Temple Baptist Church - 6-19-2011
2 Peter 1:1-4
Introduction:
A. Anytime you have a 2nd or 3rd Book of the bible by the same name, they invariably deal with apostasy and the end time. We are there and we live in ungodly days. Throughout the bible, we see men who lived ungodly and men who lived godly in ungodly times.
B. There are several things that we need to notice pertaining to godliness:
1. We have obtained righteousness through our Lord Jesus Christ – vs. 1
2. God wants us to have peace of mind in this ungodly world – vs. 2
3. God has given us all things pertaining unto life – vs. 3
4. God has given us all things pertaining unto godliness vs. 3
5. We are to be partakers of the Lord’s divine nature – vs. 4
C. Ungodliness Has Permeated Our Nation - Genesis 6:5 And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
D. Ungodliness Has Permeated Our Churches - 2 Timothy 3:1-5 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
E. Godliness Is Commanded - 1 Peter 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
F. Godliness Is Possible - 2 Peter 1:3-4 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
1. God Has Given To Us A New Nature - 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.
2. God Has Given To Us His Precious Holy Spirit - 1 John 4:13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
3. God Has Given To Us His Infallible Word - Psalms 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.
Psalms 19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
Ephesians 5:26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
4. God Has Given To Us Godly Examples - 1 Thessalonians 1:7 So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.
1 Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
Titus 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
1 Peter 5:3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
HOW TO LIVE A GODLY LIFE
1. Godliness Is The Result Of A Repentant Heart - 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death
Proverbs 28:13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
2. Godliness Is A Result Of Denying Worldly Lusts - Titus 2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
1 Timothy 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
3. Godliness Is A Result Of A Heavenly Hope - Hebrews 12:28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:
2 Peter 3:11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness
4. Godliness Is A Result Of Hard Work - 1 Timothy 4:8 For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
1 Timothy 4:7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
2 Peter 1:6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;
5. Godliness Is A Result Of Contentment - 1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
6. Godliness Is A Result Of The Fear Of The Lord - Hebrews 12:28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear::
Proverbs 16:6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.
Psalms 19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
A Good Man Is Hard To Find!
Temple Baptist Church - 6-19-2011
Isaiah 4:1
Introduction:
A. The interpretation of this verse is to Israel in the last days.
Isaiah 2:1-2 The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. (2) And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
B. Chapter 4 begins with the prophecy, “And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.”
1. There never has been a shortage of men and today is not an exception. Look around and you will see “men” everywhere but there is a difference between a man and a “good man!” A good man is hard to find.
2. Here, we find 7 women looking for one good man! Though the bible does not use the word “good” here, it is certainly implied because why else would seven women be looking for one man. They are evidently looking for a certain kind of man.
3. I am sure that they are not looking for a drunkard, drug addict, abuser, coward, sissy, womanizer, etc. That would be foolish. They are searching for a “good” man and, when they find him, they will “lay hold” on him.
4. These women are all over the place in our day. These are women whose feet abide not in their houses; women whose homes are broken up; women who cannot maintain themselves; women who are desperate and running from one man to the other.
5. Ladies, they are looking for your husbands; they are looking for your sons. The reason is this: good men are hard to find!
C. I am talking about real men because most homes in our days are raising subservient men! The majority of homes today are run by women.
1. Docile men who know the real voice of authority in the home: the woman. I watch “men” walk around meekly while their wives make the decisions and do most of the talking. Strong women raise meek men!
2. Soft men who do not know how to be a real man. A real man does not have to be a hard man but I believe that he needs to be a tough man! A real man’s man like my dad was. No one ever questioned his manhood because it was evident. Our world is full of sissy looking and acting men. Strong women become the “hero” to little boys and therefore the role model. Strong women produce sissy boys which help to produce sodomites.
a) They are soft in their appearance.
b) They are soft in their actions.
1 Corinthians 16:13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
D. I thank God that my dad and mom raised men. I looked at my two brothers this past week and they are strong men; they are decisive men; they are real men. If you have a “man” this morning, thank God for him.
1. Do not try to change him! He cannot be the man that he needs to be unless you allow him to do so. Wives, be in subjection to your man. God commands it and your husband needs it. Give him honor, praise, love, and obedience. Remember your wedding vows? “To obey” is still in them. Women are raised independent and strong these days and this becomes a major problem in the homes.
1 Corinthians 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. (God said that! This is not a chauvinist statement; it is a biblical statement!)
2. Do not try to tame him! Men do not like to be subservient to the woman if they are a real man. Honor your man by allowing him to take the position in the home that he deserves. He will make some blunders; he will make some mistakes; but you will be glad that he is manly.
E. One of the worst things that has happened in theses last days is the breakdown of the home. Very few homes have a father image in it, much less a godly father image. Each man in this church is either a father or a father image according to this verse. Our children need men in the church as role models and not have to go to the world for them. Every man in this church is to be walking in such a way as to lead our children in the way of righteousness.
F. Children belong to the Lord and are only given to us to raise for Him.
1. Children Are A Blessing To Us - Psalms 127:4-5 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.
a) To The Parents - Psalms 128:1-4 Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD.
b) To The Grandparents - Proverbs 17:6 Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.
2. Children Are A Blessing To The Lord - Psalms 127:3 Lo, children are an heritage (His property) of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
G. Children automatically look up to men as mentors and role models - Proverbs 17:6 Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers. (Glory - the beauty, splendor, the boasting - to be proud of)
H. This past week, I was around a young man who has no male role model in his life. His mother is doing the best that she can to help him grow up, but he needs a man. I tried to take a little time to witness to him, advise him, and to encourage him. May God give us some real men this morning.
