Sermons by J. E. Smith

Disputing at Antioch

2010-12-06T17:54:00.003-08:00

Acts 15:1-2 -Dispute arises in Antioch
Acts 15:3-5 -The question is put before the apostles
Acts 15:6-21 -The dispute is discussed
Acts 15:22-29 -Directed by the Holy Spirit, the apostles give answer
Acts 15:30-35 -The answer is received gladly and joyfully

Unity by God’s Word
First, we must recognize that we are to be united in God’s word. We can all be united, and be wrong. We must all be united in following that which the Lord has said.
Philippians 4:2-3 -Be of the same mind in the Lord
II John 7-11 -Abide in Christ’s teaching
I John 1:5-2:11 -Walk in the light as he is in the light, love brethren

Unity by Love
We must also recognize that we must be united in love. Our attitude must be one whereby we want to be united and are willing to put in the effort to stay that way, even if at personal cost.
Romans 15:1-13 -Bear other’s burdens, be like minded, for God’s glory
Philippians 2:1-4 -Be like minded, look to the interests of others
Ephesians 4:1-6 -Be diligent to keep unity

The Church Must Teach the Lost

2010-12-06T17:54:00.001-08:00

Over the next few weeks, we are going to consider some things about the church. We will strive to not be looking at generalities, but instead to try to examine the work here in Springhill in comparison to God’s word, and see what we need to improve on, that we can better serve the Lord.

Often when we begin looking at the work of the church, we spend a lot of time considering the common practices of religious groups in our society, and showing that there is no Scriptural authority for them. Then we consider the work of the church in terms of what is authorized. Brethren, the work of the church is not just authorized! It is authoritatively required! It is not optional!

This week we will consider the work of the church in terms of evangelism.

Direct Statements
The church is, as a collective, working together and united, to engage in evangelism. It is not to be only an individual work, but a collective act as well.
I Timothy 3:14-15 -The church is the pillar and ground of the truth
Ephesians 3:8-13 -The wisdom of God made known through the church

Approved Examples
In addition to simple statement, we have examples of churches doing just that: of working as congregations to spread the gospel of Christ.
I Thessalonians 1:1-10 -The word of the Lord sounded forth from the church
II Corinthians 11:5-15 -Other churches paid Paul to preach
Philippians 4:14-20 -Philippian church sent support to Paul
Acts 12:25-13:3 -Paul and Barnabas sent out
Acts 14:21-28 -Paul and Barnabas return (v. 26)

We Are told How
Even more specifically, we are given a pattern as to how churches are to spread the gospel. They are permitted to use funds directly (sent straight to the preacher) or to send people out to do the work.
I Corinthians 9:3-14 -The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel
Acts 11:19-26 -Jerusalem sends Barnabas to preach

Why
We must remember why we are teaching the lost. It is not to just increase the number of people in the building. It is not to increase the contribution. It is to save souls, whether near or far!
I Corinthians 3:1-8 -The gospel preached not for personal glory, but God’s
Romans 1:16-17 -The gospel is the power of God unto salvation
I Corinthians 9:15-23 -That I might by all means save some
Acts 8:1-13 -Philip preaches the gospel, Samaritans are saved

The King and the Kingdom

2010-12-06T17:53:00.004-08:00

John 18:28-38 -Jesus before Pilate
From this passage, we learn several things. Among them are that Jesus is King, and that He has a kingdom which is not of this world.

Jesus is the King
Many will state that Jesus is the Lord; that He is King. But often people fail to recognize what that means. It means more than praising Him and giving Him glory and reverence, although that is part of it. It also means obedience and consequences.
Hebrews 6:19-7:10 -King of righteousness, peace, priest
I Timothy 6:11-16 -Only Potentate/Sovereign, King of kings, Lord of lords
Romans 13:1-7 -Obedience to earthly governments
Matthew 22:15-22 -Rendering to Caesar and God

Jesus’ Kingdom
Even though Jesus plainly states that His kingdom is not of this world, many today are expecting Christ to return and establish an earthly kingdom which will last for 1,000 years. Often the accusation is made that believing anything else is to not give God full glory.
Mark 1:14-15 -The kingdom is “at hand”
Mark 9:1 -The kingdom would come in their lifetime
Acts 1:4-8 -Kingdom will come with power
Acts 2:1-21 -Holy Spirit comes upon the apostles
Revelation 1:1-11 -Christ mad us into a kingdom, John is in the kingdom

Matthew 7:21-29 -The one who does Christ’s will enters the kingdom

Resisting Satan

2010-12-06T17:53:00.003-08:00

Luke 4:1-13 -Temptation of Christ

Resisting is Possible
Although temptation often seems too strong, it can be resisted! We have examples of men and women who did so, and we are provided with ways to do so!
James 4:6-10 -Resist Satan and he will flee
I John 2:12-14 -You have overcome
Romans 12:9-21 -Overcome evil with good
Genesis 39:1-12 -Joseph flees Potipher’s wife

Remember What Christ Said
Remember the scriptures and commandments of God. In them there is clear direction, encouragement, and direction provided. Whether the situation calls for quoting them or simply calling them to mind, remember what the Lord said!
Romans 1:16-17 -Gospel is God’s power to salvation
Acts 4:13-20 -Teaching Jesus forbidden
Acts 5:22-32 -Must obey God rather than men

Remain Vigilant
We must never let our guard down! Satan is waiting for an “opportune time” to throw temptation at us. Be watchful and always prepared to resist!
I Corinthians 10:1-14 -He things he stands must take heed lest he fall
I Peter 5:5-11 -Be vigilant, resist him

