tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47923450454746679182024-03-27T21:28:45.740-04:00Temple Baptist Church Sermons OutlinesTheo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.comBlogger1720125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-10733965261895113862024-03-27T21:28:00.002-04:002024-03-27T21:28:04.687-04:00The Prince of This World<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-27-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>John 14:28-31</b></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. In verse 30, we find the prophecy of coming of the “accuser” to find fault in Christ Jesus. Satan will find none! After the crowd took Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, He spoke very little to His disciples or in His defense. This will be the fulfillment of </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 53:7, which reads:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The “prince of this world” led Israel to its demise.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The “prince of this world” leads all who reject and accuse Christ Jesus to their demise.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. In the word “prince” we find Description. Satan is called “the prince of this world.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. <a name="_Hlk162255316" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank">In the word “prince” we see </a>Power - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Luke 22:53 When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. In the word “prince” we see Position - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. In the word “prince” we see Prominence - Ephesians 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. In the word “prince” we see Pleasure - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 4:8-9 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; (9) And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. In the word “prince” we find Delusion:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. He is “god” but only by permission - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 4:9-10 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. (10) Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. He has control, and he is not in control - John 12:31 Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. He is powerful and yet he is not omnipotent - Jude 9 Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. He is wealthy and yet he owns nothing - Matthew 4:8-9 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 24:1 The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. How did the arch enemy of both God and man become the “god of this world?”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. <a name="_Hlk162256055" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank">Because He </a>Is Worshiped - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> (This prince is transformed into an angel of light; a thing of great beauty.)</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 14:12-14 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! 13 For thou hast said in thine heart, <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I will ascend</i> into heaven, <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I will exalt</i> my throne above the stars of God: <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I will sit</i> also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 14 <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I will ascend </i>above the heights of the clouds; <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I will be</i> like the most High. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Because He Is Adored - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 4:9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> (The world loves their prince because they love their sin.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Because He Is Emulated - Ephesians 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: (The world conforms to image of their god just as we are to conform to the image of our God.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Because He Is In Control - John 8:43-44 Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. 44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. (As a father controls his children, this prince controls his.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: The world is deceived by the “prince of this world” but the redeemed are looking for to their “Prince” who is coming soon.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Revelation 1:5-8 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, (6) And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (7) Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. (8) I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-64031041646809954582024-03-24T21:02:00.002-04:002024-03-24T21:02:16.394-04:00The Word of God and Understanding<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-24-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:97-104</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Psalm 119 contains 176 verses with 22 stanzas and 8 verses per stanza with each verse in a stanza beginning with the corresponding letter of the Hebrew alphabet. An acrostic.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. Tonight, I want to look at the 13<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza, verses 97-104, and the Hebrew letter MEM.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. This letter MEM has two different forms – the regular letter </span><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">מ</span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>, which is open at the bottom</span><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> and the special final letter </span><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">ם</span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>, which is closed</span><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">. I wanted to mention this without spending a lot of time on it. We are not here tonight to learn the Hebrew language. We are here to convey a simple truth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The regular MEM </span><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">מ</span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>, represents everything that we understand while the special letter MEM </span><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">ם</span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>, represents everything that we do not comprehend.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. In Genesis, chapter 1, we find both uses of MEM in one verse. </span><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">In the story of the Creation, the text mentions that God separated the waters above the firmament and below it. The first <span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; line-height: 1.5; padding: 0in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">MEM</span> represents the waters above the firmament, which we and the second <span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; line-height: 1.5; padding: 0in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">MEM</span> the waters below the firmament. Therefore, this letter is connected to the element of water.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Genesis 1:7 And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. God made a division between the waters above the firmament, which we can see, and the waters below the firmament which we can only see that which is above ground with the water underground not seen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. There are parts of the Bible that we know and understand. There are spiritual truths found in the Bible that are later grasped through continuation of study of the Scriptures.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. The numerical value of MEM is 40, an important number in the Bible as it signifies ripeness and maturity.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) The life of Moses was split into three segments of 40 years. Each segment of 40 was a stage of development in his life and ministry.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) The rains of the Great Flood lasted for 40 days.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c) Moses stayed on Mount Sinai for 40 days to receive the Law.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d) Jonah the prophet told the people of Ninveh that they had 40 days to repent.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e) The Children of Israel wandered in the desert for 40 years.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">f) The LORD Jesus fasted 40 days before the Mount of Temptation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. MEM represents water. In this portion of the 119<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> Psalm, I want to look at the Word of God in relationship to our spiritual understanding. Many of God’s people have only head knowledge of God’s Word but, in life, the Word of God has little practical use. Putting the Word of God into practice, especially in decision making.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. In your Bible, water represents the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ephesians 5:26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 4:10-14 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. (11) The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? (12) Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? (13) Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: (14) But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. The common thread in these 8 verses is learning.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 4:5-7 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. (6) Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. (7) Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 97. Knowledge. “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.” The motivation for growing in God’s Word is found in this verse. There are two aspects vital to our learning:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Love. “O how love I thy law! The words “O how” are exclamatory. This is a strong statement exemplifying the strength of “love I thy law!” Though punctuation is not a part of the actual text, the exclamation point at the end of the statement agrees with the wording. We will never gain knowledge of the Word of God unless we love the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Job 23:11-12 My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. (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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Meditation. “It is my meditation all the day.” Another key to knowledge of Scripture is meditation. Emersed in the Bible! Controlled by the Bible. As we saturate our minds and hearts with the Word of God, the Spirit of God can bring the Word to our remembrance when needed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 55:8-11 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (10) For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: (11) So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. So, what’s the problem in our day? Two-fold:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1) It is a Pew Problem. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hosea 4:1 Hear the word of the LORD, ye children of Israel: for the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 5:11-12 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. (12) For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2) It is a Pulpit Problem. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 98. Wisdom. “Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies.” Spiritual wisdom is greater than the wisdom of the world and will overcome the wicked.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The Master. “Thou … hast made me” is key to adding wisdom to knowledge. By my definition, wisdom is the right application of knowledge. When we love and meditate in God’s Word, God the Holy Ghost will teach us how to use it in our daily lives and future days.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The Median. “through thy commandments” </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Instead of the wisdom of the world which is good to some degree, the wisdom that comes through the application of the Word of God which is all good.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 99-102. Understanding. “Spiritual Engineering.” Knowledge is learning facts; wisdom it learning to put what you learn to work; Understanding is knowing why they work. What does understanding of God’s commandment do?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Verse 98. They make you wiser than your enemies. You are not ignorant of Satan’s devices.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Verse 99. They make you wise enough to be an example in both word and truth. You eventually become a teacher of teachers.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Verse 100. They make you wiser because you do not follow the wrong paths others before you have trodden.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. Verse 101. They make you wise enough to know that sinfulness brings about a woeful end.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e. Verse 102. They make you wise enough to not think that you have “arrived” and are foolproof. Satan often attacks us in our strengths in stead of our weaknesses. Never get too wise to be smart!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verses 103-104. Never get to the place where you are no longer a learner. Often, teachers quit being students and become spiritually stale.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Keep the Word of God Sweet so as not to get Stale.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Keep the Word of God Faithfully to prevent going into the False Way.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-15683377942124935032024-03-24T14:17:00.000-04:002024-03-24T14:17:01.183-04:00The Infinite Wisdom Of God<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-24-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Romans 11:33-36</span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. A Biblical Interpretation before a Practical Application. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Chapters 9-11 of the Book of Romans make up what is called a Parenthetical. An insertion that acts as an explanation of additional information within the context.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. These chapters deal with the Nation of Israel instead of the individual. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Before these chapters, Paul has been dealing with the salvation of men or the lack there of, but chapters 9-11 deal with the Nation of Israel and their relationship to God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Chapters 9-11 all begin with the </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Nation of Israel and end with the Nation of Israel. Chapter 9 shows Israel’s Past; Chapter 10 shows Israel’s Present; Chapter 11 shows Israel’s Prophecy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Israel was and is God’s chosen nation! </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">These chapters explain what Israel did in </span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">chapter 9 (Rejection of their Messiah)</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, what God is now doing with Israel in Chapter 10 (Salvation to the individual Jews who accept Christ Jesus), and Chapter 11 shows the future of the Nation </span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(Israel’s Repentance and Return to their Messiah).</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. Paul ends this parenthetical trilogy of chapters, 9-11, </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">with a doxology. “Doxology,” in the Ancient Greek language is compound word:<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">from δόξα, </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doxa" rel="noreferrer nofollow noopener" style="cursor: pointer; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank" title="Doxa"><span style="background: white; color: #0b0080; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">doxa</span></a></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, "glory" and -λογία, -logia, "saying” or “word."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. God is not done with Israel.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> At the end of Jacob’s Trouble, also called the Tribulation Period, Israel as a nation will look upon Him whom they have pierced and nationally return to their Messiah.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Zechariah 12:8-10 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David; and the house of David shall be as God, as the angel of the LORD before them. (9) And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. (10) And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 11:25-27</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. (26) And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: (27) For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. That is the interpretation. Chapter 11:33-36 is Israel’s guarantee. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">God knows what He is doing! God loves Israel and He will restore the nation back to Himself.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. I will give three types </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">of wisdom found in the Bible before I look at this doxology.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Worldly Wisdom: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">things that we learn over the years. We gain knowledge and then learn how to apply it rightly. This worldly wisdom can be learned or experiential.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) Learned wisdom.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> It is the wise individual who seeks counsel and advice. It is a wise individual who learns from those who have already learned. When you become “know it all,” you become a foolish individual.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) Experiential wisdom.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Though learned wisdom is the simplest way to learn, often experience is the best teacher.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Spiritual Wisdom: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">spiritual knowledge rightly applied. Spiritual wisdom comes from God! It can be taught by the people of God, or it can be taught by the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The First Mention of wisdom in the Bible: </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Exodus 28:3</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: red; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I have filled with the spirit of wisdom</span></b>, that they may make Aaron's garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The “spirit of wisdom” comes from God. James 1:5</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. God’s Wisdom: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The wisdom of God is an all know or omniscient wisdom. God knows all things and there are some things that</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> only God knows and can only be gotten from Him. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Bible declares </b>that God’s wisdom in infinite:<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 147:5</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. Wisdom defined:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">accumulated knowledge or enlightenment , the trait of utilizing knowledge and experience with common sense and insight, the quality of being prudent and sensible. </span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(By my definition, wisdom is the right application of or understanding of how to use knowledge.)</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. One of the attributes of God is that of omniscience. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">This is means “omni” or “all” and “science” or “knowledge.” The state of having infinite knowledge. As Dr. B. R. Lakin so put it, “Has it ever occurred to you that nothing has ever occurred to God?” God knows everything about everything!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">H. There is a difference between having knowledge and having wisdom.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Many men of our times have had great intellect, extensive education, and yet have died without Christ! That is the most foolish thing that I can think of. “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God!” Men like Confucius who have left behind a legacy of worldly wisdom have denied Christ, died lost, and are in hell today.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">J. God not only has all knowledge, but He also has all wisdom! </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">God’s knowledge and wisdom are far above that of the smartest and wisest of all men.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 55:9</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">as</span></i> the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts<span style="color: red; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">. </span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(Notice the analogy here: “as the heavens are higher than the earth.”)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">K. Verse 36. Now for the application. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">If God takes care of His elect nation that rejected Christ Jesus, how much the more will He take care of His children who have placed their trust in Him! I think it important that we</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> understand God’s wisdom as we are taught biblically to trust Him in relationship to our circumstances and needs.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Our Salvation is of Him - </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 6:35</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And Jesus said unto them, <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I am</b> the bread of life: he that <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">cometh to me</b> shall never hunger; and he that <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">believeth on me</b> shall never thirst. (</span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Salvation is an act of God but it is also a choice of the individual!)</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 11:28-30</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">and I will give you rest.</b> (29) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">and ye shall find rest unto your souls</b>. (30) For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Our Circumstances are through Him - Proverbs 3:5-6</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (6) In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(We are often confused, humanly speaking, by the things that happen in our lives that we cannot control. Yet, the Bible is clear that we are to trust completely when we do not understand.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Job 23:10-12</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> But he <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">knoweth the way that I take</b>: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (11) My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. (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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 6:31-34</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> 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.<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> (In times of uncertainty, God wants our priority to be Him, not our temporal needs. He has assured us that He knows what we need and will supply them. God wants our unwavering faith to be inn Him as He controls our circumstances.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Our Future is to Him </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">- </span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 3:1-2</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. (2) Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> No matter what comes, the wisdom of God is our guarantee that all will work together for good to those of us who love Him and, in the end all will be well.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The Wisdom Of God Penned Down In The Bible.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The Wisdom Of God Previewed In Creation.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. The Wisdom Of God Personified In Jesus Christ.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. The Wisdom Of God Performed In Salvation.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. The Wisdom Of God Personalized In Our Justification.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. The Wisdom Of God Perfected In Our Eternity.</span></b></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-57724407242163830982024-03-20T21:03:00.007-04:002024-03-20T21:03:58.109-04:00The Peace of God<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-20-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;">John 14:23-27</span></span></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. In the context of our verses for this evening, </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">we find the Lord Jesus Christ, just before His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, helping His disciples to adapt to what was going to transpire. Heretofore, Our Lord had been with His disciples day and night for 3 ½ years.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. They knew His Person, </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">His presence, His provision, and His protection. Now, they would see Him no more. In verse 1, our Lord began this discourse with the words "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. In these words, we find a Possible Condition: "your heart be troubled." </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Troubled hearts are not the will of God for the lives of His children.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. In these words, we find a Personal Choice: "Let not your." Troubled hearts are something that we personally allow.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. In these words, we find a Path Clear: "Ye believe in God … believe also in me." </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Lord wants us to find our peace in Him, not our circumstances!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. When we get down to the end of the chapter, </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">we find promised peace that comes from the Lord in His physical absence.<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Verse 27 is an important one!