1. Men who love the Lord!
2. Men who love their families!
3. Men who love their homes!
4. Men who lead, direct, and defend what is theirs.
LORD, PLEASE GIVE US SOME GODLY FATHERS
1. Fathers Need To Be Examples That Can Be Easily Followed - Proverbs 22:28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. (A boundary or a border)
2. Fathers Need To Be Examples Of Walking By Faith - Psalms 22:4-5 Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded. (Confounded - not ashamed, confused, or disappointed)
Psalms 78:12-16 Marvellous things did he in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan. He divided the sea, and caused them to pass through; and he made the waters to stand as an heap. In the daytime also he led them with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire. He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink as out of the great depths. He brought streams also out of the rock, and caused waters to run down like rivers.
3. Fathers Need To Be Examples Of Purity And Holiness - Psalms 39:12 Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were. (Strangers to the world and companions with God)
1 Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. (We should not have habits of sinfulness that our children may follow)
4. Fathers Need To Be Spiritual Teachers For Our Children - Psalms 44:1 We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times of old. (You cannot teach what you have not experienced)
Psalms 78:1-4 Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.
Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
5. Fathers Need To Be Examples In Worship And Praise - Isaiah 64:11 Our holy and our beautiful house, where our fathers praised thee, is burned up with fire: and all our pleasant things are laid waste. (It takes a real man to openly worship the Lord! Unashamed!)
Dear Lord, give us some real men in these last days. Men who make You proud; men who make their families proud; men who can be followed!
Isaiah 4:1
Introduction:
A. The interpretation of this verse is to Israel in the last days.
Isaiah 2:1-2 The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. (2) And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
B. Chapter 4 begins with the prophecy, “And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.”
1. There never has been a shortage of men and today is not an exception. Look around and you will see “men” everywhere but there is a difference between a man and a “good man!” A good man is hard to find.
2. Here, we find 7 women looking for one good man! Though the bible does not use the word “good” here, it is certainly implied because why else would seven women be looking for one man. They are evidently looking for a certain kind of man.
3. I am sure that they are not looking for a drunkard, drug addict, abuser, coward, sissy, womanizer, etc. That would be foolish. They are searching for a “good” man and, when they find him, they will “lay hold” on him.
4. These women are all over the place in our day. These are women whose feet abide not in their houses; women whose homes are broken up; women who cannot maintain themselves; women who are desperate and running from one man to the other.
5. Ladies, they are looking for your husbands; they are looking for your sons. The reason is this: good men are hard to find!
C. I am talking about real men because most homes in our days are raising subservient men! The majority of homes today are run by women.
1. Docile men who know the real voice of authority in the home: the woman. I watch “men” walk around meekly while their wives make the decisions and do most of the talking. Strong women raise meek men!
2. Soft men who do not know how to be a real man. A real man does not have to be a hard man but I believe that he needs to be a tough man! A real man’s man like my dad was. No one ever questioned his manhood because it was evident. Our world is full of sissy looking and acting men. Strong women become the “hero” to little boys and therefore the role model. Strong women produce sissy boys which help to produce sodomites.
a) They are soft in their appearance.
b) They are soft in their actions.
1 Corinthians 16:13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
D. I thank God that my dad and mom raised men. I looked at my two brothers this past week and they are strong men; they are decisive men; they are real men. If you have a “man” this morning, thank God for him.
1. Do not try to change him! He cannot be the man that he needs to be unless you allow him to do so. Wives, be in subjection to your man. God commands it and your husband needs it. Give him honor, praise, love, and obedience. Remember your wedding vows? “To obey” is still in them. Women are raised independent and strong these days and this becomes a major problem in the homes.
1 Corinthians 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. (God said that! This is not a chauvinist statement; it is a biblical statement!)
2. Do not try to tame him! Men do not like to be subservient to the woman if they are a real man. Honor your man by allowing him to take the position in the home that he deserves. He will make some blunders; he will make some mistakes; but you will be glad that he is manly.
E. One of the worst things that has happened in theses last days is the breakdown of the home. Very few homes have a father image in it, much less a godly father image. Each man in this church is either a father or a father image according to this verse. Our children need men in the church as role models and not have to go to the world for them. Every man in this church is to be walking in such a way as to lead our children in the way of righteousness.
F. Children belong to the Lord and are only given to us to raise for Him.
1. Children Are A Blessing To Us - Psalms 127:4-5 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.
a) To The Parents - Psalms 128:1-4 Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD.
b) To The Grandparents - Proverbs 17:6 Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.
2. Children Are A Blessing To The Lord - Psalms 127:3 Lo, children are an heritage (His property) of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
G. Children automatically look up to men as mentors and role models - Proverbs 17:6 Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers. (Glory - the beauty, splendor, the boasting - to be proud of)
H. This past week, I was around a young man who has no male role model in his life. His mother is doing the best that she can to help him grow up, but he needs a man. I tried to take a little time to witness to him, advise him, and to encourage him. May God give us some real men this morning.
1. Men who love the Lord!
2. Men who love their families!
3. Men who love their homes!
4. Men who lead, direct, and defend what is theirs.
LORD, PLEASE GIVE US SOME GODLY FATHERS
1. Fathers Need To Be Examples That Can Be Easily Followed - Proverbs 22:28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. (A boundary or a border)
2. Fathers Need To Be Examples Of Walking By Faith - Psalms 22:4-5 Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded. (Confounded - not ashamed, confused, or disappointed)
Psalms 78:12-16 Marvellous things did he in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan. He divided the sea, and caused them to pass through; and he made the waters to stand as an heap. In the daytime also he led them with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire. He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink as out of the great depths. He brought streams also out of the rock, and caused waters to run down like rivers.
