Temple Baptist Church - 11-9-2008
Malachi 3:1-6
Introduction:
A. We live in a world of change. A lot has been said in the past few months in the political realm about change. The changes that they are talking about are not the changes that need to be made.
1. The world is changing. It is either flood or drought. It is either a category 5 hurricane or it is a storm that fizzles. There are wars and rumors of war on every hand. Voices crying “peace, peace” when there is no peace. People looking for all of the wrong answers in all of the wrong places. Instead of looking to the Lord and righteousness, they look to man and unrighteousness. Immorality is acceptable while morality is ridiculed! To be pure is to be mocked while sensuality is being popularized. Fewer morals, less character, and greater wickedness is the “rule of the day.”
2. People are changing. What happened to old fashioned manners? What happened to old fashioned morals? Iniquity abounds and the love of many waxes cold in these last days. It is all for me and my four and nothing more. Very few good neighbors and very few even know their neighbors.
3. Churches are changing. I could spend the rest of the service here. Ear tickling preachers ministering to itching ear “Christians.” Worldly churches entertaining worldly people with worldly methodology. Soul winning decreases as sinful living increases and the churches of America are in a mess.
B. I am glad to report that there are still some things that are not changing.
1. There are still Christians in this world that are trying to make a difference. They love God, America, apple pie, and the souls of men. There are some of history’s greatest Christians living today who are ridiculed and mocked for their love for the Savior and separated living. God bless them!
2. There are still good, fundamental, bible believing men of God who are trying to “withstand” and having done all, “stand” in this evil day. I know some good, godly men of God who I am proud to call my brothers. Men who are willing to pay a price for the privilege of being God’s man instead of the world’s man!
3. There are still some good fundamental, separated, God fearing churches in this world. They are few in number with fewer numbers on the pews because they are not what the “many” of Matthew 7:13 are looking for. They have a lot of one time visitors. That is the kind of church that I would be looking for. One that would raise my standards instead of lowering them. A church that would preach and teach the bible so that my family could get some help.
C. In light of all of the changes taking place over the span of my lifetime, I am glad that the Lord declared, “I change not!”
Psalms 90:2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou [art] God.
Psalms 102:27 But thou [art] the same, and thy years shall have no end.
Hebrews 1:12 And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
1. The Lord Does Not Change In His Person - 1 Timothy 6:16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom [be] honour and power everlasting. Amen.
a. Spurgeon said it like this: “The sun itself grows dim with age; the world is waxing old; the folding up of the worn-out vesture has commenced; the heavens and earth must soon pass away; they shall perish, they shall wax old as doth a garment; but there is One who only hath immortality, of whose years there is no end, and in whose person there is no change.”
b. The Lord Is Immutably Holy - 1 Peter 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. (He still hates sin while loving sinners. He can neither commit nor condone sinfulness!)
c. The Lord Is Immutably Good - 1 Chronicles 16:34 O give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good; for his mercy [endureth] for ever. (The Lord is good all of the time. He is merciful and longsuffering. “Longsuffering to us-ward.”)
d. The Lord Is Immutably Wise - Isaiah 55:9 For [as] the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (The Lord’s way is always the right way as He knows the end from the beginning.)
e. The Lord Is Immutably Faithful - 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. (He will be there in your darkest hour as He is in your brightest one.)
2. The Lord Does Not Change In His Promises
a. His Promise To Save The Sinner - John 6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
b. His Promise To Secure The Believer - Matthew 6:31-33 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. (Spiritually, physically, financially, and in every other way He cares for us. He is a refuge when fearful, He is a stronghold in trouble, He is a very present help in time of need. He secures you; He feeds you; He loves us in spite of our faults and failures; He loves you with an everlasting love!)
3. The Lord Does Not Change In His Purposes
a. His Purpose In Salvation – 1 Timothy 2:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
b. His Purpose In Sanctification – 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 For this is the will of God, [even] your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: 4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
Sunday, November 9, 2008
The Election Is Over, What Now?
Temple Baptist Church - 11-9-2008
Romans 13:1-7
Introduction:
A. The election is over and I did not get my way! I did vote against President Elect Obama in the election. I did not vote for John McCain thought I did give him my vote. I voted AGAINST a man, not for one. I did not vote again President Elect Obama because he was black! If a more conservative black man had run against Sen. McCain, I would have voted for him. This is not a black or white issue with this preacher. I voted against President Elect Obama because I could not vote for him with a clear, godly conscience.
B. The election was done in the right manner, the American way of electing a president, and the man with the most votes won!
C. God, in His sovereignty and providence, put President Elect Obama in office!
Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Esther 4:14b and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for [such] a time as this? (By application, God is allowing our world to wax worse and worse because His coming is near. Prophecy is simply being fulfilled.)
D. I have heard preachers saying that all is now over for our country. We have had liberal presidents before and the nation survived. No doubt, there will be a “payday” for this election, but it is not over until it is over!
E. I did my best for my nation last Tuesday. I prayed for the election, tried to convince others to vote in a right manner in the election, and I exercised my citizen’s right and Christian’s obligation to vote. I would not change any of it.
F. Ok, the election is over so we need to “get over it” and get on with living for the Lord and striving to make a difference. Crying over “spilled milk” will not get the job done. What do we do now?
1. We Need To Pray For Our New Leadership – 1 Timothy 2:1-4 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (Just because the election did not go my way does not mean that I will not back the President of the United States of America as long as I can do so biblically.)
a. I will pray for his safety. He will possibly be targeted for assassination because of his race.
b. I will pray for his salvation. He more than likely needs to be saved.
c. I will pray for his leadership. Our freedom to worship, soul win, and get out the gospel in other lands is at stake.
d. I will pray that he continues to support Israel.
2. Give Our New Leadership The Benefit Of The Doubt. He has not made one executive decision as of yet. We will find out what kind of a president he is over a period of time as he takes the helm of this nation and shows a distinct direction in leadership.
