things: the world always promises and gives you things. They are temporal and unsatisfying in their very nature. They are perishable!

2. You may become a millionaire one day but will find out along with the Madeoff’s of this world that it will not give rest to the soul.

B. Only Christ can and will satisfy the soul because God made it that way!

1. The only things of true value are those done with and for Christ. “He is no fool who gives up that which he cannot keep in order to gain that which he cannot lose.”

2. Sell out to God! Young people, live for Christ! He is your Friend: the very best that you will ever have.

C. In these verses, Christ gives us the way to a satisfying life. It is so simple that it is profound. I want to look at in three parts tonight.1. You Will Find Satisfaction In Invitation (vs. 28) “Come unto me”

D. The Lord of Glory invites people, "Come unto me."

1. It is amazing that He could want anything to do with us, but it is evident that he does.

a. What? "Come unto me." We are not invited to religion but to a person. Christianity is founded, grounded and expanded in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ.

b. Who? "Unto me"- John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (Here we will discover that Jesus is the way and the door to salvation. If you go to God you must go through Him.)

c. Why? "Labor and are heavy laden." Though we do not get tired "of" life and its demands, we do get tired "in" life. There is a place of relief and rest at the feet of the Lord Jesus.

Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

2. You Will Find Satisfaction In Declaration (vs. 28b) “I will give you rest."

a. There is Emotional Rest - We have so many emotions with which we have to deal each day. We do not have to deal with them alone. We are promised help in the words, "I will give you rest."

b. There is Physical Rest - God can provide for us to get our physical rest. The Bible says, "He giveth his beloved sleep"

Psalms 127:2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.

c. There is Spiritual Rest - Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Faith is an important factor in rest. Without faith we live with a “disquieted soul.”)

3. You Will Find Satisfaction In Expectation (vs. 29) - "Ye shall find rest..." This has to do with Christ's yoke. Christ says,

a. Take - "Take my yoke upon you" speaks of human responsibility and willingness to embrace the Lord and His plan for our lives. The yoke points to our service for Christ.

b. Learn - Jesus said, "Learn of me." The more we learn about Christ the more willing we will be to give our lives to Him. The more you learn of him the deeper your love and affection grows for Him.

4. You Will Find Satisfaction In Inspiration (vs. 30)– “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

a. My Yoke is Easy

(1) A yoke speaks of work and labor. God expects us to work for him (Matt. 28:18-20). It is a matter of gratitude for what He has done for us. How ridiculous to hear people say how hard it is to serve the Lord!

(2) The Bible says, "The way of the transgressor is hard" (Prov. 13:15). The world’s yoke is hard!

b. My Burden is Light

(1) There are burdens that come our way as we serve the Lord, but what a blessing to know the Lord can make every burden we face lighter.

(2) Christ is the Burden Bearer for His people.

Conclusion: The things of this world will leave you empty. As friendship with the world is enmity with God, so the things of this world will draw you away from God. The amazing thing is that you can actually have both! Your satisfaction will only be found in salvation and service for Christ Jesus our Lord.

The Blessings Of Unity

Temple Baptist Church - 3-22-2009

Psalms 133

Introduction:

A. Today marks a milestone in the life of my family. The past 22 years have been some of the best of my life. What a joy to pastor this great church for that period of time!

B. As I thought about what to preach for homecoming, I thought of this passage of scripture because it is a pleasure to come to Temple! It is pleasure to come to Temple because of the sweetness of the spirit here.

C. People come to stay. I more often than not leave before many of you when the service is over. It is good to see the smile, hear the laughter, and experience the love found here.

D. In the these verses, we see the results of unity:

1. The Benefit - "good" - 1

a. Of great benefit, valuable, prosperity,

2. The Bliss - "pleasant" - 1

a. Sweet, agreeable, delightful, musical

3. The Binding - "together in unity" - 1-2

a. Alike, in one accord, harmony

4. The Blessing - "life forever more" - 3

a. I want to look at the last result for a few minutes: “The Blessing.”

1. The Blessing of Fellowship with God’s People - Romans 15:32 That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.

2. The Blessing of Encouraging God’s People - 2 Corinthians 2:1-4 But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me? And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all. For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.

3. The Blessing of Bearing The Burdens of God’s People - 2 Corinthians 7:1-4 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man. I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you. Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

4. The Blessing of Hearing That God’s People Are Steadfastly Serving - 2 Corinthians 7:12-16 Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you. Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all. For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth. And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him. I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.

a. Colossians 2:5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.

b. 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you: Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: For now we live,if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

5. The Blessing of Sharing The Ministry With God’s People - Philippians 1:3-11 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. (Workers, visitation, teachers, choir - get involved!!)

6. The Blessing of Seeing God’s People Unified - Philippians 2:1-4 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. (Greatest heartache - bickering children!)

7. The Blessing of A Godly Testimony of God’s People - Philippians 2:14-18 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me. (So much said about hypocrites – it is refreshing to hear good about God’s people!)

8. The Blessing of An Inner Witness With God’s People - Philippians 4:1 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

9. The Blessing of Leading Others To Christ - 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For ye are our glory and joy. (Some of you were came to Christ under my ministry. Not that I am anything, but what a joy. Just think of Tracy!)

10. The Blessing of Giving Account For God’s Faithful People - Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

The Curse Of The Gospel

Temple Baptist Church - 3-18-2009

Galatians 1:6-9

Introduction:

A. The gospel was meant to be a blessing to all people: Genesis 22:18 And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.

Luke 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

1. It is because only a pure gospel can save.

2. It is because only a pure gospel can sanctify.

B. In verse 6, we find Paul’s Amazement – “I marvel” (It is truly amazing the speed that believers can turn from true to false doctrine.)

Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (As the “wind” changes, the carnal believer is blown about. Failure to grow spiritually is a dangerous condition which Satan preys upon.)

1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (This devouring can be spiritual as well as physical!)

1 Timothy 4:16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

1. Here, we find the extreme important of doctrinal purity: not only do we “save” ourselves, but also “them that hear” us—which includes our children!

2. I have seen so many place their “allegiance” to the churches they were brought up in above the truth and their family. Some people have a tendency to protect doctrinally impure denominations. I was brought up in two churches:

Baptist and Methodist. I do not defend either when doctrinal purity is at stake.