3. Fathers Need To Be Examples Of Purity And Holiness - Psalms 39:12 Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were. (Strangers to the world and companions with God)
1 Timothy 2:8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. (We should not have habits of sinfulness that our children may follow)
4. Fathers Need To Be Spiritual Teachers For Our Children - Psalms 44:1 We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times of old. (You cannot teach what you have not experienced)
Psalms 78:1-4 Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.
Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
5. Fathers Need To Be Examples In Worship And Praise - Isaiah 64:11 Our holy and our beautiful house, where our fathers praised thee, is burned up with fire: and all our pleasant things are laid waste. (It takes a real man to openly worship the Lord! Unashamed!)
Dear Lord, give us some real men in these last days. Men who make You proud; men who make their families proud; men who can be followed!
Sunday, June 12, 2011
The Cities of Refuge: Shechem
Temple Baptist Church - 6-12-2011
Joshua 20:1-9
Introduction:
A. The Cities of Refuge, in type, show us some of the things that we have in Christ. Last week we studied Kedesh which means “Holiness”.
a. We saw Positional Holiness – Our Position in Christ.
b. We saw Perfect Holiness – Our Perfection in Christ.
c. We saw Permanent Holiness – Our in Eternity.
B. It is interesting that the second city of Refuge was Shechem or “shoulder.”
Psalms 18:1-2 I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
a. The Shoulder Is A Place Of Strength. I normally carry very heavy burdens upon my shoulders. Heavy burdens can be much more easily carried there.
b. The Shoulder Is A Place Of Safety. When our two sons were small, I would often carry them upon my shoulder. They were easy to carry there; they were easy to keep up; they were safe from all harm.
C. I find it interesting that “shoulder” is actually an old testament word. The only reference to the shoulder in the new testament is found in Luke where the shepherd leaves the ninety and nine to find the lost sheep and, when He finds it, lays it upon his “shoulders.”
D. Shechem or "shoulder" is the place that undergirds the heavy load. The ox pushed against the yoke with his massive shoulders. The high priest bore upon his shoulders the names of the 12 tribes of Israel on the Day of Atonement. The wandering sheep rests upon the shoulders of a loving shepherd. The Lord Jesus Christ is a "shoulder" to bear your burdens, whatever they might be.
E. As the old testament priest bore the children of Israel upon his shoulders, the Lord Jesus Christ (our High Priest) cares for the child of God.
1. He Cares For The Wandering Saint – The Lord never ceases to love and care for us when we are not what we need to be. His love never changes; it never diminishes! As He loved Israel, He loves us with an everlasting love. He rejoices when we are returned to the fellowship of the fold.
Luke 15: 1-7 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
a. The Lost Sheep Was A Sheep (coin was a coin, son was a son)
b. He Left The Ninety And Nine To Find The Lost One
c. He Carried The Lost One On His Shoulders
d. He Carried The Lost One Rejoicing!
2. He Cares For The Helpless Saint – It is the Lord that feeds us and leads us. It is the Lord that protects and guards us. Safety is of the Lord. He has hedged us about.
Isaiah 40:10-11 Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. 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.
a. He Feeds His Flock
b. He Carries His Young
c. He Carries His Young Next To His Heart
d. He Gently Leads Those With Young
3. He Cares For The Old Saint – We live in a day when the old people are being cast aside. I love nursing home ministries but it breaks my heart to see the condition of the old. Many need to be there because they need constant care but many of them never see a loved one. I am so glad that the Lord love us older folks. We are closer to home with each passing day.
Isaiah 46:4 And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.
a. He Has Made You
b. He Will Carry You
c. He Will Deliver You Safely Home
4. He Cares For The Weary Saint – Sometimes, I get tired of the way. I am not tired of the way but often get weary of this life with its troubles. The Lord understands what it is to be weary and worn. Life will wear you down if you let it.
Song of Solomon 8:5 Who is this that cometh up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved?
Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
a. He Carries The Weary Through The Wilderness Places
b. He Allows Them To Lean Upon Him
c. He Gives Rest To The Weary
5. He Cares For The Burdened Saint – God cares about what you care about. Sometimes we get the feeling that He does not care when things go wrong or the world gets the advantage. He does care; He always cares.
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Psalms 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
a. There Is No Care That He Will Not Help With (all your care)
b. He Cares For You When You Are Burdened
c. He Will Sustain You Through It All
d. He Will Not Allow You To Fall
6. He Cares For The Dying Saint – Tuesday, as I was out visiting, I stopped at Tracy Patterson’s grave for a little while. I squatted down beside of her tomb stone and looked at the embossed picture of her and “Binky” for a few minutes. I loved that precious lady and often stop bye when I am out that way. The Lord cared when Tracy got sick! The Lord cared as Tracy suffered! The Lord cared on the day that He took Tracy home. I led Tracy to the Lord on her birthday. I will never forget what she said after she got saved. She looked at me and said, “That’s the best birthday present that I ever got.” She is at home and it was a precious day for the Lord when she died. The Lord appointed a day for us to die because He cares.
Luke 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
a. Death Is A Door
b. Death Is A Deliverance
c. He Will Be There For You
Joshua 20:1-9
Introduction:
A. The Cities of Refuge, in type, show us some of the things that we have in Christ. Last week we studied Kedesh which means “Holiness”.
a. We saw Positional Holiness – Our Position in Christ.
b. We saw Perfect Holiness – Our Perfection in Christ.
c. We saw Permanent Holiness – Our in Eternity.