Forsake Not

2010-12-06T17:53:00.001-08:00

Hebrews 10:1-10 -Insufficiency of the blood of bulls and goats
Hebrews 10:11-18 -Sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice
Hebrews 10:19-25 -Therefore
Hebrews 10:26-31 -Willful sin leaves no forgiveness

Love and Good Works
We are to deliberately consider one another in order to find ways to stir up our brethren to love and good works.
Luke 10:25-36 -The good Samaritan

Forsaking the Assembly
The assembly, as described in the Bible, is as much for our own strengthening and growth as it is for worshiping the Lord. The things that we do are not only done in worship and service to God, but also with the goal of aiding one another, edifying one another, and encouraging one another.
II Timothy 3:10-17 -All scripture is God-breathed
I Corinthians 11:17-34 -The Lord’s Supper
Colossians 3:12-17 -Teach one another in song
II Peter 5:5-7 -Cast your cares on Him
As we see in Hebrews, if we forsake the assembly, the end result is forsaking God. Those who forsake the Lord are not described pleasantly in scripture.
II Peter 2:1-3, 12-17 -False teaches who have forsaken the truth

Looking Unto Jesus

2010-11-09T12:54:00.002-08:00

Psalm 123:1-4 -Unto you I lift up my eyes
The psalmist indicates the relative position of himself and the Lord, his dependence on God, and his focus on God in this psalm. We too must look unto Jesus, as the psalmist did, and as other men and women of the Old Testament who left us a godly example to follow in regards to looking ahead and looking up.
Hebrews 11:1-40 -By faith
Hebrews 12:1-2 -Looking unto Jesus

When we lack this focus, we will stumble and fall. When we take out eyes off of the goal line of perfection, we will veer off course.
Matthew 14:22-33 -Peter walks on water, then sinks

Philippians 3:1-11 -Paul did not look to earthly things or status
Philippians 3:12-15 -Press on to the goal for the reward of the call
Philippians 3:17-19 -Enemies of the cross set their mind on earthly things
Philippians 3:20-21 -Our citizenship is in heaven

Are you looking unto Jesus? Or are you looking unto earthly things (work, money, hobbies)?

One Last Command

2010-11-09T12:54:00.001-08:00

Matthew 28:18-20 -The great commission
Luke 24:46-49 -You are witnesses of these things
Acts 1:4-8 -In Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, all the world
Mark 16:14-18 -The great commission

Go
The command is to go: it means that we cannot sit and wait for people to come to us, searching for the truth. Instead, we must be active in teaching the gospel to them. Just as Abraham and Moses were told to “go,” so are we.
Mark 1:16-20 -Fishers of men
Jonah 1:1-16 -Jonah told to go, but did not

All the World, Every Creature
When we teach others, we must teach all others. No matter their race, ethnicity, gender, social standing, economic class, or location. Every person has a soul, and every soul needs saving.
Acts 11:1-18 -Peter recounts the first gentile conversions

Preach the Gospel
Christ tells what we are to preach: the gospel. That the Son of God came to earth, lived a sinless life, was crucified, buried, and rose the third day, that we might have eternal life, and of the things we must do to accept that gift.
Acts 8:26-39 -Philip preached Jesus, the Ethiopian is baptized

Believe and Be Baptized
Included in preaching the gospel is the purpose: that people will hear the word, believe the word, and obey the word. Preaching and teaching the gospel is not the end goal: it is the God-given means to the goal of saving souls.
I Peter 3:15-4:11 -Sanctify Jesus in your heard, baptism for salvation, continued obedience

Signs
Faith and obedience should not be blind. The Lord has given evidence that the gospel is true and from God. There is good reason for faith and obedience.
Hebrews 2:1-4 -Signs as evidence of God’s word
John 20:30-31 -Written so you might believe

Critical Judgment

2010-11-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

Unrighteous Judgment
There are some judgments that we are not to make, and some forms of judgment that we are to avoid. To trespass in this area is sin.

Hypocritical
We are to avoid judging others when we are guilty of the same thing. Instead, we are to consider ourselves, fix our own sin, and after that we are to help the other with theirs.
Matthew 7:1-5 -The plank and the speck
Romans 2:1-16 -In what you judge another, you condemn yourself when guilty
I Corinthians 11:27-34 -Judge yourself

Hypercritical
There are some things that are matters of indifference or opinion that we are simply not to make judgments on. We cannot allow ourselves to become overly critical, and make condemnations based on things outside of scripture.
Romans 14:1-23 -The eating of meat

Righteous Judgment is Critical
While there are some judgments that are forbidden to us, there are other judgments that are not only acceptable, but necessary. If we fail to make these judgments, then we will not be following Christ.
I Corinthians 5:1-12 -Immorality at Corinth
John 7:10-24 -Judge with righteous judgment, based on God's word
John 12:42-50 -Christ's word will judge, it is our standard
I Corinthians 2:13-16 -He who is spiritual judges all things

Jesus' Teaching on Prayer

2010-10-04T09:27:00.001-07:00

Teaching by Word

Much of Jesus’ teaching on prayer took the form of verbal instruction, telling those around him the manner in which they should pray.

Matthew 5:43-48 -Pray for those who persecute you

Matthew 6:5-7 -Do not pray to be seen by men

Matthew 6:8-9 -Direct prayer to God, give Him honor

Matthew 6:10 -Prayer for the furtherance of God’s will

Matthew 6:11 -Prayer for our physical needs

Matthew 6:12 -Prayer for forgiveness

Matthew 6:13 -Prayer for spiritual needs

Matthew 6:14-15 -The importance of a right life to prayer

Matthew 21:18-22 -Ask in prayer, believing

Luke 18:1-8 -Parable of the persistent widow

Luke 18:9-14 -Parable of the Pharisee and the publican

Teaching by Example

The rest of Jesus’ teaching on prayer was done by example, showing by what He did what our prayer life should be like.