3. We Need To Continue To Be Unashamedly American. I am not ashamed of America nor of being an American! I love this nation and am proud to be a citizen of it. Some are not ashamed of this land but I am not. I do not agree with everyone or everything but that is not the issue. This is my country! I am an American! I will both live for and fight for her!
4. We Need To Refrain From Speaking Evil Of Dignities - 2 Peter 2:10-11 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous [are they], selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. 11 Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. (This is a sign of the last day apostates. As I did in the military, I salute the uniform, not the man. Barack Hussein Obama is the President Elect of the United States of America! I will respect him as such to the best of my ability.)
Jude 8-10 Likewise also these [filthy] dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. 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. 10 But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.
5. We Need To Continue To Be Good Citizens - Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
1 Peter 2:13-15 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: (We are to submit! We are to obey! We are be good citizens of this great land. If someone does not like America, then they need to leave our nation.)
6. We Need To Continue To Be Good Christians - Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Others will lean more to the left because of the ridicule that Mr. Huckabee and others have received for standing for Christian values. Politicians will “court” the liberal left because the conservative right can no longer elect a president. I will continue to live a Christian testimony before this wicked world. We will become more and more unpopular as the days go by.)
7. We Need To Pray Hard For Now For A Good Man To Vote For Next Time - Colossians 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
Ephesians 5:16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (If we do not like who got in this time, we have four years to work on another candidate.)
Romans 13:1-7
Introduction:
A. The election is over and I did not get my way! I did vote against President Elect Obama in the election. I did not vote for John McCain thought I did give him my vote. I voted AGAINST a man, not for one. I did not vote again President Elect Obama because he was black! If a more conservative black man had run against Sen. McCain, I would have voted for him. This is not a black or white issue with this preacher. I voted against President Elect Obama because I could not vote for him with a clear, godly conscience.
B. The election was done in the right manner, the American way of electing a president, and the man with the most votes won!
C. God, in His sovereignty and providence, put President Elect Obama in office!
Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Esther 4:14b and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for [such] a time as this? (By application, God is allowing our world to wax worse and worse because His coming is near. Prophecy is simply being fulfilled.)
D. I have heard preachers saying that all is now over for our country. We have had liberal presidents before and the nation survived. No doubt, there will be a “payday” for this election, but it is not over until it is over!
E. I did my best for my nation last Tuesday. I prayed for the election, tried to convince others to vote in a right manner in the election, and I exercised my citizen’s right and Christian’s obligation to vote. I would not change any of it.
F. Ok, the election is over so we need to “get over it” and get on with living for the Lord and striving to make a difference. Crying over “spilled milk” will not get the job done. What do we do now?
1. We Need To Pray For Our New Leadership – 1 Timothy 2:1-4 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (Just because the election did not go my way does not mean that I will not back the President of the United States of America as long as I can do so biblically.)
a. I will pray for his safety. He will possibly be targeted for assassination because of his race.
b. I will pray for his salvation. He more than likely needs to be saved.
c. I will pray for his leadership. Our freedom to worship, soul win, and get out the gospel in other lands is at stake.
d. I will pray that he continues to support Israel.
2. Give Our New Leadership The Benefit Of The Doubt. He has not made one executive decision as of yet. We will find out what kind of a president he is over a period of time as he takes the helm of this nation and shows a distinct direction in leadership.
3. We Need To Continue To Be Unashamedly American. I am not ashamed of America nor of being an American! I love this nation and am proud to be a citizen of it. Some are not ashamed of this land but I am not. I do not agree with everyone or everything but that is not the issue. This is my country! I am an American! I will both live for and fight for her!
4. We Need To Refrain From Speaking Evil Of Dignities - 2 Peter 2:10-11 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous [are they], selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. 11 Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. (This is a sign of the last day apostates. As I did in the military, I salute the uniform, not the man. Barack Hussein Obama is the President Elect of the United States of America! I will respect him as such to the best of my ability.)
Jude 8-10 Likewise also these [filthy] dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. 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. 10 But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.
5. We Need To Continue To Be Good Citizens - Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
1 Peter 2:13-15 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: (We are to submit! We are to obey! We are be good citizens of this great land. If someone does not like America, then they need to leave our nation.)
6. We Need To Continue To Be Good Christians - Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Others will lean more to the left because of the ridicule that Mr. Huckabee and others have received for standing for Christian values. Politicians will “court” the liberal left because the conservative right can no longer elect a president. I will continue to live a Christian testimony before this wicked world. We will become more and more unpopular as the days go by.)
7. We Need To Pray Hard For Now For A Good Man To Vote For Next Time - Colossians 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
Ephesians 5:16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (If we do not like who got in this time, we have four years to work on another candidate.)
Sunday, November 2, 2008
The Well of Salvation - Part 2
Temple Baptist Church - 11-02-2008
John 4:1-14
Introduction:
A. A few weeks, we saw the wonderful, gracious conversion of a “loose living” woman. You will meet her in Heaven one day! I am so glad that God still saves old sinners! If He did not care for sinners, I would be hopelessly lost for all eternity! If He did not love old sinners, I would spend an eternity in a devil’s Hell!
B. In verse 14, our Lord said, “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.”
1. A Fountain Of Salvation - Zechariah 13:1 In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.
2. A Fountain Of Satisfaction - John 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
C. In verse 15, I want you to see the woman’s reply! John 4:15 “The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” Two things she desired:
1. “Give me this water that I thirst not!” She desired the water of life that comes only through knowing Christ Jesus!
2. “Neither come hither to draw!” She did not want to have to draw from that shallow, earthly well that Jacob gave to Joseph. It was no doubt a good well, but one that could not satisfy her thirst for long. The world cannot satisfy the thirsty soul of the child of God for long. You must drink of it over and over again and eventually, it will run dry.
D. A few weeks ago, Barbara and I began to have well problems for the first time in over 15 years. We have a bored well that is app. 50 feet deep. Because of the continuing drought here in South Carolina, the well has gotten low enough that there is air in our water lines. At times, the water flows is interrupted by the sputter of air. Therefore, we had a well punched! It is deep in the rock and when I checked it, it had over 70 feet of water in it! The man who drilled the well said that two houses or more could be run off of one well and that I should never have to worry about water again! I may or may not ever have problems with this new well but I do have great confidence in it.