B. It is interesting that the second city of Refuge was Shechem or “shoulder.”
Psalms 18:1-2 I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
a. The Shoulder Is A Place Of Strength. I normally carry very heavy burdens upon my shoulders. Heavy burdens can be much more easily carried there.
b. The Shoulder Is A Place Of Safety. When our two sons were small, I would often carry them upon my shoulder. They were easy to carry there; they were easy to keep up; they were safe from all harm.
C. I find it interesting that “shoulder” is actually an old testament word. The only reference to the shoulder in the new testament is found in Luke where the shepherd leaves the ninety and nine to find the lost sheep and, when He finds it, lays it upon his “shoulders.”
D. Shechem or "shoulder" is the place that undergirds the heavy load. The ox pushed against the yoke with his massive shoulders. The high priest bore upon his shoulders the names of the 12 tribes of Israel on the Day of Atonement. The wandering sheep rests upon the shoulders of a loving shepherd. The Lord Jesus Christ is a "shoulder" to bear your burdens, whatever they might be.
E. As the old testament priest bore the children of Israel upon his shoulders, the Lord Jesus Christ (our High Priest) cares for the child of God.
1. He Cares For The Wandering Saint – The Lord never ceases to love and care for us when we are not what we need to be. His love never changes; it never diminishes! As He loved Israel, He loves us with an everlasting love. He rejoices when we are returned to the fellowship of the fold.
Luke 15: 1-7 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
a. The Lost Sheep Was A Sheep (coin was a coin, son was a son)
b. He Left The Ninety And Nine To Find The Lost One
c. He Carried The Lost One On His Shoulders
d. He Carried The Lost One Rejoicing!
2. He Cares For The Helpless Saint – It is the Lord that feeds us and leads us. It is the Lord that protects and guards us. Safety is of the Lord. He has hedged us about.
Isaiah 40:10-11 Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. 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.
a. He Feeds His Flock
b. He Carries His Young
c. He Carries His Young Next To His Heart
d. He Gently Leads Those With Young
3. He Cares For The Old Saint – We live in a day when the old people are being cast aside. I love nursing home ministries but it breaks my heart to see the condition of the old. Many need to be there because they need constant care but many of them never see a loved one. I am so glad that the Lord love us older folks. We are closer to home with each passing day.
Isaiah 46:4 And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.
a. He Has Made You
b. He Will Carry You
c. He Will Deliver You Safely Home
4. He Cares For The Weary Saint – Sometimes, I get tired of the way. I am not tired of the way but often get weary of this life with its troubles. The Lord understands what it is to be weary and worn. Life will wear you down if you let it.
Song of Solomon 8:5 Who is this that cometh up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved?
Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
a. He Carries The Weary Through The Wilderness Places
b. He Allows Them To Lean Upon Him
c. He Gives Rest To The Weary
5. He Cares For The Burdened Saint – God cares about what you care about. Sometimes we get the feeling that He does not care when things go wrong or the world gets the advantage. He does care; He always cares.
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Psalms 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
a. There Is No Care That He Will Not Help With (all your care)
b. He Cares For You When You Are Burdened
c. He Will Sustain You Through It All
d. He Will Not Allow You To Fall
6. He Cares For The Dying Saint – Tuesday, as I was out visiting, I stopped at Tracy Patterson’s grave for a little while. I squatted down beside of her tomb stone and looked at the embossed picture of her and “Binky” for a few minutes. I loved that precious lady and often stop bye when I am out that way. The Lord cared when Tracy got sick! The Lord cared as Tracy suffered! The Lord cared on the day that He took Tracy home. I led Tracy to the Lord on her birthday. I will never forget what she said after she got saved. She looked at me and said, “That’s the best birthday present that I ever got.” She is at home and it was a precious day for the Lord when she died. The Lord appointed a day for us to die because He cares.
Luke 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
a. Death Is A Door
b. Death Is A Deliverance
c. He Will Be There For You
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Redeeming The Time
Temple Baptist Church - 6-8-2011
Ephesians 5:15-16
Introduction:
A. For a few minutes tonight, I want to look at the word “time.” There are four things that I find interesting about time in general and the time of our lives. I want to look at the Meaning of time; the Measuring of time; the Marking of time; and the Monitoring or Management of time.
B. Time is important to each of us. Our time is fleeting and life is short in duration. We will look at this a little later but our lives are important to us and we spend them doing things that matter to us. Our time here is important because not only do temporal things depend upon what we do with our time, eternal things also depend upon it. We are living our lives here for self, others, and eternity.
C. Time is also important to God as He only made so much of it.
Revelation 8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. (Years ago, I heard Dr. Jack Hyles preach a message from this text on the subject of what do you do with your half hours?)
D. When we talk about anything we talk about time. Whether its morning time, evening time, nighttime, springtime, summertime, or wintertime, Church time or supper time, it’s about time. No matter the subject, no matter the theme, no matter the meaning, no matter the scene, IT’S ABOUT TIME! It all a matter of time and time matters! Time is mention many times in the Bible- almost 600 times by name and many more in reference. Much is mentioned, yet still it is mysterious. You cannot see it- but you do feel it. Time is more than the clicks of the clock or the dates of a day planner. Benjamin Franklin said “Time is the stuff with which life is made of!”
