Temple Baptist Church - 12-28-2008
Philippians 3:13
Introduction: I quoted the first part of what Paul said last Sunday: “This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind.” This morning, I want to use the second part as they go together and one is useless without the other. “This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
A. Last week, we PUT THE PAST IN THE PAST. To forget the things that are behind is good but not enough. We can reflect on our failures and fail to learn from them. We can reflect upon our victories and have no victory in the next year. We can sit still this New Year, do nothing, and miserably fail again. Or,
B. We also PUT THE FUTURE IN THE PRESENT! We can go on for God while living in spiritual victory. No, we do not know what we will face this year. There may be trials to go through, sickness to come upon us, poverty because of an unstable economy but we can be victorious. “This is the victory that over cometh the world, even our faith!” (1 John 5:4)
C. We can put the future in the present by:
1. Living for Christ today. Taking one day at a time by not crossing bridges before we come to them. A man once said that worry is “Earning interest on a problem that may never come.” One day at a time.
Matthew 6:31-34 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
2. Trusting Christ for tomorrow. Yea though I walk through the valley, I will fear no evil for He is with me!
Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
1. In 2009, I Want To “Be Found In Him.” Vs. 9, 13-14
a. Not “found in Him” in salvation because I am saved! I got that settled long ago. My salvation is settled for time and eternity. If you do not know Him today, come to an old fashioned altar and surrender your life to Christ. He will not “cast you out.”
b. “Found in Him” in testimony! Everyone who names Christ has a testimony for Christ: either bad or good.
2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
c. I want my life to glorify God, not bring shame to His name. I want my life to reflect the wonderful salvation that He has given to me and the change that His salvation made. So many people who are saved have brought nothing but reproach to a “name which is above every name.”
2. In 2009, I Want To “Know Him.” Vs. 10
a. I want to get to know Him in His person.
Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ,
b. I want to get to know Him in the fellowship of His suffering.
Hebrews 13:13 Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. (I believe that the greatest suffering of Christ was that of being forsaken! “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” The world will also forsake you when you “go forth therefore unto him without the camp.”)
c. I want to get to know Him in His Word.
Job 23:12 Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary [food].
d. I want to get to know Him in His peace.
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.
2 Timothy 4:16-17 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all [men] forsook me: [I pray God] that it may not be laid to their charge. 17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
Psalms 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
Psalms 56:11 In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.
Isaiah 12:2 Behold, God [is] my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH [is] my strength and [my] song; he also is become my salvation. (His God; He is Lord, He is Sovereign!)
e. I want to get to know Him in His power.
John 11:43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
f. I want to get to know Him in my praise.
Hebrews 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
g. I want to get to know Him in His purpose.
1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
This One Thing I Do
Temple Baptist Church - 12-28-2008
Philippians 3:13
Introduction: Paul said, “This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind.” Facing the uncertain with certainty should be the theme of the New Year.
A. Another year is now coming to a close and what a year. Whew! I am glad to get this one behind me. Most of our years are uneventful and we cannot even remember what we did during the course of that year. Other years are never to be forgotten ones and this was one of them. It was a year never to be forgotten and, the Lord willing, never to be repeated.
B. I did not get everything that I wanted last year and probably will not get all that I want this year but I will face this new year with the hope of God in my heart and my eyes upon Him. Aren’t you glad that you do not know what you will face in 2009?
C. The past can do one of two things: it can either haunt you or it can help you! Which one applies to you is your choice. We need to make right choices this coming year in order to maintain both our Christian testimony and influence.
D. This morning, we need to put last year in its proper perspective. That perspective is this: last year is history and we cannot change it. I want to give you two things that will help you to face the New Year in a right way. I will try to keep this as simple as possible.
1. Put The Past In The Past!
2. Put The Future In The Present!
PUT THE PAST IN THE PAST! Forget those things that you cannot change!
1. Past failures not to be repeated. You blew it at times. I blew it at times. I was not always a good Christian this past year. May the Lord help me to be a better Christian in 2009.
Psalms 51:7-13 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. 9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. 12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. 13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
2. Past victories not to be forgotten but placed in a proper perspective. There were times when you were a good Christian last year. You grew in the Lord and were blessed and rewarded for it. (Earlington – 1967)
3. Forget your disappointments! NO ONE gets everything that they want! There were times when the enemy got the upper hand. There were times when you had to do without some things. There were times when you did not understand and probably still do not understand. God never said to understand; He said to trust.
4. Forget your hurts and forgive those who hurt you. Hurt always turns to anger and anger to bitterness if not dealt with properly. Forgiveness of our enemies is as much for our sake as it is for their sake.
Hebrews 12:15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled;
Matthew 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Put the future In The Future! Reflect upon those things that will not change!
1. God was good to us this past year! He will be good to us in the coming year.
Psalms 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Lamentations 3:22-23 [It is of] the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 [They are] new every morning: great [is] thy faithfulness.
2. God’s grace was sufficient this past year! His grace will be sufficient in the coming year.
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
3. God’s strength was made perfect in our weakness last year! His strength will be there in the coming year.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
4. God’s presence was with us last year! He will be there this next year.
Hebrews 13:5 [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. (This verse became a real reality to my family this past year!)
Isaiah 49:15 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.
5. God’s promises were made sure to us when we needed them last year! We can rely upon them in the coming year.
2 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God in him [are] yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. (You can rely upon God’s Word!)
6. Last year is history and next year will be history soon! “And it came to pass!”
Next year is just “future history.”
Psalms 90:9 For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we spend our years as a tale [that is told]. (Face the New Year with hope and trust instead of doubt and fear. The Lord will be the same tomorrow as He was yesterday and today
Philippians 3:13
Introduction: Paul said, “This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind.” Facing the uncertain with certainty should be the theme of the New Year.
A. Another year is now coming to a close and what a year. Whew! I am glad to get this one behind me. Most of our years are uneventful and we cannot even remember what we did during the course of that year. Other years are never to be forgotten ones and this was one of them. It was a year never to be forgotten and, the Lord willing, never to be repeated.
B. I did not get everything that I wanted last year and probably will not get all that I want this year but I will face this new year with the hope of God in my heart and my eyes upon Him. Aren’t you glad that you do not know what you will face in 2009?
C. The past can do one of two things: it can either haunt you or it can help you! Which one applies to you is your choice. We need to make right choices this coming year in order to maintain both our Christian testimony and influence.
D. This morning, we need to put last year in its proper perspective. That perspective is this: last year is history and we cannot change it. I want to give you two things that will help you to face the New Year in a right way. I will try to keep this as simple as possible.
1. Put The Past In The Past!
2. Put The Future In The Present!
PUT THE PAST IN THE PAST! Forget those things that you cannot change!
1. Past failures not to be repeated. You blew it at times. I blew it at times. I was not always a good Christian this past year. May the Lord help me to be a better Christian in 2009.
Psalms 51:7-13 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. 9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. 12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. 13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
2. Past victories not to be forgotten but placed in a proper perspective. There were times when you were a good Christian last year. You grew in the Lord and were blessed and rewarded for it. (Earlington – 1967)
3. Forget your disappointments! NO ONE gets everything that they want! There were times when the enemy got the upper hand. There were times when you had to do without some things. There were times when you did not understand and probably still do not understand. God never said to understand; He said to trust.
4. Forget your hurts and forgive those who hurt you. Hurt always turns to anger and anger to bitterness if not dealt with properly. Forgiveness of our enemies is as much for our sake as it is for their sake.
Hebrews 12:15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled;
Matthew 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Put the future In The Future! Reflect upon those things that will not change!
1. God was good to us this past year! He will be good to us in the coming year.
Psalms 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Lamentations 3:22-23 [It is of] the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 [They are] new every morning: great [is] thy faithfulness.
2. God’s grace was sufficient this past year! His grace will be sufficient in the coming year.
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
3. God’s strength was made perfect in our weakness last year! His strength will be there in the coming year.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
4. God’s presence was with us last year! He will be there this next year.
Hebrews 13:5 [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. (This verse became a real reality to my family this past year!)
Isaiah 49:15 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.
5. God’s promises were made sure to us when we needed them last year! We can rely upon them in the coming year.
2 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God in him [are] yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. (You can rely upon God’s Word!)
6. Last year is history and next year will be history soon! “And it came to pass!”
Next year is just “future history.”
Psalms 90:9 For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we spend our years as a tale [that is told]. (Face the New Year with hope and trust instead of doubt and fear. The Lord will be the same tomorrow as He was yesterday and today
Arise, My Love, My Fair One, And Come Away
Temple Baptist Church - 12-28-2008
Song of Solomon 2:1-13
Introduction:
A. In the Jewish marriage, after the payment of the dowry of the bride, the groom goes away and make preparation for taking care of the bride. When the father of the groom sees that proper preparation has been made, he then gives his permission for the groom to go and take his bride.
John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
B. Thus, our Lord Jesus Christ has paid the dowry for His bride. On the cross of Calvary, our redemption was paid in full. Jesus paid it all; all to Him owe; sin had left a crimson stain; He washed it white as snow.
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].
Hebrews 9:26 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.
C. In the previous verses we find the fulfillment of this promise:
1. He loved me – vs. 2-3
2. He brought me – vs. 4
3. He stayed me – vs. 5
4. He embraced me – vs. 6
D. Thus we look for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ! The older I get, the more that my heart longs for Him and home! Certainly for us to live is Christ but, also, to die is gain and “far better!” I love this old song:
This World Is Not My Home
This world is not my home I'm just passing through my treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue the angels beckon me from Heaven's open doorand I can't feel at home in this world anymore
O Lord you know I have no friend like youif Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
They're all expecting me and that's one thing I knowmy savior pardoned me and now I onward goI know He'll take me through though I am weak and poor and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
O Lord you know I have no friend like youif Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
Just up in Glory Land we'll live eternally the Saints on every hand are shouting victory their song of sweetest praise drifts back from Heaven's shore and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
O Lord you know I have no friend like youif Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?the angels beckon me from Heaven's open doorand I can't feel at home in this world anymore
1. The Promise Of His Coming – vs. 7 John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also.
a. Before Jesus went to the cross, He promised His disciples that He would return for them - John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
b. He later reaffirmed this promise to the Apostle John - Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
c. When Jesus ascended back into Heaven, angels told His disciples that He would return - Acts 1:9-11 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
1) It is eminent (Brand New Feeling In The Air!) 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
2) It is encouraging (hard times almost over forever) 1 Thessalonians 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
3) It is exciting (just watching the Lord work and prophecy fulfilling) Revelation 22:20- He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
2. The Person Of His Coming – vs. 8-10 John 14:3a And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again,
Acts 1:11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
1 Thessalonians 4:16 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:
3. The Purpose Of His Coming – vs. 9-10 John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also.
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 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.
4. The Period Of His Coming – vs. 11 “the winter is past, the rain is over and gone” When The Winter Is Past – vs. 11
a. The Analogy of God's Time - 2 Peter 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
b. The Allotment of God's Time - Exodus 20:9 Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
c. The Achievement of God's Time - Matthew 17:1-2 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.
d. The Acknowledgment of God's Time - Luke 17:26-29 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.