E. Thus it is with Christ! This woman went away with a well within her soul that would never run dry! A well is of no value if it is not “tapped!” As I prepare this sermon, Barbara and I have a well but there are no water lines run to the house as of yet. We still have the same old sputtering well supplying our house until the ditch is trenched and water lines as well as power line is laid!
F. You may be saved but if you do not “draw from the well” within, then your life will “sputter” just as our water at home does. I want you to turn to Isaiah 12:1-3** for a few minutes tonight and see what the Lord has to say about the “wells of salvation.”
G. Notice with me four things that take place for the believer in verse 2:
1. The Lord is my Salvation
2. The Lord is my Strength
3. The Lord is my Song
4. The Lord is become my Salvation
H. Now notice the “joy” of drawing from your well:
1. The well is there!
2. The water is there!
3. The bucket is there!
4. Now the water must be drawn!
1. “Drawing from the well” brings Peace In Troubles! 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: (He is still God and He is still the Master of the Sea!)
2. “Drawing from the well” brings Strength In Weakness! 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 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. (I often times come to the end of myself and have no strength to go on but, as I turn to Him, I have the strength to go another step. One step at a time He gives me strength. “Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow” the song says.)
3. “Drawing from the well” brings Grace In Temptation! 1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it]. (Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it! I am so often ashamed of yielding to temptation! In the hour of temptation, God is faithful to either remove it or give you a way of escape. The strength to escape is in Him , not in your sinful flesh.)
4. “Drawing from the well” brings Hope In Discouragement! 1 Samuel 30:6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. (I am glad to report that He still giveth “songs in the night!” My fervent prayer is “Even so come, Lord Jesus!” I want to see Him but I also want to fly away with the wings of a Dove! I am so tired of this world and have a longing for home tonight but, when I get down, He is always there to lift me up!”
Psalms 3:3 But thou, O LORD, [art] a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
5. “Drawing from the well” brings Joy In Disappointment! Habakkuk 3:17-18 Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither [shall] fruit [be] in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and [there shall be] no herd in the stalls: 18 Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. (There are so many disappointments in this world. I find neither joy nor satisfaction in this life sometimes. You can still have peace and joy in the midst of disappointments! Christ Jesus is our Joy!)
Psalms 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me [with thy] free spirit.
6. “Drawing from the Well” brings Life In A Lost Condition! John 4:14 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.
John 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
Conclusion: God has placed within each of us a “well” that eternally flows. Not a “bored” well that depends upon surface water, but a “punched” well. An artesian well that flows from deep within, uninterrupted by the drought conditions of this world. The Samaritian woman went to Jacob’s Well for earthly water and came home with Jesus’ Well of eternal Water!
John 4:1-14
Introduction:
A. A few weeks, we saw the wonderful, gracious conversion of a “loose living” woman. You will meet her in Heaven one day! I am so glad that God still saves old sinners! If He did not care for sinners, I would be hopelessly lost for all eternity! If He did not love old sinners, I would spend an eternity in a devil’s Hell!
B. In verse 14, our Lord said, “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.”
1. A Fountain Of Salvation - Zechariah 13:1 In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.
2. A Fountain Of Satisfaction - John 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
C. In verse 15, I want you to see the woman’s reply! John 4:15 “The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” Two things she desired:
1. “Give me this water that I thirst not!” She desired the water of life that comes only through knowing Christ Jesus!
2. “Neither come hither to draw!” She did not want to have to draw from that shallow, earthly well that Jacob gave to Joseph. It was no doubt a good well, but one that could not satisfy her thirst for long. The world cannot satisfy the thirsty soul of the child of God for long. You must drink of it over and over again and eventually, it will run dry.
D. A few weeks ago, Barbara and I began to have well problems for the first time in over 15 years. We have a bored well that is app. 50 feet deep. Because of the continuing drought here in South Carolina, the well has gotten low enough that there is air in our water lines. At times, the water flows is interrupted by the sputter of air. Therefore, we had a well punched! It is deep in the rock and when I checked it, it had over 70 feet of water in it! The man who drilled the well said that two houses or more could be run off of one well and that I should never have to worry about water again! I may or may not ever have problems with this new well but I do have great confidence in it.
E. Thus it is with Christ! This woman went away with a well within her soul that would never run dry! A well is of no value if it is not “tapped!” As I prepare this sermon, Barbara and I have a well but there are no water lines run to the house as of yet. We still have the same old sputtering well supplying our house until the ditch is trenched and water lines as well as power line is laid!
F. You may be saved but if you do not “draw from the well” within, then your life will “sputter” just as our water at home does. I want you to turn to Isaiah 12:1-3** for a few minutes tonight and see what the Lord has to say about the “wells of salvation.”
G. Notice with me four things that take place for the believer in verse 2:
1. The Lord is my Salvation
2. The Lord is my Strength
3. The Lord is my Song
4. The Lord is become my Salvation
H. Now notice the “joy” of drawing from your well:
1. The well is there!
2. The water is there!
3. The bucket is there!
4. Now the water must be drawn!
1. “Drawing from the well” brings Peace In Troubles! 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: (He is still God and He is still the Master of the Sea!)
2. “Drawing from the well” brings Strength In Weakness! 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 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. (I often times come to the end of myself and have no strength to go on but, as I turn to Him, I have the strength to go another step. One step at a time He gives me strength. “Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow” the song says.)
3. “Drawing from the well” brings Grace In Temptation! 1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it]. (Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it! I am so often ashamed of yielding to temptation! In the hour of temptation, God is faithful to either remove it or give you a way of escape. The strength to escape is in Him , not in your sinful flesh.)
4. “Drawing from the well” brings Hope In Discouragement! 1 Samuel 30:6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. (I am glad to report that He still giveth “songs in the night!” My fervent prayer is “Even so come, Lord Jesus!” I want to see Him but I also want to fly away with the wings of a Dove! I am so tired of this world and have a longing for home tonight but, when I get down, He is always there to lift me up!”