Luke 5:12-16 -Jesus often went apart to pray

Luke 6:12-16 -Jesus prays all night

Luke 9:28-36 -Jesus, Peter, John, James pray, the transfiguration

Luke 22:31-34 -Jesus had prayed for Peter

Luke 22:39-46 -Jesus prays in the garden that the Father’s will be done

Luke 23:32-46 -Jesus prays for the forgiveness of others

It is worth noting that even though Jesus prayed for the forgiveness of His crucifiers, there was still obligation on their part to have that forgiveness and to receive salvation.

Acts 2:36-39 -Repent and be baptized

The Lord's Longsuffering Example

2010-10-04T09:26:00.001-07:00

The Lord Has Set an Example

Ezekiel 20:1-4 -Some elders of Israel seek the Lord

Ezekiel 20:5-9 -Israel’s unfaithfulness when coming out of Egypt

Ezekiel 20:10-17 -Israel’s unfaithfulness on the way to Canaan

Ezekiel 20:18-24 -Israel’s unfaithfulness when wandering in wilderness

Ezekiel 20:25-26 -The depths of Israel’s depravity

Ezekiel 20:27-32 -Israel’s unfaithfulness in the promised land

There is much to be learned form this passage, but for now let us concentrate on God’s longsuffering towards Israel, and the example that it sets for us today in our service.

I Peter 2:18-25 -Christ’s example of longsuffering

I Timothy 1:12-16 -Christ’s patience towards Paul to be an example

Following the Example

The Lord has set an example that we are to pay attention to and follow! As the Lord was patient with Israel, and as He is with us, we must be towards others. We must show the same patience in our own lives if we wish to be acceptable to God.

II Peter 1:5-11 -Add “perseverance” (meaning patient endurance)

Galatians 5:22-23 -Longsuffering is a fruit of the Spirit

Colossians 3:1-17 -Therefore, raised with Christ, put on longsuffering

Ephesians 4:1-5 -Longsuffering and unity

Patience Saves Souls

God tells us plainly that His patience is there so that souls may be saved. So it must be with our patience and longsuffering. We show patience towards others, bearing with them, helping them overcome sin their lives (and yes, sometimes it takes a while). But patience is also required of us if we wish to save our own souls.

II Peter 3:8-18 -The Lord’s longsuffering is for our salvation

Romans 2:1-11 -Unrighteous judgment is despising God’s patience

Jeremiah's Endurance

2010-09-21T11:23:00.001-07:00

Mark 13:13 -You will be hated, he who endures to the end

This verse is short and simple. Christ warns His disciples that they will be hated for following Christ, yet there is great reward in persevering and enduring. If they continue throughout their life to serve the Lord, they will be saved. Often we face discouragement and mockery in this life, and it is good to remind ourselves that there is a reward. Let us consider an example of a man who endured much, but never stopped persevering!

Jeremiah’s Example

Jeremiah was called at a young age, worked relentlessly for the Lord for forty years, and saw little apparent success in his lifetime. Yet he did not give up!

Jeremiah 1:1-19 -Young Jeremiah called, will preach 40 years, be hated

Jeremiah 18:11-18 -People reject God’s word, plan to attack Jeremiah

Jeremiah 28:1-17 -Jeremiah opposes the false prophet Hananiah

Jeremiah 38:1-13 -Jeremiah is cast into a pit, but rescued

Jeremiah 38:14-28 -Jeremiah continues preaching until Jerusalem’s fall

Persecuted and Pressing

Like Jeremiah, we must continue to endure whatever discouragements we face in this life, and always press on towards Christ! Anything else will not results in salvation, but in eternal punishment.

II Timothy 3:10-17 -All of God’s followers will endure persecution

Philippians 3:1-14 -I press on toward the goal for the prize

The Epistle of Jeremiah

2010-09-18T06:43:00.001-07:00

Jeremiah 29:1-3 -The letter containing God’s word that Jeremiah sent

Jeremiah 29:4 -The Lord had caused the exile to be

The Lord is in control, and all has gone by His plan
A reminder that though they are in captivity, they are still God’s people

Galatians 4:1-7 -Christ came in the fullness of time, according to God's plan

Jeremiah 29:5-9 -Build houses, do not listen to false prophets

They are going to be in exile for a while, so get used to it
Turn to the Lord in prayer, seek peace
Do not heed the many false prophets

I John 4:1-6 -Test the spirits

Jeremiah 29:10-14 -Exile will end after 70 years, and the people will turn to God

Things will continue to go as God has planned, even to when they will return
The exile will cause the people to turn back to God, as they should have already done

Acts 26:19-23 -God wants all to turn to Him

Jeremiah 29:15-20 -Because the people have turned to others, those remaining face trials

Because they have turned to false prophets and not God, punishment will continue
They had ignored God’s prophets to listen to false prophets

Romans 1:20-25 -Reject the truth for a lie

Jeremiah 29:21-23 -The problem of false prophets

Two false prophets are singled out and condemned by God
They will become a curse, taken up by all of Israel

II Peter 2:1-3, 12-22 -As there were false prophets, there will be false teachers

Jeremiah 29:24-28 -Shemaiah is rebuked for not heeding prophets

Shemaiah wrote letters telling Zephaniah the priest to put Jeremiah in prison
Shemaiah seems to blame Jeremiah for the captivity

I Peter 3:13-17 -Live so that shame comes on those who revile

Jeremiah 29:29-32 -Shemaiah’s house is cursed, never see the good the Lord will do

Zephaniah had shared the letter with Jeremiah
The Lord will punish and destroy the house of Shemaiah for teaching rebellion
The Lord will do good things for His people

Matthew 25:31-46 -The sheep and the goats

Will you be one of the sheep who will see the good that God does for His people? Or will you be like Shemaiah who rejected what God had to say, and so was accursed?