</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. A peace that is available:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> "My peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you." The Lord is leaving them, but His peace is remaining with them. “I leave … I give” Since our Lord left us that peace, there was no space of time when it was not available!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. A peace that is accessible:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> "I give unto you." That peace can only come from the Lord Jesus Christ.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. A peace that is assuring: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">"not troubled … neither afraid."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><br style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" /></span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. A peace that is personal: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">:unto you … Let not” Again, let not should not be an option. We get troubled and fearful because of the frailty of the flesh. These are things that we must allow to take over our hearts and minds as we know that He holds tomorrow, and He holds us in His hand.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. There is a difference between peace with God and the peace of God. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">You can have one and not the other! Things That Will Bring Peace To Your Soul!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Peace with God comes through assurance of Salvation. Colossians 1:20</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The Peace of God comes through </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">total </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Surrender. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 32:17</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Peace Comes Through Loving The Scripture - Psalms 119:165</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Peace Comes Through A Right Attitude About Oneself - Psalms 37:11</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Peace Comes Through Following The Righteous - Psalms 37:37</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Peace Comes Through Embracing The Knowledge of God - 2 Peter 1:2</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Peace Comes Through Meditating Upon The Lord - Isaiah 26:3</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. Peace Comes Through Making Peace - James 3:18</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 13:11</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Thessalonians 5:13</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">9. Peace Comes Through Taking Your Burdens To The Lord And Leaving Them There - Philippians 4:6-7</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-36094380418043757902024-03-17T20:39:00.001-04:002024-03-17T20:39:22.873-04:00The Word of God and Immutability<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-17-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:89-96</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Tonight, we start the last half of Psalm 119. This Psalm contains 176 verses, 22 stanzas, with 8 verses in each stanza. In the Hebrew, each of the 8 verses in a stanza begin with the same Hebrew letter. An acrostic.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. LAMED </span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: 1.5pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">ל </span></b><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>– the 12<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> letter is the tallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet. It is the only letter that is allowed to stand taller than the height of the regular script.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. LAMED is made with a combination of two letters: KAF – which represents a King, and VAV – which represents a Hook (used to hold the Tabernacle together). LAMED is God’s way of keeping everything together through the Bible. Without your Bible, all things fall apart.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. LAMED, in the Hebrew also has the numeric value of 30. The price of betrayal by Judas and the price to purchase a Bride. Christ was sold for 30 pieces of silver, the price of a woman, because He was purchasing us, His Bride.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. In the first verse of the stanza, verse 89, we find the importance of the immutability of God’s Word. Immutability is an attribute of God and is applied in your Bible to the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. In this stanza, we find changelessness in a changing world and circumstances. The Reliability of God’s Word to all generations.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 89. Immutability. In John, chapter 1, we find that the Eternal Word of God always was and in verse 89 of our text, we find that the Eternal Word of God always will be. “For ever … settled” Psalms 119:89 LAMED. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. As God is Eternal and Immutable - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Malachi 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. God’s Word is also Eternal and Immutable. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 1:1-2 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (2) The same was in the beginning with God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">God’s Word is settled! The Word was before time in eternity past (though eternity has no time, I used the words “eternity past” so that we finite people can get a glimpse of an infinite Word), and it will remain after time is no more in eternity future. “settled” – We use the phrase “that settles it.” “Settled” leaves no room for either argument or change. Take the Word of God as it is the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. It’s God’s Word (O LORD) and it belongs to God! The Word is God, the Word is by God, and the Word is for us.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verses 90-91. Preservation. “faithfulness is unto all generations” </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 119:90-91 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. (91) </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: #757575; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">are</span></i> thy servants. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. This Psalm is not about the earth though it is used for an example as all things continue through the faithfulness of God. Psalm 119 is about the Word of God and man’s relationship to it. Verse 89 said it was an eternal Word and the Holy Ghost uses the earth to show the faithfulness of the abiding Word to God’s people.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The Word of God is the Servant of God. Verse 91 says, ”THEY continue this day … for all ARE thy servants.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1) The Promise of the Immutability of God’s Word - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 12:6-7 The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. (7) Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2) The Necessity of the Immutability of the Word of God - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 1:23-25 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (24) For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: (25) But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 92. The Word of God stabilizes the believer. As he meditated in the Word of God, he finds the strength to keep him going in his affliction. I am amazed that when I have a special need, verses of Scripture will come back to me. Thank the Lord for the faithfulness of His wonderful Word. In the Word of God, we have an Anchor in the shifting sands of human theology that becomes our benchmark from which all things are measured.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 93. The Word of God keeps the believer alive spiritually. The Word of God that gave you spiritual life (Romans 10:17) and the Word of God will give you spiritual victory in this life. Without the Word of God, the believer would spiritually perish.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 10:9-10 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. (10) The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Peter 1:1-4 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: (2) Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, (3) According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: (4) 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 94. The Word of God gives the believer blessed assurance of who he is (a son of God) and what God can do for him. I am His and He is mine! A child of the King!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 5:10-13 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. (11) And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. (12) He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. (13) These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 95. The Word of God guarantees the protection of the believer. The Lord thinks upon the believer and also controls the circumstances of the believer. God can be trusted fully in every circumstance of life.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 12:5 For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 21:31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Verse 96. The Word of God endures forever. There is an end to all human knowledge and wisdom. No matter how wonderful and excellent human knowledge has become, it has both limitation and an end. The Word of God has no bounds and is not bound as it is the mind of God, infinite and eternal.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Timothy 2:9b “ … the word of God is not bound.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: Divine </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Inspiration has no value without Divine Preservation. These two acts, inspiration, and preservation are bound together through the faithfulness of God. The song writer wrote, “change and decay in all around I see” when speaking of the things of this world, but God’s Word is forever settled, both in heaven and in earth according to LAMED.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-17845809650245057172024-03-17T20:35:00.006-04:002024-03-17T20:35:46.477-04:00Temple, How Will We Finish?<p style="text-align: center;"><i>Temple Baptist Church - 3-17-2024</i></p><p style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;">2 Timothy 4:7</span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. March 22<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">nd</sup> will mark 37 years </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">that Barbara and I have been at Temple Baptist Church.<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. That is almost half of my lifetime! </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Our children grew up here! Laurens is our home! Every day is a special day for this pastor when I walk through those doors and see our church family. I often stop by the church while out visiting and many times just sit on the back pew where I can see the whole church or sit on the platform and look over the church. I love to come here and sit and pray.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. There has never been the slightest doubt </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">that this is where the Lord has placed me and never a time when I considered leaving or looking for another pastorate. I am satisfied with God’s amazing grace and providence that brought my family here so long ago. I can still say that I love you better than Butter Pecan Ice Cream!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. We laughed and we cried!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Two special men went home to be with the Lord last year, Bro. Harold and Bro. Carroll! What a loss for our church but what a gain for our heavenly home. We will see them again soon.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. This last year, Barbara and I stood with you, and you have stayed with us. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> I could ask for no more! There have been good times and bad times. There has been sickness and there has been health. There have been fat times and there have been lean times. There has been spring, summer, fall, and winter with times of growth and times of pruning. Temple Baptist Church, you have proven yourself true and have positively affected this county and the world for Christ.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. Temple started right physically! </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. We started small but right!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Our faith was in the Lord and our foundation was in God’s Word. We were happy! My family moved into the little house by the church, and it was home. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Today, we will eat</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> in a beautiful Fellowship Hall. Then, we fellowshipped in the “hall!” We were happy because we were in the perfect will of God, and we could lay our heads on our pillows at night knowing that what we were doing and had done was scriptural. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">God blessed.</b> We began to take on missionary families and made this church a safe haven for them. We have always taken good care of these special people and God has blessed us for it. I have not tallied the numbers, but my estimate would be that we have put 3 million dollars or more on the mission field. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. We chose to stay </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">in our building and remodel it as needed instead of building a larger one and allowing our debt to dictate our missions giving. I am not knocking churches that build when they need to build but the bible says to be content with such things as you have. In God’s time, we paved our parking lot. Remember the days when we had to push cars out of the red mud when we outgrew our graveled lot? Those were special days. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. When it was time,</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> God gave us a Fellowship Hall with SS classrooms. When it was time, God gave us one of the most beautiful Prophet’s Chambers that missionaries and evangelists have ever stayed in. Now we also have a beautiful, cozy, feel right at home Mission House for God’s special people.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. We started doctrinally right!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. We taught our Sunday School </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">from the King James Bible; we filled our pulpit with the King James Bible; our people treated this property with respect; our people treated the pulpit with respect; our people have treated this pastor with respect. We got rid of the Church Constitution and voted in the King James Bible as our authority for faith and practice.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. We maintained the Old Paths</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> of doctrinal purity and separation. We believed the Word of God and honored its doctrines. We culled out the preachers and missionaries who compromised the bible and held the ones that we supported to the same standard that the church had. We have never been “in your face” with who we are but we also have never apologized or capitulated. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">"The New Testament Church did not depend on a moral majority, but rather on the holy minority. The Church right now has more fashion than passion, is more pathetic than prophetic, is more superficial than supernatural. The Church the Apostles ministered in was a suffering Church; today we have a sufficient Church. Events in the Spirit-controlled Church were amazing; in this day the Church is often just amusing. The New Testament Church was identified with persecutions; today many of us are identified with prosperity, popularity, and personalities."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><br style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" />"Why Revival Tarries", Leonard Ravenhill</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. I have preached from this verse</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> over the years but want to make a spiritual application on Homecoming Day, 2024. Paul is ending his race and is summing it up in three aspects: he fought a good fight, he finished his course, and he kept the faith. That is all God expected from this great man of God and that is all that God expects from Temple Baptist Church!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. We must Fight! </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Fight is not over! We have had to fight from the very beginning and have continued to fight through these years. Their faces have changed but the fight is the same. As a church, we have weapons: </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The weapon of unity.</b> We must fight together. When the enemies of God’s Word begin their work of division, we must band together. We are a “Band of Brothers and Sisters” here. Too many churches have failed because people will not “answer the bell” for each round. Most people do not like to fight and, unfortunately, most heretics or religious devils love to fight.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The weapon of prayer.</b> The Lord is on our side because He loves the church more than we love it. The church is His and we need to saturate our problems in prayer. Pray and fight. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The weapon of righteousness. </b> Our cause is just! We war to keep our church right with the Lord. We war to keep our church a nest in which to raise our young. We war to keep our church’s mission’s outreach vibrant. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. We must Finish!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> We started right but it is possible to finish wrong or not to finish at all. The bible does not say to finish “big” or to finish “popular.” We are to finish our race with our spiritual integrity intact! Today’s mentality is “bigger” means that God is blessing, but many churches are “bigger” because they have allowed their churches to be worldly places for worldly people. Starting right is great but finishing right is even greater.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. We must keep the Faith!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> We do so by maintaining or contending for: </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The Word of God.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> The unending battle for Truth will continue as liberal theologians constantly undermine the foundation of our faith. If the foundations can be destroyed, then what can the righteous do?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The Old Paths.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> The old ways are now being forsaken and mocked as liberal churches contend for our young people with the straw man of bridging the generation gap. I find no place in the bible for a generation gap as the youth are to walk in the paths of their fathers! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Separation from the world.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Church needs to be treated like church. I, as a pastor, never come to this pulpit without a coat and tie on. Do I wear a coat and tie all week? I am a denim shirt and blue jeans man! I believe it is right for the pastor to follow the old ways instead of the open shirt, casual dress of many. When the church becomes casual, the worship will become casual! The respect for God’s house will be gone and it just becomes another building.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Temple, we started right—we have remained right—let us finish the task that God has given us right!</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-42936664579209142422024-03-13T21:17:00.005-04:002024-03-13T21:17:37.337-04:00Passing The Torch<p style="text-align: center;"><i>Temple Baptist Church - 3-13-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">John 14:7-15</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. I used the title “Passing The Torch” because of an example that many of us older folks possibly remember. When the Summer Olympics was ready to start some years ago, I remember that the torch that was to light the Olympic Torch at the beginning of the games was carried by individual runners who passed a lite torch from one runner to another until the job was done.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. John, chapter 14 shows the same thing spiritually. The hearts of the disciples are troubled about the absence of the Lord but now Jesus lets them know that the work is theirs to maintain.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. Lets look at the introductory verse of this chapter. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. “Ye believe in God” speaks of God their belief in the Father. God the Father did what He needed to do to redeem and restore mankind.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The Father sent His Son, heaven’s Glory, Jesus Christ who never knew sin to become sin for us. The Way, the Truth, and the Life. The Creator of all that is. The almighty Jehovah God of the Old Testament. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The Father place His divine approval upon Christ Jesus when He spoke these words: “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:11) And again in Matthew 17:5, “While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. “Believe also in me” speaks of Jesus Christ, Israel’s Messiah. Jesus Christ went to the Jew first through the Gospel. He never set foot outside of Israel! The Father sent Jesus Christ to pay the price of sin in full. Paid In Full is a term that we all know and revel in. The “burning of the note!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Jesus Christ suffered everything that we suffer as He got hungry, tired, spit upon, scourged, shame, and would be nailed on the cross like the two thieves He died with.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Jesus Christ, the sinless Son of God would become SIN for us that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Philippians 2:6-8 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: (7) But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: (8) And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. Then, it was the disciples turn to “put their hand to the plough!” </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">shall he do also</b>; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. God the Father loved the World and gave His Son.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Jesus Christ died for the sin of the World.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Now, the message of salvation needs to be spread to the World through the believers.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 28:16-20 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. (17) And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. (18) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. (19) 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">These men turned the World upside down. Acts 17:6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. Now, it is OUR turn. 2 Corinthians 5:17-19 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (18) And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (19) To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Our turn to show and present the Gospel. a) As salt and light through our good works which they shall behold and glorify our Father which is in heaven. b) to plant and water the seed of the Gospel to everyone that we come into contact with.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 5:13-16 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. (14) Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. (15) Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. (16) Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Our turn to send men of God to the world through raising, and commissioning those whom God calls. (Acts 13) </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Lord’s Prayer Request. Matthew 9:35-38 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. (36) But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. (37) Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; (38) <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Our turn to support through prayer and giving those who surrender to God’s call and go.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 8:1-5 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; (2) How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. (3) For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; (4) Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. (5) And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Philippians 4:14-19 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. (15) Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. (16) For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. (17) Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. (18) But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. (19) But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-12959863799425541912024-03-10T20:19:00.001-04:002024-03-10T20:19:06.762-04:00The Word of God and Fainting<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-10-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:81-88</span></span></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A</span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">. Tonight, we come to the 11<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza of Psalm 119</b> along with the accompanying 11<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> Letter of the Hebrew Alphabet. These 22 stanzas of the Psalm show the relationship of the believer to the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. The 11<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> letter of the Hebrew alphabet is CAPH </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="background: white; color: #001320; font-family: "Ezra SIL"; font-size: 14.5pt; line-height: 20.4933px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">כַּ</span></b><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #001320; font-family: "Ezra SIL"; font-size: 14.5pt; line-height: 20.4933px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>.</span></b><span style="background: white; color: #001320; font-family: "Ezra SIL"; font-size: 14.5pt; line-height: 20.4933px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="background: white; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Once again, each of the 8 verses in this 11<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza, when written in Hebrew, begin with the letter </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">CAPH. With that being said, we need to have a proper definition or meaning for the letter.