Psalms 3:3 But thou, O LORD, [art] a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
5. “Drawing from the well” brings Joy In Disappointment! Habakkuk 3:17-18 Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither [shall] fruit [be] in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and [there shall be] no herd in the stalls: 18 Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. (There are so many disappointments in this world. I find neither joy nor satisfaction in this life sometimes. You can still have peace and joy in the midst of disappointments! Christ Jesus is our Joy!)
Psalms 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me [with thy] free spirit.
6. “Drawing from the Well” brings Life In A Lost Condition! John 4:14 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.
John 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
Conclusion: God has placed within each of us a “well” that eternally flows. Not a “bored” well that depends upon surface water, but a “punched” well. An artesian well that flows from deep within, uninterrupted by the drought conditions of this world. The Samaritian woman went to Jacob’s Well for earthly water and came home with Jesus’ Well of eternal Water!
Blind Bartimaeus
Temple Baptist Church - 11-02-2008
Luke 18:35-43
Introduction:
A. I have been preaching on conversions in the Bible for a few weeks and here we find another wonderful story of such a conversion. There have been several songs written about this particular New Testament event.
1. “Jesus Stood Still.”
2. “Jesus Passed By”
3. “Master, I See.” Etc.
B. The Bible does not specifically say that Bartimaeus was blind from his birth but I believe that we can certainly make that application. Though not specifically said, it is implied in the title of this man found in Mark 10:46b, “blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.” I think of a man that I knew (I will not give his name though some of you will know from the description who he is) who was known as “Dummy So-in-so.” He was not called this in a derogatory way but because he was unable to speak. “Blind Bartimaeus” gives the impression that he was noted for being blind all of his life. A very clear type of mankind, spiritually dead and blind from birth through an adamic nature.
C. I want to look at these few verses that so graphically paint us a picture of the new birth of a sinner.
1. The Condition Of The Lost World – vs. 35 “blind”
Isaiah 9:2 The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.
Romans 2:19 And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness,
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. (They are blinded to their sin, salvation, and the Saviour.)
2. The Mercy Of The Lord – vs. 35 “Jesus…passed by”
Lamentations 3:22 [It is of] the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
Psalms 145:8 The LORD [is] gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; (Grace is unmerited favor. We get what we do not deserve. Mercy is not getting what we do deserve.)
3. The Opportunity Of Salvation – vs. 37 “passed by”
In each of my messages on salvation these past few weeks, we have seen that the Lord came to each of them. The Samaritian woman, the Ethiopian Eunuch, Saul of Tarsus, and not Bartimaeus.
Hebrews 4:7 Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. (No man knows the time of his death of the coming of the Lord. No man has the promise of either tomorrow or of another opportunity to be saved.)
4. The Misery Of The Unsaved – vs. 38 “he cried…have mercy on me”
Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (If you are not laboring or heavy laden, you will not come for rest! When the sinner gets tired of sin, he will seek the Savior!)
5. The Opposition Of The World – vs. 39 “rebuked him, that he should hold his peace”
Mark 5:35 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s [house certain] which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?
Matthew 19:13 Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put [his] hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. (It seems as if every time we witness, there is interruption. Every time a sinner promises to come to church, there is something that interferes.)
6. The Persistence Of The Sinful – vs. 39 “cried so much the more”
Mark 2:4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken [it] up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.
Mark 5:27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.
Luke 19:3-4 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. 4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that [way]. (Nothing can stop the individual who wants to come to Christ!)
7. The Importance Of The Sinner – vs. 40 “Jesus stood” “Jesus stood still”
Luke 15:4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
Luke 15:8 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find [it]?
Luke 15:32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. (One sheep, one coin, and one son. The importance of “one.”)
8. The Obligation Of The Saved – vs. 40 “command…brought unto him”
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (It is the responsibility of ALL!)
9. The Omniscience of The Saviour – vs. 41 “What wilt thou…I shall do”
Matthew 6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. (The Lord knows what we need and where we are!)
10. The Enactment Of Faith – vs. 41 “that I may receive my sight”
Matthew 7:7-11 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? 10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
Romans 10:13, 17 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved…So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (God honors faith and hears the cry of the sinful.)
11. The Effect Of The New Birth – vs. 43
a. He immediately saw
b. He immediately followed
c. He immediately confessed
d. He immediately worshipped
Luke 18:35-43
Introduction:
A. I have been preaching on conversions in the Bible for a few weeks and here we find another wonderful story of such a conversion. There have been several songs written about this particular New Testament event.
1. “Jesus Stood Still.”
2. “Jesus Passed By”
3. “Master, I See.” Etc.
B. The Bible does not specifically say that Bartimaeus was blind from his birth but I believe that we can certainly make that application. Though not specifically said, it is implied in the title of this man found in Mark 10:46b, “blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.” I think of a man that I knew (I will not give his name though some of you will know from the description who he is) who was known as “Dummy So-in-so.” He was not called this in a derogatory way but because he was unable to speak. “Blind Bartimaeus” gives the impression that he was noted for being blind all of his life. A very clear type of mankind, spiritually dead and blind from birth through an adamic nature.
C. I want to look at these few verses that so graphically paint us a picture of the new birth of a sinner.
1. The Condition Of The Lost World – vs. 35 “blind”
Isaiah 9:2 The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.
Romans 2:19 And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness,
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. (They are blinded to their sin, salvation, and the Saviour.)
2. The Mercy Of The Lord – vs. 35 “Jesus…passed by”
Lamentations 3:22 [It is of] the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
Psalms 145:8 The LORD [is] gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; (Grace is unmerited favor. We get what we do not deserve. Mercy is not getting what we do deserve.)
3. The Opportunity Of Salvation – vs. 37 “passed by”
In each of my messages on salvation these past few weeks, we have seen that the Lord came to each of them. The Samaritian woman, the Ethiopian Eunuch, Saul of Tarsus, and not Bartimaeus.
Hebrews 4:7 Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. (No man knows the time of his death of the coming of the Lord. No man has the promise of either tomorrow or of another opportunity to be saved.)