1. The Meaning Of Time - Time: an occasion, opportunity, or season. Time is a part of the measuring system used to sequence events, to compare the durations of events and the intervals between them, and to quantify rates of change such as the motions of objects. In the middle of infinity; somewhere in the expanse of eternity, God made a space of time. God has no time; God needs no clocks or calendars; God is infinite, eternal, and timeless. Time has been called the Fourth Dimension.
a. Time Measures – It measures distance and duration. How far is it from here to Greenville? I am not sure of the miles but the time to travel there is about 45 minutes. How long will the service last tonight? Ask the preacher! J Smile, God loves you!
b. Time Moves - The hands of the clock or the sand of the hourglass: even if we sit still- it doesn’t! No matter how fast we move, we can’t outrun it and no matter how we try, we cannot stop it! Sometimes, time seemingly moves so quickly while at other times it seemingly moves ever so slowly. The constant continuous countdown of the calendar continues. Today was a tomorrow and yesterday is gone forever. 2010 is no more and 2011 is here! The MILLENNIUM keeps gaining MOMENTUM. Children play among ruins of civilizations once mighty. Empires expire, kingdoms crumble, and dynasties turn to dust. The age of the ages ascends ever closer, then passing by, we are both swept up and crept along by the momentum of moments that are marching onward….. from the cradle to the coffin.
2. The Measuring Of Time – God gave the earth 7,000 years of time from the beginning until the time that eternity begins. As suddenly as time began in in Genesis 1:1, time will end at the end of the 7th Millennium! Revelation 10:6 And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:
a. Some measurements of time are regulated such as seconds, minutes, hours, days, months, seasons, years, decades, centuries, millenniums, etc. These times are regulated by standards of time and, yet, are not always correct. Different clocks have different times. Check you watches. We operate by the Gregorian Calendar: also called the Western Calendar or Christian Calendar. It operates off of the Solar Dating System and differs from the Solar System by 26 seconds per year.
b. Some measurements of time are relative such as the length of a lifetime. God has set the average lifetime as three score or four score by reason of strength. According to Scripture, a man can live our half his days or may even live 100 years or more. A life time is an occasion, an opportunity, and a season.
3. The Marking Of Time – as we grow older, the time certainly flies.
a. The Brevity Of Time - Psalms 37:25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
Genesis 47:9 And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of the years of my pilgrimage are an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have the days of the years of my life been, and have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.
Job 7:6 My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and are spent without hope.
James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
b. The Blessing Of Time - Psalms 90:10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. (Time is a precious gift from the Lord.)
“Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours.”
Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours. They are one of the few things in this world that you get free of charge. If you had all the money in the world, you couldn't buy an extra hour. What will you do with this priceless treasure?
Anonymous
4. The Management Of Time - The past gives us perspective; the present gives us opportunity; the future gives us no promise! The word “circumspectly” means to walk “exactly” or “diligently.”
a. We Are To Remember - George Santayana, a Spanish born American philosopher and poet, is known for this comment: "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Ecclesiastes 1:9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
b. We Are To Resolve - The past is history, the future’s a mystery, but God has given us this moment and that’s why it’s called the present. There is no time like the present!
Psalms 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. (Our life is short and, if the Lord has not returned soon, death is sure. What is done for Christ must be done now. Our loved ones depend upon our example. If your children follow you, will they serve the Lord?)
c. We Are To Redeem - We are to walk carefully and live right. We are to live a life in obedience to the Holy Spirit. He will lead us always to the right place at the right time, to do and say the right things. "Redeeming the time," we are to make the most of every opportunity, and step through every door the Lord opens for us and use the Word of God to witness to the lost, exposing their lost condition, and present the remedy for them, the One and Only Savior the Lord Jesus Christ. "For the days are evil," the sins many are committing today are so very, very, evil, vile, and terrible. Of course sin has always been wicked and offensive to God, but is getting worse.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. (14) For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Ephesians 5:15-16
Introduction:
A. For a few minutes tonight, I want to look at the word “time.” There are four things that I find interesting about time in general and the time of our lives. I want to look at the Meaning of time; the Measuring of time; the Marking of time; and the Monitoring or Management of time.
B. Time is important to each of us. Our time is fleeting and life is short in duration. We will look at this a little later but our lives are important to us and we spend them doing things that matter to us. Our time here is important because not only do temporal things depend upon what we do with our time, eternal things also depend upon it. We are living our lives here for self, others, and eternity.
C. Time is also important to God as He only made so much of it.
Revelation 8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. (Years ago, I heard Dr. Jack Hyles preach a message from this text on the subject of what do you do with your half hours?)
D. When we talk about anything we talk about time. Whether its morning time, evening time, nighttime, springtime, summertime, or wintertime, Church time or supper time, it’s about time. No matter the subject, no matter the theme, no matter the meaning, no matter the scene, IT’S ABOUT TIME! It all a matter of time and time matters! Time is mention many times in the Bible- almost 600 times by name and many more in reference. Much is mentioned, yet still it is mysterious. You cannot see it- but you do feel it. Time is more than the clicks of the clock or the dates of a day planner. Benjamin Franklin said “Time is the stuff with which life is made of!”