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">CAPH </span></b><a name="_Hlk160555126" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="background: white; color: #001320; font-family: "Ezra SIL"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">כַּ</span></b></a><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>–</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> A hollow place such as the palm of a hand, a bowl, or a basin. A container. In type a place where the believer seems to be trapped and cannot get out of or a point which he cannot pass.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. In this portion of Psalm 119, we find that the Psalmist is in an extreme situation</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> from which he can neither resolve nor can he escape it. There is a Latin phrase, </span><i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">in extremis,</span></i><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> meaning “at the point of death" or “in the farthest reaches.” His situation is grave.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Verses 88-89 are the two middle verses of Psalm 119 as verse 88 ends the first half </span></b><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">and 89 begins the second half. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Our stanza, the 11<sup style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> (verses 81-88) out of 22 stanzas, this forms the octave which has been called <b style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“the midnight of the psalm.”</b> The Psalmist’s </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">enemies have brought him to the lowest condition of anguish and depression; yet he is faithful to keep the Word of God (testimony) while remaining trustful in his God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F</span><b style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">. At some time in life, most of us find ourselves is such a strait.</b> A place that seems like we will never escape or get victory over in our own strength. Thus, the importance of the Word of God to the needy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. Let’s look at three of our verses</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> as they make up the introduction and meaning of the stanza.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 119:84-86 How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me? (85) The proud <b style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">have digged pits</b> for me, <b style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">which are not after thy law.</b> (86) All thy commandments are faithful: <b style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">they persecute me wrongfully</b>; help thou me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The promise of persecution.</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“persecute”</b> is used twice in these three verses. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) This world hated Christ before it hated us. We to him “without the camp” as bear His reproach. The “god of this world” has reproduced from himself “God” haters! John 15:18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) This world hates ALL who try to live godly lives as that kind of life exposes the world’s ungodliness. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The individuality of persecution.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“me”</b> There is and, from the days of Cain and Abel, always has been individual hatred. Why? Because Abel’s sacrifice was godly, and Cain’s was not! They persecuted Christ, and they will persecute us!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. The trap of persecution. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“have digged pits”</b> Pits means a “pit fall” or a “chasm.” These were normally traps for large animals, dug deep and camouflaged by covering with wood and sod. A place of no escape such as Joseph’s brothers placed him into. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 119:85 The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. The injustice of persecution. “not after thy law … persecute me wrongfully” </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">These persecutors use the law unlawfully. We see much of that today as the justice system is weaponized against an enemy or opponent. Psalms 94:20 Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee, which frameth mischief by a law?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">H. It is such a condition that we find the Palmist. It is not a place of his making. It is a place of containment from which there is seemingly no human way of escape. A place of impending death.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 81. The darkness of the hour. “</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">My soul fainteth for thy salvation: <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: #757575; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">but</span></i> I hope in thy word</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. This is not fainting for a few minutes they then regathering of self allows one to get over it. I try to drive home to our people the importance of these supposedly “archaic” words so described by the liberal theologians.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. “fainteth!” The result of open-ended waiting. The “eth” ending of faint means that it is in the continuing present tense. He has been here for a long time and sees no change coming in the immediate future.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. The Psalmist knows that the only deliverance that will negate the persecution must come from the Lord.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. “for thy salvation” Though fainting, the Psalmist is “hanging in there!” </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 40:29-31 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. (30) Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: (31) But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e. His faith is rightly placed. “I hope in thy Word.” The relationship of the Word of God and our hope!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verses 82-83. The dimness of the eye. “Mine eyes fail … I am become like a bottle in the smoke!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Smoke, like the morning fog, obscures from seeing properly. I remember driving across Florida when the wildfires were out of control and smoke was so thick on the highways that they shut some of them down. No one could see well enough to drive.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Thus, it is with ongoing troubles in life. They begin to shroud life in general as they completely occupy our thinking and lives while dimming our spiritual eyes. When you cannot track God, you then learn to trust Him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. One of my favorite verses: </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 77:19 Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. The Psalmist’s comfort will be found in the seen promises of an unseen work. “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">When wilt thou comfort me? … yet do I not forget thy statutes.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 84. The dilemma of the saint. Will justice come in my lifetime? </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 119:84 How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The Psalmist did not know the length of his life. There are times when God answers prayers or brings about justice after the death of the one seeking it. God’s time is not on our time, His thoughts are not our thoughts nor His ways our ways.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The Psalmist asks that oft asked request. When not if? One day, we know that God will bring to light the things of darkness and His justice will be swift, sure, and full.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 87. Relying on the promises of God. The Lord maketh no mistake in His operations. The Psalmist may not know how long, but he knows that God is faithful to both His Word and His people.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 88. Resting in the love of God. The Psalmist rests on the knowledge that the Lord will not forsake His own but will raise them up to sit on high. There is life before the trial and there will be life during the trial and there will be life after the trial.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; quotes: "“" "”" "‘" "’"; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 10:35-39 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-15105919901434499352024-03-10T20:16:00.007-04:002024-03-10T20:16:44.719-04:00The Exceeding Greatness of His Power<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>Temple Baptist Church - 3-10-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Ephesians 1:15-23</span></span></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. The Book of Ephesians has been called “The Highlands of Faith” </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">by some and it is a befitting title for the book. It has six chapters equally divided into two parts.</span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Chapters 1-3 are Positional </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">as they show both the relationship of Christ with the believer and the believer’s security in Christ. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Chapters 4-6 are Practical </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">as they show the responsibility and possibility of the believer in this world.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. In the first chapter of Ephesians, </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">we see Christ as He is—not as the world perceives Him. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The world has a warped view of our wonderful Lord.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> They see Him as “god” but not as “God!” If we see Jesus Christ through human eyes and mind, we get a worldly perception of Him. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Often, the believer has such a view of Jesus Christ.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> We see Him as “God” when things go right and as “god” when circumstances change, and doubt arise! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. As faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God,</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> so our perception of Jesus Christ must (and I re-emphasis MUST) come from God’s Word. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Our faith is the substance</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Whom having not seen you love! Whom having not seen you believe! We must believe what the Bible says about Him in order to perceive Him right.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. The Holy Spirit, through the Word of God, gives us gives us a right perception</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> of Jesus Christ in these verses. This perception has nothing to do with our circumstances. It is a perception that is <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“far above”</b> anything and everything that can touch us or threaten us. We cannot have a right perception of God unless we see Him as both all-powerful and all-wise.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. Here we find that Jesus Christ has no weaknesses;</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> He has no limitations; He has no doubts or worries. There is nothing that He cannot do; nothing that He does not know; there is no place where He cannot be found; and He knows the end from the beginning so we have absolutely nothing to worry about! That is the “God” that Ephesians speaks of.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. I want to look at these verses</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> for a few minutes in such a way as to possibly change our view of Jesus Christ. I say “possibly” because no matter what God said, it is up to each individual believer as to how we perceive our Lord Jesus Christ.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. I find it of great interest that chapter one ends</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> with a dissertation on the Power of God. As the Spirit of God is the Earnest of our Redemption, the Power of God is the Guarantee of our Security! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. Notice the wording: “exceeding greatness”</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> in verse 19. God has power that is limitless in both its scope and demand. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Not power “in us” but power “to us-ward!”</b> His power is used in relationship to our daily needs. He not only can but will perform upon our behalf! He is “God” and He loves us. He cares about what we feel, think, and need. He is not only able, but He is also willing to meet “all your need” in every respect.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">H. What a wonderful description verses 21-23</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> give us concerning the “exceeding greatness” of His power:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 62:11</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(Power both belongs to God and comes from God.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Jesus Christ Is Far Above Principality!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> The commencement, order, time, or rank of God’s power. The first estate. God had power before anything was!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Jesus Christ Is Far Above Power!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Any force, influence, capacity, or strength.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Jesus Christ Is Far Above Might!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> It speaks of miraculous power. Force beyond any and all ability to do.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Jesus Christ Is Far Above Dominion!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Mastery, dominion, or government. God still rules in the affairs of men, setting up and taking down authority at His sovereign will.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Jesus Christ Is Far Above Every Name!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Either literally or figuratively! In both majesty and importance.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Jesus Christ Is Far Above All Things!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Things in heaven, earth, and under the earth! All things were made by Him and for Him. They are both inferior in both position and power.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Jesus Christ Is The Head Of The Church! </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">No man, no dogma, no creed preceded Christ nor is exalted above Christ.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Colossians 1:15-18</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: (16) For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: (17) And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. (18) And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">J. In His power, we find:</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. God has power over things in heaven. Job 1:10</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(Angels are subject to Him. Satan is under God’s authority and power.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. God has power over creation. Psalms 135:6-7</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Whatsoever the LORD pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. (7) He causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings for the rain; he bringeth the wind out of his treasuries. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(The wind and waves obey His voice.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. God has power over human government. Romans 13:6</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. (<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">He raises authorities up and He takes authorities down.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. God has power over nations, kingdoms, and dominions. Proverbs 21:1</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(All nations and all kings are under his control.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. God has all power, therefore nothing is impossible with Him. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Chronicles 29:11 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 28:18</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(He can do anything, anywhere, and at any time.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">K. We all know what I have just said is true </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">but none of the above areas of God’s power are of any use to us if they are just facts concerning His omnipotence. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Our text says, “to us-ward!” </b>This affects both our position in Christ and our circumstances in this world. Christ Jesus is our confidence. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 17:28</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">For in him we live, and move, and have our being</b>; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Salvation - Hebrews 7:25</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(Saved by God’s power alone. You do not get any more saved or secure than that. Many try to add personal merit to either saving or keeping or both. I am so glad that my salvation is entire of and depends entire upon God’s power.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Preservation - Jude 24</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> 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, </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 1:5</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> (The exceeding greatness of our salvation is in its eternality! What can separate us from the love of God? Romans 8 says, “NOTHING!”)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 8:38-39</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, (39) Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Sanctification - 2 Corinthians 5:17</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(We can do all things through Christ which strengthens us! We can be anything and all things for Him.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ephesians 2:10</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 9:8</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Protection - Psalms 121:1-8</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> A Song of degrees. I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. (2) My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. (3) He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. (4) Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. (5) The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. (6) The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. (7) The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. (8) The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(We are truly “hedged in” by the Lord! The only things that can touch us are the things that He allows. As tough as this may seem at times, God knows what He is doing and He can be trusted in our hard times, which brings us to our next point.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Predicaments - Isaiah 43:2</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> 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. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(This one is a little hard for my family at this time but I still believe that God can be trusted with our lives as well as with our things. My family has been protected and will face December with the full assurance that the God of this Bible that I preach will do what He says! When thou “passeth through the waters … walkest through the fire” they will neither overflow us nor kindle upon us! You can trust God in the bad times just as well as you can trust Him in the good times.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Provision - Matthew 10:29-31 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. (30) But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. (31) Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(God has promised to supply all my need! I have not starved as you can well see. God has been so good to my family, and I fully expect Him to take care us until He takes us home!)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Promises - 2 Peter 1:3-4</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> 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: (4) 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. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(I still believe that you can take the promises of God to the “bank” and expect them to be made good! God can neither lie nor can He break His promises. We just have to learn to trust them.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. The Exceeding Greatness Of His Power In Our Providence -</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Philippians 1:6 </b>Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(What a God! He is sovereign in all things and completely controls our lives. He will bring us to a right end! He both knows our future and has prepared for it. We will all make it to our desired destination.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 49:15</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-14912420164901027312024-03-06T18:56:00.001-05:002024-03-07T18:58:58.387-05:00Left Behind<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-6-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>John 14:1-6</b></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Disclaimer time. Don’t you just love having to give a disclaimer because of the lack of biblical knowledge of most people? So many people who never read the Bible get their “theology” from people who never read the Bible! Oh, they read but they have no spiritual understanding.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. Some years back, the “Left Behind” series hit the bookstores and people everywhere what to know what was coming and where they stood with God. This series was heretical. Its vdery premise flew in the face of God as it contradicted what the Bible teaches about Eschatology. I am not here tonight to either discuss or fix that. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. We teach these verses to show the unsaved how to be saved! Jesus Christ alone! His death, burial, and resurrection called the gospel is where salvation is found. I have no problem at all with the application of the verses but that is not the interpretation within the context.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. The context is to saved men who feared being left behind, supposedly alone, and told that they would be with the Lord later not understanding where He was going or how to get there. Both Peter and Thomas along with the other disciples (they allowed these two men to be the spokesmen), were afraid and confused.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. The questions asked:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Peter’s problem was two-fold: </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:36-37 Simon Peter said unto him, <a name="_Hlk160451590" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank"><span style="background: yellow; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(1)</span> </a>Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. (37) Peter said unto him, <a name="_Hlk160451606" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank"><span style="background: yellow; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(2)</span> </a>Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Thomas’ problem was two-fold: </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 14:5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, <span style="background: yellow; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(1)</span> we know not whither thou goest; and <span style="background: yellow; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(2)</span> how can we know the way?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Now, I want to give these disciples a break! Don’t you just hate it when someone will not even give you the benefit of a doubt? They had no Bible! When the Lord spoke of resurrection, they had no examples other than Lazarus and it was the Lord who visibly and publicly raised him from the dead.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. Verse 6 does not settle a salvation problem though it does settle Who salvation is found in. Christ! These disciples did not need to be saved and the understood that salvation was through Jesus Christ. They were both saved! Peter called Jesus Lord twice and Thomas called Jesus Lord once in the context.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. The context of verse 6 is both directional and correctional. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Their questions were not caused by a lack of salvation but of insecurity in the impending absence of the Lord. Lord, you are leaving, and we cannot go with you, but you said we will follow you to where you are. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. <a name="_Hlk160607333" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank">Jesus’ answer </a>was correctional. How do we know where that is, and how do we get there? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) Religions and denominations here and around the world believe that the way to heaven either before salvation or after salvation is a “path” of their own making. If you try to live right, treat your neighbor right, keep all the rules and regulations, you just might make it to heaven. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) Jesus Christ is the only Way of salvation, and He is the only Way to get to heaven!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Jesus’ answer was directional. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) How do we get from this life and place to our eternal life and place? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) The answer is the same! Jesus Christ! He said that it is My Father’s house (heaven) and I, Jesus, will take you there!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">H. Though we are saved, and have the truth, there are times when we are fretful and insecure.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. “I am the Way!” Not just the way of salvation but because Christ is coming back for them. The way to somewhere has a starting point, a traveling point, and a finishing point. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Jesus did not say that He was the end of the trip because He would be in His Father’s house. He simply said that He was the Way! That is from the start of the trip throughout the trip until we end up where He is in the Father’s house.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. As the Lord stood on the right hand of the Father as Stephen was dying, He will be with us from start to finish when we go through the Valley of the Shadow of Death.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. They, as well as we, will not have to cross Jordan alone. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. If we live until the rapture of the Church, it is the Lord Himself who will descend from heaven with a shout and the voice of the archangel. If we die first, we will fear no evil because He will walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death with us. Psalm 23.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e. Jesus is the Way home! He said that He would come and get them! 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. “I am the Truth!” The Lord’s promises for both the present and the future are secure. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Our Lord told His disciples that He must go while they must abide. Yet, the Truth would remain with them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The disciples did not know at this time about the revelations that our Lord would later give to them and neither did they know about the fullness of the Holy Ghost Who would descend upon them. He simply said, “Trust Me!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. The Lord will say in a later chapter of John that it was expedient that He go away, otherwise the Comforter would not come. Instead of dwelling with God, God would be dwelling within them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. Grace and strength for every mile of the trip. Their needs constantly being met by their Lord. Sometimes, in our lives during hard times, God’s promises happen a thrill per minute as He is always on time to meet our needs.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e. The Truth that they would one day be “where I am.” God’s promises sure and secure!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. “I Am the Life!” The lives of the apostles are getting ready for a drastic change. It is in Christ that we live, move, and have our being. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Colossians 3:1-4 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (3) For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Christ </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">is</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">their spiritual life. Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Christ is their temporal life.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">It is in Christ that we live, move, and have our being. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Colossians 3:1-3 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (3) For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Christ is their eternal life.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Matthew 28:20 “</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">and, lo, I am with you alway, <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">even</i> unto the end of the world.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Colossians 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">No man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Simply said, you have nothing at all to worry about it. As salvation is all of Christ, the rest of the trip at that point is all of Christ. We will all end up at “where I am!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: Their hearts were troubled because their future seemed to be insecure. Often our hearts become troubled and insecure. The answer to troubled hearts is the same for both the disciples and us today. The Lord Jesus used these verses to reassure them that they would shortly be “where I Am!”</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-52292154694703740902024-03-03T21:16:00.003-05:002024-03-03T21:16:24.093-05:00The Word of God and Continuity or Continuation<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-3-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:73-80</span></b></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: One of the struggles that people have concerning the preservation of the Scriptures is that the teaching that the Bible is a man-made book and therefore is subject to additions, subtractions, and mistranslating. 176 verses, 22 stanzas with each beginning with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet, 8 verses in each stanza with each verse in the Hebrew beginning with the same letter of the alphabet (acrostic). What a magnificent work of God!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Tonight, the 10<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza of Psalm 119, JOD. “JOD” is the smallest letter of the Hebrew Alphabet and is represented by a “dot . ) </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Every one of the 22 letters of the alphabet are created by continuous dots ……………... which form the lines that form the letters as letters consist of a continuous line of dots. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. When two consecutive JODs or dots are found, they represent the word “God” or Adonai who is an eternal, unchanging God. Judaism considers the names of God so holy that, once they are written, should never be erased.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. Whereas JOD is the smallest letter of the Hebrew alphabet, “iota,” which is the smallest letter of the Greek alphabet. In Modern Hebrew, the phrase “tip of the YOD” refers to a small, insignificant thing. God is meticulous! Precise in what He says.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. JOD, of the Old Testament, was mentioned by our Lord Jesus when He said in Matthew 5:17-18: “</span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. (18) For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Of Hebrew origin (the tenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet); </span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“iota”, the name of the eighth letter of the Greek alphabet, put (figuratively) for a very small part or amount of anything: - jot.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The word “Tittle” means a “horn” and is smaller than the “jot.” It is a horn like apex on a letter that changes the inflection of a word.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. Thus, our Lord said that not even the most insignificant thing in the Word will ever change or disappear.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. It would do us good to realize that the Doctrine of Divine Preservation is just as important as the Doctrine of Divine Inspiration. Without continuance of preservation, inspired manuscripts become a moot point. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. The Continuity of the Word of God and its importance are found in these 8 verses of the 10<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 73. Understanding. The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our understanding. We must continue to have the Word of God for all generations to understand how we got here, why we got here, where we are intended to go, what we are intended to do, and what it takes to suceed. In our Bible we understand that man was created by God and for God. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 4:5-8 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. (6) Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. (7) Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. (8) Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Three branches of education are found in the Bible: Knowledge, learning facts – Wisdom, learning to use those facts – knowledge, is learning why those facts work. Without the continuance of preservation of God’s Word, we would have none of the three.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 74. Hope. The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our blessed hope. Our temporal and eternal hope is Bible based. Through the eyes of the Word of God, we have hope in this world though it is deteriorating. Through the eyes of the Word of God, we have an eternal hope that is nearing! </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Without continuing preservation of God’s Word, we would have neither.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 75. <a name="_Hlk159941076" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank">Correction. The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our </a>correction. Throughout the Bible, we find the righteous judgements of God that are essential to a godly, obedient walk with God and each other. There will be times that we fail and times when we will fall but God’s grace and strength will carry us through. The Word of God teaches us to walk in the right way wherein is the good way.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 12:5-7 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: (6) For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (7) If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Without the continuing preservation of God’s Word, we would not know right from wrong and the consequences thereof.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 76. Comfort. The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our comfort and peace. </span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">In the darkest hours of our lives, the Word is a light that shows us the way so that we do not stumble or proceed down the wrong paths. We have the love of God to comfort us and the promises of God to encourage us. A peace to trust and hearts to trust when we do not understand.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Without the continuing preservation of God’s Word, we would not have comfort in our tribulations. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 77. Life. The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our living. </span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Not merely physical life, though our physical life should be guided by the Bible, but also our life in Christ. The Bible gives us grace, mercy, and strength for the journey. The three remaining gifts of faith, hope, and charity are all found within the volume of the Word of God. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow us all the days of our lives.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Without the continuing preservation of God’s Word, we would have no parameters to keep us living a life that is right and godly.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 78. Confidence. </span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our confidence. Our confidence in the scriptures leads to our confidence in God which leads to our confidence in life. The world lives unto shame, but the child of God lives unto Christ! The enemies of Christ become the enemies of God’s children, but—through the scriptures—we can walk in total confidence.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 10:35-36 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Without the continuing preservation of God’s Word, we can know for certain that everything both works together for good but will also turn out right in the end.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Verse 79. Companionship. The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our company that we keep. The Word of God teaches that the world will turn away from us and count us as enemies. Often, those of our own household will become our foes. But those of like precious faith will become our friends and family. We are exhorted to spend quality time with our brothers and sisters in Christ. I find no greater joy than to visit with our people who are going through trying times. Oh, what joy! Oh, what delight!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Without the continuing of the Word of God, we would not be able to properly identify God’s people much less have a place called the church where we assemble to bless and worship our wonderful lord Who gave Himself for it.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. Verse 80. Spiritual Soundness. The continuity of God’s Word is essential to our spiritual soundness which leads to our spiritual boldness. A song says, “I had rather be an old time Christian, Lord, than anything I know.” We who are saved are not ashamed of our Lord, the brethren, or our precious local church.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 17:22-23 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: (23) I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Without the continuing of God’s Word, our overall spiritual wellbeing would in jeopardy. The Bible is the measuring stick by which we measure ourselves and the benchmark from which we measure everything else.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: JOD! A point from which comes continuation. Since both our physical and spiritual welfare depends upon the veracity of God’s Word, there must be a continuity or continuance of preservation of said Word. All that we need and all that we have is founded upon the Continuity of The Word of God. Preservation is an act of God, not of man.</span></span><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-73328611101484451632024-03-03T21:13:00.003-05:002024-03-03T21:13:30.779-05:00The Landmark of Sanctification<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 3-3-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Genesis 1:1-4</b></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. I love the Book of Genesis or Beginnings. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. “In the beginning God” is the most profound and important statement in the Bible! Without God, man is nothing with no purpose and no hope. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The Bible is a “God Book” as our Lord said in both Psalms and Hebrews, “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me!” It matters not what man says nor what man thinks. If he contradicts the Bible, he is wrong.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. There is another “landmark” of the faith that I want to deal with this morning. We have dealt with the landmarks of the Scripture, Sanctuary, Salvation, and Sovereignty, but one of the most important and neglected of all doctrines is that of Biblical Sanctification. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. The Doctrine of Biblical Sanctification is so important that the Bible mentions it first! In Geneses, chapter 1, we see that God set the precedent of sanctification along with the definition of it. God left no doubt or place for argument.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">In verse 4, we find the Doctrine of Sanctification: “and God divided the light from the darkness!” The light of God dispelled the darkness of this world. Here, we find the first Biblical sanctification, is caused by division, which demands separation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. In verse one, God created the first heaven, our atmosphere, and the earth. In the beginning, we find that darkness shrouded the earth. “Without form, and void.” Darkness preceded light. The darkness was upon the face of the deep.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. Darkness was before light but when God introduced light (notice I said introduced and not created), it dispelled the darkness. The Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light!” This was not natural light nor was it a man-made light. It was the light of God. In 1 John 1:5, the Bible declares that God is perfect light as He has no darkness at all.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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; (16) Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. In verse 4 of Genesis 1, We find the First Mention of the word “good.” God declared the light to be good with the unsaid truth that darkness was not good as it obscured what God had made to be seen. God divided light from darkness.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. Thus, we find Biblically that God created sanctification, separation, and division. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. I know that this introduction is a little long, but we need to understand that God will not compromise, and it is He that brings division which brings about separation. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. God loves sinners and hates sin. God loves good and He hates bad. Period! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Today, sanctification and division have been given a bad name by both worldly lost and religious lost. But too often by God’s children as they try to co-exist in peace with the world. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. This cannot be done without compromise and the world does not compromise. The world’s take on sanctification is that doctrine is bad because it divides while love is good because it unifies. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. The question now needs to be asked, “What does doctrine divide and what does love unify?” Doctrine divides Godly from ungodly while a love without truth unifies the ungodly against the godly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">H. Sanctification is Separation! The word means to be set aside from something for a purpose. Sanctification is Division! God created both sanctification and division and in the end analysis, said that it was very good! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. I feel that I need to make a point that the world does not like and that is compromise. The world teaches that both side in conflict need to give somewhat. We hear a lot about arbitration which is compromise.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Do not think for one second that God will compromise in order to bring about a peaceful solution!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 10:34-35 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. (35) For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. By the same token, God does not want His children to compromise what the Bible is clear on.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">J. Sanctification which brings division which brings separation is a Landmark that God, through the Bible has set! It is not the believer who set the precedent, it is God, and the Bible is clear upon the subject. Now, let us look at sanctification for a few minutes. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Salvation’s Sanctification.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> This is something that God does! There are three distinct areas of sanctification in the life of every believer:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. It is Positional Sanctification - 1 Corinthians 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">At the moment of salvation, the believer is set apart from the world positionally through Jesus Christ. He is the believer’s sanctification. We are baptized into Christ who is both perfect and eternal and therefore remain secure!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. It is Perpetual or Permanent Sanctification - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 3:1-2 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. (2) Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Personal or Practical Sanctification. Something that we do! </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. (2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The Believer is the separate from the world. 1 John 1:5-7 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. (6) If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: (7) But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">When we are saved, we remain just a sinner saved by the grace of God. As we mature in the Lord and grow in our faith, we are being constantly changed by both the Spirit of God who indwells us and the Word of God that teaches and guides us.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The Believer is to be the light of the world. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. (15) Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. (16) Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 4:3-4 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: (4) In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Doctrinal Sanctification. Something that we do! Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. We are to preach sound doctrine. Sound means something that is not weakened or flawed.<span style="color: red; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Timothy 4:2-3 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. (3) 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;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. We are to practice sound doctrine. We are to remain doctrinally sound and separated. <span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Ecclesiastical Sanctification. Something that we do! 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</span><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Denominationalism lends itself to unbiblical unions. Our church is not to be yoked in any manner with other churches that are liberal or apostate. You are who you hold hands with spiritually. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. One may think they are straight but if they are supporting or affiliated with liberal churches, they are liberal! That’s why Bible churches were independent and autonomous! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: Sanctification or Separation or Division of a right kind is an act of God! The believer MUST love the sinner but not the sin and this requires (by God) Biblical Sanctification!</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-44369667079821670952024-02-28T16:59:00.001-05:002024-03-01T17:02:08.538-05:00Troubled Hearts - Part 2 - The Cure for a Troubled Heart<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>Temple Baptist Church - 2-28-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">John 14:1-4</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Last week, we dissected the first part of verse 1: “Let not your heart be troubled.” The Lord is leaving, and the apostles are going to have to “step up” and take on the work of the ministry. Introduction over!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. We find several things in the verses that will help us in the last perilous times. I want to look at these 4 verses tonight so as to encourage our people during these discouraging days. Six things I want to look at tonight to encourage your hearts.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. A Fear to Overcome. “Let not you heart be troubled.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. We live in the worst spiritual time in history. There is so much sin and confusion today that many if not most have troubled hearts. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Disappointing times, discouraging times, deluding times, defiling times. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Sin is rampant and accepted as the norm; confusion comes at us from every side; voices of every kind to hear. It is of no wonder that the believers is exhorted to assemble “so much the more” as we see the world set up for both the realization of Antichrist and the acceptance of his philosophy which is totally anti-God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. The “falling away” is in its last stages. There have always been good men of God and good churches in which to find the preaching, exhorting, and help that we need. Now, they are about as scarce as “hens’ teeth!” Another young pastor resigned his church this week to go into evangelism. Another church will be trying to find someone willing to come pastor the flock and hopefully stay!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e. We find few believers who will buck the status quo and live in such a way to make a difference. Most are too worldly minded to be of any heavenly good.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">f. Today, we find rejection by the masses, spiritual defeats, and multiple failures that all of us have experienced. These inward, negative feelings can destroy us.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">g. It is here that we must be very careful! Often the most painful wounds are not the scars that are outwardly seen, but the hidden wounds deep in the heart. Being hidden, they are often the most dangerous.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">g. These things cause spiritual discouragement and troubled hearts. When our faith is weakened, we tend to stop pressing toward the mark and finishing our race for Christ.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. A Faith to Believe. “Ye believe in God, believe also in me!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. These disciples had no problem believing in the Jehovah God of the Old Testament but needed to have that same faith in Christ Jesus.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Christ had always provided their every need from the physical to the spiritual. They had been eye witness to all His miracles but these physical miracles were not enough to inspire them to trust Him wholly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 8:26-27 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. (27) But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“What manner of man is this” was not the faith needed to calm the heart.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Notice that Jesus said, “Believe also in me!” Here we find the faith that will cure the troubled heart.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 5:4-5 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. (5) Who is he that overcometh the world, <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God</b>? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. A Future that is Secure. “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Our future is secured through the promises of God. Our heavenly homes are await us and they are not “rooms” or “little cabins over in the corner of Glory Land.” They are beyond our comprehension, and they are there! “Are”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. They are not being built as we speak, they are already there and have been from eternity past.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. We are not “sending up timbers” because they are “ivory palaces.” “Home sweet home!