Lifting Up Holy Hands

2010-09-18T06:42:00.001-07:00

I Timothy 2:8 -Lifting up holy hands

The chances are, you have seen religious groups lifting their hands as they sing and pray. When asked why, often this verse comes up. It is worth considering the context to see if in fact what God wants is for us to raise our hands in the air while we pray.

I Timothy 2:1-7 -Prayer to be offered for others

I Timothy 2:8-15 -Holy hands, adorned with godliness, learn with submission

We see that the matter under consideration is prayer, but the focus is not on “lifting up,” but rather the “holy hands.” We must be holy and godly in heart and action, lest our prayers be hindered.

Unholy Hands

We can see very quickly how God views those whose hands are dirty with sin. If instead of doing as we ought, we choose to sin, we stand defiled and unacceptable to God.

Proverbs 6:16-19 -God hates hands that shed blood

Isaiah 1:10-19 -Worship is vain, because of hands full of blood

Isaiah 59:1-3 -Defiled hands are separated from God

Getting Holy Hands

So how do we cleanse our hands, that they may be holy before God? By submitting to His will! That means avoiding things He has forbidden, and doing those things He has commanded with a right heart.

James 4:1-10 -Cleanse your hands by submitting to God

I Thessalonians 4:1-12 -Abound and abstain

I Peter 1:13-15 -Be holy as He is holy

Results of Holy Hands

If we are able to hold up our hands to God as holy and pure, then our prayers will not be hindered by sin, wrath, and doubt. If our hands are holy, we will be pleasing to God.

I Peter 2:13-3:7 -Submission and love so that prayers are unhindered

James 1:5-7 -Asking in faith, not doubt

Colossians 1:19-23 -Reconciled by Christ’s death, presented as holy if we continue steadfast

Romans 6:1-14 -Baptism unites us with His death and resurrection

The Messiah in Isaiah

2010-09-11T11:14:00.001-07:00

Prophecy Made

In the book of Isaiah, there are a great many very specific prophecies made about the coming Messiah. Time would fail us today to cover all of them, but let us take a few minutes and consider some of the things that Isaiah, inspired by God, spoke concerning the Christ.

Isaiah 7:13-17 -Prophecy: call him Immanuel, the virgin birth

Isaiah 9:1-7 -Prophecy: from Galilee, Names for, Throne of David

Isaiah 11:1-16 -Prophecy: Root of Jesse, the remnant called

Isaiah 40:3-5 -Prophecy: preceded by a messenger

Isaiah 53:1-12 -Prophecy: A suffering Savior

Prophecy Fulfilled

If the prophecies had been made but unfulfilled, then they would be meaningless. But we can search the New Testament and see that the prophecies have been fulfilled by Christ! Even the prophecies that a merely human individual could not fulfill through effort!

Matthew 1:1-12 -Fulfillment: Immanuel, virgin birth, Root of Jesse

Matthew 3:1-6 -Fulfillment: John the baptist is the messenger

Matthew 4:12-17 -Fulfillment: From Galilee, His kingdom

Acts 8:26-40 -Fulfillment: Christ is the suffering Savior

The Ethiopian eunuch recognized that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. In having Christ preached to him, he realized that he needed to confess his faith before men and be baptized. Will you not do so now? If you have been baptized, do you continue to live a life confessing Christ, not only in word but in action?

Ye of Little Faith

2010-09-11T11:13:00.001-07:00

Matthew 8:23-27 -Jesus calms the stormy sea

Matthew 14:22-33 -Jesus walks on water, Peter starts to

Matthew 16:5-12 -The leaven of the Pharisees

Matthew 17:14-21 -The disciples are unable to cure an epileptic boy

Luke 12:22-34 -Do not worry

In each of these passages it is Christ’s disciples, and usually the twelve chosen apostles, who are rebuked for their little faith. These men, who we so admire were told by the Lord that their faith was not as it should be! It is good that we consider this, see what their unbelief was related to, and learn from it that our faith will not be little but great!

Fear

Matthew 8, Matthew 14, Luke 12

In these passages we see that fear of earthly things (such as persecution and mocking, of standing out, of poverty, of death) was both responsible for and a result of a lack of proper faith in Christ. Instead of fear, we must trust in the Lord!

Philippians 4:10-20 -Contentment, I can do all things through Christ

II Corinthians 4:7-18 -Though oppressed, we press on, focused on Christ

Misunderstanding

Matthew 16

The disciples, because of their unbelief, did not understand what the Lord had said. They applied their own reasoning and understanding to the Lord’s words instead of looking at what He was actually saying. If our faith is not as it should be, we will have difficulty understanding what the Scriptures teach!

Matthew 13:10-17 -The reason for parables

I Corinthians 1:18-25 -The gospel and the wisdom of man

Failure

Matthew 14, Matthew 17

Because of their unbelief, they were unable to serve to fully serve the Lord. If our faith is weak and not strong, then we will find ourselves not doing as the Lord has said, but instead backing away from godly action. Perhaps we will make excuses, or our lack of obedience will be because of misunderstanding the Bible due to a lack of faith.

James 2:14-26 -Faithful obedience. Without action, faith is dead

Mark 16:15-16 -Believe and be baptized to be saved

I Don't Follow the Ten Commandments

2010-09-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

Exodus 20:3-17 -The ten commandments are given to Moses

We know that the Old Law has been done away with, being nailed to the cross along with Christ (Colossians 2:14). That includes the ten commandments! However, each of these finds a parallel in the New Testament which is worth noting.