C. In verse 6, we find Paul’s Alarm – “removed” (They had turned to a perverted gospel that they had not received! Understand again that these are God’s people.)

D. In verse 6, we find Paul’s Astonishment – “from him that called you” (They had unknowingly turned from Christ!)

E. In the Book of Galatians, the man of God declares spiritual war upon these false prophets who pervert the gospel. God also declares war upon them!

Romans 1:16-18 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

1. The People Of Condemnation – It was not the Galatian believers but the heretical teachers and preachers.

a. They Troubled The People – The Gospel brings peace and assurance while the Law brings bondage and fear.

Galatians 2:4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

b. They Tainted The Gospel – They substituted the Curse for the Cure!

Galatians 3:13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:

2. The Power Of Condemnation

a. The Condemnation Was Clear – “accursed” (vs. 8-9 repeated!)

ACCURSED – Anathema - 1 Corinthians 16:22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.

1) To Be Rejected By The Saints - It Was Ex-communication From The Church (These “false teachers” were to be removed from the assembly!)

2) To Be Rejected By The Saviour - It Was Exclusion From Heaven (They could be saved if they came to Christ but to remain in this spiritual condition was eternal damnation.

b. The Condemnation Was Certain – “let him be accursed” (This was not a threat. It was a promise!)

2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

3. The Permanence Of Condemnation

a. Without The True Gospel They Cannot Be Saved! Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

b. Without The True Gospel They Can Be Sure! Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Conclusion: We are to hate what God hates! Not the people but the perversion of the true gospel that is able to save from the “gutter most” to the uttermost. Either acceptance or toleration of false gospel is to aid Satan in the damnation of precious souls.

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Worthy Of Our Praise - Because Of His Wondrous Works

Temple Baptist Church - 3-15-2009

2 Samuel 22:4

Introduction:


A. Last week, we found that the Lord is “Worthy Of Our Praise” because of His “Excellent Name.

1. What wonderful names are attributed to God in the Bible! They are almost more than can be numbered and give detail descriptions of the attributes and wonders of our marvelous Lord!

2. What a wonderful name, the name of Jesus! There’s still “something about that name!” His name is a name above all others.

B. This evening, I want to look at another reason that He is “Worthy Of Our Praise.”

1. Some people have a name just because they happen to be born into a certain family, such as the Royal Family in Great Britain. Prince Charles had to do nothing to earn his title. It was given to him. Prince Harry had to do nothing to earn his title. It was given to him.

2. The names of the Lord were given to Him because of what and who He was also. They show forth His mighty acts.

Psalms 106:2 Who can utter the mighty acts of the LORD? who can shew forth all his praise?

Psalms 145:4 One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.

Psalms 145:12 To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom.

Psalms 150:2 Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness.

C. Psalms 126:3 says, “The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.”

1. The song writer said, “Count your blessing, name them one by one…count your blessings; see what God hath done!”

2. We do not always get what we want when we want it but, as we ponder the marvelous works of God, we can still say that God has been so good to us.

1. He Is Worthy Of Our Praise Because Of His Wondrous Work Of Creation - Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. (This is possibly the most powerful verse in the Bible! Oh, the wisdom and power of God in that verse. Every minute detail of creation was made perfect. What power and knowledge!)

Psalms 139:14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.

Psalms 19:1-4 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. 2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. 4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, (Tabernacle: a place of dwelling and worship!)

2. He Is Worthy Of Our Praise Because Of His His Wondrous Work Of Inspiration - 2 Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

Psalms 68:11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published [it]. (What a wonderful Bible we have! God gave it and God preserved it! I can preach it, live it, and trust it! An anchor in the shifting sands of human theology!)

3. He Is Worthy Of Our Praise Because Of His His Wondrous Work Of Propitiation - Galatians 6:14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. (What a wonder work that God would become man and die for sinners such as you and I!)

Romans 5:7-8 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

1 John 2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the whole world. (Every man, woman, and child, no matter what race or social standing!)

4. He Is Worthy Of Our Praise Because Of His His Wondrous Work Of Sanctification - 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (What a wonderful change salvation makes in the life of the believer! Truly old things are passed away and all things are become new! God can save an old drunk and make a deacon out of him. God can save a sinful woman and make a godly mother out of her.)

5. He Is Worthy Of Our Praise Because Of His His Wondrous Work Of Provision - 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: (He has met all of our needs and many of our wants. He feeds us, shelters us, protects us, guides us, counsels us, chastens us, sustains us, and encourages us! “All things” pertaining to both living in this world and living for Him in this world! What a wondrous work of God!)

6. He Is Worthy Of Our Praise Because Of His His Wonderful Work In Preservation - John 10:27-31 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and my Father are one.

2 Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. (What is it about eternal life that people do not understand? I am saved forever and ever and ever and, as S.M. Lockridge so elegantly put it, “and when you get through with all of the forevers, then amen!”)

Conclusion: Our Lord is worthy to be praised for all of His wondrous works!

The Ministry Of The Blood Of Christ

Temple Baptist Church - 3-15-2009

Leviticus 17:11; 1 Peter 1:18-20

Introduction:

A. One of the most important doctrines in the Bible is that of the blood of Christ. It is a doctrine often attacked or maligned. It has even been called “Slaughterhouse Religion” by some religious infidels. It was precious blood! It was perfect blood! It was the blood of God!

1. To deny the blood of Christ is to deny the redemptive work of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2. To deny the blood of Christ is to pronounce one’s own personal eternal damnation.

3. To deny the blood of Christ is to “slap the face of almighty God.”

B. Such an expression reveals the spiritual condition of the individual:

1. It expresses ignorance of the Bible.

2. It expresses ignorance of the way of salvation.

3. It reflects an absolute lack of the fear of the Lord!

C. The Old Testament was based upon the blood of bulls and goats, which could never take away sin, while the New Testament is based upon the blood of Christ which eternally took away our sins. Both the Old and New Testaments look to the coming of the Messiah and the final Atonement for sins. The Old Testament believer knew that the blood of these animal sacrifices could not atone for sin. That is why Daniel and others who spent 70 years without these sacrifices knew that they were children of God. It was by faith!

