Temple Baptist Church - 2-22-2009
Psalms 93:1-5
Introduction:
A. As I was reading the Bible the other morning, this phrase “holiness becometh thine house” stood out to me as never before. What a wonderful gift the Lord has given to us: the Bible! You can read and re-read a hundred times the same passage and the thrill of it all is still there.
B. I began to think upon the changes that have taken place in the “house of the Lord” in my short lifetime and it alarmed me. Even we Baptist preachers have “gotten used to the dark!” With eyes on numbers and finances, we have kept in what should have been cast out and let in what should have been kept out!
C. As I look back through history in the Bible, I see the decline in holiness that so “becometh” God’s house. God’s house began with the Tabernacle in the Wilderness where God met with man through blood sacrifices. God’s house was holy! God’s men had to be holy! (Otherwise they died before the Lord) What man offered had to be holy! It had to be the best; be proven; and offered in the right way in order to be accepted. God killed men who offered “strange fire” before the Lord. God killed high priests what ministered in ungodliness.
D. Later came Solomon’s Temple. God met with man there. Once again, holiness became the house of God for a while but men began to offer sacrifices while serving other gods. (Solomon) This Temple was destroyed as Israel went into captivity for 70 years because of their sinfulness.
E. Zerubbabel’s Temple was built at the end of the Babylonish Captivity. During the “Silent 400 years,” Phariseeism took root and “whited sepulchers” began to minister before the Lord. These were the men who cried, “Crucify him!” In the days of our Lord, He twice cleansed the Temple while proclaiming that they had turned the “house of prayer” into a “den of thieves.”
F. In the days of the apostles, we find that false teachers and wicked people who had a “form of godliness” began to permeated the church. Men like Alexander the Coppersmith, Hymenaeus and Alexander, and Diotrephes were prominent in churches around the known world.
G. If “holiness becometh thine house,” then “unholiness” does not become His house!
1. Unholy Preachers Do Not Become God’s House!
1 Timothy 3:1-7 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
2. Unholy Members Do Not Become God’s House!
2 Timothy 3:1-5 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
3. Unholy Dress Does Not Become God’s House! People today come to church as if they were going to some worldly entertainment center such as Six Flags. You do not have to wear a three piece suit to come to church but this is still church! I seen more uncovered flesh in God’s House at times than I do at Wal-Mart! Dips and splits, exposed chests and bosoms, etc. have become the norm. When you bend over and are immodest, you are not dressed right! If you cross your legs and are immodest, you are not dressed right! If you look more like a man than your husband looks, you are not dressed right! Whatever happened to “peculiar people?”
1 Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
4. Unholy Music Does Not Become God’s House! The lyrics and beat of the world do not belong in God’s House! Men still write some good music but Christian Rock is still Rock! The new Contemporary Music is shallow and worldly! Music is important in worship and must be kept holy.
Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
5. Unholy Bibles Do Not Become God’s House! God only wrote one Bible and if it is the Word of God it is perfect. If it is perfect then “things that are different are not the same.” Infallibility, immutability, inspiration, preservation, and purity demand one Bible! We will never allow another to be preached or taught from here at Temple.
Isaiah 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, [it is] because [there is] no light in them.
Psalms 12:6 The words of the LORD [are] pure words: [as] silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.
6. Unholy Methods Do Not Become God’s House! The church methods of soul winning, praying, and teaching have changed to programs that entertain. “Win the lost at any cost” has been expensive! Worldly methods now permeate the church and produce worldly people!
Jeremiah 10:2 Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them.
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.
7. Unholy Doctrines Do Not Become God’s House! We are to teach and preach God’s doctrines, not denominational doctrines. I am a Baptist but first and foremost I am a Biblicist! I love being an old fashioned Baptist preacher but where the Baptist err, I stick with the Bible! We are not ecumenical! We are not liberal! We are not compromised!
John 7:16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
1 Timothy 4:16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
Conclusion: If “holiness becometh thing house” then “unholiness does not become God’s house!” I am not “going off” tonight but I love and care for this church. I want our children to know what it is like to be raised in a good, fundamental church. I want people who visit to be exposed to “old time religion” regardless if they approve or disapprove. I want Temple Baptist Church to been a church that honors God!
(1) Not everyone will approve of Temple! (2) Not everyone will like Temple! (3) Not everyone will stay at Temple!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
The Churches Of Galatia
Temple Baptist Church - 2-11-2009
Galatians 1:1-5
Introduction:
A. Galatia – the highlands of modern day Turkey which were inhabited by the Gauls. It was a Roman province which included Antioch, Lystra, and Derbe.
B. During his first missionary journey (46-48 A.D.), Paul together with Barnabas had the opportunity to establish several churches in the Roman province of Galatia (Ac 13:14- 14:23). On his second trip (49-52 A.D.), Paul and Silas visited them again (Ac 16:1-5). In Acts 15:1-22, the apostles and elders at Jerusalem gave charge to the Apostle Paul and Barnabas concerning treatment of this false doctrine.
C. Paul had preached the Gospel to the Galatians in all of its wonder and purity. Many received Christ and churches were established. False doctrine soon found a “toehold” in the churches and Paul quickly addressed the theological issues at hand. Some Jewish Christians came in and began teaching that Gentile Christians needed to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses (similar to what happened at Antioch of Syria, cf. Ac 15:1).
Acts 15:1-2 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, [and said], Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. (Paul and Barnabas fervently confronted these false teachers! Today’s preachers tend more to accept them under the premise: “Lets agree to disagree agreeably!” Then let us fellowship around the things that we can agree upon.)