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 45:8 All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Revelation 21:1-4 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. (2) And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (3) And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. (4) And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. A Foundation to Stand Upon. “</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">And if I go and prepare a place for you</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">.” The Blood of Christ! The blood to be applied to the Mercy Seat in heaven. There were two Ascensions of Christ back to heaven. This was accomplished in two parts:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The First Ascension as High Priest with His Own Blood – </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 20:17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 9:11-14 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; (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. (13) For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: (14) How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The Second Ascension - 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. (10) And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; (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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. A Fellowship that Awaits. “</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">there</i> ye may be also.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. We will be with Him. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. We will be like Him. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: #292f33; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. A Fight to Finish. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:36-37a </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. (37a) Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="color: #292f33; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. There is a work to be done.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 9:36-38 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. (37) Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; (38) Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: #292f33; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="color: #292f33; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. There is a race to be run. </span><span style="color: #292f33; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-15178168191141625662024-02-25T16:56:00.001-05:002024-03-01T16:58:43.459-05:00The Word of God and Chastisement<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>Temple Baptist Church - 2-25-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:65-72</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: Psalm 119 is broken down into 22 stanzas with each stanza represented by one of the 22 letters in the Hebrew alphabet. Each stanza contains 8 verses with each verse beginning with the Hebrew letter that begins the stanza. An acrostic. A total of 176 verses elaborating upon the blessing of the Word of God and its intended work in the life of the believer. Absolutely the work of God!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Tonight, TETH </span><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 25.44px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">ט</span><span dir="RTL" lang="HE" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span><span dir="LTR" style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span>– the 9<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> letter of the Hebrew alphabet.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. TETH is an interesting letter as it is another one of those with a double meaning.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. It is what is called a paradoxical letter or, in our day, an oxymoron: two conflicting terms used together to convey a truth. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">TETH can mean bad or good at the same time.</b> The letter looks somewhat like a woman great with child and the oxymoron is that pain is used to bring forth a beautiful child.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 16:20-22 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. (21) A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. (22) And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A sweet sorrow. A fine mess. A deafening silence. Clearly confused. Pretty ugly. Same difference. One of my favorites: jumbo shrimp. The list could go indefinitely but now we have an idea of what the Hebrew letter TETH does. It conveys conflicting thoughts that bring about a truth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. TETH is the least used of the 22 letters in the Hebrew alphabet. Therefore, it will be easier to define using Scripture.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Example: The first use of the letter TETH is found in Genesis 4:1. In this verse, we find light that is good and darkness which is not that is not good. God divided the light from the darkness, thereby making a distinction.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Genesis 1:4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Example: Though God is good, He ultimately controls both good and evil through potential and allowance He made both men and angels free moral agents, having the potential for both good and evil along with allowing them to make the choice.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 45:7 I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. The key word in this 9<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza is “afflicted,” found in these two verses: 67 and 71. In these two verses, we find that affliction is the result of chastisement! The oxymoron is that affliction brings about chastisement, which is not viewed as good, but brings about a desired end-result of restoration to God which is good.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. A right relationship to the Word of God brings about acceptance and spiritual growth through chastisement.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 65. The Psalmist commends God for doing both right and well in His dealing with sinfulness in the saint. This chastisement is according to Scripture and is both right and necessary. The New Testament example is this:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 12:6-13 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (7) If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? (8) But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. (9) Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? (10) (11) (12) Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; (13) And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 66. Chastisement is a “teaching moment” for the child of God. As our loving parents corrected us so as to make us good people and citizens, so our heavenly Father corrects us and is a sign of love.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 67. The Psalmist went astray before God chastised him but the chastening brought him back to obedience to the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 6:10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 68. The declaration that the parent who chastises his children is both good and doing a good thing.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 6:11 </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verses 69-70. When the unsaved saw the saint do according to the sinful, they denounced him by saying, “We knew his religion would not last. You see, he is just like us.” But the backslidden saint was not like them though his actions may have looked to be so. The chastening hand of the Lord was upon the sinful saint and turned him back to both obedience to and delight of God’s commandments.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 71. Chastening, which seems bad was a good thing in the eyes of the saint. I thank God for a Dad and Mom who loved me enough to make me do right and developed within me what character that I have today.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 29:15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Verse 72. The chastened now fully understood the importance of obedience and the love of a loving God. The end result of chastening is to fully establish God’s Word and to mold the child of God in a godly manner.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: I thank God for His chastening hand which brings about holiness and restoration to a place of fellowship!</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-85749807923126982562024-02-25T16:52:00.001-05:002024-03-01T16:56:05.920-05:00The Landmark of The Sovereignty Of God<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 2-25-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">1 Chronicles 29:10-13</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: When mentioning the sovereignty of God, because of the Calvinistic Movement of our day, I always give an opening disclaimer. We totally reject the damnable heresy of Calvinism, also called Reformed Theology. Theology has never need reformation! Theo – God logy – knowledge or study of.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. God is ABSOLUTELY SOVEREIGN!! He does what He desires, when He desires, where He desires. He answers to nothing or no man.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. God stands alone, the pinnacle of all existence, self-existing (Jehovah God – LORD), all powerful (omnipotent), all knowing (omniscient), everywhere present (omnipresent), creator of all things, ruler of all things, sustainer of all things, He needs nothing, and He needs nobody!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. God is Absolutely Sovereign: completely, entirely, totally, utterly sovereign! HE TRULY STANDS ALONE! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. God has no comparison. God has no competition. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. The word “sovereignty” or “sovereign” is not found in your Bible, but neither are the words “trinity” or “rapture” found there either. Since the word “sovereignty” is not a bible word, let us look at its definition for clarification:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Sovereignty<span style="color: #c00000; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span>– Free from all external control; reigning or royal authority; the dominion of a monarch, the complete authority to govern a state; exclusive in right to control one’s thoughts and actions; autonomous; greatest in status, authority, and power; supreme; exceptional in quality.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. The doctrine of the “Sovereignty of God” is one of both the least understood and the most misunderstood. Many believe that things happen by chance instead of through divine providence. I do not believe in luck. I believe in the providence of an all-knowing, thrice holy God!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. Sovereignty is a doctrine that we have allowed the Calvinists to “hold hostage.” Every time I use the word, I feel that we must give a disclaimer concerning Calvinism. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. By the sovereignty of God, it is to be understood that—as Creator of all things both visible and invisible—God is both owner or and ruler over all things. There are many verses in the Bible that show God’s absolute sovereignty and I have listed some for you if you receive or want to receive this sermon in print.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Deuteronomy 32:39</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> See now that I, <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">even</span></i> I, <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">am</span></i> he, and <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">there is</span></i> no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">is there any</span></i> that can deliver out of my hand.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Chronicles 29:11</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Thine, O LORD, <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">is</span></i> the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">that is</span></i> in the heaven and in the earth <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">is thine</span></i>; thine <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">is</span></i> the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 115:3</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> But our God <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">is</span></i> in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 45:9</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Let</span></i> the potsherd <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">strive</span></i> with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ezekiel 18:4</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Daniel 4:35</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And all the inhabitants of the earth <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">are</span></i> reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">among</span></i> the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 6:13</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 20:15</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 9:20</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">it</span></i>, Why hast thou made me thus?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Colossians 1:16</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">they be</span></i> thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Revelation 4:11</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. Because God is sovereign:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. He Requires No Counsel - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 11:34</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. He Seeks No Advice - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Corinthians 2:16</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. He Lacks No Wisdom - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">James 1:5</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">men</span></i> liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. He Asks No Permission – </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Job 33:13</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Why dost thou strive against him? for he giveth not account of any of his matters.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. He Answers To No Man - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 9:20</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">it</span></i>, Why hast thou made me thus?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. In our text, 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, for this morning, we have another Full Mention Principle of Bible Interpretation. If there had been no other of the afore mentioned verses in the Bible, THESE VERSES SAY IT ALL.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verses 10. God is Sovereign in His Person.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> “Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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; (16) Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">There was none before Him, there will be none after Him, and there is none like Him! You cannot do anything about Him. You cannot change Him. You cannot circumvent Him. You cannot ignore Him. And you had better not die without Him!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 11. God is Sovereign in His Power. “Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 11. God is Sovereign in His Possession. “for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine;”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Colossians 1:15-16 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: (16) For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 11. God is Sovereign in His Position. “thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Timothy 1:17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 12. God is Sovereign in His Performance. “Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 75:6-7 For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. (7) But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 13. God is Sovereign in His Praise. “Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Revelation 4:9-11 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, (10) The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, (11) Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-44455413372774823402024-02-21T17:08:00.001-05:002024-02-22T17:10:59.223-05:00Troubled Hearts - Part 1<p style="text-align: center;"><i>Temple Baptist Church - 2-21-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">John 13:36-14:1</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction. It will require more than one message to properly deal with John 14:1-6 so let’s just dive in and introduce it all tonight.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. The context for John 14:1-6 begins in John 3:36-38. I will deal with Peter’s denial and restoration when we get to them. The Context: the Lord is leaving and His disciples will have to wait before the leave because they will now bear the burden of the work of the Gospel.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. With the cross now in sight and the Lord Jesus Christ getting ready to leave this earth for Home, He is preparing His disciples for the work ahead in His absence. What a transition it will be as, heretofore, the Lord has been:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Their Companion.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Their Guide.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Their Decision Maker.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Their Comforter.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Their Provider.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Their Protector.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Their Teacher.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. Their Friend.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. I personally find the situation terrifying! I can only imagine the loss they will supposedly suffer. But the Lord will not leave them alone as He will send them another Comforter, Companion, Guide, and Friend: the Holy Spirit!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. I can only imagine the fear that rises up in their hearts as their Heart, Jesus Christ, will no longer be with them on this earth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. As the Lord spoke these words, “Let not your heart be troubled,” He knew that the hearts of His disciples were already troubled because He said that He was going away and they could not go with Him as they would come later.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. In the same manner, every born-again believer suffers from a troubled heart at times. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The word <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">trouble</i> in one of its 3 forms—<i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">trouble, troubles, or troubled</i>—is found 203 times in your King James Bible. The many times and usages of the word <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">trouble</i> show us an important truth. LIFE IS AND WILL ALWAYS BE HARD!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Trouble </i>is usually associated with a singular event happening.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Troubles normally means that there is more than one trouble going at the same time.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Troubled</i> carries the thought of an ongoing event. Whereas trouble and troubles normally pertain to something physical going on, troubled is a state of mind and can be the bridge that carries us from one trouble to another.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. We find troubled hearts throughout the Bible in the hearts of some of the greatest men which serve as examples for us to both follow and not to follow. These great men of God were just men! The example: “All” of their troubles worked out and so will ours!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Moses, a man who spoke to God face to face, was troubled. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Numbers 11:11 And Moses said unto the LORD, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. David, a man after God’s own heart, was troubled. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Samuel 27:1 And David said in his heart, I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any more in any coast of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. John the Baptist, the greatest preacher born of woman, was troubled. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Luke 7:19 And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Paul, the greatest missionary who ever lived, was troubled. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 7:5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. The list could go on but I think we all get the message. There are times when each of us has a troubled heart.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">H. As the Lord spoke these words, “Let not your heart be troubled,” He knew that the hearts of His disciples were already troubled because He said that He was going away, and they could not go with Him as they would come later.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">J. Troubles can be both real and perceived. This many times shows us the reality of both real troubles and perceived troubles that we face. Example:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Real Trouble – Job 14:1 Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 1:5-7 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (6) Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: (7) That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Perceived Trouble– Luke 10:41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 88:3-4 For my soul is full of troubles: and my life draweth nigh unto the grave. (4) I am counted with them that go down into the pit: I am as a man that hath no strength:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">K. Now, let’s break down the wording in John 14:1.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. “Let” shows the possibility of allowing our hearts to be troubled. Let means something that we allow but have the power to disallow. Choices: laugh or cry, smile or frown. None of these will remove our troubles. They are just better or worse ways to handle them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. “Not” is the power of personal will! It shows the power of the believer to not allow a troubled heart to take place in the beginning. We have the ability to handle our troubles rightly, but too often do not have the will to negate a troubled heart.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. “Your” is personal responsibility. It shows that all are of us have a personal responsibility to “Let not.” As with all personal things, the possessor has to make the personal choice to disallow a troubled heart. I have known people that, when they had nothing to worry about, got worried about it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. “Heart” is who and what we are. The soul or source of our being. We are heart creatures. Animals act and react according to instinct and repetition. Man responds to troubles through the heart or soul. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. “Be” is in the present tense. Not that we were troubled but got over it but that we are troubled at this instant with no future plans to change it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. “Troubled” means agitated, upset, or disturbed. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">L. Much is said concerning how one’s heart can be troubled. I will not take the time to deal with all but here are just a few found in the New Testament.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Persecution. 1 Peter 3:14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Bitterness. 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;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Suffering. 2 Timothy 2:8-9 Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: (9) Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Apostasy</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Thessalonians 2:2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Impatience. 2 Thessalonians 1:4-7 So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: (5) Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: (6) Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; (7) And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Fearfulness. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 7:4-6 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation. (5) For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. (6) Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Discouragement. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. (8) We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; (9) Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: John 14:1-6 shows us the ONLY cure for Troubled Hearts.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-20656373548275743582024-02-18T23:00:00.001-05:002024-02-19T19:00:10.654-05:00The Word of God and Personal Choice<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 2-18-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:57-64</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Tonight, the 8<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza of the 119<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> Psalm. The 8<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> letter of the Hebrew alphabet is CHETH. The letter CHETH is interesting as it has a two-fold meaning: it can mean either “sin” or “life.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. God gives us both the right and obligation of choice. Calvinism teaches “Total Depravity” as “Total Inability” which is false. I heard a Calvinist preach this week and he said that the unsaved need to make the right choice. How contradictory and erroneous. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Shortly, I will preach on “The Landmark of the Sovereignty of God.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. In God’s Sovereignty, He has created mankind as free moral agents: that man has the ability to choose either right or wrong. As God’s children, we must learn to trust the guidance of God. God guides us in the way that we should walk through His Word and the Holy Ghost.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 32:8-10 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. (9) Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. (10) Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Our instructions and teaching are found in the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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: (4) 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. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">God has given us the divine power through His Word to make our choices right and to live full, godly lives in this present evil world.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) God guides us through His Word into Salvation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) God guides us through His Word into Safety.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. As we look at this 8<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza, we see that the Psalmist has made both good and bad choices which will set the tone for all 8 verses, 57-64.