5. The Pronouncement Of His Coming – vs. 8 “The voice of my beloved!”
1 Corinthians 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
1 Thessalonians 4:16 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:
Revelation 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door [was] opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard [was] as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
a. The Meaning Of The Trumpet In Old Testament Days - Exodus 19:13 There shall not an hand touch it, but he shall surely be stoned, or shot through; whether [it be] beast or man, it shall not live: when the trumpet soundeth long, they shall come up to the mount. (It was used to gather Israel into the presence of God.)
b. The Meaning Of The Trumpet In Roman days, when a Roman legion moved, there would be three blasts from the trumpets
1. The first would tell the troop to take down their tents, and to prepare to move
2. The second would alert them to fall in and line up
3. The last trumpet would be the signal to move out
4. We are leaving at the "last trump"
Conclusion: Song of Solomon 2:10-13 My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. 11 For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; 12 The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; 13 The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away.
Song of Solomon 2:1-13
Introduction:
A. In the Jewish marriage, after the payment of the dowry of the bride, the groom goes away and make preparation for taking care of the bride. When the father of the groom sees that proper preparation has been made, he then gives his permission for the groom to go and take his bride.
John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
B. Thus, our Lord Jesus Christ has paid the dowry for His bride. On the cross of Calvary, our redemption was paid in full. Jesus paid it all; all to Him owe; sin had left a crimson stain; He washed it white as snow.
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].
Hebrews 9:26 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.
C. In the previous verses we find the fulfillment of this promise:
1. He loved me – vs. 2-3
2. He brought me – vs. 4
3. He stayed me – vs. 5
4. He embraced me – vs. 6
D. Thus we look for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ! The older I get, the more that my heart longs for Him and home! Certainly for us to live is Christ but, also, to die is gain and “far better!” I love this old song:
This World Is Not My Home
This world is not my home I'm just passing through my treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue the angels beckon me from Heaven's open doorand I can't feel at home in this world anymore
O Lord you know I have no friend like youif Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
They're all expecting me and that's one thing I knowmy savior pardoned me and now I onward goI know He'll take me through though I am weak and poor and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
O Lord you know I have no friend like youif Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?the angels beckon me from Heaven's open door and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
Just up in Glory Land we'll live eternally the Saints on every hand are shouting victory their song of sweetest praise drifts back from Heaven's shore and I can't feel at home in this world anymore
O Lord you know I have no friend like youif Heaven's not my home then Lord what will I do?the angels beckon me from Heaven's open doorand I can't feel at home in this world anymore
1. The Promise Of His Coming – vs. 7 John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also.
a. Before Jesus went to the cross, He promised His disciples that He would return for them - John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
b. He later reaffirmed this promise to the Apostle John - Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
c. When Jesus ascended back into Heaven, angels told His disciples that He would return - Acts 1:9-11 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
1) It is eminent (Brand New Feeling In The Air!) 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
2) It is encouraging (hard times almost over forever) 1 Thessalonians 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
3) It is exciting (just watching the Lord work and prophecy fulfilling) Revelation 22:20- He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
2. The Person Of His Coming – vs. 8-10 John 14:3a And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again,
Acts 1:11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
1 Thessalonians 4:16 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:
3. The Purpose Of His Coming – vs. 9-10 John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also.
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 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.
4. The Period Of His Coming – vs. 11 “the winter is past, the rain is over and gone” When The Winter Is Past – vs. 11
a. The Analogy of God's Time - 2 Peter 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
b. The Allotment of God's Time - Exodus 20:9 Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
c. The Achievement of God's Time - Matthew 17:1-2 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.
d. The Acknowledgment of God's Time - Luke 17:26-29 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.
5. The Pronouncement Of His Coming – vs. 8 “The voice of my beloved!”
1 Corinthians 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
1 Thessalonians 4:16 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:
Revelation 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door [was] opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard [was] as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
a. The Meaning Of The Trumpet In Old Testament Days - Exodus 19:13 There shall not an hand touch it, but he shall surely be stoned, or shot through; whether [it be] beast or man, it shall not live: when the trumpet soundeth long, they shall come up to the mount. (It was used to gather Israel into the presence of God.)
b. The Meaning Of The Trumpet In Roman days, when a Roman legion moved, there would be three blasts from the trumpets
1. The first would tell the troop to take down their tents, and to prepare to move
2. The second would alert them to fall in and line up
3. The last trumpet would be the signal to move out
4. We are leaving at the "last trump"
Conclusion: Song of Solomon 2:10-13 My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. 11 For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; 12 The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; 13 The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Self Examination
Temple Baptist Church - 12-24-2008
2 Corinthians 13:1-5
Introduction:
A. As we near the end of this Second Corinthian Epistle, we find an appeal for self-examination. Not an examination of others or of the church corporately, but an honest look at oneself in the light of Scripture. So many church people keep their eyes upon the short comings of others without every taking a biblical look at themselves.
B. It does us well also to remember that the Corinthian Church was a very carnal church. The First Corinthian Epistle was sixteen chapters of rebuke for their sinful, self-centered practices.
C. The reason for this call for self-examination is because of the possibility of self-deception concerning one’s salvation. We find in the context (12:19-21; 13:1-3) that some remained in a sinful condition after hearing the Word of God. The Holy Spirit, through the Apostle Paul, dealt with their sin and—at the time of this Second Corinthian Epistle—there had been no change in their behavior.
D. Paul reminds them in verse four that those who are truly saved, though weak in the flesh, can live for God by His power. There is no such thing as a believer who cannot live for God. If they cannot, they need to be saved. It is either they cannot or that they will not!
1. We Need To Examine Self In The Realm Of Salvation – vs. 5
a. Paul uses the word “reprobate” in this particular verse.
reprobate n.
1. A morally unprincipled person.
2. One who is predestined to damnation.
adj.
1. Morally unprincipled; shameless.
2. Rejected by God and without hope of salvation.
tr.v. rep·ro·bat·ed, rep·ro·bat·ing, rep·ro·bates
1. To disapprove of; condemn.
2. To abandon to eternal damnation. Used of God.
b. People who have no change of lifestyle may be such.
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.
c. People who have no conviction to serve God may be such.
1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned. (God’s people can grieve and vex the Holy Spirit but the conviction and knowledge of right is still there.)
d. People who have a rebellious attitude may be such.
John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: (Sheep follow while goats butt!)
e. People who have no chastisement from God may be such.
Hebrews 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
f. God’s people are both convicted and chastised! If that is you, you need to be saved. Many professing believers just need to get in!
2. We Need To Examine Self In The Realm Of Sanctification And Service
a. David said this in Psalms 26:2, “Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.”
b. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Walk (Unbroken fellowship through honesty.)
Luke 6:42 Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother’s eye.
James 4:11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
b. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Motivation (Why we do what we do.)
Matthew 10:37-38 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
c. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Associations (Who we talk with; who we walk with; who we agree with.)
Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Psalms 119:63 I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.
Jeremiah 15:17 I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation.
d. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Confession (Are we honest with the God who knows our thoughts?)
Isaiah 1:16-18 Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. 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.
Psalms 51:1-4 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
e. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Witness (A debt of gratitude.)
Psalms 116:12-14, 18-19 What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD. I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people… I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people, In the courts of the LORD’S house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.
f. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Faithfulness (We live in days of unfaithfulness and lame excuses for unfaithfulness.)
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.
Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
g. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Integrity (David said, “I have walked in mine integrity.”)
Psalms 26:1 Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.
h. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Steadfastness (Consistency in both personal walk with the Lord and fellowship with the saints.)
1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
2 Corinthians 13:1-5
Introduction:
A. As we near the end of this Second Corinthian Epistle, we find an appeal for self-examination. Not an examination of others or of the church corporately, but an honest look at oneself in the light of Scripture. So many church people keep their eyes upon the short comings of others without every taking a biblical look at themselves.
B. It does us well also to remember that the Corinthian Church was a very carnal church. The First Corinthian Epistle was sixteen chapters of rebuke for their sinful, self-centered practices.
C. The reason for this call for self-examination is because of the possibility of self-deception concerning one’s salvation. We find in the context (12:19-21; 13:1-3) that some remained in a sinful condition after hearing the Word of God. The Holy Spirit, through the Apostle Paul, dealt with their sin and—at the time of this Second Corinthian Epistle—there had been no change in their behavior.
D. Paul reminds them in verse four that those who are truly saved, though weak in the flesh, can live for God by His power. There is no such thing as a believer who cannot live for God. If they cannot, they need to be saved. It is either they cannot or that they will not!
1. We Need To Examine Self In The Realm Of Salvation – vs. 5
a. Paul uses the word “reprobate” in this particular verse.
reprobate n.
1. A morally unprincipled person.
2. One who is predestined to damnation.
adj.
1. Morally unprincipled; shameless.
2. Rejected by God and without hope of salvation.
tr.v. rep·ro·bat·ed, rep·ro·bat·ing, rep·ro·bates
1. To disapprove of; condemn.
2. To abandon to eternal damnation. Used of God.
b. People who have no change of lifestyle may be such.
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.
c. People who have no conviction to serve God may be such.
1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned. (God’s people can grieve and vex the Holy Spirit but the conviction and knowledge of right is still there.)
d. People who have a rebellious attitude may be such.
John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: (Sheep follow while goats butt!)
e. People who have no chastisement from God may be such.
Hebrews 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
f. God’s people are both convicted and chastised! If that is you, you need to be saved. Many professing believers just need to get in!
2. We Need To Examine Self In The Realm Of Sanctification And Service
a. David said this in Psalms 26:2, “Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.”
b. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Walk (Unbroken fellowship through honesty.)
Luke 6:42 Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother’s eye.
James 4:11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
b. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Motivation (Why we do what we do.)
Matthew 10:37-38 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
c. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Associations (Who we talk with; who we walk with; who we agree with.)
Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
Psalms 119:63 I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.
Jeremiah 15:17 I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation.
d. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Confession (Are we honest with the God who knows our thoughts?)
Isaiah 1:16-18 Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. 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.
Psalms 51:1-4 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
e. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Witness (A debt of gratitude.)
Psalms 116:12-14, 18-19 What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD. I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people… I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people, In the courts of the LORD’S house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.
f. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Faithfulness (We live in days of unfaithfulness and lame excuses for unfaithfulness.)
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.
Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
g. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Integrity (David said, “I have walked in mine integrity.”)
Psalms 26:1 Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.
h. There Needs To Be An Examination Of Steadfastness (Consistency in both personal walk with the Lord and fellowship with the saints.)
1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
His Name Shall Be Called
Temple Baptist Church - 12-21-2008
Isaiah 9:1-7
Introduction:
A. Israel has been in darkness for 400+ years prior to the first coming of our Lord. In what is called the “400 Silent Years,” no prophet spoke the Word of the Lord to the people; no man of God performed the great miracles that were done in the past; Phariseeism blossomed in Israel and the people fell into spiritual bondage. They were dark days for Israel as they were under both spiritual bondage to the Pharisees and physical bondage to Rome. They “walked in darkness!” Aimlessly and hopelessly blinded in their bondage.