D. As we go through the Book of Galatians, it will immediately become evident that this overlooking compromise of “Let us agree to disagree agreeably” is neither the will of God nor is it acceptable to God! There are several things that we need to note at this point about doctrinal impurity and its consequences.
1. Doctrinal Impurity Is Satanic In Nature (Satan uses an undiminished attack to discredit or change the Word of God.)
2. Doctrinal Purity Is Ridiculed In Religion (Ecumenism and acceptance are “politically correct” in Christendom while non-conformity is maligned.)
3. Doctrinal Purity Is Essential In Propagation (True Christianity is always one generation from extinction. It is “faith to faith.”)
4. Doctrinal Purity Is Necessary In Salvation (If faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God; if salvation is by grace through faith alone; if Jesus is the only way of salvation; then salvation must come through belief in the truth of the gospel.)
E. The word “doctrine” is basically a New Testament word. It is found 55x in the Bible with only six of these times located in the Old Testament. Doctrine is both important and imperative in its nature.
1. There Are Two Forms Of Doctrine – True and False
a) True Doctrine Which Is Of God - Job 11:4 For thou hast said, My doctrine [is] pure, and I am clean in thine eyes.
b) False Doctrine Which Is Of Satan – 1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Matthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.
Ephesians 4:14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
2. False Doctrine Is Hated Of God - Revelation 2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.
Psalms 119:104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
Psalms 119:128 Therefore I esteem all [thy] precepts [concerning] all [things to be] right; [and] I hate every false way.
F. True doctrine brings about spiritual growth while false doctrine brings about deception and destruction. Most Christians have been falsely taught that other denominations who preach false doctrine are to be accepted under the premise of love. At this point, I want you to understand that it is the false doctrine that is hated and not the person! The rebuke that Paul gave was within the churches. He reasoned with the false believers outside of the churches.
G. There are two major areas of false doctrine that Paul will deal with here in the Epistle to the Galatians and these two doctrines work hand-in-hand:
1. The way of salvation is partly by faith through grace and partly by works and obedience to the Law: Law vs. Grace. **Galatians 1:6
2. The security of the believer depends upon good works and obedience to the Law: Works vs. Faith. **Galatians 3:1-3
H. What makes these two areas of false doctrine so “socially” acceptable?
1. This theology is widely accepted because it is satanic in nature. 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.
2. This theology is widely accepted because it tends to make sense in human reasoning. 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.
1. We Are To Continue Steadfastly in Sound Doctrine - Acts 2:42 And they continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2. We Are To Guard Against False Doctrine - 2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
1 Timothy 1:3 As I besought thee to abide stil at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine.
3. We Are To Teach Sound Doctrine - 1 Timothy 4:13, 16 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.
4. We Are To Rebuke False Doctrine - Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; (Notice that this not a casual or loving rebuke. It is to be done sharply! False doctrine is a devastator and must be dealt with as you would a rattlesnake or black widow spider.)
Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.
5. We Are To Separate From False Doctrine - 2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourself from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which ye received of us.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railing, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: for such withdraw thyself.
2 John 10-11 If there come any unto you, bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed; For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. (In our day, false teachings are fostered by misplaced hospitality!)
Galatians 1:1-5
Introduction:
A. Galatia – the highlands of modern day Turkey which were inhabited by the Gauls. It was a Roman province which included Antioch, Lystra, and Derbe.
B. During his first missionary journey (46-48 A.D.), Paul together with Barnabas had the opportunity to establish several churches in the Roman province of Galatia (Ac 13:14- 14:23). On his second trip (49-52 A.D.), Paul and Silas visited them again (Ac 16:1-5). In Acts 15:1-22, the apostles and elders at Jerusalem gave charge to the Apostle Paul and Barnabas concerning treatment of this false doctrine.
C. Paul had preached the Gospel to the Galatians in all of its wonder and purity. Many received Christ and churches were established. False doctrine soon found a “toehold” in the churches and Paul quickly addressed the theological issues at hand. Some Jewish Christians came in and began teaching that Gentile Christians needed to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses (similar to what happened at Antioch of Syria, cf. Ac 15:1).
Acts 15:1-2 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, [and said], Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. (Paul and Barnabas fervently confronted these false teachers! Today’s preachers tend more to accept them under the premise: “Lets agree to disagree agreeably!” Then let us fellowship around the things that we can agree upon.)
D. As we go through the Book of Galatians, it will immediately become evident that this overlooking compromise of “Let us agree to disagree agreeably” is neither the will of God nor is it acceptable to God! There are several things that we need to note at this point about doctrinal impurity and its consequences.
1. Doctrinal Impurity Is Satanic In Nature (Satan uses an undiminished attack to discredit or change the Word of God.)
2. Doctrinal Purity Is Ridiculed In Religion (Ecumenism and acceptance are “politically correct” in Christendom while non-conformity is maligned.)
3. Doctrinal Purity Is Essential In Propagation (True Christianity is always one generation from extinction. It is “faith to faith.”)
4. Doctrinal Purity Is Necessary In Salvation (If faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God; if salvation is by grace through faith alone; if Jesus is the only way of salvation; then salvation must come through belief in the truth of the gospel.)
E. The word “doctrine” is basically a New Testament word. It is found 55x in the Bible with only six of these times located in the Old Testament. Doctrine is both important and imperative in its nature.
1. There Are Two Forms Of Doctrine – True and False
a) True Doctrine Which Is Of God - Job 11:4 For thou hast said, My doctrine [is] pure, and I am clean in thine eyes.
b) False Doctrine Which Is Of Satan – 1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Matthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.
Ephesians 4:14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
2. False Doctrine Is Hated Of God - Revelation 2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.
Psalms 119:104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
Psalms 119:128 Therefore I esteem all [thy] precepts [concerning] all [things to be] right; [and] I hate every false way.