4. The Misery Of The Unsaved – vs. 38 “he cried…have mercy on me”
Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (If you are not laboring or heavy laden, you will not come for rest! When the sinner gets tired of sin, he will seek the Savior!)
5. The Opposition Of The World – vs. 39 “rebuked him, that he should hold his peace”
Mark 5:35 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s [house certain] which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?
Matthew 19:13 Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put [his] hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. (It seems as if every time we witness, there is interruption. Every time a sinner promises to come to church, there is something that interferes.)
6. The Persistence Of The Sinful – vs. 39 “cried so much the more”
Mark 2:4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken [it] up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.
Mark 5:27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.
Luke 19:3-4 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. 4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that [way]. (Nothing can stop the individual who wants to come to Christ!)
7. The Importance Of The Sinner – vs. 40 “Jesus stood” “Jesus stood still”
Luke 15:4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
Luke 15:8 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find [it]?
Luke 15:32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. (One sheep, one coin, and one son. The importance of “one.”)
8. The Obligation Of The Saved – vs. 40 “command…brought unto him”
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (It is the responsibility of ALL!)
9. The Omniscience of The Saviour – vs. 41 “What wilt thou…I shall do”
Matthew 6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. (The Lord knows what we need and where we are!)
10. The Enactment Of Faith – vs. 41 “that I may receive my sight”
Matthew 7:7-11 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? 10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
Romans 10:13, 17 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved…So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (God honors faith and hears the cry of the sinful.)
11. The Effect Of The New Birth – vs. 43
a. He immediately saw
b. He immediately followed
c. He immediately confessed
d. He immediately worshipped
Sunday, October 26, 2008
I Thank God For You
Temple Baptist Church - 10-26-2008
Phil 1:1-7
Introduction:
A. The Philippian Church was a special church – Philippians 4:15-19 (The people cared for the Apostle Paul and did all that they could to take care of him.)
1. In the Bible Belt, there are a lot of churches but very few special ones! It amazes me the concentration of churches in just a few states. It sometimes seems like there is a church on every street. I go down the highway and see an intersection with 4-8 different church signs pointing down a side road.
2. Temple Baptist Church has been a very special church. I cut my spiritual “teeth” in good, fundamental churches but this one has been the best of them all to me.
B. I try to preach on a good cross section of Scripture so that our people will receive the “whole counsel of God.” I preach on sin, salvation, sanctification, service, heaven, hell, and almost everything in between. Most churches would not allow the kind of preaching that I do but the Lord and our people have allowed me to stay here for almost 22 years now and I appreciate it.
C. Sometimes, the pastor needs to have a “Church Member Appreciation Day.” I do both love and appreciate my people. More than you will ever know for you are the family that we left behind. You are the friends that we left behind. You are the purpose of life that we left behind when we left Kentucky some 25+ years ago.
D. On several occasions, the Apostle Paul made public his thankfulness for the people that God had sent him to minister to. I want to look at a few of those verses tonight because they rightly apply to you.
1. I Thank God For Your Salvation - Romans 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called [to be] saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. (I am so glad that you “got in!”)
2. I Thank God for Your Faith - Romans 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. (People know about you around the world. Many times men of God have related to me how that they have used you for an example to other churches for you missions giving.)
Romans 16:19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all [men]. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.
3. I Thank God For Your Testimony - 1 Corinthians 1:4-6 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; 5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; 6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: (When I hear about you from other people, it is always in a positive light. The light of Christ shines in you as they behold your good works.)
4. I Thank God for Your Fellowship - Philippians 1:4-8 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: 7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. 8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. (I love to come to church and just be around you. I love to hear you talk, laugh, and share.)
5. I Thank God For Your Kindness - Philippians 4:15-18 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. (My family has been well taken care of over these years.)
6. I Thank God For Your Faithfulness - Colossians 1:3-6 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love [which ye have] to all the saints, 5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 Which is come unto you, as [it is] in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as [it doth] also in you, since the day ye heard [of it], and knew the grace of God in truth: (We may not have many folks but we do have faithful folks. Our Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and Wednesday night crowds are virtually the same.)
7. I Thank God For Your Labor In The Lord - 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; 3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; (When I needed you, you “stepped up to the plate.” You have filled positions and done the work.)
8. I Thank God for Your Following Your Pastor - 1 Thessalonians 1:6 And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: (Many people are leaders and not followers; they are teachers and not students. I have tried to lead in a right manner and you have followed in a right manner. I would never intentionally hurt any of you and, even when I make mistakes, the Lord straightens it all out.)
9. I thank God For Your Love One For Another - 2 Thessalonians 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; (You are all different. Different personalities; different likes and dislikes; and yet love and respect one another. Praise the Lord for you!)
10. I Thank God For Your Endurance - 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; 4 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: (You keep “hanging in there!” He’s coming and we are leaving!)
Conclusion - 1 Corinthians 16:23-14 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. 24 My love [be] with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Phil 1:1-7
Introduction:
A. The Philippian Church was a special church – Philippians 4:15-19 (The people cared for the Apostle Paul and did all that they could to take care of him.)
1. In the Bible Belt, there are a lot of churches but very few special ones! It amazes me the concentration of churches in just a few states. It sometimes seems like there is a church on every street. I go down the highway and see an intersection with 4-8 different church signs pointing down a side road.
2. Temple Baptist Church has been a very special church. I cut my spiritual “teeth” in good, fundamental churches but this one has been the best of them all to me.
B. I try to preach on a good cross section of Scripture so that our people will receive the “whole counsel of God.” I preach on sin, salvation, sanctification, service, heaven, hell, and almost everything in between. Most churches would not allow the kind of preaching that I do but the Lord and our people have allowed me to stay here for almost 22 years now and I appreciate it.
C. Sometimes, the pastor needs to have a “Church Member Appreciation Day.” I do both love and appreciate my people. More than you will ever know for you are the family that we left behind. You are the friends that we left behind. You are the purpose of life that we left behind when we left Kentucky some 25+ years ago.