B. In the dispensation of the fullness of times, God sent forth His only begotten Son—born of a virgin in a manger in Bethlehem—but He that was born was no longer expected. The sacrifices of the people were simply a discipline and routine with the Messiah no longer expected by the masses.
C. God in His faithfulness and grace kept His promise to Israel and, as the Christ child grew, God began to turn up the brightness of the Light of the World in the presence of His people. “Upon them hath the light shined!” They saw the Christ of God with all of His glory and miracles. They heard His words and walked in His light but the Scripture is clear when it says, “He came unto his own and his own received Him not!” They expected a King and not a Lamb!
D. Most today have also seen the light of the glorious gospel of Christ which has shined for over 200 years here in the United States of America. The gospel has shined from sea to shining sea in this land and, yet, the people still continue to walk in darkness. The Christ of the Bible is as rejected today as He was then! The people love their darkness and refuse to come to the Light because it exposes that which the darkness covers.
E. These verses tell us that, one day, “his name shall be called” those wonderful, descriptive words that we see in verse 6. One day, He will truly reign over this Earth and every one will see Him as He is. The knowledge of the Lord will cover the Earth and all people will praise the Lord Jesus Christ forever and ever. Bless His holy name for He is worthy to be praised.
F. I want to look at that description of Christ in verse 6 tonight for a few minutes.
1. WONDERFUL – Marvelous or extraordinary – Exciting, surprising, astonishing, miraculous, powerful, incredible, exceeding, supernatural, admirable. Do you hear me tonight? That is our wonderful Lord Jesus Christ! Do you know Him tonight?
His name is Wonderful, His name is Wonderful,
His name is Wonderful, Jesus my Lord;
He is the mighty King, master of everything,
His name is Wonderful, Jesus, my Lord.
He's the great Shepherd, the Rock of all ages,
Almighty God is He;
Bow down before Him, love and adore Him,
His name is Wonderful, Jesus, my Lord.
a. He wonderfully saved my soul in 1976! What a wonderful thought that I will be in Heaven for eternity because He loves me.
b. He wonderfully forgave all of my sin in 1976! Past, present, and future. I am both saved and secured through the Light of the World.
c. He wonderfully changed the direction and desires of my life in 1976! What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought since Jesus came into my heart.
d. His name became Wonderful to me! He is the sole reason of my praise tonight!
2. COUNSELOR – to give advice, to purpose, to devise or plan, to conspire, to manage causes in court.
a. He counsels me when my heart is troubled.
b. He counsels me when my faith is tried.
c. He counsels me when my integrity is tempted.
d. He has the remedy for all of my problems! He knows all because He is the COUNSELOR! His advice is slways good, His counsel is always right, and His path is always safe. He maketh no mistake nor does He turn from His divine purpose. Ask and ye shall receive! Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not!
3. THE MIGHTY GOD – strong, valiant, excelling, powerful, great, prevailing, authoritative, accomplished, extraordinary degree or quality in respect to size, character, importance, and consequences! That’s my God! That’s my Lord!
a. He is mighty when I am weak.
b. He is mighty when my enemy is strong!
c. He is mighty when the winds and waves roll over my soul!
d. He is mighty when the impossible becomes the probable.
e. He is the Resource of my power!
f. He can do anything at anytime, anywhere! When I have to “withstand in the evil day,” He stands with me. When I have done all and must continue to stand, He stands with and for me. That’s my MIGHTY GOD! With Him, I can fear no evil. With Him, I can face tomorrow.
4. THE EVERLASTING FATHER – eternal in duration, never coming to an end, a begetter, a parent, the founder of a family, the head of the home, important, distinguished!
a. As a Father, He loves me.
b. As a Father, He has pity upon me.
c. As a Father, He directs me.
d. As a Father, He corrects me.
e. As a Father, He protects me.
f. As a Father, He provides for me.
g. As a Father, He will never leave nor forsake me!
5. THE PRINCE OF PEACE – of the highest rank, in the highest place, of the highest authority, He is the Sovereign, He is the Monarch, He is the Authority, He is the Son of a King, He is of royal blood, He is of great ancestry, there is no one like Him, He is of highest rank, He is the Head of the Church, He is preeminent, He is predominant,
a. He brings stillness to my troubled soul.
b. He brings rest in restlessness.
c. He brings hope in hopelessness.
d. He brings victory out of defeat.
e. He is the Fairest of Ten Thousand to my soul!
f. There were none before Him.
g. There will be none after Him.
h. He is the Manifestation of Peace.
i. He is the Minister of Peace.
j. He is the Master of Peace. Do you know Him tonight?
Conclusion: He truly is indescribable! He is the “I AM THAT I AM!”
TO THE ARCHITECT HE IS THE CHIEF CORNERSTONE.
TO THE ASTRONOMER HE IS THE BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR.
TO THE BUTCHER HE IS THE LAMB OF GOD WHO WAS SLAIN BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THIS WORLD.
TO THE BAKER HE IS THE LIVING BREAD.
TO THE CARPENTER HE IS THE MASTER BUILDER.
TO THE DIPLOMAT HE IS THE PRINCE OF PEACE.
TO THE DOCTOR HE IS THE GREAT PHYSICIAN.
TO THE EDUCATOR HE IS THE MASTER TEACHER.
TO THE ELECTRICIAN HE IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.
TO THE FARMER HE IS THE LORD OF THE HARVEST.
TO THE FLORIST HE IS THE LILY OF THE VALLEY AND THE ROSE OF SHARON.
TO THE GEOLOGIST HE IS THE ROCK OF AGES.
TO THE HORTICULTURIST HE IS THE TRUE VINE.
TO THE JEWELER HE IS THE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE.
TO THE JUDGE HE IS THE RIGHTEOUS JUDGE.
TO THE LAWYER HE IS THE CHIEF ADVOCATE.
TO THE PHILOSOPHER HE IS THE WISDOM OF GOD.
TO THE PUBLISHER HE IS GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY.
TO THE SCULPTOR HE IS THE LIVING STONE.
TO THE THEOLOGIAN HE IS AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH.
TO THE ZOOLOGIST HE IS THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH.
IF YOU'RE HUNGRY, HE'S THE BREAD OF LIFE.
IF YOU'RE THIRSTY, HE'S THE FOUNTAIN OF LIVING WATER.
IF YOU'RE BLIND, HE'S THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.
IF YOU'RE LOST, HE'S THE WAY.
IF YOU'RE CONFUSED, HE'S THE TRUTH.
IF YOU'RE DYING, HE'S THE LIFE.
He is WONDERFUL - He is my DELIGHT
He is THE COUNSELLOR - He is my DIRECTION
He is THE MIGHTY GOD - He is my DEITY
He is THE EVERLASTING FATHER - He is my DEFENDER
He is THE PRINCE OF PEACE- He is my DIFFERENCE
Isaiah 9:1-7
Introduction:
A. Israel has been in darkness for 400+ years prior to the first coming of our Lord. In what is called the “400 Silent Years,” no prophet spoke the Word of the Lord to the people; no man of God performed the great miracles that were done in the past; Phariseeism blossomed in Israel and the people fell into spiritual bondage. They were dark days for Israel as they were under both spiritual bondage to the Pharisees and physical bondage to Rome. They “walked in darkness!” Aimlessly and hopelessly blinded in their bondage.
B. In the dispensation of the fullness of times, God sent forth His only begotten Son—born of a virgin in a manger in Bethlehem—but He that was born was no longer expected. The sacrifices of the people were simply a discipline and routine with the Messiah no longer expected by the masses.
C. God in His faithfulness and grace kept His promise to Israel and, as the Christ child grew, God began to turn up the brightness of the Light of the World in the presence of His people. “Upon them hath the light shined!” They saw the Christ of God with all of His glory and miracles. They heard His words and walked in His light but the Scripture is clear when it says, “He came unto his own and his own received Him not!” They expected a King and not a Lamb!
D. Most today have also seen the light of the glorious gospel of Christ which has shined for over 200 years here in the United States of America. The gospel has shined from sea to shining sea in this land and, yet, the people still continue to walk in darkness. The Christ of the Bible is as rejected today as He was then! The people love their darkness and refuse to come to the Light because it exposes that which the darkness covers.
E. These verses tell us that, one day, “his name shall be called” those wonderful, descriptive words that we see in verse 6. One day, He will truly reign over this Earth and every one will see Him as He is. The knowledge of the Lord will cover the Earth and all people will praise the Lord Jesus Christ forever and ever. Bless His holy name for He is worthy to be praised.
F. I want to look at that description of Christ in verse 6 tonight for a few minutes.
1. WONDERFUL – Marvelous or extraordinary – Exciting, surprising, astonishing, miraculous, powerful, incredible, exceeding, supernatural, admirable. Do you hear me tonight? That is our wonderful Lord Jesus Christ! Do you know Him tonight?
His name is Wonderful, His name is Wonderful,
His name is Wonderful, Jesus my Lord;
He is the mighty King, master of everything,
His name is Wonderful, Jesus, my Lord.
He's the great Shepherd, the Rock of all ages,
Almighty God is He;
Bow down before Him, love and adore Him,
His name is Wonderful, Jesus, my Lord.
a. He wonderfully saved my soul in 1976! What a wonderful thought that I will be in Heaven for eternity because He loves me.
b. He wonderfully forgave all of my sin in 1976! Past, present, and future. I am both saved and secured through the Light of the World.
c. He wonderfully changed the direction and desires of my life in 1976! What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought since Jesus came into my heart.
d. His name became Wonderful to me! He is the sole reason of my praise tonight!
2. COUNSELOR – to give advice, to purpose, to devise or plan, to conspire, to manage causes in court.
a. He counsels me when my heart is troubled.
b. He counsels me when my faith is tried.
c. He counsels me when my integrity is tempted.
d. He has the remedy for all of my problems! He knows all because He is the COUNSELOR! His advice is slways good, His counsel is always right, and His path is always safe. He maketh no mistake nor does He turn from His divine purpose. Ask and ye shall receive! Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not!
3. THE MIGHTY GOD – strong, valiant, excelling, powerful, great, prevailing, authoritative, accomplished, extraordinary degree or quality in respect to size, character, importance, and consequences! That’s my God! That’s my Lord!
a. He is mighty when I am weak.
b. He is mighty when my enemy is strong!
c. He is mighty when the winds and waves roll over my soul!
d. He is mighty when the impossible becomes the probable.
e. He is the Resource of my power!
f. He can do anything at anytime, anywhere! When I have to “withstand in the evil day,” He stands with me. When I have done all and must continue to stand, He stands with and for me. That’s my MIGHTY GOD! With Him, I can fear no evil. With Him, I can face tomorrow.