Have No Other Gods (Exodus 20:3)

Matthew 6:24-34 -Seek first the kingdom, cannot serve two masters

Make No Graven Images (Exodus 20:4-6)

Galatians 5:19-21 -Works of the flesh, including idolatry

Colossians 3:5-7 -Covetousness, which is idolatry

I John 5:21 -Keep yourself from idols

Do Not Take God’s Name in Vain (Exodus 20:7)

James 3:1-12 -Tame the tongue

Colossians 3:17 -Whatever you do in word or deed, in the Lord’s name

Remember the Sabbath Day (Exodus 20:8-11)

Hebrews 4:1-10 -Our Sabbath is heaven

Honor Your Parents (Exodus 20:12)

Ephesians 6:1-3 -Children, obey your parents

Do Not Murder (Exodus 20:13)

Matthew 5:21-26 -Unrighteous anger is equated with murder

Do Not Commit Adultery (Exodus 20:14)

Matthew 5:27-32 -Lust in the heart is adultery

Do Not Steal (Exodus 20:15)

Romans 2:17-24 -Teach, and practice, not stealing

Do Not Give False Witness (Exodus 20:16)

Ephesians 4:25 -Put away lying

Revelation 21:8 -All liars face the second death

Revelation 22:14-15 -Those who love and practice a lie

Do Not Covet (Exodus 20:17)

I Timothy 6:6-11 -The love of money

Without God

2010-08-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon ponders what the purpose of life is, and seeks to find value in the things which people do. To this purpose he tries a great many, and concludes that each is vain, that is, empty and without meaning. But the end of the book, he reaches a simple, yet profound conclusion regarding what gives meaning to life.

Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 -The vanity of life

Ecclesiastes 1:12-18 -The vanity of human wisdom

Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 -The vanity of worldly pleasure

Ecclesiastes 2:18-26 -The vanity of work and labor

Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 -The vanity if high status

Ecclesiastes 5:9-17 -The vanity of gain and wealth

If we turn to the New Testament, we see likewise that the things in this life don’t count for very much in the long run, but there is something which will give us purpose, will bestow meaning on our lives, and give our time on this earth lasting value.

Luke 12:13-21 -The abundance of a man’s life is not in his possessions

Matthew 6:1-4 -Doing good to be seen by men, received their reward

Matthew 6:5-6 -Praying to be seen by men, received their reward

Matthew 6:16-18 -Fasting to be seen by men, received their reward

Matthew 6:19-24 -Storing up riches, serving a master

Matthew 6:25-34 -Worry, seek first the kingdom and His righteousness

I Corinthians 15:12-20 -If in this life only we have hope…

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -Fear God and keep his commandments

The Span of a Man's Life

2010-08-31T07:01:00.002-07:00

Psalm 90:10-12 -Teach us to number our days

James 4:13-16 -Life is a vapor

Beginning Life in Innocence

When we brought into this world, we were each pristine, innocent, and guilty of no sin. We were blameless and pure in the eyes of God.

Matthew 18:2-5 -Become as little children

Ecclesiastes 7:29 -God made man upright

Sin Enters Our Life

However, like Adam and Eve, at some point we chose to sin. At some point we did something which the Lord had forbidden, or did not do something the Lord had commanded. In so doing we separated ourselves from Him.

Genesis 2:25-3:24 -Adam and Eve sin

Romans 3:23 -All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

Romans 6:15-23 -Slaves of sin, wages of sin

Hope of Eternal Life

But all is not lost! We have opportunity provided for us to be forgiven of the sins we have committed, and return to a state of blameless purity! God has provided the opportunity, and we must put our faith in Him, and in so doing, obey what the Lord has said.

Matthew 26:26-30 -Christ’s blood shed for the remission of sins

Acts 10:34-48 -Cornelius, believe for the remission of sins

Acts 2:36-41 -Repent and be baptized for the remission of sins

Holding on to Life in Christ

Having made that decision, we must continue in it, or we will lose that relationship with God, and find ourselves once more separated from Him, being impure and unclean before the Lord.

James 5:19-20 -If any wanders from the truth and is turned back

II Peter 2:12-22 -False teachers and those who fall away

II Timothy 4:1-8 -Stand fast, Paul had fought the good fight

Psalm 119:89-176 - Attitudes Toward and Blessings From God's Word

2010-08-31T07:01:00.001-07:00

Continuing our study form this morning, let us consider the latter half of Psalm 119, and learn of what our attitude toward the Scriptures should be, and of what God’s word grants us.

vv. 89-96
-We must seek, remember, consider, and delight in God’s word
-We will receive life from God’s word

vv. 97-104
-We must love God’s word
-God’s word will provide understanding beyond all else

vv. 105-112
-We must incline our heart to God’s law
-God’s word provides guidance

vv. 113-120
-We must love the law of the Lord
-We will receive life and hope from the Bible

vv. 121-128
-We must seek the will of God and love it
-The scriptures provide understanding

vv. 129-136
-We must obey what we find written in the Bible
-We will receive light to our path, understanding, and direction

vv. 137-144
-We must be zealous toward God’s word
-God’s word grants understanding and life

vv. 145-152
-Our focus must always be on what the Lord commands
-In so doing, the Bible grants closeness to God

vv. 153-160
-We must love the Bible
-We will receive life (revive) from the scriptures

vv. 161-168
-We must have an attitude of awe, love and rejoicing towards God’s will
-The Bible will grant peace and stability to our walk

vv. 169-176
-Our attitude must be one of delight in God’s word
-The Bible will grant understanding, deliverance, and judge us