1. The Blood Of Christ Established A Better Covenant - Matthew 26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

2. The Blood Of Christ Offered A Better Sacrifice - Hebrews 9:12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption [for us].

a) Divine Righteousness Was Established – Through the offering of the perfect Son of God.

b) Divine Peace Was Established – The sin debt was canceled for the repentant sinner and peace was made between sinful man and a holy God.

c) A New And Living Way Was Opened – The individual priesthood of the believer gave access to the very presence of God.

D. I want to look at the ministry of the precious blood of Christ for a few minutes:

1. Salvation Comes Only Through The Blood Of Christ!

a. The Blood Redeems The Believer From The Condemnation Of The Law – Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

Revelation 1:5 And from Jesus Christ, [who is] the faithful witness, [and] the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

Revelation 5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

b. It Declared The Believer Judicially Righteous - Romans 3:25 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;

Romans 4:8 Blessed [is] the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.

Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

2. The Blood Does More Than Just Save The Sinner!

a. The Blood Establishes Communion Between The Believer And God - 1 Corinthians 10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

Ephesians 2:13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

b. The Blood Bring A Settled Peace In The Believer - Colossians 1:20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, [I say], whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

c. The Blood Purges The Defiled Conscience Of The Believer - Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Hebrews 10:22 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.

d. The Blood Offers Access To The Believer Into The Holy Of Holies - Hebrews 10:19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

e. The Blood Sets The Believer Apart From The World - Hebrews 13:12-13 Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. 13 Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.

f. The Blood Offers Daily Cleansing For The Believer - 1 John 1:7, 9 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Conclusion: Not to be saved is to make:

1. A Foolish Mistake - Hebrews 10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

2. A Fatal Mistake - Matthew 27:25 - Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Another Gospel Which Is Not Another

Temple Baptist Church - 3-11-2009

Galatians 1:6-7

Introduction:


A. Galatians begins with a doxology of praise because of the two-fold heresy being dealt with:

1. Salvation is faith mixed with works.
2. Security is by works.

B. Both of these false teachings rely upon self-righteousness and deny salvation by grace through faith alone. In the salutation, Paul reiterates that salvation is of the Lord! It is all about Him! It is all by Him! It is all for Him!

C. The basis of these particular heresies is found in 2 Corinthians 11:1-4.

2 Corinthians 11:1-4 Would to God ye could bear with me a little in [my] folly: and indeed bear with me. 2 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

D. The Gospel defined:

1 Corinthians 15:1-4 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: (The True Gospel is all about Christ and not man!)

E. Isn’t the Gospel made amazing clear in the Scripture?

1. How can anyone who is saved, has the Holy Ghost living inside, and a King James Bible to read be confused on this simple doctrine?

2. The answer is found in the word “bewitched” in chapter 3 and verse 1.

F. One of the most often heard phrases that we run into on visitation is: “It doesn’t really matter where you go to church just as long as you believe.”

1. This lie shows the bewitching of both religionists and saints in the Bible Belt. It does matter where you attend church!

2. The pulpit is to be doctrinally pure and churches that preach works for salvation or preservation are not to be attended! Most churches are preaching “another gospel which is not another!”

G. YOU CANNOT HAVE BOTH GRACE AND WORKS for one destroys the other. This “another gospel:”

1. Another Gospel Is A Different Message. It is amazing to see those who have "tasted the heavenly gift" and experience the grace of God being led astray by erroneous teaching which can never satisfy! But God in His WORD said it would be so!

1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; (1 Timothy 4:1-2). NO sharper rebuke can be found in Pauline writing

John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

2. Another Gospel Is A Doctrine Of Man. It is evident that this “another gospel” did not come from the mind of God but the mind of man. It is the doctrine of man. How do we know? Because it in direct opposition to everything the true Gospel stands for.

H. This “another gospel:”

1. Exalts The Person Of Man – Ecclesiastes 7:20 For [there is] not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean [thing], and all our righteousnesses [are] as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof [are] the ways of death.

Romans 3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not.

2. Exchanges Work For Grace – Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Romans 4:3-5 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. 4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Romans 11:5-6 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. 6 And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

3. Enslaves Men To The Law - Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

John 8:36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

Ecclesiastes 3:14 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth [it], that [men] should fear before him.

4. Eternally Damns The Sinner - Romans 1:16-18 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; (It is “believeth,” not “worketh!”)

1. The Purpose Of The Gospel:

a. It Exalts The Person Of Our Salvation – vs. 3

Philippians 2:5-11 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

b. It Exhibits The Price Paid For Our Salvation – vs. 4

1 Peter 1:18-21 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, [as] silver and gold, from your vain conversation [received] by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

1 Peter 2:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

c. It Extends The Purpose Of Our Salvation – vs. 4b

(1) The Purpose Of Forgiveness - Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Colossians 2:13-14 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; (Past, present, and future.)

(2) The Purpose Of Freedom – Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 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: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

(a) There Is Present Deliverance - Romans 6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15 And [that] he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

(b) There Is Future Deliverance - Galatians 1:4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

2. The Products Of The Gospel:

a. The Gospel Pleases God - Corinthians 1:18, 21—“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God…For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.”

b. The Gospel Displays The Power Of God – Romans 1: 16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

c. The Gospel Exalts The Nature Of God - 1 Timothy 6:16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom [be] honour and power everlasting. Amen.

Romans 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Psalms 145:17 The LORD [is] righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.

d. The Gospel Convicts Man – Acts 2:37-38 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Conclusion: Verse 4 is the essence of the Gospel: “Who gave himself for our sins.” One man wrote this: “If you believe what you like in the Gospel, and reject what you don’t like, it is not the Gospel you believe, but yourself.”

Sunday, March 8, 2009

The House of the Lord

Temple Baptist Church - 3-8-2009

Psalms 92:13-14

Introduction:

A. While the Bible emphasizes the importance of the House of the Lord in the last days, the world minimizes it. Less and less people in American, the Bible Belt included, find less time to go to church. Churches that were once filled Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night have suffered a serious decline in numbers.