F. True doctrine brings about spiritual growth while false doctrine brings about deception and destruction. Most Christians have been falsely taught that other denominations who preach false doctrine are to be accepted under the premise of love. At this point, I want you to understand that it is the false doctrine that is hated and not the person! The rebuke that Paul gave was within the churches. He reasoned with the false believers outside of the churches.
G. There are two major areas of false doctrine that Paul will deal with here in the Epistle to the Galatians and these two doctrines work hand-in-hand:
1. The way of salvation is partly by faith through grace and partly by works and obedience to the Law: Law vs. Grace. **Galatians 1:6
2. The security of the believer depends upon good works and obedience to the Law: Works vs. Faith. **Galatians 3:1-3
H. What makes these two areas of false doctrine so “socially” acceptable?
1. This theology is widely accepted because it is satanic in nature. 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.
2. This theology is widely accepted because it tends to make sense in human reasoning. 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.
1. We Are To Continue Steadfastly in Sound Doctrine - Acts 2:42 And they continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2. We Are To Guard Against False Doctrine - 2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
1 Timothy 1:3 As I besought thee to abide stil at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine.
3. We Are To Teach Sound Doctrine - 1 Timothy 4:13, 16 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.
4. We Are To Rebuke False Doctrine - Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; (Notice that this not a casual or loving rebuke. It is to be done sharply! False doctrine is a devastator and must be dealt with as you would a rattlesnake or black widow spider.)
Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.
5. We Are To Separate From False Doctrine - 2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourself from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which ye received of us.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railing, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: for such withdraw thyself.
2 John 10-11 If there come any unto you, bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed; For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. (In our day, false teachings are fostered by misplaced hospitality!)
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Lord Our Sanctuary
Temple Baptist Church - 2-15-2009
Psalms 91:1-16
Introduction:
A. One of the most notable and quotable of all Psalms is the 91st. I remember, during the last days of Bro. Merrill Smith’s life, I read this Psalm to him over and over again. He would close his eyes and listen as I read and the peace of God was in his heart as I finished. The wonder of this Psalm never grew old to him.
B. It is a Psalm that describes the life of the believer from the moment of his salvation until he finally reaches home. In these verses we find:
1. Jesus Christ Is The Place Of Our Dwelling
2. Jesus Christ Is The Person Of Our Distress
3. Jesus Christ Is The Promise Of Our Defense
4. Jesus Christ Is The Peace Of Our Deliverance
5. Jesus Christ Is The Pleasures Of Our Days
C. The child of God is not exempt from all problems but is given the blessed assurance that God will be there with us and for us through them all and in verse 16 says, “With long life will I satisfy him.” Long life is not necessarily satisfying in itself. Many people live a long, regrettable life. They either destroy their lives or end up in an old folks home or nursing home for years with little or no visits. I had rather go on to Heaven personally.
D. Here we find the promise of being satisfied with a long life! Life is not made up of what you have here.
Luke 12:15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
E. Satisfaction of life consists of who and what you are. It consists of what you have done with and for Christ. It consists of contentment with what you have and not what you do not have.
1. You cannot find your satisfaction in the things of the world because they are subject to change.
2. You cannot find your satisfaction in monetary things because they can take wings and fly.
3. You cannot find your satisfaction in people alone because they can turn on you.
F. You can be saved and know it and, yet, dissatisfied and remorseful when you come to old age. God wants us to prosper.
3 John 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
G. Here are a few things that we need to find our satisfaction in.
1. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Conversion – Our Dwelling
a. Contentment In His Salvation - Psalms 90:14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. (Where would I be without Christ?)
b. Contentment In His Sanctuary - Psalms 36:8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
Psalms 65:4 Blessed [is the man whom] thou choosest, and causest to approach [unto thee, that] he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, [even] of thy holy temple. (Where would I be without the Church?)
2. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Circumstances – Our Dilemmas
a. Contentment With His Goodness In Problems - Psalms 37:19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. (I am not always spiritual enough to like problems but His hand still satisfies in them.)
b. Contentment With His Guidance In Problems - Isaiah 58:11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. (When I do not know what to do I just learn to “let her drive” and God controls through His sovereign providence and protection.)
3. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Contentment – Our Desires
a. Contentment With His Provisions - Psalms 132:15 I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. (I have enough!)
Proverbs 12:11 He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain [persons is] void of understanding.
Proverbs 12:14 A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of [his] mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.
Jeremiah 31:14 And I will satiate the soul of the priests with fatness, and my people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the LORD.
1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
b. Contentment With His Protection, Promises, and Person - 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.
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. (I am His and I am in His hand!)
4. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Commitment – Our Dependence
a. Content With My Preservation - 2 Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. (I have eternal, everlasting, forever and ever life!!! Eternally secure and safe!)
b. Content With My Prospect - Psalms 17:15 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
1 John 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. (One day soon, it will be over. I will be in Heaven with Him. I will have a new body. I will have a new home. I will have all that He has. I know that I shall be eternally satisfied!)
Psalms 91:1-16
Introduction:
A. One of the most notable and quotable of all Psalms is the 91st. I remember, during the last days of Bro. Merrill Smith’s life, I read this Psalm to him over and over again. He would close his eyes and listen as I read and the peace of God was in his heart as I finished. The wonder of this Psalm never grew old to him.