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Eve, then Adam, made choices, both bad and good, which brought about both the Fall and Faith. Later, Cain and Abel made choices, both bad and good, with the Lord giving Cain another chance to change his choice from bad to good. “And if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door” explained Cain’s reason for maintaining his bad choice and dying lost without God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. We make choices each day spiritually. We choose to live a life of sinfulness, or we choose to live a life that is godly. These choices are dependent upon our relationship with the Word of God. We need to be making biblical choices!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) There is an old saying, “Either the bible will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from the bible.” This is a scriptural saying as your relationship to the Word of God is either sinful or godly. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) Sinful when we choose to ignore its path and embrace the world, or godly when we choose to embrace its path and reject the world.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. CHETH gives the meaning of “sin unto death or chastisement” or “obedience unto life and peace.” The choice is OURS! Now, let us look at these 8 verses.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 57 – “Thou are my portion in life, O LORD!” Here the Psalmist recognizes the truth of a right choice. “My portion” means MY part. The table is set at home and my portion is what I choose to put on my plate. The table of God’s Word is full, and The Lord is my portion!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 57 – “I have said that I would keep thy words” refers to a past vow made. The Psalmist did not say “the only choice I have is to keep thy words,” but “I have said.” The Bible teaches that every newly saved person fully intends to live a life for Christ. God will not save the person who asks the Lord to save them while fully intending to continue to live their life in sin. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil. (2) Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 58 – A cry for mercy because of a wrong choice. “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word.” Realization of bad choices teaches the believer to seek the mercies of God that are new every morning in both presence and sufficiency. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 1:8-10 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (9) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (10) If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 59 – The Psalmist thought upon his ways and turned in repentance to the right way. “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies.” His repentance causes his feet to turn unto a biblical path of righteousness. Thinking on our wicked ways will not get the job done in itself. The requirement of a right path is making the right choice.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ezekiel 18:27-28 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. (28) Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 60 – The change in choice was immediate. I think of Pharoah when Egypt was full of frogs. He asked Moses to entreat God for their removal. Then he made a statement that holds true to many. Instead of asking for the frog’s removal right now or today, he said that tomorrow would be fine. The moment that we find our choices have been wrong is the time to “haste … and delayed not.” This shows a true repentance and lessens the impending effect of and punishment for sin.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Luke 19:5-6 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. (6) And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 61 – The result of a bad choice. “The bands of the wicked have robbed me.” Bad choices not only have bad consequences, but they also rob the believer of the good consequences of good choices. The things that the believer gets that destroy their lives are manifest but what they could have had will never be known, just surmised. “But I have not forgotten thy law.” You can run but you can’t hide. The Word of God that you have heard and learned will always be there.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 116:3-4 The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. (4) Then called I upon the name of the LORD; O LORD, I beseech thee, deliver my soul.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Verse 62 – In the midst of the storm the Psalmist sought God. He did not wait for the light of day or the end results of his disobedience to be manifested. “At midnight!” He arose from his bed and gave thanks for the love and mercy of God. He deserved what judgment that he had coming and thanked God for the judgments that were staved off through remembering, repenting, and returning.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. Verse 63 – His return to the fold. “I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of the that keep thy precepts.” When the believer gets out of the will of God through wrong choices, he/she will always become a companion of the wicked. BUT, the believer will never belong there. The church crowd is OUR crowd. Thank God for the love, help, and exhortation found in the presence of the saved!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 13:20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">9. Verse 64 – The mercy of the Lord is available to not only the believer, but also to the whole earth. “Teach my thy statutes!” Our personal choices should be bound in the Word of God. Right choices are a result of a right relationship with God’s Word.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-17020859841912919842024-02-18T20:30:00.004-05:002024-02-18T20:30:34.141-05:00The Landmark of Salvation<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 2-18-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Genesis 4:1-7; Hebrews 6:1</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. I have been preaching on the subject “Remove Not The Ancient Landmark, Which Thy Fathers Have Set” over the past three weeks. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Spiritual “landmarks” define boundaries and are points of reference from which all our doctrines are measured with the Bible being our Benchmark.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. We are not as many who corrupt the Word of God by making it conform to our doctrine, but we are those few who continually mold our doctrines to the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. This morning, I want to look at the “Landmark of Salvation.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. This may sound strange to many as we live in the Belt Buckle of the Bible Belt. Churches all over this county, both in the cities and also the rural areas. As you go into the crossroad settlement of Hickory Tavern, a sign greets you with the list of app. 20 local churches in that one rural area. On every country road, at every stop sign, you will find diverse church signs pointed in all directions. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Yet most people here do not know how to get to heaven! Many go to churches who preached a perverted form of salvation that will not save. Paul spoke of this perversion of the gospel in Galatians 1 and the gospel and Jesus Christ in 2 Corinthians 11.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 11:2-4 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. (3) But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. (4) For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A salvation that is by grace through faith alone with no mixture of personal merit or good works. Good work to be saved or good works to remain saved. Many teach a salvation that cannot secure but only place one on probation. If you are saved and sin, you still get to go to hell.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. They are dishonest! If I remotely thought that you could be lost after you are saved, when I witnessed to someone, I would tell them that once saved, they can still be lost and go to hell.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. In the Bible belt, Christianity is the best hidden truth in the Bible. NO ONE EVER witnesses to me, hands me a Gospel Tract, or invites me to church. I will ask you this morning, “How many of you have received the Gospel this week from someone else in the county?”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. Genesis 3 and 4 declare that salvation is through the coming of the “seed of the woman” and requires the shedding of blood. Genesis 4 shows both the acceptance and rejection of a blood bought salvation. The account of Cain and Abel is profound:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. It Refutes Works for Salvation – God rejected Cain’s offering!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. It Refutes Ways for Salvation – God accepted only His Way!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. It Refutes Self-Righteousness for Salvation – God required blood!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. It Refutes Pre-destination for Salvation – God gave Cain a second chance and would have accepted him. Cain’s problem was not election, it was rejection and, therefore, a sin problem!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. Then there are so many people who do not have full assurance of their salvation. The problem is ignorance of what the bible teaches and or the teaching of self-merit! People actually get saved and then, because they still have an old nature to go along with their new nature, doubt their salvation because they still commit sin! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">This morning, my message will be simple because salvation is simple!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The Bible says, “Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.” Our Lord said that the only way to heaven is through the new birth. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. In these last days, the New Birth is looked down upon and its recipients are maligned and mocked. The “Landmark of Salvation” is still Repentance and Faith! Now, let us allow the Bible to define these two terms.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. Salvation defined: </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. The context of this verse is found in chapter 5, one of the 5 warning sections of the Book of Hebrews. Let us read Hebrews 5:11-6:1. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. These verses are not written to the unsaved but to those who saved who refuse to plant their salvation in the Word of God and go one to spiritual growth. If you are saved but doubt your salvation, you will never be fully functionable or useable. GET IT SETTLED AND GET IT SETTLED IN THE BIBLE, not in your feelings or emotions.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. In chapter 5:12, we find these words: “</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">ye have need that one teach you again which <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: #757575; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">be</span></i> the first principles of the oracles of God</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. “Oracles” simply means utterance of what God has said. Christ Jesus spoke a pure gospel and how to be saved in John, chapter 3.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. “The principles” means foundational or fundamental with the phrase using the definite article “the” which means one and only one of a kind. <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Precedent or </i></span><i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">commencement</span></i><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, or (concrete) <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">chief</i> (in various applications of order, time, place, or rank): - beginning, corner, (at the, the) first (estate), magistrate, power, principality, principle, rule.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. “First” means FIRST! </span><span style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Coming </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">before all others in time or order; earliest; first.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> as it establishes salvation as the one and only first step for the unsaved! </span><span style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Foremost </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">in position, rank, or importance.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. These saved believers chose to remain willfully ignorant as they were taught again and again the truth of salvation coupled with blessed assurance!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Again, in chapter 6:1a, we find these words: “</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The word “Therefore” shows the continuation of context as chapter 6:1 is tied to the former verses.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. “Leaving” means to walk on or to move forward; to not remain spiritual doubters.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. “Principles” we have explained: the first fundamental of salvation. Get it settled, then MOVE ON!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. “Of the doctrine” means a topic, </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">tidings, treatise, utterance, word, work.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> belief or set of beliefs held and taught by </span><span style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">the Bible.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. “Of Christ” means that these fundamentals of the faith dealing with salvation come through the Bible, the Inscribed Word of God that were taught by the Incarnate Word of God, the LORD Jesus.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Now, for the later part of Hebrews 6:1b “leaving the principles … let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. “Let us go on unto perfection” or spiritual maturity. It does not mean sinless perfection because we will always, in this life, live in a sinful body and fail God. It means get your salvation SETTLED AND GROW UP!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. “Not laying again the foundation” means to repeatedly try to get saved over again. This is settled in verses 6:2-6. Christ Jesus died once for all, and He will never be re-crucified. He is not perpetually hanging on a cross. He is a resurrected, ascended Saviour!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Now, look once again at the word “principles.” The word is plural as the foundation or salvation through Christ Jesus alone is found in multiple principles which are given in these words, “the foundation of (1) repentance from dead works, AND (2) faith in God!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. I want to look at these two “principles” that make up the “foundation” upon which our salvation is established:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Repentance FROM Dead Works</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 3:28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Faith TOWARD God. Direction – Salvation is an act of God</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, not of man,</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> and Salvation is ALL of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Corinthians 15:1-4 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; (2) By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. (3) For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; (4) And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Biblical Salvation:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. It Is A Singular Salvation - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 43:11 I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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. </span><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. It Is An Eternal Salvation - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 10:27-28 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 3:14-16 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">eternal life. 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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 </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">shall not come into condemnation<span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">; but is passed from death unto life.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 8:35-39 </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? <span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, </span>shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. <span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 1:3-5 </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Blessed be the God <span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, </span>Who are kept by the power of God <span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. </span><span style="color: red; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">It Is A Life Changing Salvation - Acts 20:21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">he is a new creature<span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">unto good works,<span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">your good works<span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. It Is A Universal Salvation - Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 10:12-13 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">whosoever<span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us–ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">but also for the sins of the whole world. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">It Is A Gracious Salvation - Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">it is</i> the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ephesians 2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(by grace ye are saved;)<span style="color: red; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Titus 3:5-7 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">according to his mercy he saved us<span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That </span>being justified by his grace<span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: The Landmark of Salvation has been removed from many churches and the result is confusion. People rely upon everything else other than the finished work of Jesus Christ: His death according to the Scripture, burial, and resurrection according to the Scripture. There is no other way!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 16:31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 10:9 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. </span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-38312678240987240262024-02-14T22:08:00.001-05:002024-02-16T22:10:54.873-05:00A New Commandment<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 2-14-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">John 13:33-35</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Let me set the backdrop for these verses. In verse 33:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Our Lord has finished the work that the Father gave Him to do on earth and now is ready to be offered for the sin or the world. When I read this, my mind goes to the Apostle Paul as he writes to young Timothy:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Timothy 4:6-7 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. (7) I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The work of His disciples now commences as they cannot go with Him and put their hand to the plough. The Lord is preparing His disciples to do the work of the Gospel, knowing that local assemblies that would develop into churches, called out assemblies.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. The Lord would not leave them “comfortless” as the blessed Holy Spirit would come in all His fulness to indwell and impower the believers. The work of the Lord is going to go on as He promised.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. In the Law, God gave 613 Commandments to Israel. These were moral, civil, and ceremonial laws. Moral laws for behavior within, Civil laws for behavior outward, and Ceremonial for behavior upward. These cover every aspect of life as man is a trichotomy: three in one.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. For the local church to both be functional and have unity, it needed one more commandment: “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. Satan does his best to destroy the unity and work of the local churches. Persecution makes the church stronger. I call this the enemy from without. Division destroys the unity and work of the local church. I call this the enemy from within. The greatest enemy of the local church often sits upon its pews!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. This commandment was not just one more commandment to burden the churches. It was given as a blessing to the church.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 3:8-9 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: (9) Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. There are three important aspects of this Law found in our text that are important and need to be properly explored.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The Charge of the Commandment. “That ye love one another.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The charge was new. Under the Law, commandments were given to regulate the lives of individuals and they were good laws, but something constantly plagued the Old Testament people. Division and thus disunity. That was the reason for Moses to mediate. We have no “Moses” in our day, so the charge given to Moses is now given to the members of the local church.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The charge is a commandment. Our Lord did not say to love one another as much as suits. The charge is “to love one another.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. I find here the importance of being commanded to love one another. People are self-centered by nature and the humanistic philosophy of this world is fueling the problem. “What I do in my business.” “Mind your own business.” And other catchphrases are often used to disassociate with someone that you do not like or disagree with. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. Instead, God wants us to “associate” with each other. Not out of necessity but in love. The song “Blessed Be The Tie” says that the “Tie” that binds our hearts is Christian love.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The Example of the Commandment. “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. The example is given because love means different things to different people. Love is an umbrella under which all love resides, both good love and evil love.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. The greatest example of love ever known is the “love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 8:35-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (36) As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. (37) Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. (38) For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, (39) Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Though not proud of myself, I often say that the Lord loves me when I am glad, when I am sad, when I am mad, and when I am bad! The love of God never grows nor diminishes. His love is consistent and constant! The greatness of God’s love is found in His descension and propitiation.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 8:9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. I often hear profession believers say, “I love you, but I don’t like you!” This tells me that they do not love as Christ loved!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. The Result of the Commandment. “</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> In the Greek, all means all and that’s all all means! “shall all men know.” “All men” here is used to include men, ladies, and children.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. “All men” If we love each as Christ loves us, all men/women/children in the church will both see and know that love. One of the things that I try to teach our church is to love everyone within the church with an equal love. I want you to know that I love you all and like you all too. We are not perfect people, and our love is not perfect, but it does need to be expressed! I am not afraid or embarrassed to say, “I love you!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. “All men” This includes those who are seeking a local church to attend. We shake hands and fellowship every service. If we are sick, we say, “Unclean!” If we are not unclean or sick, we try to shake hands with everyone in the local church which includes visitors.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">We endeavor to keep love and peace here at Temple. Over the years, we have seen some come and go because of division on their behalf. When new people come to Temple and bring division into the church, they will either get right or get out! I will warn them and if they persist, I will tell them to leave as they are walking disorderly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. “All men” This includes and the multitude of people who surround the local church. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. It has been my misfortune to run across church people in public places who certainly do not portray the love of God in Christ Jesus. They hear our bitterness, complaints, and talk about others. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Stores are often public places where disgruntled church members express their dislike and often disdain for others within the local church. This damages the testimony of the believer, the local church, and Christ Jesus Himself!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 4:20-21 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (21) And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-91948740959539532542024-02-11T22:39:00.002-05:002024-02-11T22:39:19.164-05:00The Word of God and Peace<p style="text-align: center;"><i>Temple Baptist Church - 2-11-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Psalm 119:49-56</b></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Psalm 119:49-56 is the 7<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza of the Psalm and begins with the Hebrew ZAIN means a sword or sharp weapon. Much is said about warfare in the bible, both physical and spiritual. Proverbs 3 declares that there is a time for war. None of us like war in either the physical or spiritual realm but “it is what it is!” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. Both the world and Satan will wear you down, and if they can wear you down, they will wear you out!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. The World hates God and through wicked surroundings and ungodly people, it will defile both mind and body.