B. I understand that many of these unfaithful members are lost but an increasing number of saved have become unfaithful. For a long while, Sunday morning congregations held their own though the evening and mid-week services suffered decline. Now Sunday morning services have empty pews that were normally filled.

C. There are numerous reasons for the “falling away” of the once faithful. There is the sinfulness of our times. There is the apathy of the majority. There is the enemy of covetousness and the love of worldly pleasures. The list could go on but I want to key in on one major problem tonight. A lack of understanding of the importance of God’s house!

D. Church is much more than just sitting on a pew, singing a few songs, giving of the tithes, listening to a boring sermon, suffering through an altar call, and then going home just exactly the way you came in. Most people want nothing, give nothing, and receive nothing in church.

E. What you get out of church is what you put into it. Worship is not a spectator’s sport but an act of involvement! Worship, though most often thought of as corporate endeavor, is an individual matter. It is the personal realization of God’s worth in your life that brings about worship.

F. If God so emphasized the “assembling of ourselves together” in Hebrews 10:25, then it must be of the utmost importance in our personal lives. Here are just a few thoughts on the importance of going to Church. You see, the House of the Lord is a:

1. House of contemplation. Psalms 27:4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. (We come to church to think about Him!)

2. House of Satisfaction. Psalms 36:8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.

3. House of Praise. Psalms 135:1-2 Praise ye the LORD. Praise ye the name of the LORD; praise him, O ye servants of the LORD. 2 Ye that stand in the house of the LORD, in the courts of the house of our God,

4. House of Fellowship. Psalms 55:14 We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.

5. House of Offerings. Psalms 66:13 I will go into thy house with burnt offerings: I will pay thee my vows,

6. House of Growth. Psalms 92:13 Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.

7. House of Holiness. Psalms 93:5 Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever.

8. House of Testimony. Psalms 116:18 I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people, Psalms 116:19 In the courts of the LORD’S house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.

9. House of Blessing. Psalms 118:26 Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD.

10. House of Constraint. Psalms 122:1, 9 A Song of degrees of David. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. 9 Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good.

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Worthy Of Our Praise - Because Of His Excellent Name

Temple Baptist Church - 3-1-2009

2 Samuel 22:4

Introduction:


A. I am beginning a short series tonight on the subject “Worthy Of Our Praise.” There are a lot of things that need to be preached in these last perilous times but I believe that the most important subject is that of “The Lord.” In these dark days, it is easy for our spiritual vision to become impaired by our glaring circumstances.

B. Hebrews 12:1-2 says, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

C. Looking unto Jesus! The Author began our race and the Finisher will finish our race. “Sir, we would see Jesus!” For a little while, I want to look at the names of God. The great “I AM THAT I AM!”

D. There is no Old Testament argument for the existence of God! What we know about God, all we know, is what God has revealed to us through His presence and His Truth. We cannot know God or anything about God apart from His self-revelation. God has revealed Himself in various ways as recorded in the Word. We kn
ow Him:
1. By His Word in nature – “ the heavens declare the glory of God." They shine! They shout!
2. By His Word spoken through His servants - "at sundry times and in divers manners."
3. Above all, by the incarnation - "the Word was made flesh" in Jesus Christ our Lord. Emmanuel: God with us!

E. The names God uses in revealing Himself show us a great deal about Him, his character; what God is like; what God can do! Each name reveals some distinct attribute or characteristic of the same one blessed God. We do not have many gods but One God.

Philippians 2:9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

F. In every age these various names have been the rest and refuge and comfort of God's people. The Bible is full of the names of God and show forth His character; His attributes; His work; His power; His promises; His performance; and His integrity!

G. I will look at two classes of names tonight: the names of God in general and then the name of Jesus, the incarnate Jehovah God. He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name! Proverbs 22:1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

THE NAMES OF GOD IN GENERAL

1. I AM THAT I AM – He is self-conscience, self-existing, self determining, and self-sustaining. He was before anyone, He will be after everyone, and He needs no one or anything. He was that He was; He is that He is; and He will be that He will be! He has the power of intellect, thinking, sensibility, feeling, will, and volition. He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!

2. Jehovah – the eternal, immutable One. There are many combinations of His name.
a. Jehovah-jireh – The Lord will provide.
b. Jehovah-nissi – The Lord our Banner
c. Jehovah-rapha – The Lord that healeth.
d. Jehovah-shalom 0 – The Lord or peace.
e. Jehovah-raah – The Lord our Shepherd
f. Jehovah-tsidkenu – The Lord our righteousness.
g. Jehovah-sabaoth – The Lord of hosts.
h. Jehovah-shammah – The Lord is present.
i. Jehovah-elyon – The Lord most high.
j. Jehovah-mkaddishkim – The Lord that sanctifieth thee. He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!

3. Elohim – He is creator of all things. The covenant making, all powerful God! He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!

4. Adonai – He is the Lord who owns all things. He rules and over rules in the affairs of men! He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!