B. It is a Psalm that describes the life of the believer from the moment of his salvation until he finally reaches home. In these verses we find:
1. Jesus Christ Is The Place Of Our Dwelling
2. Jesus Christ Is The Person Of Our Distress
3. Jesus Christ Is The Promise Of Our Defense
4. Jesus Christ Is The Peace Of Our Deliverance
5. Jesus Christ Is The Pleasures Of Our Days
C. The child of God is not exempt from all problems but is given the blessed assurance that God will be there with us and for us through them all and in verse 16 says, “With long life will I satisfy him.” Long life is not necessarily satisfying in itself. Many people live a long, regrettable life. They either destroy their lives or end up in an old folks home or nursing home for years with little or no visits. I had rather go on to Heaven personally.
D. Here we find the promise of being satisfied with a long life! Life is not made up of what you have here.
Luke 12:15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
E. Satisfaction of life consists of who and what you are. It consists of what you have done with and for Christ. It consists of contentment with what you have and not what you do not have.
1. You cannot find your satisfaction in the things of the world because they are subject to change.
2. You cannot find your satisfaction in monetary things because they can take wings and fly.
3. You cannot find your satisfaction in people alone because they can turn on you.
F. You can be saved and know it and, yet, dissatisfied and remorseful when you come to old age. God wants us to prosper.
3 John 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
G. Here are a few things that we need to find our satisfaction in.
1. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Conversion – Our Dwelling
a. Contentment In His Salvation - Psalms 90:14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. (Where would I be without Christ?)
b. Contentment In His Sanctuary - Psalms 36:8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
Psalms 65:4 Blessed [is the man whom] thou choosest, and causest to approach [unto thee, that] he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, [even] of thy holy temple. (Where would I be without the Church?)
2. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Circumstances – Our Dilemmas
a. Contentment With His Goodness In Problems - Psalms 37:19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. (I am not always spiritual enough to like problems but His hand still satisfies in them.)
b. Contentment With His Guidance In Problems - Isaiah 58:11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. (When I do not know what to do I just learn to “let her drive” and God controls through His sovereign providence and protection.)
3. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Contentment – Our Desires
a. Contentment With His Provisions - Psalms 132:15 I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. (I have enough!)
Proverbs 12:11 He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain [persons is] void of understanding.
Proverbs 12:14 A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of [his] mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.
Jeremiah 31:14 And I will satiate the soul of the priests with fatness, and my people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the LORD.
1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
b. Contentment With His Protection, Promises, and Person - 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.
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. (I am His and I am in His hand!)
4. We Can Find Satisfaction In Our Commitment – Our Dependence
a. Content With My Preservation - 2 Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. (I have eternal, everlasting, forever and ever life!!! Eternally secure and safe!)
b. Content With My Prospect - Psalms 17:15 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
1 John 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. (One day soon, it will be over. I will be in Heaven with Him. I will have a new body. I will have a new home. I will have all that He has. I know that I shall be eternally satisfied!)
The Word Of God
Temple Baptist Church - 2-15-2009
2 Timothy 3:14-17
Introduction:
A. We live in days where God’s Word has become a “take it or leave it” theology among both the lost and many professing saints. How convenient! Take what you want and throw out what you do not. Live by what you like and dismiss what you do not like.
B. The doctrine of the Word of God is the most important of all doctrines because it is in this King James Bible that I hold in my hand that we find the basis for every doctrine that we believe.
C. No wonder the Bible says “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?”
D. There is no room for compromise when it comes to the precious doctrines of inspiration, preservation, purity, and authority of the Bible. Here I stand!
1. The Bible Is An Inspired Book – 2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (Literally God breathed!)
2 Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake [as they were] moved by the Holy Ghost.
2. The Bible Is A Pure Book - Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God [is] pure: he [is] a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
3. The Bible Is A Settled Book - Psalms 119:89 For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. (You can believe it or not. It does not shake either God’s promise nor my confidence in this book!)
4. The Bible Is A Magnified Book - Psalms 138:2 I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.
E. This Bible is both true and works! Here are some reasons that it is so rejected:
1. God’s Word Confounds The Wicked - 1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.
2. God’s Word Convicts The Sinner - Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
3. God’s Word Converts The Seeker - 1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
4. God’s Word Cleanses The Saint - Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Psalms 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed [thereto] according to thy word.
John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
5. God’s Word Calms The Fearful - Isaiah 48:18 O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea:
Psalms 119:49 Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.
6. God’s Word Comforts The Bereaved - John 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
1 Thessalonians 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
7. God’s Word Condemns The Rejecter - John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Revelation 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
2 Timothy 3:14-17
Introduction:
A. We live in days where God’s Word has become a “take it or leave it” theology among both the lost and many professing saints. How convenient! Take what you want and throw out what you do not. Live by what you like and dismiss what you do not like.
B. The doctrine of the Word of God is the most important of all doctrines because it is in this King James Bible that I hold in my hand that we find the basis for every doctrine that we believe.
C. No wonder the Bible says “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?”
D. There is no room for compromise when it comes to the precious doctrines of inspiration, preservation, purity, and authority of the Bible. Here I stand!
1. The Bible Is An Inspired Book – 2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (Literally God breathed!)
2 Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake [as they were] moved by the Holy Ghost.
2. The Bible Is A Pure Book - Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God [is] pure: he [is] a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
3. The Bible Is A Settled Book - Psalms 119:89 For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. (You can believe it or not. It does not shake either God’s promise nor my confidence in this book!)
4. The Bible Is A Magnified Book - Psalms 138:2 I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.
E. This Bible is both true and works! Here are some reasons that it is so rejected:
1. God’s Word Confounds The Wicked - 1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.
2. God’s Word Convicts The Sinner - Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
3. God’s Word Converts The Seeker - 1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
4. God’s Word Cleanses The Saint - Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
Psalms 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed [thereto] according to thy word.