1. The Meaning Of Time - Time: an occasion, opportunity, or season. Time is a part of the measuring system used to sequence events, to compare the durations of events and the intervals between them, and to quantify rates of change such as the motions of objects. In the middle of infinity; somewhere in the expanse of eternity, God made a space of time. God has no time; God needs no clocks or calendars; God is infinite, eternal, and timeless. Time has been called the Fourth Dimension.
a. Time Measures – It measures distance and duration. How far is it from here to Greenville? I am not sure of the miles but the time to travel there is about 45 minutes. How long will the service last tonight? Ask the preacher! J Smile, God loves you!
b. Time Moves - The hands of the clock or the sand of the hourglass: even if we sit still- it doesn’t! No matter how fast we move, we can’t outrun it and no matter how we try, we cannot stop it! Sometimes, time seemingly moves so quickly while at other times it seemingly moves ever so slowly. The constant continuous countdown of the calendar continues. Today was a tomorrow and yesterday is gone forever. 2010 is no more and 2011 is here! The MILLENNIUM keeps gaining MOMENTUM. Children play among ruins of civilizations once mighty. Empires expire, kingdoms crumble, and dynasties turn to dust. The age of the ages ascends ever closer, then passing by, we are both swept up and crept along by the momentum of moments that are marching onward….. from the cradle to the coffin.
2. The Measuring Of Time – God gave the earth 7,000 years of time from the beginning until the time that eternity begins. As suddenly as time began in in Genesis 1:1, time will end at the end of the 7th Millennium! Revelation 10:6 And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:
a. Some measurements of time are regulated such as seconds, minutes, hours, days, months, seasons, years, decades, centuries, millenniums, etc. These times are regulated by standards of time and, yet, are not always correct. Different clocks have different times. Check you watches. We operate by the Gregorian Calendar: also called the Western Calendar or Christian Calendar. It operates off of the Solar Dating System and differs from the Solar System by 26 seconds per year.
b. Some measurements of time are relative such as the length of a lifetime. God has set the average lifetime as three score or four score by reason of strength. According to Scripture, a man can live our half his days or may even live 100 years or more. A life time is an occasion, an opportunity, and a season.
3. The Marking Of Time – as we grow older, the time certainly flies.
a. The Brevity Of Time - Psalms 37:25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
Genesis 47:9 And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of the years of my pilgrimage are an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have the days of the years of my life been, and have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.
Job 7:6 My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and are spent without hope.
James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
b. The Blessing Of Time - Psalms 90:10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. (Time is a precious gift from the Lord.)
“Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours.”
Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours. They are one of the few things in this world that you get free of charge. If you had all the money in the world, you couldn't buy an extra hour. What will you do with this priceless treasure?
Anonymous
4. The Management Of Time - The past gives us perspective; the present gives us opportunity; the future gives us no promise! The word “circumspectly” means to walk “exactly” or “diligently.”
a. We Are To Remember - George Santayana, a Spanish born American philosopher and poet, is known for this comment: "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Ecclesiastes 1:9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
b. We Are To Resolve - The past is history, the future’s a mystery, but God has given us this moment and that’s why it’s called the present. There is no time like the present!
Psalms 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. (Our life is short and, if the Lord has not returned soon, death is sure. What is done for Christ must be done now. Our loved ones depend upon our example. If your children follow you, will they serve the Lord?)
c. We Are To Redeem - We are to walk carefully and live right. We are to live a life in obedience to the Holy Spirit. He will lead us always to the right place at the right time, to do and say the right things. "Redeeming the time," we are to make the most of every opportunity, and step through every door the Lord opens for us and use the Word of God to witness to the lost, exposing their lost condition, and present the remedy for them, the One and Only Savior the Lord Jesus Christ. "For the days are evil," the sins many are committing today are so very, very, evil, vile, and terrible. Of course sin has always been wicked and offensive to God, but is getting worse.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. (14) For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
The Cure For Discouragement
Temple Baptist Church - 6-5-2011
Psalms 73
Introduction:
A. There are many spiritual obstacles that we face in these last days. One of the greatest obstacles that cause defeat in the life of the child of God is that of discouragement! There are many things that will discourage us so I will not try to deal with the ones that I know about. There are things that discourage that I have not yet faced so I am not an expert on the subject but here are just a few:
1. Sin Is Rampant. It is both heartbreaking and enticing. I have never seen the world so wicked as it is today. Some people think that it is getting better but they are obviously blinded to the progression that the older generation sees. It is disheartening and discouraging.
2. There Is Apostasy On Every Hand. I am not just referring to the religious crowd or liberal denominations; I am referring to people that I once respected and, now, can no longer walk with. It is disheartening and discouraging.
3. There Is Apathy Among God’s People. Sin is rampant; apostasy is in full swing; and God’s people do not seem to care! It is disheartening and discouraging.
B. It behooves us at this point to remember that discouragement is still a sin and sin must be dealt with at its source - Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life. (All sin is a heart issue!)
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Matthew 12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
C. Asaph shows the condition of his heart in this Psalm.
1. vs. 1 – God’s Good To Israel And God Is Good To The Clean Of Heart (This should have told him something!)
2. vs. 2 – BUT God is not good to me!
3. vs. 3-4 – God’s Good To The Wicked
4. vs. 13 – BUT God is not good to me!
5. vs. 2-3 – He is ready to quit on God because of a backslidden heart full of envy!