5. Throughout the Bible, He is called by many names:
Adam – 1 Cor. 15:45
Advocate - I Jn. 2:1
Alpha and Omega – Rev. 22:13
Amen – Rev. 3:14
Ancient of Days – Dan. 7:22
Anchor – Heb. 6:19
He is the Angel of the Lord – Gen. 48:16; Ex. 23:20,21
Angel of His Presence – Isa. 63:9
Anointed – Psa. 2:2
Apostle and High Priest of our Profession – Hebr. 3:1; 4:14
Apostle of Hebrews 3:1
Arm of the Lord – Isa. 51:9,10
Author and Finisher of our Faith – Heb. 12:2
Beginning and end of the creation of God – Rev. 3:14; 22:13
Beloved – Eph. 1:6
Blessed and only Potentate – 1 Tim. 6:15
Branch – Isa. 11:1
Bread of Life – Jn. 6:35,48
Bridegroom – Matt. 9:15
Bright and Morning Star – Rev. 22:16
Brightness of His Father’s Glory – Hebr. 1:3
Buckler = Small fighting shield – Psm. 18:2
Captain of the Lord’s host (army) – Jos. 5:14
Captain of Salvation – Hebr. 2:10
Carpenter = Mark 6:3
Carpenter’s son – Matt. 13:55
Chief Shepherd – 1 Pe. 5:4
Chief Cornerstone – 1 Pe. 2:6; Eph. 2:20
Chiefest among ten thousand – Song 5:10
Child – Isa. 9:6; Luke 2:27, 43
Chosen of God – 1 Pe. 2:4
Christ – Matt. 1:16; Luke 9:20
Christ the Messiah – Matt. 16:20; Mark 14:61
Christ a King – Luke 23:2
Christ Jesus – Acts 19:4; Rom. 3:24; 8:1; 1 Cor. 1:2, 30; Hebr. 3:1; 1 Pe. 5:10, 14
Christ Jesus our Lord – 1 Tim. 1:12; Rom. 8:39
Christ of God – Luke 9:20
Christ the chosen of God – Luke 23:35
Christ the Lord – Luke 2:11
Christ the power of God – 1 Cor. 1:24
Christ the wisdom of God – 1 Cor. 1:24
Christ the son of God – Acts 9:20
Christ the son of the Blessed – Mark 14:61
Commander – Isa. 55:4
Consolation of Israel – Luke 2:25
Cornerstone – Eph. 2:20
Counselor – Isa. 9:6
Covenant of the people – Isa. 42:6
Creator of the ends of the earth – Isa. 40:28
David – Jer. 30:9
Daysman – Job 9:33
Dayspring – Luke 1:78
Day Star – 2 Pe. 1:19
Deliverer – Rom. 11:26; Psm. 18:2
Desire of the nations – Hag. 2:7
Door – Jn. 10:7,9
Elect – Isa. 42:1
Emmanuel – Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:23
Ensign – Isa.11:10
Eternal Life – 1 Jn. 5:20
Everlasting Father – Isa. 9:6
Faithful and True – Rev. 19:11
Faithful Witness – Rev. 1:5; 3:14
Faithful and true witness – Rev. 3:14
First and the last – Rev. 1:17; 2:8; 22:13
First begotten – Hebr. 1:6
First begotten of the dead – Rev. 1:5
Firstborn – Psa. 89:27
Foundation – Isa. 28:16
Fountain – Zec. 13:1
Forerunner – Hebr. 6:20
Fortress – Jer. 16:19
Friend of sinners – 11:19
Gift of God – Jn. 4:10
Glory of Israel – Luke 2:32
God (deity) – Jn. 1:1
God Almighty – Gen. 17:1; 35:11
God blessed forever – Rom. 9:5
God manifest in the flesh – 1 Tim. 3:16
God of Abraham – Gen. 26:24
God of Bethel – Gen. 31:13
God of Israel, the Savior – Isa. 45:15
God of Jacob your father – Gen. 46:3
God of the whole earth – Isa. 54:5
God of the Rock of my Salvation – Psm. 62:7
God our Savior – I Tim. 2:3
God’s dear Son – Col. 1:13
God with us – Matt. 1:23
Good Master – Matt. 19:16
Good Shepherd – Jn. 10:11
Governor – Matt. 2:6
Great Shepherd of the sheep – Hebr. 13:20
Head of the Church (ekklesia = body) – Eph. 1:22, 23; 5:23; Col. 1:18,24
Heir of all things – Hebr. 1:2
Hiding place – Psm. 32:7
High and Lifted up – Isa. 6:1; Psm. 138:6
High Priest – Hebr. 4:14; 6:20
High Tower – Psm. 144:2
Head of every man – 1 Cor. 11:3
Head of the corner – Matt. 21:42
Holy child Jesus – Acts 4:30
Holy One – Psa. 16:10; Acts 3:14
Holy one of God – Mark 1:24
Holy one of Israel – Isa. 41:14; Isa. 54:5
Holy thing – Luke 1:35
Hope – 1 Tim. 1:1
Horn of Salvation – 2 Sam. 22:3; Psm. 18:2; Luke 1:69
I AM – Jn. 8:58
I AM THAT I AM – Ex. 3:14
I am with thee and will keep thee – Gen. 28:15
Image of God – Col. 1:25; Hebr. 1:3
Israel – Isa. 49:3
Jehovah – Isa. 49:3
Jehovah’s fellow – Zech. 13:7
Jesus – Matt. 1:21
Jesus Christ – Matt. 1:1; Jn. 1:17; 17:3; Acts 2:38; 4:10, 9:34; 10:36;
16:18; Rom. 1:1,3,6; 2:16; 5:15,17; 6:3; 1 Cor. 1:1,4; 2:2;
2 Cor. 1:19; 4:6; 13:5; Gal. 2:16; Phil. 1:8; 2:11;
1 Tim. 1:15; Hebr. 13:8; 1 Jn. 1:7; 2:1
Jesus Christ our Lord – Rom. 1:3; 6:11,23; 1 Cor. 1:9; 7:25
Jesus Christ our Savior – Titus 3:16
Jesus of Nazareth – Mark 1:24; Luke 24:19
Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews – Jn. 19:19; Matt. 27:37
Jesus the Son of God – Hebr. 4:14
Jesus son of Joseph – Jn. 6:42
Jesus son of man – Mark 14:61
Judge – Acts 10:42
Just Man, Just person, Just One – Matt. 27:19,24; Acts 3:14; 7:52; 22:14
King – Matt. 21:5
King of Israel – Jn. 1:49
King of the Jews – Matt. 2:2; Mk. 15:26
King of Saints – Rev. 15:3
King of Kings – 1 Tim. 6:15; Rev. 17:14
King of Glory – Psa. 24:7-10
King of Zion – Matt. 21:5
King over all the earth – Zech. 14:9
Lamb – Rev. 5:6,8; 6:16; 7:9,10, 17; 12:11; 13:8,11; 14:1, 4; 15:3; 17:14;
19:7, 9; 21:9, 14, 22, 23, 27
The Lamb lead to slaughter – Jer. 11:19
Lamb of God – Jn. 1:29
Lawgiver – Isa. 33:22
Leader – Isa. 55:4
Life – Jn. 14:6
Light of the world – Jn. 8:12
Light everlasting – Isa. 60:20
Light to the Gentiles – Isa. 42:6
Living bread – Jn. 6:51
Living Stone – 1 Pe. 2:4
Living Water – Jn. 4:10
Lion of the tribe of Judah – Rev. 5:5
Lord – Rom. 1:3
Lord God of heaven – Neh. 1:5
Lord God of hosts – 2 Sam. 7:27; Psm. 89:8
Lord of Lords – 1 Tim. 6:15; Rev. 17:14; 19:16
Lord of all – Acts 10:36
Lord our righteousness – Jer. 23:6
Lord God Almighty – Rev. 15:3
Lord of Heaven – 1 Cor. 15:47
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – 2 Pe. 1:11; 3:18
Lord Christ – Col. 3:24
Lord Jesus – Acts 7:59; Col. 3:17; 1 Thes. 4:12
Lord Jesus Christ – Acts 11:17; 16:31; 20:21; Rom. 5:1; 13:14
Lord Jesus Christ our Savior – Titus 1:4
Lord of Glory – James 2:1
Lord of Hosts (armies) – Isa. 44:6
Lord of Hosts, Sabbath – Matt. 12:8
Lord mighty in battle – Psa. 24:8
Lord of the dead and the living – Rom. 14:9
Lord of the Sabbath – Mark 2:28
Lord over all – Rom. 10:12
Lord’s Christ – Luke 2:26
Lord, strong and mighty – Psa. 24:8
Lord, your holy one – Isa. 43:15
Lord your redeemer – Isa. 43:14
Man of sorrows – Isa. 53:3
Master – Matt. 8:19; 23:8
Mediator – 1 Tim. 2:5
Mediator of the New Testament and better covenant – Hebr. 8:6; 9:15; 12:24;
Messenger of the covenant – Mal. 3:1
Messiah – Jn. 1:41
Messiah the Prince – Dan. 9:25
Mighty God – Isa. 9:6
Mighty one of Israel – Isa. 30:29
Mighty one of Jacob – Isa. 49:26
Mighty to save – Isa. 63:1
Minister of the sanctuary – Hebr. 8:2
Morning Star – Rev. 22:16
Most Holy – Dan. 9:24
Most mighty – Psa. 45:3
Nazarene – Matt. 2:23
Offspring of David – Rev. 22:16
Only begotten = Gk.: one and only, unique – Jn. 3:16
Only begotten of the Father – Jn. 1:14
Only begotten Son – Jn. 1:18
Only wise God, our Savior – Jude 1:25
Our Servant – Matt. 12:18
Overseer – 1 Pe. 2:25
Passover – 1 Cor. 5:7
Plant of renown – Eze. 34:29
Potentate – 1 Tim. 6:15
Power of God – 1 Cor. 1:24
Physician – Matt. 9:12
Precious cornerstone – Isa. 28:16
Priest – Hebr. 7:17
Prince – Acts 5:31
Prince of Life – Acts 3:15
Prince of Peace – Isa. 9:6
Prince of the kings of the earth – Rev. 1:5
Prophet – Deut. 18:15, 18; Matt. 21:11; Luke 24:19
Propitiation = expiation, our sin offering – 1 Jn. 2:2
Rabbi, Rabboni – Jn. 1:49; 20:16
Ransom – 1 Tim. 2:6
Redeemer – Isa. 59:20; Job 19:25
Refuge – 2 Sam. 22:3
Rejected of Men – Isa. 53:3
Resurrection and the Life – Jn. 11:25
Redemption – 1 Cor. 1:30
Righteous Branch – Jer. 23:5
Righteous Judge – 2 Tim. 4:8; Acts 10:42
Righteous Servant – Isa. 53:11
Righteousness – 1 Cor. 1:30
Rock – 1 Cor. 10:4
Rock of Offence – 1 Pe. 2:8
Rod out of the stem of Jesse – Isa. 11:1
Root of David – Rev. 5:5; 22:16
Root of Jesse – Isa. 11:10
Rose of Sharon – Song 2:1
Ruler of Israel – Mic. 5:2
Salvation – Luke 2:30
Sanctification – 1 Cor. 1:30
Sanctuary – Isa. 8:14
Savior – Luke 2:11
Savior, Jesus Christ – Jn. 4:42; 1 Tim. 1:10; Titus 2:13; 2 Pe.1:1
Savior of the body (church) – Eph. 5:23
Savior of the world – 1 Jn. 4:14
Sceptre – Num. 24:17
Second man – 1 Cor. 15:47
Seed of David – 2 Tim. 2:8
Seed of Woman – Gen. 3:15
Servant of rulers – Isa. 49:7
Shepherd – Mark 14:27
Shepherd and Overseer of souls – 1 Pe. 2:25
Shepherd of Israel – Psa. 80:1
Serpent lifted up in the wilderness – Nu. 21:8; Jn. 3:14
Shiloh – Gen. 49:10
Shield – Gen. 15:1; 33:20
Son of the Blessed One (God) – Mark 14:61
Son of David – Matt. 9:27
Son of the Father – 2 Jn. 1:3
Son of the Highest One – Luke 1:32
Son of Man – Matt. 20:28
Star – Num. 24:17
Sun of Righteousness – Mal. 4:2
Surety = guarantee – Hebr. 7:22
Stone – Mal. 21:42
Stone of Stumbling – 1 Pe. 2:8
Sure Foundation – Isa. 28:16
Teacher – Jn. 3:2
The Man Christ Jesus – 1 Tim. 2:5
The Way, the Truth and the Life – Jn. 14:6
True God – 1 Jn. 5:20
True Vine – Jn. 15:1
Truth – Jn. 14:6
Unspeakable Gift – 1 Cor. 9:15
Very Christ – Acts 9:22
Vine – Jn. 14:6
Which is, which was, which is to come = tetra-gram-mation – YHWH, the Eternal One, I AM that I AM – Rev. 1:4
Wisdom – Prov. 8:12
Wisdom of God – 1 Cor. 1:24
Witness – Isa. 9:6
Wonderful – Isa. 9:6
Word – Jn. 1:1
Word of God – Rev. 19:13
Word of Life – 1 Jn. 1:1
He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!