D. On several occasions, the Apostle Paul made public his thankfulness for the people that God had sent him to minister to. I want to look at a few of those verses tonight because they rightly apply to you.
1. I Thank God For Your Salvation - Romans 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called [to be] saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. (I am so glad that you “got in!”)
2. I Thank God for Your Faith - Romans 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. (People know about you around the world. Many times men of God have related to me how that they have used you for an example to other churches for you missions giving.)
Romans 16:19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all [men]. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.
3. I Thank God For Your Testimony - 1 Corinthians 1:4-6 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; 5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; 6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: (When I hear about you from other people, it is always in a positive light. The light of Christ shines in you as they behold your good works.)
4. I Thank God for Your Fellowship - Philippians 1:4-8 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: 7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. 8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. (I love to come to church and just be around you. I love to hear you talk, laugh, and share.)
5. I Thank God For Your Kindness - Philippians 4:15-18 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. (My family has been well taken care of over these years.)
6. I Thank God For Your Faithfulness - Colossians 1:3-6 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love [which ye have] to all the saints, 5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 Which is come unto you, as [it is] in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as [it doth] also in you, since the day ye heard [of it], and knew the grace of God in truth: (We may not have many folks but we do have faithful folks. Our Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and Wednesday night crowds are virtually the same.)
7. I Thank God For Your Labor In The Lord - 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; 3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; (When I needed you, you “stepped up to the plate.” You have filled positions and done the work.)
8. I Thank God for Your Following Your Pastor - 1 Thessalonians 1:6 And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: (Many people are leaders and not followers; they are teachers and not students. I have tried to lead in a right manner and you have followed in a right manner. I would never intentionally hurt any of you and, even when I make mistakes, the Lord straightens it all out.)
9. I thank God For Your Love One For Another - 2 Thessalonians 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; (You are all different. Different personalities; different likes and dislikes; and yet love and respect one another. Praise the Lord for you!)
10. I Thank God For Your Endurance - 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; 4 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: (You keep “hanging in there!” He’s coming and we are leaving!)
Conclusion - 1 Corinthians 16:23-14 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. 24 My love [be] with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.
God’s Pattern Of Grace
Temple Baptist Church - 10-26-2008
1 Timothy 1:8-16
Introduction:
A. Over the past couple of weeks, I have been looking at some of the conversions that are detailed in Scripture. I want to look at one so graphic this morning that we refer to as “Apostle Paul Experience.”
B. Many professing salvation have never had a change in life though they claim to have said all of the right things and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ. We often quote to them 2 Corinthians 5:17 which says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
C. Many others experienced radical changes in both their thinking and lifestyles. They are sold out, God loving, obedient to the Scripture Christians. We call that the “Apostle Paul Experience.”
1. The Pursuer became the Pursued.
2. The Punisher became a Preacher.
3. The Boaster became a Believer.
4. The Blasphemer became a Blesser.
5. The Butcher became a Brother.
D. Is such a conversion extraordinary or is it just plain old fashioned salvation? The unchanged professor calls such fanatic or radical Christians. Are we fanatic? Are we radical?
FANATIC - marked by excessive enthusiasm and often intense uncritical devotion. (Sounds like Christianity to me!)
RADICAL - 1 : of, relating to, or proceeding from a root: or growing from the root of a plant. 2 : of or relating to the origin 3 a : marked by a considerable departure from the usual or traditional b : tending or disposed to make extreme changes in existing views, habits, conditions, or institutions. 4 slang: EXCELLENT, COOL (I like this definition also!)
E. Paul told Timothy, under inspiration of the Holy Ghost, that God set forth his conversion as a “pattern” to those who would hereafter believe. In other words, our conversion would follow the same pattern as his because salvation is always the same and always works the same. Then why is there such a great difference in different “conversions?” Let us look at this “Apostle Paul Experience” and then measure our conversion by his God defined one.
1. A Dangerous Condition – vs. 1-2
a. He hated God! Vs. 1 - 1 Timothy 1:13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief. (To speak evil against God. He loved the god of his perception but hated the God of the Bible. As a lost religionist, Paul thought he was right with the Lord.) - vs. 1 – “high priest” - Galatians 1:13-14 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: 14 And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
b. He hated the people of God! Acts 26:9-11 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities. (Religious people hate God’s people.)
c. He hated the things of God! – vs. 2 “of this way” - Galatians 1:13 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:
Galatians 1:23 But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.
Philippians 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.
1 Timothy 1:13-14 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. (Paul honestly thought he was right and yet was an enemy of the church and its work!)
2. A Determined Confrontation – vs. 3-4
a. The providence of God revealed - 1 Corinthians 15:8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.
b. The purpose of God revealed - Galatians 1:15-16 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called [me] by his grace, 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:
3. A Dynamic Conversion – vs. 5-6
a. Revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ – “I am Jesus”
b. Recognition of the his sinfulness – “whom thou persecutest…pricks”
c. Repentance from sin – “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?”
1) It changed his Attitude.
2) It changed his Action.
3) It changed his Appearance.
4) It changed his Associations
4. A Drastic Change – vs. 6, 20
a. A Change of Plans - 6-8
b. A Change of Prayers - 10-11
c. A Change of Purpose - 12-15
d. A Change of Persecution - 16
e. A Change of Profession - 17-18
f. A Change of Preaching - 19-20
g. A Change of Proving - 21-22
1 Timothy 1:8-16
Introduction:
A. Over the past couple of weeks, I have been looking at some of the conversions that are detailed in Scripture. I want to look at one so graphic this morning that we refer to as “Apostle Paul Experience.”
B. Many professing salvation have never had a change in life though they claim to have said all of the right things and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ. We often quote to them 2 Corinthians 5:17 which says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
C. Many others experienced radical changes in both their thinking and lifestyles. They are sold out, God loving, obedient to the Scripture Christians. We call that the “Apostle Paul Experience.”
1. The Pursuer became the Pursued.
2. The Punisher became a Preacher.
3. The Boaster became a Believer.
4. The Blasphemer became a Blesser.
5. The Butcher became a Brother.
D. Is such a conversion extraordinary or is it just plain old fashioned salvation? The unchanged professor calls such fanatic or radical Christians. Are we fanatic? Are we radical?