Psalm 119:1-88 - Attitudes Toward and Blessings From God's Word

2010-08-31T06:59:00.000-07:00

Psalm 119 focuses primarily around the relationship the psalmist has with God through the word of the Lord. He writes much on the attitude he has towards God’s word, and on what he receives from the Lord’s commands. Let us take a few moments to consider our attitude towards the Scriptures, and what the Bible will do for us.

vv. 1-8

-Attitude of praising God for His word

-Receive blessings for following the Lord’s commands

vv. 9-16

-Attitude of keeping and showing the Lord’s commands

-God’s word cleanses

vv. 17-24

-Attitude of desiring and trusting God’s word

-Receive correction from God’s word

vv. 25-32

-We must consciously choose to follow God’s word

-We will receive strength from God’s word

vv. 33-40

-We must accept and follow God’s word whole-heartedly

-God’s word will revive/provide life

vv. 41-48

-We must not be ashamed, we must trust, and we must love God’s word

-God’s word provides liberty, salvation, and answers

vv. 49-56

-You must make God’s word “mine”

-We can receive comfort from God’s word

vv. 57-64

-We must be eager and thankful for God’s word

-God’s word shows mercy to us

vv. 65-72

-We must desire to learn God’s word

-We will receive affliction from God’s word when we err

vv. 73-80

-We must delight in God’s Word

-We will receive hope from God’s word

vv. 81-88

-We must depend on what the Lord has said

-We will receive comfort, life, and judgment from the word of God

Evangelize: Get Results

2010-08-16T09:14:00.004-07:00

Luke 10:1-12 -Jesus sends out the 70
Luke 10:17-20 -The 70 return, with results
Jesus sends out the seventy with specific instructions. Some would listen to the message they brought. Others would not. When the word was rejected, they were to not stop, but continue on their way to others who would listen

Matthew 28:18-20 -The great commission
Acts 1:4-11 -Be witnesses to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, all world
Jesus, in the last things He said to the apostles before being taken up into heaven, gave instructions to evangelize. And evangelize they did!

Acts 2:36-47 -Pentecost in Jerusalem, 3000 saved
Acts 3:11-4:4 -Many hear, believe, 5000 saved
Acts 8:1-13 -Preaching throughout Judea and Samaria
Acts 10:34-48 -First gentile converts
We see the evangelizing gets results. When the message is preached, many reject the truth. Yet some listen. Some heed the gospel.

I Corinthians 3:1-8 -Plant, water, God gives the increase
Are we keeping our part of the bargain. God has told us that He will give the increase. But are we planting? Are we watering?

Because God Loved Us

2010-08-16T09:14:00.003-07:00

Psalm 116:1-19 -Love for God because of His salvation
The psalmist writes of the love he has for God, because of what God had done for Him, and the salvation that the Lord had provided. Has he not done much for each of us? Should we not have the same love toward God that the psalmist shows?

God Has Loved Us
God has shown His love for us in sending His Son to die on the cross. The salvation has been provided, if we choose to take hold of it.
Romans 5:1-11 -While we were still sinners, Christ died for us
John 3:14-17 -God so loved the world

We Must Love God
As God ahs done so much for us, and has shown so much love, how can we not reciprocate? When we consider our love for God, we do not simply have positive emotions toward Him, or just feel an attachment. We love Him by putting His will first and doing as He says.
John 14:15 -If you love me, keep my commandments
II John 5-6 -Love is walking according to His commands
I John 4:7-5:5 -Love for God, love for others

To Love God, We Must Love Others
Just as we love God by putting His will first, we love God and others by putting the needs of others above our own. We are to love others, even our enemies, not only as we love ourselves, but as Christ has loved us. That is, with action, and in totality.
Matthew 22:34-40 -The greatest commands
Luke 10:25-37 -Parable of the good Samaritan
Matthew 5:38-48 -Love your enemies
John 15:12-14 -Love one another as Christ has loved you

To Stir Up Love and Good Works

2010-08-16T09:14:00.001-07:00

Hebrews 10:19-27 - Draw near with a true heart; hold fast the confession; consider one another, forsake not assembling

We can see the consequences of not assembling in the reason we are given to gather together: willful sin and judgment. Not assembling leads that direction.

James 2:10-11 -Keep the whole law

The Same God that said “do not murder” and “do not commit adultery” also said do not forsake the assembly.

Exodus 32:1-6 -Wrong worship

A part of our assembly is to worship God. It is in our prayers, our songs, our teaching of God’s word, our giving of our means, and in our keeping of the Lord’s Supper. However, instead of spending our limited time this evening on this subject, let us consider the other object of our assembly: considering one another (which requires familiarity = local membership) to stir up love and good works.

Love

The love we are speaking of is not a warm and fuzzy feeling or an emotional attachment. It is action. It is service. Both love/service toward God and love/service towards others. To put God first, and others above self.

I John 4:7-5:5 -Love God, love the brethren

II John 5-6 -Love is walking according to the commandment

John 14:15 -If you love me, keep my commandment

Good Works

Must be Good, that is, of God

Mark 10:17-19 -Only One is Good, that is, God

Must be done in a godly way

Romans 3:5-8 -“Let us do evil that good may result”

Matthew 7:21-23 -Lord, Lord, did we not…?

Must be done for godly reasons

Matthew 6:1-18 -Do your works to please God, not man

When even one of these is not there, the work is not good.

II Samuel 6:1-9 -Uzzah killed for touching the ark in the cart

II Samuel 6:9-15 -David despairs, then eventually brings the ark

Exhorting One Another

We must exhort (instruct, edify, encourage) one another to better follow the Lord. We must help each other and strive together. This requires us to know who we are assembling with (local membership).