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. Satan is a God hater from eternity past. He cannot take his ire out upon God, so he attacks God’s children.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. He will wear you down physically: physical burn out.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. He will wear you down psychologically: mental burn out.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. He will wear you down spiritually: spiritual burnout.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. All of the above and you ARE OUT!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. The Devil will try to disappoint you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. If he can disappoint you, he will discourage you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8 If he can disappoint you and discourage you, he will defile you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">9. If he cannot do any of the above, he will distract you!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">10. If the devil can wear you down, he will wear you out</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. In this 7<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza of the Psalm, we once again are introduced to the hardness of the life of the believer. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. In verse 50, the Psalmist speaks of affliction. Affliction can also be both physical and spiritual.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) Physical affliction. The First Mention of “afflict” is found in Genesis 15 and is in the physical realm.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Genesis 15:13 And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">James 5:13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) Spiritual affliction.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 2:4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 5:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. In verse 53, we find the word “horror.” A fear that consumes someone. We use the phrase “scared to death” when we would watch a Horror Movie. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) Horror – the imaginative fear which is only a figment of our imagination. These “horrors” are normally quickly over with. This fear may consume us for a while but will soon be gone to the sane mind. The mind is the “Devil’s Playground!”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 55:5 Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) Horror – that which is real is another matter. The horror of the direction of the world and our nation. The horror of physical, psychological, and spiritual battles is often the worst kind because they are both real and often enduring. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c) Both are a sad state of mind to be in as they can destroy the strong as well as the weak.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">) The Weak - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, (25) In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; (26) And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">) The Strong - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Luke 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. Peace of God is not an emotion! If it were only an emotion, we as emotional people would constantly have a lack of peace. We MUST understand that true peace MUST be found in God’s Word. Our Relationship with the Word of God dictates our Peace of God. Our peace of God comes through the Word of God, not some feeling as feelings change often from moment to moment.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 26:3-7 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. (4) Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: (5) For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust. (6) The foot shall tread it down, even the feet of the poor, and the steps of the needy. (7) The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 49 – </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The peace of God through remembering. “Remember the Word ... upon which thou hast caused me to hope.” YOU WILL NEVER REMEMBER THE WORD UNTIL YOU SPEND TIME IN THE WORD! You cannot remember what you do not know! </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">If God is the God of </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">peace</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, and He is, then His Word must be the Word of </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Peace and it is</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Job 35:10 But none saith, Where is God my maker, who giveth songs in the night;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 42:8 Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 77:4-6 Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak. (5) I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times. (6) I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 26:3-4 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. (4) Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. We find the peace of God in the Bible through God’s People. Many before us have failed in like manner as we fail and survived and prospered. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. We find the peace of God in the Bible through God’s Prophecy. The Bible declares that God knows the end from the beginning and controls all things. He is our refuge in the times of storm.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">We find </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">the peace of God in the Bible through God’s </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Promises. They are Personal as they apply to each of God’s children. They</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> are </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">pertinent as they cover every aspect of life. A promise for every person, </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">for </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">every problem, and </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">for </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">every period of time. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">God delivered Adam and Eve through sacrifice. God delivered Noah through the flood. God delivered Abraham from the Pharaohs. God delivered Isaac from Esau. God delivered Joseph from his brethren. God delivered Israel from Egypt. God delivered David from Saul. God delivered the New Testament saints through trials and tribulations. AND YOU DON’T THINK THAT GOD CAN DELIEVER YOU. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; (4) Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 16.1px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 18.4px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">"The pathway of life is strewn so thickly with the promises of God that it is impossible to take one step without treading upon one of them." ~ John Bunyan</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 55:8-12 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (10) For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: (11) So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (12) For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 4:9-12 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. (10) For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. (11) Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. (12) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 50 – <a name="_Hlk158469046" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank">The peace of God in </a>our Afflictions. Grace and weakness turn into strength and power! When you can’t, God can! Can God? Yes, He can!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Corinthians 12:7-10 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. (8) For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. (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. (10) Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 51 – The peace of God in our Persecutions. God’s people in both Old and New Testaments were mal treated. They hated God, they hated Christ, and they will hate you!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 15:18-19 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. (19) If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Timothy 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 8:28-31 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. (29) For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. (30) Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. (31) What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 52 – The peace of God in His Past Judgments. Precedents! A legal term for making decisions based upon past judgments made in similar circumstances. God will always be righteous and His judgments on the wicked will prevail. I read the last verse in the Bible and it all turned our right!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Revelation 22:21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 53 – The peace of God in our Horror. Horror that has taken hold upon us. An unreasonable fear or dread. When we are overwhelmed with fear, God fears not! Run to your ABBA Father! An endearing phase such as we call our earthly fathers, Daddy! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 43:1-2 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 54 – The peace of God in His Statutes. God’s Law is right, and He will honor it in our walk with God. Walk that straight and narrow road guided by the parameters of God’s Law and He will Honor you! Dr. Bob Jones, Sr. said, “<a href="https://www.azquotes.com/quote/1395047" rel="noreferrer nofollow noopener" style="cursor: pointer; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-decoration-line: none;">It is never right to do wrong in order to get a chance to do right.</span></a>!” Do right” was the name of a book of his sayings. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 11:13-16 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. (14) For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. (15) And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. (16) But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Verse 55-56 – The peace of God in His Name! “I AM THAT I AM” Do you need peace tonight? Run to the Lord!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 18:10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion: Our Peace of God comes through our relationship with the Word of God!</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-15761560581742127442024-02-04T20:29:00.008-05:002024-02-04T20:29:55.309-05:00The Word of God and A Walk In Confidence<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 2-4-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:41-48</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. VAU (Vah) is the 6<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> letter of the Hebrew Alphabet. VAU means a Hook: something used to hold something together. Used to fasten things together. Here, it would be a noun but, in its general use, VAU is used as a conjunction: <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a word used to connect clauses or sentences or to coordinate words in the same clause (e.g. and, but, if).</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. When I think of holding something together in Israel at the time this Psalm was written, I think of their putting up the Tabernacle in the Wilderness. Loops and taches were used to put things together in the construction of the Tabernacle. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Exodus 26:5-6 Fifty loops shalt thou make in the one curtain, and fifty loops shalt thou make in the edge of the curtain that is in the coupling of the second; that the loops may take hold one of another. (6) And thou shalt make fifty taches of gold, and couple the curtains together with the taches: and it shall be one tabernacle.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Notice the last 6 words of Exodus 26:6: “and it shall be one tabernacle.” Individual curtains became one. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. One, if not the best examples of walking with God in confidence is found in Job. Everything going wrong yet walking with God in the midst of troubles.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Job 1:20-22 Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped, (21) And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. (22) In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Job 23:10-12 But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (11) My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. (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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">There was a VAU, a hook, a tache that held Job to the steps of God’s choosing. Something unseen and probably not felt, but an invisible trust that neither his wife not his friends understood.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. One, if not the greatest, enemies that we face is lack of confidence in the Lord. I know that you and I would not admit to a lack of Confidence in a God who is all knowing, all powerful, everywhere present. But our mental and spiritual state often proves otherwise. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">An unbiblical sense of being alone despite the promise of the Lord to never leave us nor forsake us. This is why we are often disillusioned, disappointed, discouraged, and defeated. <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. This stanza expresses our walk of confidence in the Lord is found in our confidence in the Word of God. Taches that hold us when we do not understand the why and His steps and way is in the sea which cannot be seen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 41 – The Tache of Mercy – Through the Word of God, we see His mercy. An acknowledgement that mercy and salvation come from the Lord. Let your mercies come to me in each step that I take. Not salvation as we are saved, but deliverance from both self and situations. God is merciful in our faults and failures but also in our future: what are and will be facing.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Exodus 33:18-19 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory. (19) And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Ps alms 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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 42 – <a name="_Hlk157950254" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Tache of</span> </a>Trust. <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Through the Word of God, we finds His trustworthiness. </span>Because of God’s Mercy all the days of our lives, we can have faith in the Lord to carry us through as we face this ungodly world, our enemies who hate us, and our situations—both present and future. We are peculiar people and fewer in number which makes us stick out.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 56:2-4 Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High. (3) What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. (4) In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 118:8-9 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. (9) It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (6) In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 43 – </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Tache of</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hope. </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Through the Word of God,</span><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> we have seen the end of our race; we have read the last chapter and all ends well. W</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e see His </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hope in this sense is not “I hope God will be there for me” but a blessed hope which is a secure knowledge that He is and will be there with us and for us. Our race has a starting point and a finish line as we finish our course. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 44 – </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Tache of</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Integrity. </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Through the Word of God, we see His </span><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Law is right. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I will keep thy law continually, in every circumstance, for ever, as long as I live. This is not perfection but constancy. In this life and the life to come!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 26:1 A Psalm of David. Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Integrity – uprightness, honesty, truth</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 45 – </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Tache of</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Liberty. </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Through the Word of God, we see His </span><span style="background: white; color: #101518; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">freedom that He has given to us. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Thy liberty in law is part of the song “America, The Beautiful.” </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Liberty is not a license to sin; it is freedom to serve. Free from the condemnation of law should cause us to walk in freedom within the law. Oh what joy to be free from the fear of walking contrary to the Lord. Oh what joy to be free from the fear of those who enforce the laws of man. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; (32) And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 46 – <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Tache of</span> Faith. <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Through the Word of God, we see His personal will for our individual lives. “Whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” </span>Living a life for the Lord is living a life of boldness before men. We take no personal pride in our life lived for the Lord. We do take pride in the Lord who changed our life. Walking at a guilty distance from the Lord cause shame as we cannot open our mouths for the Lord. Hand out tracts, invite people to church, live a consistent life in front of the people that you are around.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 5:13-16 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. (14) Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. (15) Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. (16) Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Verse 47 – <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Tache of</span> Delight. <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Through the Word of God, we see His love. </span>A song says, “I’d rather be an old time Christian, Lord, than anything I know.” Love God, love the Word of God, love the life in God that He has given to you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 11:26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. Verse 48 - <span style="background: white; color: #101518; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Tache of</span> Confidence which ends in a Walk in Praise. Praise, uplifted hands, for His commandments and Love for His statutes because they are Right.</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-83620155893921354712024-02-04T20:27:00.005-05:002024-02-04T20:27:32.176-05:00The Landmark of the Sanctuary<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 2-4-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Hebrews 10:24-31</span></span></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Sanctuary – A sacred place. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The word sanctuary has religious roots as it referred to a consecrated place where sacred objects are kept. It often refers to a temple or church, the holiest of holy places.<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </b></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. As early as Genesis 4, </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">we find that Cain and Abel “brought” their sacrifices. They did not offer just anywhere but there was <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a special place</b> where they offered. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Abraham built an altar at Bethel</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> (The House of God) and later came back to that same altar, naming it El-Bethel (God-The House of God) and <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">found God there</b>. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. When God brought Israel </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">out of Egypt (a beautiful type of salvation), He gave instructions to Moses for the building of the Tabernacle in the Wilderness; when Israel came into the land of Canaan—they <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">brought the Tabernacle</b> with them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Later build Solomon’s Temple.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> This beautiful temple was the center of Jerusalem. When the Jews returned from their captivity in Babylon, the first order of business was the rebuild the walls and Temple. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. When the New Testament Jews and Gentiles got saved</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, they had a local church to attend. The Bible says much about the local church and works only through it. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">It is around the local church that our lives are to be centered.</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. The Local Church is a special place of:</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) Refuge from the storms of life.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) Rest from the toils of life.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c) Refreshment from the disappointments of life.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d) Restoration from the failures of life.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">e) Revival from the lifelessness of life.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. The </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Bible calls the </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Local Church the pillar and ground of the truth: </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Timothy 3:15</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 38.25pt; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. Sometimes, </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">when we go back to Hebrews 10:25, I wonder if I am not <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“beating a dead horse.”</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. But the Holy Ghost emphasizes the importance of the local church</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> when using the words “and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">That day is HERE</b> and the house of God forsaken.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Preachers preach the important truth found in these verses, </b>we quote these verses often, and yet—continually—we see a decrease in the faithfulness of God’s people to the church. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. These verses </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">are the most profound concerning faithfulness to church that you will find. In them we find:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The responsibility to each other – vs. 24</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The importance and purpose – vs. 25</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. The callousness of the sin – vs. 26</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. The promise of the judgment of God – vs. 27-29</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. The seriousness of unfaithfulness – vs. 29</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. The fearfulness of the Lord – vs. 30-31</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. If God said </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">and meant all of these things, you would think that His children would see the seriousness, repent of their sin, and get faithful <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">but just the opposite is true</b>. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">“As the manner of some is” has become the norm for most professing believers. </b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. In the last few years,</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> we have seen a great “falling away” from the local church. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. With the rising number of “home churches,</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">” “TV churches,” “Radio Churches,” “golf, fishing, motorcycle, cowboy, etc.,” there has been a great forsaking of the house of the Lord. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. I find no substitute in the bible for the local church. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. The local church </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">is a landmark of the Lord’s making and it needs not to be removed. Churches all over the Bible Belt have gone from two services on Sunday and Wednesday night Prayer Meeting to just Sunday morning services.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. A Place Of Assembly – Hebrews 10:25 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(The word “church” means a called-out assembly. We are called out of this world to assemble together. If the Lord did not think that we needed a place of gathering, He would have just let us stay at home. “Lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God” describes the modern day “Christian.”)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. A Place Of Exhortation - 2 Timothy 4:2</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(We need each other’s strength to continue on in this “present evil world.” Bearing one another’s burdens can only come about when we are together to know what those burdens are.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. A Place Of Fellowship - Acts 2:42</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(We cannot love each other with a whole heart fervently if we are never together. I love my family and spend much time with them. I love my church family and spend much time with them! We laugh, cry, eat, and share together.)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. A Place Of Bible Teaching - 1 Timothy 3:15</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(Most believers do not know how to behave in the house of God because they are not there often enough to be taught! Teaching is a very important of our spiritual welfare! The largest denomination in America is the “Church of the Ignorant Brethern!”)