FANATIC - marked by excessive enthusiasm and often intense uncritical devotion. (Sounds like Christianity to me!)
RADICAL - 1 : of, relating to, or proceeding from a root: or growing from the root of a plant. 2 : of or relating to the origin 3 a : marked by a considerable departure from the usual or traditional b : tending or disposed to make extreme changes in existing views, habits, conditions, or institutions. 4 slang: EXCELLENT, COOL (I like this definition also!)
E. Paul told Timothy, under inspiration of the Holy Ghost, that God set forth his conversion as a “pattern” to those who would hereafter believe. In other words, our conversion would follow the same pattern as his because salvation is always the same and always works the same. Then why is there such a great difference in different “conversions?” Let us look at this “Apostle Paul Experience” and then measure our conversion by his God defined one.
1. A Dangerous Condition – vs. 1-2
a. He hated God! Vs. 1 - 1 Timothy 1:13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief. (To speak evil against God. He loved the god of his perception but hated the God of the Bible. As a lost religionist, Paul thought he was right with the Lord.) - vs. 1 – “high priest” - Galatians 1:13-14 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: 14 And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
b. He hated the people of God! Acts 26:9-11 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities. (Religious people hate God’s people.)
c. He hated the things of God! – vs. 2 “of this way” - Galatians 1:13 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:
Galatians 1:23 But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.
Philippians 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.
1 Timothy 1:13-14 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. (Paul honestly thought he was right and yet was an enemy of the church and its work!)
2. A Determined Confrontation – vs. 3-4
a. The providence of God revealed - 1 Corinthians 15:8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.
b. The purpose of God revealed - Galatians 1:15-16 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called [me] by his grace, 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:
3. A Dynamic Conversion – vs. 5-6
a. Revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ – “I am Jesus”
b. Recognition of the his sinfulness – “whom thou persecutest…pricks”
c. Repentance from sin – “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?”
1) It changed his Attitude.
2) It changed his Action.
3) It changed his Appearance.
4) It changed his Associations
4. A Drastic Change – vs. 6, 20
a. A Change of Plans - 6-8
b. A Change of Prayers - 10-11
c. A Change of Purpose - 12-15
d. A Change of Persecution - 16
e. A Change of Profession - 17-18
f. A Change of Preaching - 19-20
g. A Change of Proving - 21-22
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Suffering And Why?
Temple Baptist Church - 10-22-2008
2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Introduction:
A. One of life's greatest mysteries which is that of suffering. It is a mystery that hard to be understood. I do not pretend to know everything about suffering nor do I pretend to always be a good Christian during these hard times. Super spirituality is a thing of rare beauty.
B. I will not go into an in depth study of this subject but will try to give both myself and you some help for God’s Word. It is easy for me to preach on this subject for the Bible has much to say but it is hard for me to live in light of what I preach when these times of hardship and lack of understanding come.
C. The Apostle Paul suffered much for the cause of Christ and, as far as I can discern, did so with little or no complaining. He gives us some insight in this chapter as to the many ways that he had suffered for the Saviour.
D. In verse 30, he mentions glorying in infirmities. He also alluded to this same glorying in 12:9-10.
E. There are some things that we need to understand about our sufferings. Let us look at these few verses for a moment:
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.
1. Suffering is not a sign that God has forsaken us! These verses tell us that He is with us in our suffering. Hebrews 13:5 [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
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.
2. Suffering is not a sign that God does not love us! Vs. 35, 39 both declare that we cannot be separated from His great love. As Jehovah loved Israel with an everlasting love, so He loves us. A love that never diminishes!
3. Suffering is allowed because it is for our good and God’s glory! Vs. 28
1 Peter 1:6-7 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: 7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
SUFFERINGS ARE A NORMAL PART OF LIVING
1. Every Christian Experiences Trials And Suffering
a. Every child of God shares the suffering that is common to mankind - Job 14:1-2 Man [that is] born of a woman [is] of few days, and full of trouble. 2 He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not. (We are not immune to suffering because we are saved.)
Genesis 47:9 And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of the years of my pilgrimage [are] an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have the days of the years of my life been, and have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.
b. Christians also experience sufferings simply because they are Christians - Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
1 Peter 4:12-14 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy [are ye]; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
2. Trials Are normally Both Intermittent And Short - 1 Peter 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
Psalms 30:5 For his anger [endureth but] a moment; in his favour [is] life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy [cometh] in the morning.
2 Corinthians 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory;
3. Trials Can Become Extremely Severe - 1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: (Job lost all that he had in a matter of a few days!)
4. Trials Come In A Myriad Of Different Ways - 1 Peter 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: (Physical, financial, spiritual, emotional, family, persecutions, etc.)
5. Trials And Tribulations Are Purposeful - 1 Peter 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: (What a blessing that trials and sufferings do not constantly rest upon us in all of their heaviness!)
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.
6. Trials Are Related To Our Future As Well As Our Present - 1 Peter 1:7 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:
SOME THINGS THAT SUFFERINGS ACCOMPLISH
1. Trials Try Our Faith - 1 Peter 1:7 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:
1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
Job 23:10 But he knoweth the way that I take: [when] he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
Psalms 66:10 For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.
Genesis 22:1, 12 And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, [here] I [am]. 12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only [son] from me.
2. Trials Strengthen Our Faith - Mark 4:38 -41 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?
Luke 17:5 And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.
Genesis 30:27 And Laban said unto him, I pray thee, if I have found favour in thine eyes, [tarry: for] I have learned by experience that the LORD hath blessed me for thy sake.
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.
3. Trials Are God’s Means Of Discipline - Hebrews 12:5-13 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? 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 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. 11 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. 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.
1 Peter 4:17 For the time [is come] that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if [it] first [begin] at us, what shall the end [be] of them that obey not the gospel of God?