Hebrews 3:1-19 -Exhort one another while it is called “today,” lest you harden your hearts and rebel

To All Men

2010-08-16T09:13:00.001-07:00

Galatians 6:1-10 -Do good to all

Unlimited Individual Benevolence

Each Christian is to set out to do good to all men. Each of us should be looking for the needs of others, and setting out to meet them.

Luke 10:25-37 -The parable of good Samaritan

Matthew 5:38-48 -Love your enemies

Matthew 6:1-4 -Do not do good to be seen by men

James 1:27 -Pure and undefiled religion

I Timothy 5:1-16 -Individuals to help widows so that the church will not be burdened

Limited Congregational Benevolence

Congregations, as a collective entity, have a more restricted role in benevolence. A congregation is not burdened with seeing tot eh needs and taking physical care of the ungodly, but only of the church.

Acts 2:37-47 -The church has all things in common

Acts 11:27-30 -Sent to the elders in Judea

II Corinthians 9:1-15 -The Corinthians supply the needs of the saints

If we fail to do good unto all men, or fail to do so in a manner that is pleasing to God, we will stand condemned.

Matthew 25:31-46 -Judgment

To the End of the Earth

2010-08-16T09:12:00.002-07:00

Acts 1:4-11 -You shall be witnesses to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the earth

Acts 2:36-47 -Peter preaches in Jerusalem, 3000 are saved

Acts 8:1-7 -Gospel spreads through Judea and Samaria

Acts 10:34-48 -First Gentile converts

Each of us should be evangelizing!

Each individual Christian should be spreading the gospel and striving to bring others to Christ. Each of us has this responsibility and joy. We must pray that we do so boldly, then we must do it!

Matthew 28:18-20 -The great commission

Hebrews 5:12-6:3 -Should be teachers

I Corinthians 9:16-23 -Preach willingly, all things to all men

Acts 4:12-31 -Disciples pray for boldness

Luke 10:1-12 -Jesus sends out the 70

Congregations should be evangelizing as a collective!

Congregations, as a collective, also have an obligation and opportunity to evangelize. Each congregation can support evangelists. Note that the Bible pattern is such that a) individual congregations give directly to the preacher, b) there is no example of a church sending to/through another church or organization and then that group sending the money to a preacher. There is always a direct line of communication, obligation, and fellowship between a local church and an evangelist.

Acts 11:19-26 -Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch

Philippians 4:14-20 -Philippi had sent aid to Paul

II Corinthians 11:7-11 -Paul received support from other churches

There are no good reasons not to evangelize!

What excuses do we come up with for not spreading the gospel? Is ti because we are ashamed of the gospel? Is it because we do not have the love for others that we should have? Is it not enough of a priority for us? Can you imagine if Christ has made excuses to not teach?

Romans 1:16-17 -I am not ashamed of the gospel, the power of God unto salvation

II Timothy 1:8-12 -Do not be ashamed, Paul is not ashamed

Jonah 4:1-11 -Jonah’s vine, the people of Nineveh

A Need for Study

2010-08-16T09:12:00.001-07:00

Psalm 19:1-6 -Creation teaches that there is a God
Psalm 19:7-14 -It is in God’s word that we learn how to follow Him
Hosea 4:6 -My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge

A Need for Regular Study
Our study cannot be intermittent or rare. Our study of God’s word must be diligent and constant.
Acts 17:1-15 -Paul preaches regularly, Bereans study regularly
Deuteronomy 6:1-25 -Constantly teach your children, remain faithful

A Need for Purposeful, Regular Study
When we study, we must study for a proper reason. We are to study purposefully, not to increase our knowledge so we can show off what we know, not to satisfy curiosity, and not to defend what we believe. Rather we must study to find what God says, that we may know how to please Him.
John 5:31-47 -You search the scriptures, which testify of Christ
II Peter 3:8-18 -“Therefore”

A Need for Applied, Regular, Purposeful Study
We may study purposefully and regularly, but if we never put it into practice, it simply does not do us any good. We must act on God’s word, not simply gain knowledge of it.
James 1:22-27 -Be doers, not only hearers
Matthew 7:24-29 -The wise and foolish builders

Serving the Master and His Servants

2010-08-16T09:11:00.001-07:00

When we think of those in the Bible that we would strive to emulate, we think of men like Abraham, who was chosen by God, and was spoken to by God. We think of men like David, who was a man after God’s own heart. But we don’t spend much time thinking about those who served these men, do we? Even though we, as Christians, are called to be servants.

Genesis 24:1-4 -Abraham sends his servant to find Isaac a wife
Genesis 24:5-9 -If the servant finds no willing woman
Genesis 24:10-11 -the servant makes the journey
Genesis 24:12-14 -He prays for success on behalf of Abraham
Genesis 24:15-21 -The servant’s prayer seems to be answered
Genesis 24:22-25 -She is indeed Abraham’s kin
Genesis 24:26-28 -The servant thanks God on Abraham’s behalf

II Samuel 11:1-5 -David sins with Bathsheba
II Samuel 11:6-11 -David sends for Uriah, who shows loyalty and service
II Samuel 11:12-13 -Uriah shows loyalty and service
II Samuel 11:14-17 -Uriah goes to his death

Service to Servants
Uriah considered not himself, but his fellow soldiers, who were all in service to David the king. His actions show that he put their considerations above his own. How do we, as servants of the Lord, consider His other servants, our brethren in Christ?
Philippians 2:1-11 -Put others above self
II Timothy 2:24-26 - How a servant of the Lord must treat others

Service to the Master
Abraham’s servant showed complete dedication to his master. Uriah likewise showed himself to be a true servant of David. How dedicated are we to the service our Lord, Master, and King?
Matthew 24:45-51 -Faithful and wicked servants, waiting on the master

II Kings 5:1-4 -Naaman’s wife’s captive servant gives good advice
II Kings 5:5-8 -Syria’s king sends to the king of Israel
II Kings 5:9-14 -Naaman, told to dip in the Jordan, is angry, but his servants give good advice
II Kings 5:15-19 -Naaman wishes to reward Elisha, who turns it down
II Kings 5:20-27 -Elisha’s servant accepts the gifts, is punished
Which sort of servant will you be like? Naaman’s? Or Gehazi, Elisha’s servant?