6. He is the central theme of all of the sixty six books of the Bible:
In Genesis, He is the Creator God the Ram at Abraham’s altar.In Exodus, He is the Redeemer and the Passover Lamb.In Leviticus, He is our sanctification and our High Priest.In Numbers, He is our guide. He’s the Cloud by day and Pillar of Fire by night.In Deuteronomy, He is our teacher. He’s the City of our refuge.
In Joshua, He is the mighty conqueror; The Captain of the Lord’s Host; and the Scarlet Thread in Rahab’s window.In Judges, He gives victory over enemies. He is our Judge.In Ruth, He is our kinsman redeemer, the lover of our soul. In I Samuel, He is our Trusted Prophet and the root of Jesse;In 2 Samuel, He is the Son of David.In 1 Kings and 2 Kings, He is King of Kings and Lord of LordsIn 1st and 2nd Chronicles, He is our intercessor and High Priest.In Ezra, He is our temple, our house of worship, our faithful scribe.In Nehemiah, He is our mighty wall, protecting us from our enemies and the rebuilder of everything that is broken.In Esther, He stands in the gap to deliver us from our enemies. He is the Mordecai sitting faithful at the gate.In Job, He is the arbitrator who not only understands our struggles, but has the power to do something about them. He’s our Redeemer that ever liveth.In Psalms, He is our song-and our reason to sing. He is my Shepherd and I shall not want.
In Proverbs, He is our wisdom, helping us make sense of life and live it successfully.In Ecclesiastes, He is our purpose, delivering us from vanity.In the Song of Solomon, He is our lover. He’s the Beautiful Bridegroom.
In Isaiah, He’s the Suffering Servant. He is the mighty counselor, the Prince of Peace, the everlasting Father, and much more. He's everything we need.In Jeremiah, He is our balm of Gilead, the soothing salve for our sin-sick soul.In Lamentations, He is the Weeping Prophet, He is the ever-faithful one upon whom we can depend.In Ezekiel, He is our wheel in the middle of a wheel-the one who assures that dry, dead bones will come alive again. He’s the Wonderful Four-Faced Man.In Daniel, He is the ancient of days, the everlasting God who never runs out of time. He is the Fourth Man in the midst of a fiery furnace.
In Hosea, He is our faithful lover, always beckoning us to come back-even when we have abandoned Him. He is our Lover that is forever faithful.
In Joel, He is our refuge, keeping us safe in times of trouble. He baptizes us with the Holy Spirit.In Amos, He is the husbandman, the one we can depend on to stay by our side. He’s our Burden Bearer.In Obadiah, He is Lord of the Kingdom. In Jonah, He is our salvation, bringing us back within His will. He is our Savior.
In Micah, He is judge of the nation. He is the Messenger with beautiful feet.
In Nahum, He is the jealous God. He is the Avenger.
In Habakkuk, He is the Holy One. He is the Watchman that is ever praying for revival.In Zephaniah, He is the witness. He is the Lord mighty to save.In Haggai, He overthrows the enemies. He is the Restorer of our lost heritage.In Zechariah, He is Lord of Hosts. He is our Fountain.In Malachi, He is the messenger God. He is the Sun of Righteousness with healing in His wings.