4. THE EVERLASTING FATHER – eternal in duration, never coming to an end, a begetter, a parent, the founder of a family, the head of the home, important, distinguished!
a. As a Father, He loves me.
b. As a Father, He has pity upon me.
c. As a Father, He directs me.
d. As a Father, He corrects me.
e. As a Father, He protects me.
f. As a Father, He provides for me.
g. As a Father, He will never leave nor forsake me!
5. THE PRINCE OF PEACE – of the highest rank, in the highest place, of the highest authority, He is the Sovereign, He is the Monarch, He is the Authority, He is the Son of a King, He is of royal blood, He is of great ancestry, there is no one like Him, He is of highest rank, He is the Head of the Church, He is preeminent, He is predominant,
a. He brings stillness to my troubled soul.
b. He brings rest in restlessness.
c. He brings hope in hopelessness.
d. He brings victory out of defeat.
e. He is the Fairest of Ten Thousand to my soul!
f. There were none before Him.
g. There will be none after Him.
h. He is the Manifestation of Peace.
i. He is the Minister of Peace.
j. He is the Master of Peace. Do you know Him tonight?
Conclusion: He truly is indescribable! He is the “I AM THAT I AM!”
TO THE ARCHITECT HE IS THE CHIEF CORNERSTONE.
TO THE ASTRONOMER HE IS THE BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR.
TO THE BUTCHER HE IS THE LAMB OF GOD WHO WAS SLAIN BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THIS WORLD.
TO THE BAKER HE IS THE LIVING BREAD.
TO THE CARPENTER HE IS THE MASTER BUILDER.
TO THE DIPLOMAT HE IS THE PRINCE OF PEACE.
TO THE DOCTOR HE IS THE GREAT PHYSICIAN.
TO THE EDUCATOR HE IS THE MASTER TEACHER.
TO THE ELECTRICIAN HE IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.
TO THE FARMER HE IS THE LORD OF THE HARVEST.
TO THE FLORIST HE IS THE LILY OF THE VALLEY AND THE ROSE OF SHARON.
TO THE GEOLOGIST HE IS THE ROCK OF AGES.
TO THE HORTICULTURIST HE IS THE TRUE VINE.
TO THE JEWELER HE IS THE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE.
TO THE JUDGE HE IS THE RIGHTEOUS JUDGE.
TO THE LAWYER HE IS THE CHIEF ADVOCATE.
TO THE PHILOSOPHER HE IS THE WISDOM OF GOD.
TO THE PUBLISHER HE IS GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY.
TO THE SCULPTOR HE IS THE LIVING STONE.
TO THE THEOLOGIAN HE IS AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH.
TO THE ZOOLOGIST HE IS THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH.
IF YOU'RE HUNGRY, HE'S THE BREAD OF LIFE.
IF YOU'RE THIRSTY, HE'S THE FOUNTAIN OF LIVING WATER.
IF YOU'RE BLIND, HE'S THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.
IF YOU'RE LOST, HE'S THE WAY.
IF YOU'RE CONFUSED, HE'S THE TRUTH.
IF YOU'RE DYING, HE'S THE LIFE.
He is WONDERFUL - He is my DELIGHT
He is THE COUNSELLOR - He is my DIRECTION
He is THE MIGHTY GOD - He is my DEITY
He is THE EVERLASTING FATHER - He is my DEFENDER
He is THE PRINCE OF PEACE- He is my DIFFERENCE
The People That Walked In Darkness Have Seen A Great Light
Temple Baptist Church - 12-21-2008
Isaiah 9:1-2
Introduction:
A. The first stage of creation is found in the very first verse of the Bible, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” In the beginning stage of creation, the earth was without form and void; covered with darkness.
1. Creation was a progress by God’s sovereign design. God could have made all that is in that first instant but, through His sovereign will, chose to make a very distinct, clear progression in creation. He does all things well and perfectly.
2. Creation was no different. It began a “First Mention Principle of Bible Interpretation” concerning progressive revelation.
B. The second creation act that God performed was to create light in darkness. Not light out of darkness, but rather light in darkness. God did not make the darkness light. In that act of creation, God made both distinction and division in light and darkness.
1. He distinguished light from darkness. Darkness is a concealer of fact and detail. Nothing is revealed in darkness as darkness obscures what it envelopes. Darkness covers and hides. Light takes away darkness and is a revealer of both fact and detail.
2. He divided light from darkness. When light appears, darkness must then dissipate. Light removes darkness; therefore, they cannot co-exist in the same realm. It is either darkness or it is light. As light increases, darkness diminishes. It is progressive in nature according to the amount of light involved. Absence of light creates total darkness while presence of light diminishes darkness.
C. I said all of that in order to say this, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light.” Not a small light, but a great light.
1. That light was also progressive in nature. From a babe born in an obscure manger to the very power of the presence of the Son of God before man as the Redeemer of the world living for sinners and dying for their sin.
2. Thus is the revelation of Jesus Christ to sinners. It is progressive in nature as men first learn of His name, become acquainted with His works, and are convinced of His love for them. I thank God that I—who once walked in darkness—have seen a Great Light and the Light of the World is Jesus.
D. I want to take a few moments this morning to show the revelation and progression of this enlightenment unto salvation.
1. There Is The Light Of Creation.
Psalms 19:1-6 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, 5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. 6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof
Romans 1:18-21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
Psalms 14:1 The fool hath said in his heart, [There is] no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good. (God has revealed Himself in all of this wonderous nature that we observe daily. Only a fool could see the vastness of the universe, the glories of this terrestrial earth, and deny the very presence and nature of our wonderful Lord! God is revealed in His nature to the natural man.)
2. There Is The Light Of Incarnation.
Galatians 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
1 John 1:1-2 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; 2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
(God became man! Never a man spoke like this man! Never a man did such miracles as this man! He stilled the storms, raised the dead, fed the multitudes, healed the sick, commanded devils, comforted hearts, died for sin and gloriously resurrected! Never a man like the God-man, Christ Jesus! Our time is marked by His birth and there is no land, people, or culture where His name has not been.)
3. There Is The Light Of Revelation
Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
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.
1 Corinthians 1:22-24 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
Colossians 1:4-6 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, 5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:
1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received [it] not [as] the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
(The Word of God reveals to us the Son of God in all of His glory! It is truly history! It is “His Story!” May faith came through the revelation of the light of God’s Word! If you ever are saved, it will be through belief of the truth revealed in this precious Bible!)
4. There Is The Light Of Illumination.
John 1:4-9 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (The Light of the world is Jesus! The Holy Spirit of God illuminated the darkness of my heart with the glorious light of the Gospel on day and, for the first time in my life, I saw both myself as I was and Jesus Christ as His is! The darkness of sin is gone and the glorious light of Jesus Christ shines in my heart and life.)
Conclusion: Why then do so many learn of Christ, see Him in His creation, and continue to live in sinful rejection of the Son of God who gave Himself for them?
John 3:19-21 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Aren’t you glad that God dispelled your darkness one day and revealed Himself in light?
Isaiah 9:1-2
Introduction:
A. The first stage of creation is found in the very first verse of the Bible, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” In the beginning stage of creation, the earth was without form and void; covered with darkness.
1. Creation was a progress by God’s sovereign design. God could have made all that is in that first instant but, through His sovereign will, chose to make a very distinct, clear progression in creation. He does all things well and perfectly.
2. Creation was no different. It began a “First Mention Principle of Bible Interpretation” concerning progressive revelation.
B. The second creation act that God performed was to create light in darkness. Not light out of darkness, but rather light in darkness. God did not make the darkness light. In that act of creation, God made both distinction and division in light and darkness.
1. He distinguished light from darkness. Darkness is a concealer of fact and detail. Nothing is revealed in darkness as darkness obscures what it envelopes. Darkness covers and hides. Light takes away darkness and is a revealer of both fact and detail.
2. He divided light from darkness. When light appears, darkness must then dissipate. Light removes darkness; therefore, they cannot co-exist in the same realm. It is either darkness or it is light. As light increases, darkness diminishes. It is progressive in nature according to the amount of light involved. Absence of light creates total darkness while presence of light diminishes darkness.
C. I said all of that in order to say this, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light.” Not a small light, but a great light.
1. That light was also progressive in nature. From a babe born in an obscure manger to the very power of the presence of the Son of God before man as the Redeemer of the world living for sinners and dying for their sin.
2. Thus is the revelation of Jesus Christ to sinners. It is progressive in nature as men first learn of His name, become acquainted with His works, and are convinced of His love for them. I thank God that I—who once walked in darkness—have seen a Great Light and the Light of the World is Jesus.
D. I want to take a few moments this morning to show the revelation and progression of this enlightenment unto salvation.
1. There Is The Light Of Creation.
Psalms 19:1-6 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, 5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. 6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof
Romans 1:18-21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
Psalms 14:1 The fool hath said in his heart, [There is] no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good. (God has revealed Himself in all of this wonderous nature that we observe daily. Only a fool could see the vastness of the universe, the glories of this terrestrial earth, and deny the very presence and nature of our wonderful Lord! God is revealed in His nature to the natural man.)
2. There Is The Light Of Incarnation.
Galatians 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
1 John 1:1-2 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; 2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
(God became man! Never a man spoke like this man! Never a man did such miracles as this man! He stilled the storms, raised the dead, fed the multitudes, healed the sick, commanded devils, comforted hearts, died for sin and gloriously resurrected! Never a man like the God-man, Christ Jesus! Our time is marked by His birth and there is no land, people, or culture where His name has not been.)
3. There Is The Light Of Revelation
Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
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.
1 Corinthians 1:22-24 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
Colossians 1:4-6 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, 5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:
1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received [it] not [as] the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
(The Word of God reveals to us the Son of God in all of His glory! It is truly history! It is “His Story!” May faith came through the revelation of the light of God’s Word! If you ever are saved, it will be through belief of the truth revealed in this precious Bible!)
4. There Is The Light Of Illumination.
John 1:4-9 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (The Light of the world is Jesus! The Holy Spirit of God illuminated the darkness of my heart with the glorious light of the Gospel on day and, for the first time in my life, I saw both myself as I was and Jesus Christ as His is! The darkness of sin is gone and the glorious light of Jesus Christ shines in my heart and life.)
Conclusion: Why then do so many learn of Christ, see Him in His creation, and continue to live in sinful rejection of the Son of God who gave Himself for them?
John 3:19-21 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Aren’t you glad that God dispelled your darkness one day and revealed Himself in light?
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Our Hills Of Help
Temple Baptist Church - 12-7-2008
Psalms 121
Introduction:
A. What a wonderful Psalm I have read tonight. It is one often used in funerals or times of hardship. I thank God for placing this Jewish Hymn Book in the Bible.
B. Singing is such an important part of worship when the songs sung are both scriptural and spiritual. There are so many times, while singing, that the Lord lifts my spirit and I “wing my flight to worlds unknown.”
Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
C. Many of the Psalms were written by troubled saints. These men knew what it was to suffer, be afraid, and need help.
Psalms 42:5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and [why] art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him [for] the help of his countenance.
Psalms 55:5 Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.
Psalms 61:2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalms 77:3 I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.
Psalms 124:4 Then the waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul:
Psalms 142:3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me.
Psalms 143:4 Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate.
D. I want to examine this particular Psalm for a few minutes tonight because it has been a great blessing and help to this preacher when I needed the Lord most and the Lord knows that we need Him now.
1. There must be Recognition:
a. Who We Are – Helpless without Christ - John 15:5 I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
b. Who He Is - Isaiah 44:24 Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I [am] the LORD that maketh all [things]; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself;
Isaiah 45:18 For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I [am] the LORD; and [there is] none else.
1) Most of us use the Lord as our last resort instead of our first though the Bible says not to put confidence in man.
2) Paul had to be brought to a place of weakness before he could find God’s strength.
c. What He Can Do – 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.
Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. (He is the God of impossibility! Limitless in His ability to do.)
2. There Must Be Resolve
a. A Personal Look – “I” (I thank God for your help and prayers more than you will ever know but it is still God that is our help and confidence)
b. A Willful Look – “will” (We must look to God! The Psalmist said that our help comes from the Maker of heaven and earth.)
c. An Active Look – “lift” (It is one thing to know where to look and how to look but another to take that step of faith. Faith is easy to talk about when you are up on the mountains but when you walk the valleys of this world, faith must become active instead of passive.)
d. A Directional Look – “the hills from whence cometh my help”
3. There Must Be Reliance
a. He Always Hears – vs. 2 - Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
b. He Always Comes – vs. 3,4 - Psalms 38:22 Make haste to help me, O Lord my salvation.
c. He Always Protects – vs. 5,6 - Psalms 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
d. He Always Keeps – vs. 3, 7,8 - Psalms 121:3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.
Psalms 121
Introduction:
A. What a wonderful Psalm I have read tonight. It is one often used in funerals or times of hardship. I thank God for placing this Jewish Hymn Book in the Bible.
B. Singing is such an important part of worship when the songs sung are both scriptural and spiritual. There are so many times, while singing, that the Lord lifts my spirit and I “wing my flight to worlds unknown.”
Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
C. Many of the Psalms were written by troubled saints. These men knew what it was to suffer, be afraid, and need help.
Psalms 42:5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and [why] art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him [for] the help of his countenance.
Psalms 55:5 Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.
Psalms 61:2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalms 77:3 I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.
Psalms 124:4 Then the waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul:
Psalms 142:3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me.
Psalms 143:4 Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate.
D. I want to examine this particular Psalm for a few minutes tonight because it has been a great blessing and help to this preacher when I needed the Lord most and the Lord knows that we need Him now.
1. There must be Recognition:
a. Who We Are – Helpless without Christ - John 15:5 I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
b. Who He Is - Isaiah 44:24 Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I [am] the LORD that maketh all [things]; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself;
Isaiah 45:18 For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I [am] the LORD; and [there is] none else.
1) Most of us use the Lord as our last resort instead of our first though the Bible says not to put confidence in man.
2) Paul had to be brought to a place of weakness before he could find God’s strength.
c. What He Can Do – 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.
Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. (He is the God of impossibility! Limitless in His ability to do.)
2. There Must Be Resolve
a. A Personal Look – “I” (I thank God for your help and prayers more than you will ever know but it is still God that is our help and confidence)
b. A Willful Look – “will” (We must look to God! The Psalmist said that our help comes from the Maker of heaven and earth.)
c. An Active Look – “lift” (It is one thing to know where to look and how to look but another to take that step of faith. Faith is easy to talk about when you are up on the mountains but when you walk the valleys of this world, faith must become active instead of passive.)
d. A Directional Look – “the hills from whence cometh my help”
3. There Must Be Reliance
a. He Always Hears – vs. 2 - Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
b. He Always Comes – vs. 3,4 - Psalms 38:22 Make haste to help me, O Lord my salvation.
c. He Always Protects – vs. 5,6 - Psalms 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
d. He Always Keeps – vs. 3, 7,8 - Psalms 121:3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.
The Why And What Of Baptism
Temple Baptist Church - 7 December 2008
Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Peter 3:18-22
Intro:
A. There were 2 ordinances given to the local church:
1. The Lord’s Supper – 1 Corinthians 11:23-34
2. Baptism – Matthew 28:18-20
B. Both have been perverted:
1. They have been perverted in their meanings.
a. A method of dispensing grace.
b. Necessary for salvation.
1) Transubstantiation practiced by Roman Catholicism
2) Co-substantiation practiced by some Protestants
2. They have been perverted in their methods.
a. The Lord’s Supper – Real Wine instead of Fruit of the Vine
b. Baptism – Sprinkling, pouring, pedo-baptism
C. 1 Peter gives the true meaning of baptism in verse 20-21.
D. Baptism is a transliterated word - baptizo
1. to dip repeatedly, to immerse, to submerge (of vessels sunk)
2. to cleanse by dipping or submerging
3. to overwhelm
E. The Commandment of Baptism – Obedience Is Required
1. Baptism Is Not Optional
Matthew 3:13-17 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
2. Baptism Is Conditional
a) Must be saved
Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
b) Bearing fruit would be good. I leave that up to God though.
Matthew 3:6-8 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:
F. The Meaning of Baptism
1. Baptism is Obedience, not Salvation
a) Noah Was Saved Spiritually By Grace – Genesis 6:8
b) Noah Was Saved Physically through His Obedience – 1 Peter 3:20-21
2. Baptism is Identification, not Qualification
a) We are identified with His death, burial and resurrection
b) We are identified with His body, the Church
c) We are identified with His people
d) We are identified with His reproach
G. The Analogy of Baptism
1 Peter 3:20-21 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
A. Baptism is a Confession of Who He is - Lord
Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Acts 16:31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
B. Baptism is An Identification of What Took Place
1. Baptism Identifies Us With A Past That Is Forgiven
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; 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;
2. Baptism Identifies Us With A Heart That Is Changed
Mark 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.
Matthew 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire
Mr 1:5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.
Acts 19:4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 6:11 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.
Romans 6:4-6 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 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.
3. Baptism Identifies Us With A Future That Is Secure
a. John 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
b. John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
4. Baptist Identifies Us With A Rejected Saviour (reproach)
a. Matthew 20:22-23 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.
5. Baptism Identifies Us With The Church Of The Living God
a. Mark 1:8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.
b. 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
6. Baptism Identifies Us With Christ’s Death
a. Romans 6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
1. Dead to self - James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
2. Dead to sin - Romans 6:2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
b. Dead to the world - 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.
7. Baptist Identifies Us With Christ’s Life
a. Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
b. Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
c. Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Peter 3:18-22
Intro:
A. There were 2 ordinances given to the local church:
1. The Lord’s Supper – 1 Corinthians 11:23-34
2. Baptism – Matthew 28:18-20
B. Both have been perverted:
1. They have been perverted in their meanings.
a. A method of dispensing grace.
b. Necessary for salvation.
1) Transubstantiation practiced by Roman Catholicism
2) Co-substantiation practiced by some Protestants
2. They have been perverted in their methods.
a. The Lord’s Supper – Real Wine instead of Fruit of the Vine
b. Baptism – Sprinkling, pouring, pedo-baptism
C. 1 Peter gives the true meaning of baptism in verse 20-21.
D. Baptism is a transliterated word - baptizo
1. to dip repeatedly, to immerse, to submerge (of vessels sunk)
2. to cleanse by dipping or submerging
3. to overwhelm
E. The Commandment of Baptism – Obedience Is Required
1. Baptism Is Not Optional
Matthew 3:13-17 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
2. Baptism Is Conditional
a) Must be saved
Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
b) Bearing fruit would be good. I leave that up to God though.
Matthew 3:6-8 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:
F. The Meaning of Baptism
1. Baptism is Obedience, not Salvation
a) Noah Was Saved Spiritually By Grace – Genesis 6:8
b) Noah Was Saved Physically through His Obedience – 1 Peter 3:20-21
2. Baptism is Identification, not Qualification
a) We are identified with His death, burial and resurrection
b) We are identified with His body, the Church
c) We are identified with His people
d) We are identified with His reproach
G. The Analogy of Baptism
1 Peter 3:20-21 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
A. Baptism is a Confession of Who He is - Lord
Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Acts 16:31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
B. Baptism is An Identification of What Took Place
1. Baptism Identifies Us With A Past That Is Forgiven
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; 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;
2. Baptism Identifies Us With A Heart That Is Changed
Mark 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.
Matthew 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire
Mr 1:5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.
Acts 19:4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 6:11 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.
Romans 6:4-6 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 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.
3. Baptism Identifies Us With A Future That Is Secure
a. John 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
b. John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
4. Baptist Identifies Us With A Rejected Saviour (reproach)
a. Matthew 20:22-23 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.
5. Baptism Identifies Us With The Church Of The Living God
a. Mark 1:8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.
b. 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
6. Baptism Identifies Us With Christ’s Death
a. Romans 6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
1. Dead to self - James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
2. Dead to sin - Romans 6:2 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
b. Dead to the world - 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.
7. Baptist Identifies Us With Christ’s Life
a. Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
b. Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
c. Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
A Remnant According To The Election Of Grace
Temple Baptist Church - 11-30-2008
Romans 11:1-6
Introduction:
A. I have been preaching on conversions for the past few weeks and, considering the pictures of biblical salvations found in the Bible, not many are now being truly saved. We have a lot of professions but little actual salvations. This is truly “Noe’s Day!”
B. Why a remnant? Verse 5 says, “even at this present time.” That was two thousand years ago. Only a few were being saved then! I want to look at this thought this morning, “Why a remnant?”
Why A Remnant? Negatively Speaking!
1. There is only a remnant because the Apostasy is now in “full bloom.” There have always been liberals, but now the so-called fundamental preachers have capitulated. Now it is sheer numbers that motivate men in the pulpits of America. There was a slogan once used that said, “Win the lost at any cost.” The cost has been great. Churches have let down all standards of holiness with the introduction of “Life Style Evangelism.” The slogan now is “Come as your, do as you please, leave as you came, drop your tithe in the offering plate on your way out.” In the fifties, the push was Sunday School and baptisms. What a wonderful thing to fill our Sunday Schools with the lost, but, unfortunately, they graduated from class to class and then from Sunday School to Church Membership through the baptistery.
2 Thessalonians 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
2 Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
2. There is only a remnant because Biblical Christianity is now almost impossible to find. 2 Timothy gives the description of the end time “professor.” The Church acts and looks like the world. Where is 2 Corinthians 5:17 in today’s professing Christian? From Lot to Laodicea!
2 Timothy 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Mark 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.
James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
3. There is only a remnant because Ecumenism has become the rule of the day. The liberal has always tried to join hands with the Bible believer. Even in Nehemiah’s day, they told God’s man to come down off the wall and fellowship for a while. Today, it is the fundamental (so-called) preacher that is now taking the initiative. It is politically correct not to mention doctrinal difference or to be “judgmental” towards others who deny the Bible, err from the faith, teach another way of salvation, accept into its ranks the “Great Whore” of the Revelation. My Bible still teaches separation.