John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
5. God’s Word Calms The Fearful - Isaiah 48:18 O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea:
Psalms 119:49 Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.
6. God’s Word Comforts The Bereaved - John 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
1 Thessalonians 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
7. God’s Word Condemns The Rejecter - John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Revelation 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The Churches Of Galatia
Temple Baptist Church - 2-11-2009
Galatians 1:1-5
Introduction:
A. Galatia – the highlands of modern day Turkey which were inhabited by the Gauls. It was a Roman province which included Antioch, Lystra, and Derbe.
B. During his first missionary journey (46-48 A.D.), Paul together with Barnabas had the opportunity to establish several churches in the Roman province of Galatia (Ac 13:14- 14:23). On his second trip (49-52 A.D.), Paul and Silas visited them again (Ac 16:1-5). In Acts 15:1-22, the apostles and elders at Jerusalem gave charge to the Apostle Paul and Barnabas concerning treatment of this false doctrine.
C. Paul had preached the Gospel to the Galatians in all of its wonder and purity. Many received Christ and churches were established. False doctrine soon found a “toehold” in the churches and Paul quickly addressed the theological issues at hand. Some Jewish Christians came in and began teaching that Gentile Christians needed to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses (similar to what happened at Antioch of Syria, cf. Ac 15:1).
Acts 15:1-2 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, [and said], Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. (Paul and Barnabas fervently confronted these false teachers! Today’s preachers tend more to accept them under the premise: “Lets agree to disagree agreeably!” Then let us fellowship around the things that we can agree upon.)
D. As we go through the Book of Galatians, it will immediately become evident that this overlooking compromise is neither the will of God nor is it acceptable to God!
E. The word “doctrine” is basically a New Testament word. It is found 55x in the Bible with only six of these times located in the Old Testament. Doctrine is both important and imperative in its nature.
1. There Are Two Forms Of Doctrine – True and False
a) True Doctrine Which Is Of God - Job 11:4 For thou hast said, My doctrine [is] pure, and I am clean in thine eyes.
b) False Doctrine Which Is Of Satan – 1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Matthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.
Ephesians 4:14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
2. False Doctrine Is Hated Of God - Revelation 2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.
Psalms 119:104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
Psalms 119:128 Therefore I esteem all [thy] precepts [concerning] all [things to be] right; [and] I hate every false way.
F. True doctrine brings about spiritual growth while false doctrine brings about deception and destruction. Most Christians have been falsely taught that other denominations who preach false doctrine are to be accepted under the premise of love. At this point, I want you to understand that it is the false doctrine that is hated and not the person! The rebuke that Paul gave was within the churches. He reasoned with the false believers outside of the churches.
G. There are two major areas of false doctrine that Paul will deal with here in the Epistle to the Galatians and these two doctrines work hand-in-hand:
1. The way of salvation is partly by faith through grace and partly by works and obedience to the Law: Law vs. Grace. Galatians 1:6
2. The security of the believer depends upon good works and obedience to the Law: Works vs. Faith. Galatians 3:1-3
H. What makes these two areas of false doctrine so “socially” acceptable?
1. This theology is widely accepted because it is satanic in nature.
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.
2. This theology is widely accepted because it tends to make sense in human reasoning. 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.
1. We Are To Continue Steadfastly in Sound Doctrine - Acts 2:42 And they continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and follwoship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2. We Are To Guard Against False Doctrine - 2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
1 Timothy 1:3 As I besought thee to abide stil at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine.
3. We Are To Teach Sound Doctrine - 1 Timothy 4:13, 16 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.
4. We Are To Rebuke False Doctrine - Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; (Notice that this not a casual or loving rebuke. It is to be done sharply! False doctrine is a devastator and must be dealt with as you would a rattlesnake or black widow spider.)
Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.
5. We Are To Separate From False Doctrine - 2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourself from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which ye received of us.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railing, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: for such withdraw thyself.
2 John 10-11 If there come any unto you, bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed; For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. (In our day, false teachings are fostered by misplaced hospitality!)
Galatians 1:1-5
Introduction:
A. Galatia – the highlands of modern day Turkey which were inhabited by the Gauls. It was a Roman province which included Antioch, Lystra, and Derbe.
B. During his first missionary journey (46-48 A.D.), Paul together with Barnabas had the opportunity to establish several churches in the Roman province of Galatia (Ac 13:14- 14:23). On his second trip (49-52 A.D.), Paul and Silas visited them again (Ac 16:1-5). In Acts 15:1-22, the apostles and elders at Jerusalem gave charge to the Apostle Paul and Barnabas concerning treatment of this false doctrine.
C. Paul had preached the Gospel to the Galatians in all of its wonder and purity. Many received Christ and churches were established. False doctrine soon found a “toehold” in the churches and Paul quickly addressed the theological issues at hand. Some Jewish Christians came in and began teaching that Gentile Christians needed to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses (similar to what happened at Antioch of Syria, cf. Ac 15:1).
Acts 15:1-2 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, [and said], Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. 2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. (Paul and Barnabas fervently confronted these false teachers! Today’s preachers tend more to accept them under the premise: “Lets agree to disagree agreeably!” Then let us fellowship around the things that we can agree upon.)
D. As we go through the Book of Galatians, it will immediately become evident that this overlooking compromise is neither the will of God nor is it acceptable to God!
E. The word “doctrine” is basically a New Testament word. It is found 55x in the Bible with only six of these times located in the Old Testament. Doctrine is both important and imperative in its nature.
1. There Are Two Forms Of Doctrine – True and False
a) True Doctrine Which Is Of God - Job 11:4 For thou hast said, My doctrine [is] pure, and I am clean in thine eyes.
b) False Doctrine Which Is Of Satan – 1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Matthew 15:9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.