In Matthew, He is king of the Jews. He is the Christ, the son of the Living God.In Mark, He is the servant. He is the Miracle Worker.In Luke, He is the Son of Man, feeling what we feel.In John, He is the Son of God. He is the Door by which every one of us must enter.
In Acts, He is Saviour of the world. He is the Shining Light that appears to Saul on the road to Damascus.
In Romans, He is the righteousness of God. He is our Justifier.In I Corinthians, He is the rock that followed Israel. He is our Resurrection.In II Corinthians, He is the triumphant one, giving victory. He is our Sin Bearer.In Galatians, He is our liberty; He redeems us from the law and makes us free.In Ephesians, He is our Unsearchable Riches. He is head of the Church.In Philippians, He is our joy. He is the supplier of our every need.In Colossians, He is our completeness. He’s the Fullness of the Godhead Bodily.In I Thessalonians, He is our hope. He is our Soon Coming King.In II Thessalonians, He is our patience and discipline.In I Timothy, He is our faith. He is the Mediator between God and man.In II Timothy, He is our stability in perilous days.In Titus, He is the truth. He is our Blessed Hope.In Philemon, He is our benefactor. He is a Friend that sticks closer than a brother.In Hebrews, He is our perfection. He’s the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant. He is our Sacrifice. He is our High Priest.In James, He is the power behind our faith. He is the Lord Jesus that heals the sick.In I Peter, He is our example. He is the Chief Shepherd.In II Peter, He is our purity.In I John, He is our life.In II John, He is our pattern.In III John, He is our motivation.In Jude, He is the foundation of our faith. He is the Lord coming with 10,000 saints.In the Revelation, He is our coming King. Lift up your eyes, Church, for your redemption draweth nigh! Hallelujah!! He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!