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Timothy 4:16</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. A Place Of Powerful Preaching - 2 Timothy 4:2</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(The pastor is commanded to preach the Word, but many are never there to receive it. So often I know that a particular message will be of help to someone, and they do not show up. We need bible preaching and need it from the pastor!)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. A Place Of Prayer - Matthew 21:13</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(We come, take prayer requests and pray! We begin each service in prayer, we pray in the prayer rooms, we pray during the services, and we end each service in prayer. We pray for each other, we pray for our families, we pray for our needs, we pray for the needs of others, we pray for our nation, we pray for Israel, we pray for those in authority over us, we pray for souls, and we pray for the coming of the Lord. You have not because you ask not is an indictment against those who do not pray!)</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. A Place Of Faithful Giving - Malachi 3:10</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">there may be meat in mine house</b>, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Corinthians 16:2</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(Some tithe and give regularly while some tithe and give irregularly. The local church pays its bills regularly and missions support should be paid the same. How would we like it if we got paid on an irregular basis? We would probably be a little upset. Missionaries do not get full support because of irregular giving!</b>)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. A Place Of Divine Approval - Ephesians 5:25-26</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> 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. <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">(It is a sanctifying place where we are cleansed through the water of the Word.)</b></span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-80759490768795228042024-01-31T13:45:00.001-05:002024-02-01T13:46:58.216-05:00Judas Iscariot<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 1-31-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-size: medium;">John 13:10-11; 18-30</span></span></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">What a sad story! I know that Judas was a traitor and led the religious crowd to the Garden where He was. But the world has been and continues to have multitudes of “spiritual traitors” as well as Christ rejectors who die out of the will of the Lord and spend an eternity in a place called hell!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Who was this man, Judas Iscariot? </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">There are theories about who Judas Iscariot is and who he might be during the Tribulation Period floating around. Was Judas the incarnate devil? Will Judas be resurrected during the Tribulation Period as Antichrist? They use such verses as these to substantiate their theories.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 6:70-71</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil? (71) He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 17:12</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Acts 1:25</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. I will not take the time to dispel these theories </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">but will say that I do not believe that Judas was either the devil, as many wicked people are referred to in that manner. I believe that the Bible teaches that Judas was just a man. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. Judas Iscariot.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> The only disciple who was non-Galilean but was born of the same Tribe as Christ Jesus: The Lion of the Tribe of Judah. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Genesis 49:8-12</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand shall be in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children shall bow down before thee. (9) Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up? (10) The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. (11) Binding his foal unto the vine, and his ass's colt unto the choice vine; he washed his garments in wine, and his clothes in the blood of grapes: (12) His eyes shall be red with wine, and his teeth white with milk.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Judas – The Greek spelling of the Hebrew word <i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Judah</i>: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">of the posterity of Judah and its region.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Iscariot - </span></b><i style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">inhabitants of Keri-oth. A city in southern Judah in the Negev.</span></i><span style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Why was the Lord “troubled in spirit?” </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:21</span></b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.)</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, we find that Jesus was “troubled in spirit” because “one of you shall betray me.” </span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Because Judas Iscariot was a friend of Jesus Christ.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a) Prophesied in one of the Davidic Psalms: </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 41:9 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b) Performed in the betrayal of Judas Iscariot: </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 26:48-50</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. (49) And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. (50) And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c) For those who teach that Judas Iscariot</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> and Antichrist are the same, Jesus Christ would have never called the devil “friend.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Because Jesus Christ died for the sin of the whole world which included Judas Iscariot!</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 3:16-17</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Timothy 2:4</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 2:2</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">In John Gill’s Commentary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, a 17<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> century “theologian” and pastor (who was also a Calvinist) explained “the whole world” as 1) the Old Testament Saints who believed on the Messiah plus all the New Testament Saints who would believe on Christ Jesus, both Jew and Gentile. The “whole world” is the entirety of all who ever lived or would ever live! Typical Calvinistic “stretching” the Word of God to prove their damnable heresies.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. Judas Iscariot was prophesied in Psalm 55.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 55:12-15</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: (13) But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. (14) We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company. (15) Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The interpretation of the Psalm </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">was about Ahithophel, David’s counselor and Bathsheba’s grandfather, who betrayed David.<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </b></span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The prophesy of the Psalm</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">, which is Messianic, was about Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Christ. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. Judas Iscariot.</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Judas Iscariot was a Disciple. “one of you” </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:21 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Judas Iscariot’s Calling. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Lord chose Judas as He did the other disciples.<b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Judas Iscariot’s Circumstances. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">He saw, lived with, and heard Christ. He shared the same conditions as the other disciples. His accountability was great.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Judas Iscariot’s Communion. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">He spent a lot of personal time with Christ, a personal friend to Judas as He was to the other disciples. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">d. Judas Iscariot’s Choice. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">He had the same right to choose as the other disciples.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Judas Iscariot was a Deceiver. “Lord, who is it?” </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:24-25</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake. (25) He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="color: red; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Lord, who is it?</span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Judas Iscariot Deceived others. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> The other disciples could not believe that it was Judas.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:26-29</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. (27) And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly. (28) Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him. (29) For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Judas Iscariot Deceived himself. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 26:25</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Judas Iscariot never Deceived the Lord! </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:26-27</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. (27) And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Judas Iscariot was a Damned Man. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 26:23-24</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. (24) The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">a. Judas Iscariot’s Discovery. Matthew 27:3</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">b. Judas Iscariot’s Discourse. </span></b><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 27:4</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">c. Judas Iscariot’s Despair. Matthew 27:5</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Judas Iscariot’s Decision. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I believe that the Bible teaches that Judas Iscariot could have been saved up to the point that he received the sop. When John asked the Lord who would betray Him, Jesus said, “To whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it.” Judas did not have to take the sop from the hand of our Lord but could have said, “Forgive me, Lord. I do not want the sop.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 13:26-27</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. (27) And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Conclusion:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> Here we find the sad end of a life that could have been saved but chose to reject the Saviour. Not the Devil, not the future Antichrist, just a man for whom Christ died.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-43153053310047851362024-01-28T20:59:00.007-05:002024-01-28T20:59:42.165-05:00The Word of God and Spiritual Growth<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 1-28-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Psalm 119:33-40</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A. Tonight, we will look at the 5<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> stanza of Psalm 119: HE is the 5<sup style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">th</sup> letter in the Hebrew Alphabet. It carries the meaning of Lo or Behold. The best Biblical definition of the word “Lo” is found in the New Testament.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Matthew 28:20 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. (“lo” – you need to get a firm grip on what I am about to say.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. The first 4 stanzas of Psalm 119 dealt with undefiled or purity, holiness and meditation, unhappiness, depression and discouragement which are often a by-product of spiritual growth or the lack thereof. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. Physical growth is something that God does with which we can help. Spiritual growth is something that we do that God helps with! Two of the things that will stunt both physical and spiritual growth:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. A lack of appetite. Healthy children and adults will have a healthy appetite. When a person becomes sick or old, they will often lose their appetites and it is vitually impossible to get them to eat. They do not eat because they do not feel like eating. How often, in the end of life of a loved one, tell them that they have to eat for strength, but they refuse food. Thus the physical man and the spiritual man will lose strength.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. An appetite for the wrong things. I love buying cakes at Walmart. You know, the ones with an inch of icing and all the flowers and designs add to the icing MADE OF PURE SUGAR. I love ice cream which, I am sure, is not the healthiest of foods. Meat, bread, and vegetables grow strong bones and muscles. Cake and ice cream grow big bellies and fat. Physically and spiritually, we must eat a proper diet.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. The Apostle Paul spoke of this in one of the Warning Sections of the Book of Hebrews: “Dull of Hearing.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Hebrews 5:11-13 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. (12) For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. (13) For every one that <b style="line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">useth milk</b> is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">This is an age-old problem as all believers tend to get “a little out of sorts” at times. This is because, though saved, we are still human. The problem is not the condition; it is remaining in that condition.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. Peter addressed spiritual growth in 1 Peter 2:2: “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. In our stanza for tonight, HE (Lo or Behold), the verses show us essentials of spiritual growth.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. Verse 33 – Teach me. The importance of the teaching of God’s Word. Taught by the Spirit of God; taught by personal reading and study; taught by being faithful to the house of God, the pillar and ground of the truth. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">A believer will never spiritually grow as they should until they become learners. A person can go to college, spend a fortune, goof off and party, and never get an education. One must apply themselves to learn properly.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Isaiah 54:13 And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 6:45 It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. Verse 34 – Enlighten me. Help me to understand God’s Word. Learning can be a set of facts memorized, but enlightenment gives the learner the wisdom and knowledge it takes to excel. The Enlightener is the precious Holy Spirit</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 36:9 For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. Verse 35 – Lead me. In order to follow God’s lead, we need to learn to trust the Lord in His leading. “Make me to go!” Asking the Lord to remove all our ways and force us to do His will. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 23:2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Give me no options! Believers are free moral agents. God has given to each of us the right of choice, but the serious child of God does not want to unknowingly make the wrong choice. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">I often ask God to close all other doors so that I have only the right door to choose. I personally wanted out of the Bible Belt. My desire was to go to New Hampshire and start a church but each night I would say, “Dear Lord, if New Hampshire is not your will for my life, close the door.” He did and I am here!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">James 1:22-25 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (23) For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: (24) For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. (25) But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. Verse 36 – Draw me. Draw us near in heart through the Scriptures. That we may spend quality time with the Lord. Relationships are established with conversion. You speak to God in prayer and allow God to speak to you through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. One of the greatest enemies of the believer in these days of plenty is the sin of covetousness. Can’t hep its and gotta have its. Through the lure of the world, so many believers have lost their excitement and desire for God’s Word. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 8:6-8 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. (7) Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (8) So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (17) And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. Verse 37 – Turn me. One of the three areas of sin concerns the eyes. Eve saw and took; Lot vexed his righteous soul by hearing and seeing. In today’s society, we see more by accident than people in years gone by saw on purpose. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Turn my eyes from: Things that are not good, things that are temporal instead of eternal, things that tear down instead of build up, things that are ungodly or worthless.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">We cannot help what we see but we need the help of the Lord to turn our eyes from the sinful sights. Ask God for “spiritual blinders.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Proverbs 4:25 Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Genesis 3:6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Peter 2:8 (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6. Verse 38 – Establish me. Stabilize us. Establishment in the unshakable Word. Help us to be stable minded instead of doubleminded. The world and churches are full of unstable people.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">One of the most important aspects of spiritual growth, stability, having a firm foundation found in the Word of God. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">James 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 8:31-32 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; (32) And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7. Verse 39 – Encourage me. In the Word, in the Lord, and in the church. Every child of God needs encouragement. This is why the Bible commands us to faithfully assemble. Faithfulness and communion bring about encouragement. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Verse 40 – Quicken me. Biblical spiritual growth makes the child alive in righteousness. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.84px; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 16.96px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. </span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4792345045474667918.post-3131366022620924122024-01-28T20:57:00.005-05:002024-01-28T20:57:19.996-05:00The Landmark of Scripture<p style="text-align: center;"><i> Temple Baptist Church - 1-28-2024</i></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Genesis 3:1-4; 2 Timothy 3:13-17</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Introduction:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt;">A. Last week, we saw the necessity of spiritual “landmarks” that define all that we believe. Once again, a “landmark” defines a boundary and is a point from whence all other points can be measured. It is to be both stationary and unchanging!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. If these “landmarks” are removed, we will soon find ourselves drifting from the spiritual truths that we once held dear. Today’s denominations have drifted far from the “moorings” of their founder’s intentions. Most denominations were started by godly men who revered and feared the Lord while remaining true to the Word of God.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. If these “landmarks” are removed, these spiritual truths that we once held dear will not be known by our posterity. Today’s children are a lost generation! With little or no values, either spiritual or moral—the have become the children of apostasy!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">B. Eleven times in the first two chapters of Genesis it is recorded that “God said.” The first times that what God had said was recorded. What God commanded was done and stood fast.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">C. In chapter 3, we find the first mention of something questioning what “God said.” It was satanic in nature so to question what God has said is both evil and devastating to mankind.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">D. The first attack upon a scriptural “landmark” is found in our text as Satan questioned the Word of God thus deceiving Eve and causing Adam to fall. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">E. I am preaching on the Landmark of Scripture first because of its importance. Our Bible is the foundation upon which our faith stands. Not upon the original manuscripts because we have never seen one much less owned one. Not upon men who are quick to generate doubt and then constantly change their theology. Our Foundation is the Bible that we hold in our hands this morning.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">F. Our text, found in 2 Timothy, tells us all that we need to know about God’s Word.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. The Word of God is inspired. Verse 15-16. Paul is speaking of the scriptures that Timothy had, not original autographs. What Timothy had was called “holy scriptures.” The Word of God declares that what Timothy held was “given by inspiration of God.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. The Word of God is profitable. Verse 16. If the intent of verse 16 was to show that the original autographs were inspired, then—because Timothy did not have one—then Timothy could not profit from what he did not have. The Bible is profitable doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. The Word of God is perfecting. Verse 17. It will “throughly furnish” God’s men and God’s people. (Throughly furnished means to fully equip or to complete – the Bible is all you need!).</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">G. I will stop with that because, if you do not believe that “all scripture” refers to “all scripture,” then nothing else that I have to say will convince you.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">H. The Bible is the foundation for our faith and the practice of our faith. It is the ABSOLUTE FINAL AUTHORITY!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 11:3 If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (The answer to this question is understood: WE CAN DO NOTHING! If the Bible errs, then all that we know and believe becomes unsure. If the Bible errs, then our authority must be shifted to those who translate and re-interpret. To those who know where every error occurs and can “straighten us out?” I THINK NOT!)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 0.5in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">J. The Bible is THE FINAL AUTHORITY FOR FAITH AND PRACTICE! </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Bible is not a man book, it is a God Book. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">The Bible is our Foundation!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">1. In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Sovereign God. Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. (He is, He was, and He will forever be the Creator and Owner of the universe.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2. </span><a name="_Hlk62220311" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: inherit !important; cursor: default !important; line-height: 1.5; pointer-events: none; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;" target="_blank"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our </span></a><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Sinfulness - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (From Adam to Self, the Bible is clear on the matter of sinfulness.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">3. In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our Saviour - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Psalms 40:7 Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, (All we need to know about God’s gift of His Son, Jesus Christ is found there.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">4. In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our Salvation - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> (Saving faith is found in the Bible through repentance and belief.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">5. In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our Security - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">John 10:27-28 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. (Salvation is eternal life.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">6.</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our Satisfaction - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">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. (How sweet to the taste is the Word of God.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">7.</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our S</span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">tability</span><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (17) That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (In the Bible, we have all that we need to be saved and to live for Christ in this life.)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px 1em 1in; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1em 0px; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;"><span lang="X-NONE" style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">8. In The Landmark of Scripture We Find Our Surety - </span><span style="font-family: "Century Schoolbook", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; scrollbar-color: var(--scrollbar-thumb-color) rgba(0,0,0,0); scrollbar-width: thin;">Revelation 22:20-21 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. (21) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. (Our Lord is coming, we are leaving, and everything will be alright.)</span></p>Theo C.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02011379258933932976noreply@blogger.com0