Ephesians 4:14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
2. False Doctrine Is Hated Of God - Revelation 2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.
Psalms 119:104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
Psalms 119:128 Therefore I esteem all [thy] precepts [concerning] all [things to be] right; [and] I hate every false way.
F. True doctrine brings about spiritual growth while false doctrine brings about deception and destruction. Most Christians have been falsely taught that other denominations who preach false doctrine are to be accepted under the premise of love. At this point, I want you to understand that it is the false doctrine that is hated and not the person! The rebuke that Paul gave was within the churches. He reasoned with the false believers outside of the churches.
G. There are two major areas of false doctrine that Paul will deal with here in the Epistle to the Galatians and these two doctrines work hand-in-hand:
1. The way of salvation is partly by faith through grace and partly by works and obedience to the Law: Law vs. Grace. Galatians 1:6
2. The security of the believer depends upon good works and obedience to the Law: Works vs. Faith. Galatians 3:1-3
H. What makes these two areas of false doctrine so “socially” acceptable?
1. This theology is widely accepted because it is satanic in nature.
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.
2. This theology is widely accepted because it tends to make sense in human reasoning. 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.
1. We Are To Continue Steadfastly in Sound Doctrine - Acts 2:42 And they continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and follwoship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2. We Are To Guard Against False Doctrine - 2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
1 Timothy 1:3 As I besought thee to abide stil at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine.
3. We Are To Teach Sound Doctrine - 1 Timothy 4:13, 16 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.
4. We Are To Rebuke False Doctrine - Titus 1:13 This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; (Notice that this not a casual or loving rebuke. It is to be done sharply! False doctrine is a devastator and must be dealt with as you would a rattlesnake or black widow spider.)
Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.
5. We Are To Separate From False Doctrine - 2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourself from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which ye received of us.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railing, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: for such withdraw thyself.
2 John 10-11 If there come any unto you, bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed; For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. (In our day, false teachings are fostered by misplaced hospitality!)
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Walk Circumspectly
Temple Baptist Church - 2-8-2009
Ephesian 5:15-17
Introduction:
A. I have been preaching on aspects of the Christian Walk for the past couple of weeks and tonight, I want to preach on “Walk Circumspectly.” It is of the utmost importance that we, as believers, have a godly testimony in this present evil world for we are all of Christ that this world see.
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.
B. As God’s dear children, we are admonished to live separate, holy lives—not unholy, conformed to this world ones. The world has adversely affected the church with its ever present influence instead of the church affecting the world.
C. In these verses, the world “circumspectly” is used to describe our manner of walk.
Circumspectly - exactly, accurately, diligently, cautiously, looking around on every side.
Circumscribe - to draw a line around, to enclose within a certain limit, limited by bounds
D. The Holy Spirit vividly describes both the un-circumspect and the circumspect walks with two words: “Not as fools, but as wise.”
1. Fool 1) One who is destitute of reason, or the common powers of understanding; an idiot. A person who is somewhat deficient in intellect, but not an idiot; or a person who acts absurdly; one who does not exercise his reason; one who pursues a course contrary to the dictates of wisdom. In scripture, fool is often used for a wicked or depraved person; one who acts contrary to sound wisdom in his moral deportment; one who follows his own inclinations, who prefers trifling and temporary pleasures to the service of God and eternal happiness.
a. The fool will sacrifice the eternal on the altar of the temporal. “He is no fool who gives up that which he cannot keep in order to gain that which he cannot lose.”
b. The fool will sacrifice God’s will on the altar of self-will.
c. Deuteronomy 30:15 See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil;
2. Wise – 1) Having knowledge; knowing; enlightened; of extensive information; learned. 2) Hence, especially, making due use of knowledge; discerning and judging soundly concerning what is true or false, proper or improper; choosing the best ends and the best means for accomplishing them; sagacious.
E. Walking circumspectly – Within the boundary or circle.
1. Walk In The Circumference Of Obedience – vs. 1
2. Walk In The Circumference Of Love – vs. 2
3. Walk The Circumference Of Purity – vs. 3
4. Walk In The Circumference Of Sobriety – vs. 4
5. Walk In The Circumference Of Fear – vs. 5-7
6. Walk In The Circumference Of Light – vs. 8-9
7. Walk In The Circumference Of Excellency – vs. 10
8. Walk In The Circumference Of Separation – vs. 11-13
9. Walk In The Circumference Of Watchfulness – vs. 14
10. Walk In The Circumference Of Expectancy – vs. 15
Ephesian 5:15-17
Introduction:
A. I have been preaching on aspects of the Christian Walk for the past couple of weeks and tonight, I want to preach on “Walk Circumspectly.” It is of the utmost importance that we, as believers, have a godly testimony in this present evil world for we are all of Christ that this world see.
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.
B. As God’s dear children, we are admonished to live separate, holy lives—not unholy, conformed to this world ones. The world has adversely affected the church with its ever present influence instead of the church affecting the world.
C. In these verses, the world “circumspectly” is used to describe our manner of walk.
Circumspectly - exactly, accurately, diligently, cautiously, looking around on every side.
Circumscribe - to draw a line around, to enclose within a certain limit, limited by bounds
D. The Holy Spirit vividly describes both the un-circumspect and the circumspect walks with two words: “Not as fools, but as wise.”