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
4. But, Thank God there is still a remnant!
Romans 11:5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
Why A Remnant? Positively Speaking!
1. Because There Are Still Some Men Preaching Righteousness (Noah preached an 120 years with little results, but he continued to preach) - 2 Peter 2:5 And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;
Amos 8:11-12 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it.
Romans 2:3-11 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: For there is no respect of persons with God.
2. Because There Are Still Some Churches Standing In The “Old Paths” - Jeremiah 6:16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.
Hebrews 11:5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
Jeremiah 7:23 But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you.
Isaiah 2:5 O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.
3. Because There Are Still Some People Saved And Kept By Grace Alone - Romans 11:5-6 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. 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.
Romans 4:4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.
Galatians 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Galatians 5:4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
2 Timothy 1:9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
John 10:28-29 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.
4. Because There Are Still Some Sinners Seeking and Finding Truth - Deuteronomy 4:29 But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.
Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
5. Because There Is Still A God In Heaven Who Seeks And Saves That Which Is Lost - Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Romans 5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
1 John 4:14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
6. Because There Are Still Some Laborers In The Harvest - Luke 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. (There are still a few soul winners. Thank God!)
Romans 11:1-6
Introduction:
A. I have been preaching on conversions for the past few weeks and, considering the pictures of biblical salvations found in the Bible, not many are now being truly saved. We have a lot of professions but little actual salvations. This is truly “Noe’s Day!”
B. Why a remnant? Verse 5 says, “even at this present time.” That was two thousand years ago. Only a few were being saved then! I want to look at this thought this morning, “Why a remnant?”
Why A Remnant? Negatively Speaking!
1. There is only a remnant because the Apostasy is now in “full bloom.” There have always been liberals, but now the so-called fundamental preachers have capitulated. Now it is sheer numbers that motivate men in the pulpits of America. There was a slogan once used that said, “Win the lost at any cost.” The cost has been great. Churches have let down all standards of holiness with the introduction of “Life Style Evangelism.” The slogan now is “Come as your, do as you please, leave as you came, drop your tithe in the offering plate on your way out.” In the fifties, the push was Sunday School and baptisms. What a wonderful thing to fill our Sunday Schools with the lost, but, unfortunately, they graduated from class to class and then from Sunday School to Church Membership through the baptistery.
2 Thessalonians 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
2 Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
2. There is only a remnant because Biblical Christianity is now almost impossible to find. 2 Timothy gives the description of the end time “professor.” The Church acts and looks like the world. Where is 2 Corinthians 5:17 in today’s professing Christian? From Lot to Laodicea!
2 Timothy 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Mark 7:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.
James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
3. There is only a remnant because Ecumenism has become the rule of the day. The liberal has always tried to join hands with the Bible believer. Even in Nehemiah’s day, they told God’s man to come down off the wall and fellowship for a while. Today, it is the fundamental (so-called) preacher that is now taking the initiative. It is politically correct not to mention doctrinal difference or to be “judgmental” towards others who deny the Bible, err from the faith, teach another way of salvation, accept into its ranks the “Great Whore” of the Revelation. My Bible still teaches separation.
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
4. But, Thank God there is still a remnant!
Romans 11:5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
Why A Remnant? Positively Speaking!
1. Because There Are Still Some Men Preaching Righteousness (Noah preached an 120 years with little results, but he continued to preach) - 2 Peter 2:5 And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;
Amos 8:11-12 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it.
Romans 2:3-11 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: For there is no respect of persons with God.
2. Because There Are Still Some Churches Standing In The “Old Paths” - Jeremiah 6:16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.
Hebrews 11:5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
Jeremiah 7:23 But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you.
Isaiah 2:5 O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.
3. Because There Are Still Some People Saved And Kept By Grace Alone - Romans 11:5-6 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. 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.
Romans 4:4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.
Galatians 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Galatians 5:4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
2 Timothy 1:9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
John 10:28-29 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.
4. Because There Are Still Some Sinners Seeking and Finding Truth - Deuteronomy 4:29 But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.
Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
5. Because There Is Still A God In Heaven Who Seeks And Saves That Which Is Lost - Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Romans 5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
1 John 4:14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
6. Because There Are Still Some Laborers In The Harvest - Luke 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. (There are still a few soul winners. Thank God!)
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
The Pastor’s Life
Temple Baptist Church - 11-26-2008
2 Corinthians 12:11-21
Introduction:
A. In his dealings with the most carnal church mentioned in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul is portrayed as a caring and loving pastor. We live in a day where churches have preachers, not pastors. Though the pastor is to be a preacher, a preacher is not necessarily a pastor.
B. The pastor is a gift from God to the local church. A Pastor is God Called not Momma or Daddy Enlisted - Acts 22:13-15 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. 14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. 15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
C. Many of the pastors who fill the pulpits as well as the preachers that cross our land are simply hireling prophets. They are in the ministry for what they can get and not for the glory of God and the edification of the saints. They love to be called “Reverend” and to be recognized as a “man of the cloth.” I personally refuse to be called “Reverend!” I am Pastor, Preacher, or Brother Dave.
D. In these verses that I have read tonight, we find once again the heart of this great man of God.
1. The Pastor’s Life
a. He is to be a Blessing and not a Burden – vs. 14 (Four times in this particular epistle[11:9; 12:33-16], Paul said that he had been a burden to the people. He had evidently been accused to it.)
b. His longing is the Brethren and not their Belongings – vs. 14
1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
c. His work is Desired and not a Dispensation – vs. 15
1 Corinthians 9:17 For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation [of the gospel] is committed unto me.
d. He gives both of his Possessions and his Person – vs. 15
2. The Pastor’s Love
a. His Love is a great Love – vs. 15
John 10:11-13 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
Isaiah 40:11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with young.
b. His Love is not always a reciprocal Love – vs. 15
Galatians 4:15-16 Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if [it had been] possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. 16 Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? (I have seen so many people turn against their pastors.)
c. His Love goes beyond the faults of the people – vs. 15 (The great apostle loved the Corinthian people in spite of all of their faults and failures. He bestowed much prayer and labor upon them and his time was well spent.)
3. The Pastor’s Longing
a. To be a Blessing to the People – vs. 16-17
2 Corinthians 11:9 And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all [things] I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and [so] will I keep [myself].
b. To Edify the People – vs. 19
Ephesians 4:12-15 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 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; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
c. To keep Unity among the People – vs. 20
Ephesians 4:1-3 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
d. To keep Purity in the Church – vs. 21
2 Corinthians 11:2 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.
2 Corinthians 12:11-21
Introduction:
A. In his dealings with the most carnal church mentioned in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul is portrayed as a caring and loving pastor. We live in a day where churches have preachers, not pastors. Though the pastor is to be a preacher, a preacher is not necessarily a pastor.
B. The pastor is a gift from God to the local church. A Pastor is God Called not Momma or Daddy Enlisted - Acts 22:13-15 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. 14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. 15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
C. Many of the pastors who fill the pulpits as well as the preachers that cross our land are simply hireling prophets. They are in the ministry for what they can get and not for the glory of God and the edification of the saints. They love to be called “Reverend” and to be recognized as a “man of the cloth.” I personally refuse to be called “Reverend!” I am Pastor, Preacher, or Brother Dave.
D. In these verses that I have read tonight, we find once again the heart of this great man of God.
1. The Pastor’s Life
a. He is to be a Blessing and not a Burden – vs. 14 (Four times in this particular epistle[11:9; 12:33-16], Paul said that he had been a burden to the people. He had evidently been accused to it.)
b. His longing is the Brethren and not their Belongings – vs. 14
1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
c. His work is Desired and not a Dispensation – vs. 15
1 Corinthians 9:17 For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation [of the gospel] is committed unto me.
d. He gives both of his Possessions and his Person – vs. 15
2. The Pastor’s Love
a. His Love is a great Love – vs. 15
John 10:11-13 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
Isaiah 40:11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with young.
b. His Love is not always a reciprocal Love – vs. 15
Galatians 4:15-16 Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if [it had been] possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. 16 Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? (I have seen so many people turn against their pastors.)
c. His Love goes beyond the faults of the people – vs. 15 (The great apostle loved the Corinthian people in spite of all of their faults and failures. He bestowed much prayer and labor upon them and his time was well spent.)
3. The Pastor’s Longing
a. To be a Blessing to the People – vs. 16-17
2 Corinthians 11:9 And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all [things] I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and [so] will I keep [myself].
b. To Edify the People – vs. 19
Ephesians 4:12-15 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 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; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
c. To keep Unity among the People – vs. 20
Ephesians 4:1-3 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
d. To keep Purity in the Church – vs. 21
2 Corinthians 11:2 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.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Giving Thanks
Temple Baptist Church - 11-23-2008
Psalm 103:1-22
Introduction:
A. Across our country there is a spirit of ingratitude, high mindedness, and outright idolatry. It masquerades itself as a form of godliness but denies the power thereof. People are prone to complain and look at the bad side of everything. They complain about America and yet live in freedom. They complain about prices and yet have the money to buy. They complain about the government and yet do not vote.
B. As we approach everyday (not just Thanksgiving Day) as dear children of God let each of us remember to give thanks. You and I cannot breathe our next breath without our God and Creator giving us the strength to do so. We need to remember that without Him, we can do nothing, therefore, we are to be grateful.
C. There will be nothing new this morning for we are to be thankful for everything everyday.
Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Psalms 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Psalms 95:1-3 O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
Hebrews 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
1. Thank God Publicly - Psalms 35:18 I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people.
2. Thank God Privately - Psalms 119:62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.
PSALM 103
1. Thank God For Your Salvation - Colossians 1:12-15 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. (If you are saved this morning, you are in the vast minority of people in this world. Heaven instead of Hell! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
2. Thank God For Your Physical Health - Philippians 2:25-27 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. 26 For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. 27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. (Doctors do what they can and God has given to them great knowledge but all healing comes from the Lord! If you are healthy and feel well, you had better be thankful! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
3. Thank God For A Change of Life - Romans 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
Romans 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
4. Thank God For His Bountiful Provision - 2 Corinthians 9:11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. (There is food on my table, shoes on my feet, a roof over my head, and gas in my van. Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
1 Timothy 4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:
5. Thank God For His Everlasting Mercy - Psalms 118:1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever. (God has been a lot better to me than I have been to Him! God has been a lot better to me than I have deserved! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
Psalms 103:10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
Romans 4:8 Blessed [is] the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.
6. Thank God For His Providential Care - Psalms 79:13 So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: we will shew forth thy praise to all generations. (The Lord has guided my steps beside the still waters and into the green pastures where He restores my soul. My steps are ordered, my path is lit, and my steps are sure. Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
7. Thank God For An Eternal Hope - Psalms 30:12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. (All of this and Heaven too! One day just like today, it may be today, I will be finally home! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
Conclusion: Let us be a thankful people again this year. God has been both good and gracious to us for which I am truly thankful.