D. I want to look at four things in these verses that give a clear report on the heart of this man of God.
1. A Distressed Look Because His Eyes Are Upon The Lost – vs. 2-12
a. The lost are free to do as they like – vs. 4
b. The lost have no obvious trouble – vs. 5
c. The lost are wicked and cruel – vs. 6
d. The lost have the “Midas Touch” – vs. 7
e. The lost get away with murder – vs. 8
f. The lost curse God and receive good – vs. 9-10
g. The lost mock God and prosper at every hand – vs. 11-12
2. A Disappointed Look Because His Eyes Are Upon Self – vs. 13-16
a. He is disappointed with salvation – vs. 13 “they fare better than I”
b. He is disappointed with chastisement – vs. 14 “I fail and am whipped”
c. He is disappointed with the brethren – vs. 15 “just don’t understand”
d. He is disappointed with things in general – vs. 16 “just too painful to think about”
3. A Discerning Look Because His Eyes Are Upon The Perishing – vs. 17-22
a. The place of understanding – 17 “sanctuary”
b. The word of understanding – vs. 17 “then understood I”
1) The Delusion of the lost – vs. 11-13
2) The Dilemma of the lost – vs. 18
3) The Destruction of the lost – vs. 19-20
c. The foolishness of the saint – vs. 21-22
1) Questioned God’s Goodness
2) Questioned God’s Justice
4. A Delighted Look Because His Eyes Are Upon His Saviour – vs. 23-28
a. The promise of the Savior – vs. 23-24
1) His Presence – vs. 23a
2) His Power – vs. 23b
3) His Guidance – vs. 24a
4) His Reward – vs. 24b
b. The surety of the Savior’s Love – vs. 25
c. The reality of the Savior’s Comfort – vs. 26
d. The realization of the Savior’s Goodness – vs. 27
e. The resting in the Savior’s Will – vs. 28
Psalms 73
Introduction:
A. There are many spiritual obstacles that we face in these last days. One of the greatest obstacles that cause defeat in the life of the child of God is that of discouragement! There are many things that will discourage us so I will not try to deal with the ones that I know about. There are things that discourage that I have not yet faced so I am not an expert on the subject but here are just a few:
1. Sin Is Rampant. It is both heartbreaking and enticing. I have never seen the world so wicked as it is today. Some people think that it is getting better but they are obviously blinded to the progression that the older generation sees. It is disheartening and discouraging.
2. There Is Apostasy On Every Hand. I am not just referring to the religious crowd or liberal denominations; I am referring to people that I once respected and, now, can no longer walk with. It is disheartening and discouraging.
3. There Is Apathy Among God’s People. Sin is rampant; apostasy is in full swing; and God’s people do not seem to care! It is disheartening and discouraging.
B. It behooves us at this point to remember that discouragement is still a sin and sin must be dealt with at its source - Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life. (All sin is a heart issue!)
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Matthew 12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
C. Asaph shows the condition of his heart in this Psalm.
1. vs. 1 – God’s Good To Israel And God Is Good To The Clean Of Heart (This should have told him something!)
2. vs. 2 – BUT God is not good to me!
3. vs. 3-4 – God’s Good To The Wicked
4. vs. 13 – BUT God is not good to me!
5. vs. 2-3 – He is ready to quit on God because of a backslidden heart full of envy!
D. I want to look at four things in these verses that give a clear report on the heart of this man of God.
1. A Distressed Look Because His Eyes Are Upon The Lost – vs. 2-12
a. The lost are free to do as they like – vs. 4
b. The lost have no obvious trouble – vs. 5
c. The lost are wicked and cruel – vs. 6
d. The lost have the “Midas Touch” – vs. 7
e. The lost get away with murder – vs. 8
f. The lost curse God and receive good – vs. 9-10
g. The lost mock God and prosper at every hand – vs. 11-12
2. A Disappointed Look Because His Eyes Are Upon Self – vs. 13-16
a. He is disappointed with salvation – vs. 13 “they fare better than I”
b. He is disappointed with chastisement – vs. 14 “I fail and am whipped”
c. He is disappointed with the brethren – vs. 15 “just don’t understand”
d. He is disappointed with things in general – vs. 16 “just too painful to think about”
3. A Discerning Look Because His Eyes Are Upon The Perishing – vs. 17-22
a. The place of understanding – 17 “sanctuary”
b. The word of understanding – vs. 17 “then understood I”
1) The Delusion of the lost – vs. 11-13
2) The Dilemma of the lost – vs. 18
3) The Destruction of the lost – vs. 19-20
c. The foolishness of the saint – vs. 21-22
1) Questioned God’s Goodness
2) Questioned God’s Justice
4. A Delighted Look Because His Eyes Are Upon His Saviour – vs. 23-28
a. The promise of the Savior – vs. 23-24
1) His Presence – vs. 23a
2) His Power – vs. 23b
3) His Guidance – vs. 24a
4) His Reward – vs. 24b
b. The surety of the Savior’s Love – vs. 25
c. The reality of the Savior’s Comfort – vs. 26
d. The realization of the Savior’s Goodness – vs. 27
e. The resting in the Savior’s Will – vs. 28
The Cities Of Refuge – Kedesh
Temple Baptist Church - 6-5-2011
Joshua 20:1-9
Introduction:
A. The Meaning Of The Cities Of Refuge
1. The Institution Of The Cities Of Refuge – God’s Sovereign Grace
2. The Interpretation Of The Cities Of Refuge – Man’s Physical Safety
3. The Importance Of The Cities Of Refuge – Saint’s Salvation In Type
4. The Implications Of The Cities Of Refuge – A Type Of Christ And Their Names Have Great Significance
B. Kadesh comes from the word “sanctum” which means to be clean or holy; to be consecrated or dedicated; to be morally pure (Christ Is Our Holiness)
1. When a man enters Christ Jesus, he then takes on the imputed righteousness of Christ.
2. This righteousness is not the goodness of man; it is the perfect, faultless righteousness of God Himself.
3. This righteousness is not a mixture of darkness and light; as God dwelleth in a light that man cannot approach unto, we—as God’s chidren—dwell in perfect light in Christ.