1. Fool 1) One who is destitute of reason, or the common powers of understanding; an idiot. A person who is somewhat deficient in intellect, but not an idiot; or a person who acts absurdly; one who does not exercise his reason; one who pursues a course contrary to the dictates of wisdom. In scripture, fool is often used for a wicked or depraved person; one who acts contrary to sound wisdom in his moral deportment; one who follows his own inclinations, who prefers trifling and temporary pleasures to the service of God and eternal happiness.
a. The fool will sacrifice the eternal on the altar of the temporal. “He is no fool who gives up that which he cannot keep in order to gain that which he cannot lose.”
b. The fool will sacrifice God’s will on the altar of self-will.
c. Deuteronomy 30:15 See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil;
2. Wise – 1) Having knowledge; knowing; enlightened; of extensive information; learned. 2) Hence, especially, making due use of knowledge; discerning and judging soundly concerning what is true or false, proper or improper; choosing the best ends and the best means for accomplishing them; sagacious.
E. Walking circumspectly – Within the boundary or circle.
1. Walk In The Circumference Of Obedience – vs. 1
2. Walk In The Circumference Of Love – vs. 2
3. Walk The Circumference Of Purity – vs. 3
4. Walk In The Circumference Of Sobriety – vs. 4
5. Walk In The Circumference Of Fear – vs. 5-7
6. Walk In The Circumference Of Light – vs. 8-9
7. Walk In The Circumference Of Excellency – vs. 10
8. Walk In The Circumference Of Separation – vs. 11-13
9. Walk In The Circumference Of Watchfulness – vs. 14
10. Walk In The Circumference Of Expectancy – vs. 15
The Eternal God Is Thy Refuge
Temple Baptist Church - 2-8-2009
Deuteronomy 33:26-29
Introduction:
A. The years of wandering are now over for Israel. Once again they stand upon the threshold of the land “flowing with milk and honey.” Forty years is a long time and the Israelites have no doubt gotten comfortable with their fate. God has cared for their every need, they have faced little adversity from enemies, Moses has been staunch in his leadership, and little has been required of them. A generation has now passed away who doubted the God of Israel in the presence of the land of Canaan with all of its seemingly impossibilities.
B. Israel now faces a two-fold dilemma as they approach the land:
1. They will now face the giants “greater and taller than we” as well as cities “walled up to heaven!” The giants are no smaller and they have probably heard many stories about them over the years by those who turned back in discouragement. The walled cities loom as opposing in the skyline as ever, seemingly impregnable structures that cannot be breached.
2. Moses is not going to lead the people into Canaan’s land! (34:7-10) He is now to be replaced by Joshua. Though Joshua is a great man in the eyes of the people, he is not Moses!
C. What an awesome prospect that must have been! Here in these verses, Moses speaks his last to his people as he prepares to be “gathered unto his people” as God had said. These last verses of his are to encourage the people to push forward under their new leadership with the confidence that God would not let them down. As it was 40 years ago, victory was assured. God had promised and Moses assured the people that He was able to deliver the land with its inhabitants into Israel’s hand.
D. Moses instilled confidence into Israel by placing their confidence in Jehovah God. What a wonderful thing, the knowledge of just who or God is! I am glad that the God of Israel is my God! In these days, we also face giants who inhabit cities walled up to Heaven and yet the promises to Israel are also promises to us. We will always find God faithful to His purposes as well as to His people.
1. Our God Is One Of A Kind – vs. 26 (There was none before Him; there is none co-existent with Him; and there will be none after Him. There is none like Him!)
a. There Is None Like Him In His Power – All Power in Heaven and in Earth is His! No job too hard; no enemy too tough; no task impossible!
b. There Is None Like Him In His Performance – What God does is done right! What God does is done in a right way! What God does brings a right result!
c. There Is None Like Him In His Perpetuality – He is the eternal and unchanging God! He never goes to sleep or takes a break. In prayer He does not “lose a signal!” He takes no vacations or time off. He is and always will be there for us!
2. Our God Is Active In Our Help – vs. 26 (Did one ever have a Friend so faithful? Others may want to help and even try to help but the Lord IS our Help!)
a. His Help Is Promised – Our help cometh from the Lord! Vain is the help of man, horses, or princes! The arm of flesh will fail you. The Lord is our Confidence.
b. His Help Is Present – A very present help in time of need! Very present and always on time! Never early and never late, our Lord is always there.
c. His Help Is Purposed – He does not give us what we want when we want it. He gives us what we need when we need it!
3. Our God Is A Refuge In The Time Of Trouble – vs. 27 (The Lord is more than just a place to “run to,” He is a place of abode! Hid with Christ in God is more theology that I can explain. It is a place of permanent residence in the “Beloved!”)
a. He Is A Covert In The Storm - When The Whirlwind Comes! When the clouds swirl about us and the wind blows, we stand secure!
b. He Is A Castle In The Battle - When The Enemy Approaches! When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will raise a standard against him!
c. He Is A Comfort In The Night - When Sorrows Like Sea Billows Roll! In the night of deep despair, my faith keeps telling me He is there!
4. Our God Is Able To Keep Us From Falling – vs. 27 (We cannot fall so deep into distress or so low in affliction that the grace of an ever-faithful God will not still encircle us!)
a. Our Foundation Is Secure – Our feet are upon the Rock of Ages! God Himself is our sole support. It is upon Him that we stand firm. I’m standing on the Rock of Ages, safe from every storm that rages.
b. Our Steps Are Sure – Our goings have been forever established! Our path shines brighter as the darkness of this world deepens. The Word is our Lamp and Light as the Spirit is our Guide!
c. Our Way Is Straight – He both girds us and undergirds us. We may fail but we will never fall!
5. Our God Will Defeat Our Enemies – vs. 27 (I does me well to remember that the battle is the Lord’s and He cannot be defeated!)
a. Our God Will Stand With Us – He will never leave nor forsake us!
b. Our God Will Fight For Us – If the Lord is for us, who can be against us?