Psalm 103:1-22
Introduction:
A. Across our country there is a spirit of ingratitude, high mindedness, and outright idolatry. It masquerades itself as a form of godliness but denies the power thereof. People are prone to complain and look at the bad side of everything. They complain about America and yet live in freedom. They complain about prices and yet have the money to buy. They complain about the government and yet do not vote.
B. As we approach everyday (not just Thanksgiving Day) as dear children of God let each of us remember to give thanks. You and I cannot breathe our next breath without our God and Creator giving us the strength to do so. We need to remember that without Him, we can do nothing, therefore, we are to be grateful.
C. There will be nothing new this morning for we are to be thankful for everything everyday.
Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Psalms 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Psalms 95:1-3 O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
Hebrews 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
1. Thank God Publicly - Psalms 35:18 I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people.
2. Thank God Privately - Psalms 119:62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.
PSALM 103
1. Thank God For Your Salvation - Colossians 1:12-15 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. (If you are saved this morning, you are in the vast minority of people in this world. Heaven instead of Hell! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
2. Thank God For Your Physical Health - Philippians 2:25-27 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. 26 For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. 27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. (Doctors do what they can and God has given to them great knowledge but all healing comes from the Lord! If you are healthy and feel well, you had better be thankful! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
3. Thank God For A Change of Life - Romans 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
Romans 7:25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
4. Thank God For His Bountiful Provision - 2 Corinthians 9:11 Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. (There is food on my table, shoes on my feet, a roof over my head, and gas in my van. Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
1 Timothy 4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:
5. Thank God For His Everlasting Mercy - Psalms 118:1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever. (God has been a lot better to me than I have been to Him! God has been a lot better to me than I have deserved! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
Psalms 103:10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
Romans 4:8 Blessed [is] the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.
6. Thank God For His Providential Care - Psalms 79:13 So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: we will shew forth thy praise to all generations. (The Lord has guided my steps beside the still waters and into the green pastures where He restores my soul. My steps are ordered, my path is lit, and my steps are sure. Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
7. Thank God For An Eternal Hope - Psalms 30:12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. (All of this and Heaven too! One day just like today, it may be today, I will be finally home! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me!)
Conclusion: Let us be a thankful people again this year. God has been both good and gracious to us for which I am truly thankful.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Suffering Continued
Temple Baptist Church - 11-19-2008
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Introduction:
A. We have been dealing with suffering over the past few weeks in chapter 11. Chapter 12 is a continuation of chapter 11. Chapter 11 gives a listing of some of the sufferings of the Apostle Paul but chapter 12 gives detail concerning one in particular: the “thorn in the flesh.”
B. There has been much speculation concerning just what this “thorn” was.
1. Some say that it was a weakness in Paul’s eyes. They use these verses:
Galatians 4:15 Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if [it had been] possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.
Galatians 6:11 Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. (They say that this implicates that his writing was in large letters because he could not see.)
2. Some say that it was the memory of his persecution of our Lord Jesus Christ and His Church.
1 Corinthians 15:9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
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:
3. I believe that this verse destroys this latter explanation:
Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
C. I do not believe that it was either of these. The Scripture plainly describes the nature of the “thorn” in verse 7. “A messenger to buffet me.” I do not pretend to understand this other than to say that, evidently, Paul had a satanic angel that personally attacked him with God’s permission. Once again, the secret things belong to the Lord so we will not speculate any further.
D. I want to look at this particular “suffering” for a few minutes tonight.
1. The Purpose Of Suffering – vs. 1 – “Lest” It was given to humble the great apostle. Sufferings bring about helplessness which brings about humility.
2. The Providence Of Suffering – “Given” “Every good gift and every perfect gift”
3. The Particulars Of Suffering – “thorn…messenger of Satan” Everyone’s “thorn” is different because it is tailor made for the individual.
4. The Pain Of Suffering – “buffet” There was nothing pleasurable about the actual suffering as it was painful.
5. The Prayer Of Suffering – “besought” This is not a lack of faith but a prayer of faith.
6. The Persistency Of Suffering – “thrice” Suffering is not always short lived in spite of our faith praying.
7. The Promise Of Suffering – “grace…strength” God does not promise an easy path, just help along the way.
8. The Perfecting Of Suffering – “perfect in weakness” Tribulation worketh patience; patience experience; experience hope:
9. The Patience Of Suffering – “most gladly therefore” Patience is accepting a hard situation with giving God a deadline to remove it.
10. The Power Of Suffering – “power of Christ” It takes the power of Christ to accept a difficult situation and remain constant in it.
11. The Pleasure Of Suffering – “Therefore I take pleasure” The pleasure is not the pain but the power!
Conclusion: I want to leave you with three verses to help us all in light of suffering. I, once again, am not real good at suffering sometimes but I always fall back on my faith in a wonderful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
a. God Allows In Suffering - 2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
b. God Is There In Suffering - Hebrews 13:5 [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
c. God Is Sufficient In Suffering - 2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency [is] of God;
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Introduction:
A. We have been dealing with suffering over the past few weeks in chapter 11. Chapter 12 is a continuation of chapter 11. Chapter 11 gives a listing of some of the sufferings of the Apostle Paul but chapter 12 gives detail concerning one in particular: the “thorn in the flesh.”
B. There has been much speculation concerning just what this “thorn” was.
1. Some say that it was a weakness in Paul’s eyes. They use these verses:
Galatians 4:15 Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if [it had been] possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.
Galatians 6:11 Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. (They say that this implicates that his writing was in large letters because he could not see.)
2. Some say that it was the memory of his persecution of our Lord Jesus Christ and His Church.
1 Corinthians 15:9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
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:
3. I believe that this verse destroys this latter explanation:
Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
C. I do not believe that it was either of these. The Scripture plainly describes the nature of the “thorn” in verse 7. “A messenger to buffet me.” I do not pretend to understand this other than to say that, evidently, Paul had a satanic angel that personally attacked him with God’s permission. Once again, the secret things belong to the Lord so we will not speculate any further.
D. I want to look at this particular “suffering” for a few minutes tonight.
1. The Purpose Of Suffering – vs. 1 – “Lest” It was given to humble the great apostle. Sufferings bring about helplessness which brings about humility.
2. The Providence Of Suffering – “Given” “Every good gift and every perfect gift”
3. The Particulars Of Suffering – “thorn…messenger of Satan” Everyone’s “thorn” is different because it is tailor made for the individual.
4. The Pain Of Suffering – “buffet” There was nothing pleasurable about the actual suffering as it was painful.
5. The Prayer Of Suffering – “besought” This is not a lack of faith but a prayer of faith.
6. The Persistency Of Suffering – “thrice” Suffering is not always short lived in spite of our faith praying.
7. The Promise Of Suffering – “grace…strength” God does not promise an easy path, just help along the way.
8. The Perfecting Of Suffering – “perfect in weakness” Tribulation worketh patience; patience experience; experience hope:
9. The Patience Of Suffering – “most gladly therefore” Patience is accepting a hard situation with giving God a deadline to remove it.
10. The Power Of Suffering – “power of Christ” It takes the power of Christ to accept a difficult situation and remain constant in it.
11. The Pleasure Of Suffering – “Therefore I take pleasure” The pleasure is not the pain but the power!
Conclusion: I want to leave you with three verses to help us all in light of suffering. I, once again, am not real good at suffering sometimes but I always fall back on my faith in a wonderful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
a. God Allows In Suffering - 2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
b. God Is There In Suffering - Hebrews 13:5 [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
c. God Is Sufficient In Suffering - 2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency [is] of God;
The Salvation Of A Dying Thief
Temple Baptist Church - 11-16-2008
Luke 23:32-43
Introduction:
A. Over the past few weeks, I have been looking at the salvation experiences of some well known Bible characters. These are different people with different backgrounds. These were different circumstances and yet their salvation experiences were all the same. One Saviour and one way to heaven!
B. A lot of people profess salvation today whose professions do not line up with the Scripture. The “god of this world” has certainly blinded the minds of those who believe not!
C. This morning I want to look at one of the most notable conversions found in the New Testament: that of a nameless, condemned thief. Here we find a true death bed profession. Most people who are dying are just too busy dying to trust Christ
D. I believe that some do truly get saved just before they die but, as a general rule, how you lived is how you die!
E. Here we find two thieves who were to die with Christ.
1. One Mocked Christ – vs. 39 He asked Christ to save them and still died lost. A prayer will not save the sinner. Salvation is a heart condition! This thief died unrepentant and lost. His prayer was to save “us.”
2. One Recognized Christ – vs. 40 This thief recognized who Christ was; recognized what he was; and asked for salvation. Vs. 41-42
F. What a bold request! “Lord, remember me!” He was a convicted thief with nothing to offer. He was condemned to death with no reprieve. Helpless, hopeless, he was now to die. He had lived his life for self and now requested salvation?
G. What a glorious reply! “Today shalt thou be with me in paradise!” Our Lord answered his request in the affirmative. I am so glad that we serve a merciful God who does not give us what we deserve. What a wonderful Lord and Saviour is Jesus Christ.
H. Notice that the grace of God extended was singular in number. “Thou.” Why did God save this particular thief?
1. He Saved Him Because He Loved Him! It matters not who you are or what you have done, God loves you. He is truly a Friend of publicans and sinners. He loves me, He loves, He loves me this I know! The Bible tells me so.
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
John 3:16 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.
Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Titus 3:4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
1 John 4:9 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.
2. He Saved Him Because He Was Dying For Him! I believe that we are too easy on the damnable doctrine of Calvinism. It is an affront to God Almighty! This doctrine makes God a selfish, unloving, respecter of persons! He is none of these. He is giving, loving, compassionate, and kind to all!
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.
1 Timothy 2:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
3. He Saved Him To Show The Way Of Salvation!
a. Salvation is not by works - 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.
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
b. Salvation is through Christ alone - John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
c. Salvation is a free gift - Romans 5:18 Therefore as by the offence of one [judgment came] upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one [the free gift came] upon all men unto justification of life.
d. Salvation is for the asking - Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
4. He Saved Him That Men Might Not Despair! Some might say, “It is too late for me.” It was not too late for the thief. Some might say, “I have done too much wrong to be saved.” There is hope in Jesus Christ for even the vilest sinner on his way to his death.
5. He Saved Him That Men Might Not Presume!
a. The Presumption of Salvation - Christ only saved one of the thieves! They presume that they will “slip into heaven” at the last moment.
b. The Presumption of Judgment. That God will not put you in Hell. Most people do not think that they will perish I hell. Bad things always happen to other people.
Conclusion
One thief railed on Christ. “If thou be Christ.”
One Thief wailed to Christ. “Lord, remember me.”
One was nailed for their sin. He was nailed for my sin. He was nailed for yours!