4. This righteousness is not a mixture of dead works and faith; it is imputed through faith alone.
5. This righteousness is certainly not a mixture of self-praise and boasting; our praise and boasting is in 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. (Imputed righteousness of faith)
2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
C. In today’s spiritual economy, most religions and denominations try to do right in order to be right with the Lord. Romans 9-10 spells out the spiritual blindness of Israel in light of Paul’s pray to God for their salvation. I will not read all of Romans 9:27-10:10 for sake of time but will point out a few things. These verses explain:
MAN’S RIGHTEOUSNESS VS. GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS
**Romans 10:1-4 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
1. We See The Desire of the Redeemed – vs 1 “heart’s desire and prayer … saved” (I wish for no man to die without Christ!)
2. We See The Dedication of the Religionist – vs 2 “zeal of God” (It is a shame we don’t have the same zeal!)
3. We See The Deception of the Religionist – vs 3 “ignorant of God’s righteousness”
4. We See The Dilemma of the Religionist – vs 3 “going about to establish their own righteousness”
5. We See The Damnation of the Religionist – vs 3 “have not submitted themselves”
6. We See The Deliverance of the Religionist – vs 4 “everyone that believeth”
Let Us Examine God’s Righteousness
Exodus 15:11 Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?
1 Timothy 6:15-16 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
1 John 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Hebrews 7:26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
Revelation 15:4a Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy
Let Us Examine Man’s Righteousness
Job Said - Job 40:4 Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.
David Said - Psalms 51:3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Solomon Said - Ecclesiastes 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
Isaiah Said - Isaiah 6:5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
Peter Said - Luke 5:8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
Paul Said - Romans 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
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. In Christ, We Have Perfect Holiness (There is no fault in us!)
1 John 3:9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,
Colossians 1:20-22 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
2. In Christ, We Have Positional Holiness (Salvation is by faith!)
Romans 3:21-22 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
Romans 4:5-6 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,
Romans 5:17-19, 21 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 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. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous…. That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Ephesians 1:3-7 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
3. In Christ, We Have Practical Holiness (We could not keep it!)
Acts 15:7-11 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. (8) And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; (9) And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. (10) Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? (11) But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.
4. In Christ, We Have Permanent Holiness (We cannot lose it!)
Ephesians 1:12-13 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Ephesians 5:25-27 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Revelation 22:10-11 And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.
Joshua 20:1-9
Introduction:
A. The Meaning Of The Cities Of Refuge
1. The Institution Of The Cities Of Refuge – God’s Sovereign Grace
2. The Interpretation Of The Cities Of Refuge – Man’s Physical Safety
3. The Importance Of The Cities Of Refuge – Saint’s Salvation In Type
4. The Implications Of The Cities Of Refuge – A Type Of Christ And Their Names Have Great Significance
B. Kadesh comes from the word “sanctum” which means to be clean or holy; to be consecrated or dedicated; to be morally pure (Christ Is Our Holiness)
1. When a man enters Christ Jesus, he then takes on the imputed righteousness of Christ.
2. This righteousness is not the goodness of man; it is the perfect, faultless righteousness of God Himself.
3. This righteousness is not a mixture of darkness and light; as God dwelleth in a light that man cannot approach unto, we—as God’s chidren—dwell in perfect light in Christ.
4. This righteousness is not a mixture of dead works and faith; it is imputed through faith alone.
5. This righteousness is certainly not a mixture of self-praise and boasting; our praise and boasting is in 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. (Imputed righteousness of faith)
2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
C. In today’s spiritual economy, most religions and denominations try to do right in order to be right with the Lord. Romans 9-10 spells out the spiritual blindness of Israel in light of Paul’s pray to God for their salvation. I will not read all of Romans 9:27-10:10 for sake of time but will point out a few things. These verses explain:
MAN’S RIGHTEOUSNESS VS. GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS
**Romans 10:1-4 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
1. We See The Desire of the Redeemed – vs 1 “heart’s desire and prayer … saved” (I wish for no man to die without Christ!)
2. We See The Dedication of the Religionist – vs 2 “zeal of God” (It is a shame we don’t have the same zeal!)
3. We See The Deception of the Religionist – vs 3 “ignorant of God’s righteousness”
4. We See The Dilemma of the Religionist – vs 3 “going about to establish their own righteousness”
5. We See The Damnation of the Religionist – vs 3 “have not submitted themselves”
6. We See The Deliverance of the Religionist – vs 4 “everyone that believeth”
Let Us Examine God’s Righteousness
Exodus 15:11 Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?
1 Timothy 6:15-16 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
1 John 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Hebrews 7:26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
Revelation 15:4a Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy
Let Us Examine Man’s Righteousness
Job Said - Job 40:4 Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.
David Said - Psalms 51:3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Solomon Said - Ecclesiastes 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
Isaiah Said - Isaiah 6:5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
Peter Said - Luke 5:8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
Paul Said - Romans 7:24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
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. In Christ, We Have Perfect Holiness (There is no fault in us!)
1 John 3:9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
Jude 1:24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,
Colossians 1:20-22 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
2. In Christ, We Have Positional Holiness (Salvation is by faith!)
Romans 3:21-22 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
Romans 4:5-6 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,
Romans 5:17-19, 21 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 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. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous…. That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Ephesians 1:3-7 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
3. In Christ, We Have Practical Holiness (We could not keep it!)
Acts 15:7-11 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. (8) And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; (9) And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. (10) Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? (11) But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.
4. In Christ, We Have Permanent Holiness (We cannot lose it!)
Ephesians 1:12-13 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Ephesians 5:25-27 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Revelation 22:10-11 And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.
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