1) There Are No Giants Too Tall For God
2) There Are No Walled Cities Too High For God
3) There Are No Devils Too Powerful For God
c. Our God Assures Us Of Victory – vs. 29
1) God Will Expose Them
2) God Will Enthrone Thee
6. Our God Will Keep Us Both Safe And Secure – vs. 28 (The horse is prepared against the day of battle but safety is of the Lord!)
a. We Are Kept Safe Spiritually – He gives us eternal life. Eternally secure!
b. We Are Kept Safe Physically – Psalms 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
Conclusion: Moses told Israel, “Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places.” What a wonderful God we have this morning! He knows all of our needs and makes sure that they are met.
Deuteronomy 33:26-29
Introduction:
A. The years of wandering are now over for Israel. Once again they stand upon the threshold of the land “flowing with milk and honey.” Forty years is a long time and the Israelites have no doubt gotten comfortable with their fate. God has cared for their every need, they have faced little adversity from enemies, Moses has been staunch in his leadership, and little has been required of them. A generation has now passed away who doubted the God of Israel in the presence of the land of Canaan with all of its seemingly impossibilities.
B. Israel now faces a two-fold dilemma as they approach the land:
1. They will now face the giants “greater and taller than we” as well as cities “walled up to heaven!” The giants are no smaller and they have probably heard many stories about them over the years by those who turned back in discouragement. The walled cities loom as opposing in the skyline as ever, seemingly impregnable structures that cannot be breached.
2. Moses is not going to lead the people into Canaan’s land! (34:7-10) He is now to be replaced by Joshua. Though Joshua is a great man in the eyes of the people, he is not Moses!
C. What an awesome prospect that must have been! Here in these verses, Moses speaks his last to his people as he prepares to be “gathered unto his people” as God had said. These last verses of his are to encourage the people to push forward under their new leadership with the confidence that God would not let them down. As it was 40 years ago, victory was assured. God had promised and Moses assured the people that He was able to deliver the land with its inhabitants into Israel’s hand.
D. Moses instilled confidence into Israel by placing their confidence in Jehovah God. What a wonderful thing, the knowledge of just who or God is! I am glad that the God of Israel is my God! In these days, we also face giants who inhabit cities walled up to Heaven and yet the promises to Israel are also promises to us. We will always find God faithful to His purposes as well as to His people.
1. Our God Is One Of A Kind – vs. 26 (There was none before Him; there is none co-existent with Him; and there will be none after Him. There is none like Him!)
a. There Is None Like Him In His Power – All Power in Heaven and in Earth is His! No job too hard; no enemy too tough; no task impossible!
b. There Is None Like Him In His Performance – What God does is done right! What God does is done in a right way! What God does brings a right result!
c. There Is None Like Him In His Perpetuality – He is the eternal and unchanging God! He never goes to sleep or takes a break. In prayer He does not “lose a signal!” He takes no vacations or time off. He is and always will be there for us!
2. Our God Is Active In Our Help – vs. 26 (Did one ever have a Friend so faithful? Others may want to help and even try to help but the Lord IS our Help!)
a. His Help Is Promised – Our help cometh from the Lord! Vain is the help of man, horses, or princes! The arm of flesh will fail you. The Lord is our Confidence.
b. His Help Is Present – A very present help in time of need! Very present and always on time! Never early and never late, our Lord is always there.
c. His Help Is Purposed – He does not give us what we want when we want it. He gives us what we need when we need it!
3. Our God Is A Refuge In The Time Of Trouble – vs. 27 (The Lord is more than just a place to “run to,” He is a place of abode! Hid with Christ in God is more theology that I can explain. It is a place of permanent residence in the “Beloved!”)
a. He Is A Covert In The Storm - When The Whirlwind Comes! When the clouds swirl about us and the wind blows, we stand secure!
b. He Is A Castle In The Battle - When The Enemy Approaches! When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will raise a standard against him!
c. He Is A Comfort In The Night - When Sorrows Like Sea Billows Roll! In the night of deep despair, my faith keeps telling me He is there!
4. Our God Is Able To Keep Us From Falling – vs. 27 (We cannot fall so deep into distress or so low in affliction that the grace of an ever-faithful God will not still encircle us!)
a. Our Foundation Is Secure – Our feet are upon the Rock of Ages! God Himself is our sole support. It is upon Him that we stand firm. I’m standing on the Rock of Ages, safe from every storm that rages.
b. Our Steps Are Sure – Our goings have been forever established! Our path shines brighter as the darkness of this world deepens. The Word is our Lamp and Light as the Spirit is our Guide!
c. Our Way Is Straight – He both girds us and undergirds us. We may fail but we will never fall!
5. Our God Will Defeat Our Enemies – vs. 27 (I does me well to remember that the battle is the Lord’s and He cannot be defeated!)
a. Our God Will Stand With Us – He will never leave nor forsake us!
b. Our God Will Fight For Us – If the Lord is for us, who can be against us?
1) There Are No Giants Too Tall For God
2) There Are No Walled Cities Too High For God
3) There Are No Devils Too Powerful For God
c. Our God Assures Us Of Victory – vs. 29
1) God Will Expose Them
2) God Will Enthrone Thee
6. Our God Will Keep Us Both Safe And Secure – vs. 28 (The horse is prepared against the day of battle but safety is of the Lord!)
a. We Are Kept Safe Spiritually – He gives us eternal life. Eternally secure!
b. We Are Kept Safe Physically – Psalms 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
Conclusion: Moses told Israel, “Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places.” What a wonderful God we have this morning! He knows all of our needs and makes sure that they are met.
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