Luke 23:32-43
Introduction:
A. Over the past few weeks, I have been looking at the salvation experiences of some well known Bible characters. These are different people with different backgrounds. These were different circumstances and yet their salvation experiences were all the same. One Saviour and one way to heaven!
B. A lot of people profess salvation today whose professions do not line up with the Scripture. The “god of this world” has certainly blinded the minds of those who believe not!
C. This morning I want to look at one of the most notable conversions found in the New Testament: that of a nameless, condemned thief. Here we find a true death bed profession. Most people who are dying are just too busy dying to trust Christ
D. I believe that some do truly get saved just before they die but, as a general rule, how you lived is how you die!
E. Here we find two thieves who were to die with Christ.
1. One Mocked Christ – vs. 39 He asked Christ to save them and still died lost. A prayer will not save the sinner. Salvation is a heart condition! This thief died unrepentant and lost. His prayer was to save “us.”
2. One Recognized Christ – vs. 40 This thief recognized who Christ was; recognized what he was; and asked for salvation. Vs. 41-42
F. What a bold request! “Lord, remember me!” He was a convicted thief with nothing to offer. He was condemned to death with no reprieve. Helpless, hopeless, he was now to die. He had lived his life for self and now requested salvation?
G. What a glorious reply! “Today shalt thou be with me in paradise!” Our Lord answered his request in the affirmative. I am so glad that we serve a merciful God who does not give us what we deserve. What a wonderful Lord and Saviour is Jesus Christ.
H. Notice that the grace of God extended was singular in number. “Thou.” Why did God save this particular thief?
1. He Saved Him Because He Loved Him! It matters not who you are or what you have done, God loves you. He is truly a Friend of publicans and sinners. He loves me, He loves, He loves me this I know! The Bible tells me so.
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
John 3:16 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.
Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Titus 3:4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
1 John 4:9 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.
2. He Saved Him Because He Was Dying For Him! I believe that we are too easy on the damnable doctrine of Calvinism. It is an affront to God Almighty! This doctrine makes God a selfish, unloving, respecter of persons! He is none of these. He is giving, loving, compassionate, and kind to all!
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.
1 Timothy 2:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
3. He Saved Him To Show The Way Of Salvation!
a. Salvation is not by works - 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.
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
b. Salvation is through Christ alone - John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
c. Salvation is a free gift - Romans 5:18 Therefore as by the offence of one [judgment came] upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one [the free gift came] upon all men unto justification of life.
d. Salvation is for the asking - Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
4. He Saved Him That Men Might Not Despair! Some might say, “It is too late for me.” It was not too late for the thief. Some might say, “I have done too much wrong to be saved.” There is hope in Jesus Christ for even the vilest sinner on his way to his death.
5. He Saved Him That Men Might Not Presume!
a. The Presumption of Salvation - Christ only saved one of the thieves! They presume that they will “slip into heaven” at the last moment.
b. The Presumption of Judgment. That God will not put you in Hell. Most people do not think that they will perish I hell. Bad things always happen to other people.
Conclusion
One thief railed on Christ. “If thou be Christ.”
One Thief wailed to Christ. “Lord, remember me.”
One was nailed for their sin. He was nailed for my sin. He was nailed for yours!
Nevertheless At Thy Word
Temple Baptist Church - 11-16-2008
Luke 5:1-11
Introduction:
A. What a wonderful miracle took place in these verses. The Gospels are full of the wonderful works of our Lord.
1. These miracles were recorded to give us insight as to who Jesus Christ was and is - John 20:29-31 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed [are] they that have not seen, and [yet] have believed. 30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: 31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
2. These miracles were recorded to give us hope - Romans 15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
3. These miracles were recorded for our admonition - 1 Corinthians 10:11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. (Admonition means exhortation. To exhort us on!)
B. Notice that our Lord got into Simon Peter’s ship, prayed him to “thrust out” (Simon Peter was in the boat with Him) and He taught the Word of God to both Simon Peter and the people. When He left off speaking, he gave order for Simon to “launch out into the deep” and let down the nets for a draught. (Draught means a “haul.”)
C. His teaching gave the people knowledge of who He was and the will of God. We do the same here at Temple. We give to our people the Word of God in which we find the revealed will of God for our lives. It was only after the teaching that our Lord commanded Simon to “launch out into the deep.” God grows us through His Word for the tasks that lie ahead.
Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.
D. The Word of God is the agent through which we find faith. “So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing be the word of God.” The concept is still the same today as it has always been. God has always spoken to man in order to produce faith. Man then believes God and finds rest and peace.
E. Simon Peter has heard God’s Word and has been ordered by the Son of God to launch out and let down his nets for a draught. Simon Peter explains to the Lord that they have fished all night and caught nothing. He is informing the Lord that it is of no use but “nevertheless at they word.” I will launch out and let down but I do not believe.
F. Simon Peter catches more than all of them can handle in verses 6 and 7. When he saw the miracle, he confessed his sinfulness in verse 8. It is wonderful to observe that the Lord blessed Simon Peter in spite of his unbelief. How many times to we confess that we believe but “help thou my unbelief.”
G. If you watch the lives of the Apostles, there are some changes that you find in their faith.
1. They received Him as the Saviour in the beginning.
2. They marveled at His miracles during His ministry.
3. They forsook Him and fled in the Garden of Gethsamane.
4. They cowered in fear after His resurrection.
5. They boldly preached after Pentecost.
6. They died giants of the faith in their end.
H. Paul said, “For I have learned!” We are growing in our faith as we step our by faith, trust God to undergird us, then watch Him honor His Word.
I. It is not “Nevertheless at thy word” but “at thy word” we will launch out and let down our nets. Can the Word of God be relied upon? I believe that it can! If God says to do it, just do it. He God says that He will do it, just trust Him to do it. If God says that it should not be done, just don’t do it. If God says that it cannot be done, just don’t try it.
1. You Can Trust God’s Word When The Enemy Seems Undefeatable.
Psalms 59:1 Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me.
Isaiah 59:19 So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.
2. You Can Trust God’s Word When Circumstances Seem Insurmountable.
Psalms 61:1-4 Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. 2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. 4 I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
3. You Can Trust God’s Word When Defeat Seems Imminent.
Psalms 142:1-7 I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication. 2 I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble. 3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me. 4 I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul. 5 I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living. 6 Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I. 7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.
4. You Can Trust God’s Word When All Human Help Is Lost.
Psalms 142:4 I looked on [my] right hand, and beheld, but [there was] no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul.
Psalms 22:11 Be not far from me; for trouble [is] near; for [there is] none to help.
Psalms 37:40 And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.
5. You Can Trust God’s Word When All Hope Seems To Be Gone.
Job 19:10 He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: and mine hope hath he removed like a tree.
Psalms 146:5 Happy [is he] that [hath] the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope [is] in the LORD his God: (Our hope is not in circumstances, men, or machines. Our hope is in the Lord!)
Conclusion: We often sing the verse of a song that say, “I’m so glad I learned to trust thee.” Learning to trust is a step by step process. Let me leave you with these verses:
Isaiah 43:1-43a But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called [thee] by thy name; thou [art] mine. 2 When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. 3a For I [am] the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt [for] thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.
Luke 5:1-11
Introduction:
A. What a wonderful miracle took place in these verses. The Gospels are full of the wonderful works of our Lord.
1. These miracles were recorded to give us insight as to who Jesus Christ was and is - John 20:29-31 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed [are] they that have not seen, and [yet] have believed. 30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: 31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
2. These miracles were recorded to give us hope - Romans 15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
3. These miracles were recorded for our admonition - 1 Corinthians 10:11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. (Admonition means exhortation. To exhort us on!)
B. Notice that our Lord got into Simon Peter’s ship, prayed him to “thrust out” (Simon Peter was in the boat with Him) and He taught the Word of God to both Simon Peter and the people. When He left off speaking, he gave order for Simon to “launch out into the deep” and let down the nets for a draught. (Draught means a “haul.”)
C. His teaching gave the people knowledge of who He was and the will of God. We do the same here at Temple. We give to our people the Word of God in which we find the revealed will of God for our lives. It was only after the teaching that our Lord commanded Simon to “launch out into the deep.” God grows us through His Word for the tasks that lie ahead.
Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.
D. The Word of God is the agent through which we find faith. “So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing be the word of God.” The concept is still the same today as it has always been. God has always spoken to man in order to produce faith. Man then believes God and finds rest and peace.
E. Simon Peter has heard God’s Word and has been ordered by the Son of God to launch out and let down his nets for a draught. Simon Peter explains to the Lord that they have fished all night and caught nothing. He is informing the Lord that it is of no use but “nevertheless at they word.” I will launch out and let down but I do not believe.
F. Simon Peter catches more than all of them can handle in verses 6 and 7. When he saw the miracle, he confessed his sinfulness in verse 8. It is wonderful to observe that the Lord blessed Simon Peter in spite of his unbelief. How many times to we confess that we believe but “help thou my unbelief.”
G. If you watch the lives of the Apostles, there are some changes that you find in their faith.
1. They received Him as the Saviour in the beginning.
2. They marveled at His miracles during His ministry.
3. They forsook Him and fled in the Garden of Gethsamane.
4. They cowered in fear after His resurrection.
5. They boldly preached after Pentecost.
6. They died giants of the faith in their end.
H. Paul said, “For I have learned!” We are growing in our faith as we step our by faith, trust God to undergird us, then watch Him honor His Word.
I. It is not “Nevertheless at thy word” but “at thy word” we will launch out and let down our nets. Can the Word of God be relied upon? I believe that it can! If God says to do it, just do it. He God says that He will do it, just trust Him to do it. If God says that it should not be done, just don’t do it. If God says that it cannot be done, just don’t try it.
1. You Can Trust God’s Word When The Enemy Seems Undefeatable.
Psalms 59:1 Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me.
Isaiah 59:19 So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.
2. You Can Trust God’s Word When Circumstances Seem Insurmountable.
Psalms 61:1-4 Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. 2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. 4 I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
3. You Can Trust God’s Word When Defeat Seems Imminent.
Psalms 142:1-7 I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication. 2 I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble. 3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me. 4 I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul. 5 I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living. 6 Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I. 7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.
4. You Can Trust God’s Word When All Human Help Is Lost.
Psalms 142:4 I looked on [my] right hand, and beheld, but [there was] no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul.
Psalms 22:11 Be not far from me; for trouble [is] near; for [there is] none to help.
Psalms 37:40 And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.
5. You Can Trust God’s Word When All Hope Seems To Be Gone.
Job 19:10 He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: and mine hope hath he removed like a tree.
Psalms 146:5 Happy [is he] that [hath] the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope [is] in the LORD his God: (Our hope is not in circumstances, men, or machines. Our hope is in the Lord!)
Conclusion: We often sing the verse of a song that say, “I’m so glad I learned to trust thee.” Learning to trust is a step by step process. Let me leave you with these verses:
Isaiah 43:1-43a But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called [thee] by thy name; thou [art] mine. 2 When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. 3a For I [am] the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt [for] thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)