4. Trials Bring Humility To The Believer - Deuteronomy 8:2-3 And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, [and] to prove thee, to know what [was] in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no. 3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every [word] that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
2 Corinthians 12:7 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.
5. Trials Purify The Believer - 1 Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Job 23:10 But he knoweth the way that I take: [when] he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (Trials cause us to take a close look at our lives and draw us nearer to God.)
6. Trials Prove The Sufficiency Of His Marvelous Grace - 1 Peter 1:7 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:
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].
7. Trials Enable Us To Help Others - 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 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. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. 6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.
8. Trials Make Us Long For Heaven - Philippians 1:21-23 For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
THE SECRETS TO SUFFERING
1. Trust In The Lord - 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.
Psalms 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
2. Keep A Right Attitude - Psalms 37:1 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. (It is so easy to become fretful or disgruntled.)
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.
3. Continue To Do Good – Psalms 37:3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. (Live for the Lord!)
4. Delight In The Lord Instead Of Indict The Lord – Psalms 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
Isaiah 58:14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].
5. Commit Thy Way Unto The Lord – Psalms 37:5 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
1 Peter 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls [to him] in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
6. Rest In The Lord – Psalms 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
7. Wait Upon The Lord - Isaiah 40:31 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.
Psalms 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
8. Rest Assured That He Will Be There For You - 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.
Isaiah 49:15 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.
2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Introduction:
A. One of life's greatest mysteries which is that of suffering. It is a mystery that hard to be understood. I do not pretend to know everything about suffering nor do I pretend to always be a good Christian during these hard times. Super spirituality is a thing of rare beauty.
B. I will not go into an in depth study of this subject but will try to give both myself and you some help for God’s Word. It is easy for me to preach on this subject for the Bible has much to say but it is hard for me to live in light of what I preach when these times of hardship and lack of understanding come.
C. The Apostle Paul suffered much for the cause of Christ and, as far as I can discern, did so with little or no complaining. He gives us some insight in this chapter as to the many ways that he had suffered for the Saviour.
D. In verse 30, he mentions glorying in infirmities. He also alluded to this same glorying in 12:9-10.
E. There are some things that we need to understand about our sufferings. Let us look at these few verses for a moment:
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.
1. Suffering is not a sign that God has forsaken us! These verses tell us that He is with us in our suffering. Hebrews 13:5 [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
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.
2. Suffering is not a sign that God does not love us! Vs. 35, 39 both declare that we cannot be separated from His great love. As Jehovah loved Israel with an everlasting love, so He loves us. A love that never diminishes!
3. Suffering is allowed because it is for our good and God’s glory! Vs. 28
1 Peter 1:6-7 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: 7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
SUFFERINGS ARE A NORMAL PART OF LIVING
1. Every Christian Experiences Trials And Suffering
a. Every child of God shares the suffering that is common to mankind - Job 14:1-2 Man [that is] born of a woman [is] of few days, and full of trouble. 2 He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not. (We are not immune to suffering because we are saved.)
Genesis 47:9 And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of the years of my pilgrimage [are] an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have the days of the years of my life been, and have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.
b. Christians also experience sufferings simply because they are Christians - Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
1 Peter 4:12-14 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy [are ye]; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
2. Trials Are normally Both Intermittent And Short - 1 Peter 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
Psalms 30:5 For his anger [endureth but] a moment; in his favour [is] life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy [cometh] in the morning.
2 Corinthians 4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory;
3. Trials Can Become Extremely Severe - 1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: (Job lost all that he had in a matter of a few days!)
4. Trials Come In A Myriad Of Different Ways - 1 Peter 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: (Physical, financial, spiritual, emotional, family, persecutions, etc.)
5. Trials And Tribulations Are Purposeful - 1 Peter 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: (What a blessing that trials and sufferings do not constantly rest upon us in all of their heaviness!)
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.
6. Trials Are Related To Our Future As Well As Our Present - 1 Peter 1:7 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:
SOME THINGS THAT SUFFERINGS ACCOMPLISH
1. Trials Try Our Faith - 1 Peter 1:7 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:
1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
Job 23:10 But he knoweth the way that I take: [when] he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
Psalms 66:10 For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.
Genesis 22:1, 12 And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, [here] I [am]. 12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only [son] from me.
2. Trials Strengthen Our Faith - Mark 4:38 -41 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?
Luke 17:5 And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.
Genesis 30:27 And Laban said unto him, I pray thee, if I have found favour in thine eyes, [tarry: for] I have learned by experience that the LORD hath blessed me for thy sake.
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.
3. Trials Are God’s Means Of Discipline - Hebrews 12:5-13 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? 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 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. 11 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. 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.
1 Peter 4:17 For the time [is come] that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if [it] first [begin] at us, what shall the end [be] of them that obey not the gospel of God?
4. Trials Bring Humility To The Believer - Deuteronomy 8:2-3 And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, [and] to prove thee, to know what [was] in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no. 3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every [word] that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
2 Corinthians 12:7 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.
5. Trials Purify The Believer - 1 Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Job 23:10 But he knoweth the way that I take: [when] he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (Trials cause us to take a close look at our lives and draw us nearer to God.)
6. Trials Prove The Sufficiency Of His Marvelous Grace - 1 Peter 1:7 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:
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].
7. Trials Enable Us To Help Others - 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 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. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. 6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.
8. Trials Make Us Long For Heaven - Philippians 1:21-23 For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
THE SECRETS TO SUFFERING
1. Trust In The Lord - 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.
Psalms 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
2. Keep A Right Attitude - Psalms 37:1 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. (It is so easy to become fretful or disgruntled.)
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.
3. Continue To Do Good – Psalms 37:3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. (Live for the Lord!)
4. Delight In The Lord Instead Of Indict The Lord – Psalms 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
Isaiah 58:14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].
5. Commit Thy Way Unto The Lord – Psalms 37:5 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
1 Peter 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls [to him] in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
6. Rest In The Lord – Psalms 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
7. Wait Upon The Lord - Isaiah 40:31 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.
Psalms 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
8. Rest Assured That He Will Be There For You - 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.
Isaiah 49:15 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.
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