" The Preeminence of Jesus"I. The Predictions About Jesus (Genesis Thru Malachi) A. The Pentateuch: The Pillar For Jesus (Genesis - Deuteronomy) 1. Jesus Is Our Source (
Genesis) 2. Jesus Is Our Safety (Exodus) 3. Jesus Is Our Sacrifice (Leviticus) 4. Jesus Is Our Sustenance (Numbers) 5. Jesus Is Our Spokesman (Deuteronomy) B. The Past: The Preparation For Jesus (Joshua - Esther) 1. Jesus Is Our Success (Joshua) 2. Jesus Is Our Supreme Court (Judges) 3. Jesus Is Our Successor (Ruth) 4. Jesus Is Our Sanctifier (1 Samuel) 5. Jesus Is Our Sovereign ((2 Samuel) 6. Jesus Is Our Sanctuary (1 Kings) 7. Jesus Is Our Splendor (2 Kings) 8. Jesus Is Our Straightener (1 Chronicles) 9. Jesus Is Our Significance (2 Chronicles) 10. Jesus Is Our Scribe (Ezra) 11. Jesus Is Our Stronghold (Nehemiah) 12. Jesus Is Our Supporter (Esther) C. The Poets: The Passion of Jesus (Job - Song of Solomon) 1. Jesus Is Our Stamina (Job) 2. Jesus Is Our Song (Psalms) 3. Jesus Is Our Shrewdness (Proverbs) 4. Jesus Is Our Satisfaction (Ecclesiastes) 5. Jesus Is Our Spouse (Song of Solomon) D. The Prophets: The Prophecies of Jesus (Isaiah - Malachi) 1. The Major Prophets (Isaiah - Daniel) a. Jesus Is Our Sufferer (Isaiah) b. Jesus Is Our Standard (Jeremiah) c. Jesus Is Our Sympathy (Lamentations) d. Jesus Is Our Scrutinizer (Ezekiel) e. Jesus Is Our Stone (Daniel) 2. The Minor Prophets (Hosea - Malachi) a. Jesus Is The Supreme Love of God (Hosea) b. Jesus Is The Sure Day of God (Joel) c. Jesus Is The Stubborn World of God (Amos) d. Jesus Is The Sweeping Rule of God (Obadiah) e. Jesus Is The Steadfast Grace of God (Jonah) f. Jesus Is The Settled Will of God (Micah) g. Jesus Is The Strict Judgments of God (Nahum) h. Jesus Is The Superior Methods of God (Habakkuk) i. Jesus Is The Strange Ways of God (Zephaniah) j. Jesus Is The Simple Goal of God (Haggai) k. Jesus Is The Successful Hope in God (Zechariah) l. Jesus Is The Sworn Promise of God (Malachi)

II. The Presence of Jesus (Matthew - John)
A. Jesus Is The Sovereign of Man Who Came To Sway
(Matthew)
B. Jesus Is The Servant of Man Who Came To Serve
(Mark)
C. Jesus Is The Son of Man Who Came To Share
(Luke)
D. Jesus Is The Son of God Who Came To Save
(John)
III. The Pronouncements of Jesus
(Acts)
IV. The Prescriptions of Jesus (Romans - Jude)
A. Jesus Is The Satisfaction of All Things
(Romans)
B. Jesus Is The Solution To All Things, Part 1
(1 Corinthians:)
C. Jesus Is The Solution To All Things, Part 2
(2 Corinthians:)
D. Jesus Is The Sole Savior of All Things
(Galatians)
E. Jesus Is The Sum of All Things
(Ephesians)
F. Jesus Is The Supplier of All Things
(Philippians)
G. Jesus Is The Source of All Things
(Colossians)
H. Jesus Is The Stimulation of All Things, Part 1
(1 Thessalonians )
I. Jesus Is The Stimulation of All Things, Part 2
(2 Thessalonians )
J. Jesus Is The Singular Mediator of All Things
(1 Timothy)
K. Jesus Is The Stability of All Things
(2 Timothy)
L. Jesus Is The Structure of All Things
(Titus)
M. Jesus Is The Sponsor of All Things
(Philemon)
N. Jesus Is The Superior of All Things
(Hebrews)
O. Jesus Is The Standard of All Things
(James)
P. Jesus Is The Substance of All Things
(1 Peter)
Q. Jesus Is The Stronger of All Things
(2 Peter)
R. Jesus Is The Spring of All Things
(1 John)
S. Jesus Is The Soundness of All Things
(2 John)
T. Jesus Is The Sociability of All Things
(3 John)
U. Jesus Is The Spectator of All Things
(Jude)
IV. The Preeminence of Jesus (Revelation)

7. “Thou shalt call his name Jesus!” Philippians 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

To the ARTIST He is the One Altogether Lovely.
To the ARCHITECT He is the Chief Corner Stone.
To the BAKER He is the Living Bread.
To the BANKER He is the Hidden Treasure.
To the BIOLOGIST He is the Life.
To the BUILDER He is the Sure Foundation.
To the CARPENTER He is the Door.
To the DOCTOR He is the Great Physician.
To the EDUCATOR He is the Great Teacher.
To the ENGINEER He is the New and Living Way.
To the FLORIST He is the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the Valley.
To the GEOLOGIST He is the Rock of Ages.
To the HORTICULTURIST He is the True Vine.
To the JUDGE He is the Righteous Judge, Judge of All Men.
To the JEWELER He is the Pearl of Great Price.
To the LAWYER He is the Counselor, the Lawgiver, and the Advocate.
To the NEWSPAPER He is the Good Tidings of Great Joy.
To the OCULIST He is the Light of the Eyes.
To the PHILANTHROPIST He is the Unspeakable Gift.
To the PHILOSOPHER He is the Wisdom of God.
To the PREACHER He is the Word of God.
To the SCULPTOR He is the Living Stone.
To the SERVANT He is the Good Master.
To the STATESMAN He is the Desire of All Nations.
To the STUDENT He is the Incarnate Truth.
To the THEOLOGIAN He is the Author and Finisher of our Faith.
To the TOILER He is the Giver of Rest.
To the SINNER He is the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the World.
To the CHRISTIAN He is the Son of the Living God, the Savior, the Redeemer and the Lord. He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!

At the name of Jesus, devils tremble.
At the name of Jesus, saints bow.
At the name of Jesus, angels worship.
At the name of Jesus, the sun, moon, and stars will one day flee!

To the world, He is rejected.
To the sinner, He is Saviour.
To the saint, He is accepted, He is adored, He is worshipped, He is obeyed, He is our “all in all.”
He is the One we can know when we are still.
He is the One we can trust when we are in trouble.
He is the One we can call upon when we are confused.
He is the One who can heal when we are sick.
He is the One who can comfort when we are bereaved.
He is the One who can feed us when we are hungry.
He is the One who can sustain us when we are tired.
He is the One who will go before us into battle.
He is the One who was always there, is always there, and will always be there for us!!!

JESUS
"I've tried in vain a thousand ways, My fears to quell, my hopes to raise;
But all I need, the Bible says, is Jesus.
My soul is night, my heart is steel, I cannot see, I cannot feel,
For life, for light, I must appeal to Jesus.
He died, He lives, He reigns, He pleads, There's love in all His words and deeds,
All-All the guilty sinner needs is Jesus.
Though some will mock, though some will blame, In spite of fear, in spite of shame,
I'll go to Him, because His name is Jesus."
He is worthy to be praised because of His excellent name!