Times of Trial

2010-07-27T08:29:00.001-07:00

Job 1:1-5 -Job’s righteousness

Job 1:6-12 -Satan is permitted to test Job

Job 1:13-17 -Job’s livestock raided, servants killed

Job 1:18-19 -Job’s children are killed

Job 1:20-22 -Job’s response

Job 2:1-6 -Satan is permitted to take Job’s health

Job 2:7-9 -Job’s wife turns against him

Job 2:10 -Job did not sin

Jon was tested. This was certainly a trying and difficult time for Job. It was time in which he did not understand why these things were happening. But he did not allow it to shake his faith in God. Like Job, we will undergo times of trial, although we pray that we will not be faced with the same circumstances as he.

Luke 13:1-5 -Galileans killed by Pilate and the tower of Siloam

Matthew 5:43-48 -The rain falls on the just an the unjust

When We Don’t Understand Why

Sometimes, like Job, we will not understand why we are facing such difficult times. We will not understand why loved ones fall ill, why friends forsake us, or why our livelihoods seem to disappear. But we must remember that our wisdom is limited, and put our faith in God.

I Corinthians 1:18-31 -The wisdom of man and God

Isaiah 55:8-9 -God’s ways and thoughts are higher than man’s

Let Us Pray!

When we are in a time of trial and difficulty, as in all other times, we must go to God in prayer. We may not receive back the answer we want, but prayer is effective, and at the least reminds us that we do have a God who cares for us and who has blessed us in our lives.

James 5:13-18 -Pray in all circumstances, prayer is effective

Luke 22:39-45 -Nevertheless, not My will but Yours, be done

If We Endure

Job 42:10-17 -Job, after his trials, is blessed by God

Job, having endured faithfully, is rewarded in the end. So it is with us. We may not receive great blessings in this life, but if we are faithful to the end, we will receive something far greater than earthly health and wealth: eternal life in the presence of God.

Revelation 2:8-11 -Persecuted Sardis, overcome and be rewarded

Revelation 21:1-7 -He who overcomes shall inherit all things

Revelation 21:22-27 -The Lord and the Lamb are its temple, only those in the book of life are allowed in

As Some of Them Also Murmured

2010-07-27T08:24:00.001-07:00

In Place of Gratitude, Complaining

Numbers 11:1-3 -The people complain, God consumes some with fire

Numbers 11:4-9 -The people complain about only having tasty manna

Numbers 11:10-15 -God and Moses are displeased with the complaining

Numbers 11:31-34 -God sends quail, two cubits deep

Numbers 13:31-14:4 -The people complain against God, and do not enter the promised land

Numbers 14:26-29 -God’s punishment for their complaints

Numbers 21:4-9 -The people complain, and God punishes with snakes

We can see in these passages, and in others, that the Israelites often murmured and complained to God about where they found themselves, even though God had brought them to that point by His constant care and guidance. Instead of being properly grateful, they complained. This is a danger of which we must likewise beware.

I Corinthians 10:1-13 -Learn from the Old Testament examples

In Place of Complaints, Gratefulness

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 -In everything, give thanks

Colossians 2:6-7 -Abounding in thanksgiving

When we offer complaints, what we are showing is a lack of gratitude for how much God has blessed us. Consider the things He has given us, be glad, and give thanks!

Genesis 1:26-31 -God makes man and all creation, and it is good

Matthew 6:25-34 -All these shall be added to you

I Corinthians 15:1-20 -Christ, who was crucified, buried, and rose again

Titus 1:1-3 -Hope of eternal life, preaching

Romans 1:16-17 -The gospel is the power of God unto salvation

Patience and Tolerance

2010-07-19T11:30:00.001-07:00

Nehemiah 9:1-3 -The people fast and confess their sins

Nehemiah 9:4-6 -God created all things

Nehemiah 9:7-8 -God chose Abram

Nehemiah 9:9-12 -God led the people from Egypt

Nehemiah 9:13-15 -God gave His law, manna, and water

Nehemiah 9:16-17 -But the people did not obey

Nehemiah 9:18-21 -The people provoked God, but He sustained them in the wilderness

Nehemiah 9:22-25 -God gave the people the promised land

Nehemiah 9:26-27 -But the people rebelled, were punished, cried out to God, and God heard them

Nehemiah 9:28-31 -But the people sinned again, and God showed patience

Nehemiah 9:32-35 -The people have not served God, and God’s punishment was just

Nehemiah 9:36-38 -The people rededicate themselves to God

Two things become clear from this reading. The first is that God does not tolerate sin. God’s punishment of Israel for their sin is apparent in this reading. However, God’s patience towards His people is also seen, in that God gave them opportunity and time to repent and turn back to Him, and accepted them when they did so.

Intolerance of Sin

Isaiah 1:12-15 -God hates empty “worship”

Jeremiah 44:1-6 -God hates idolatry

Zechariah 8:14-17 -God hates evil thoughts, committing perjury

Revelation 2:12-17 -God hates the teachings of the Nicolaitans

God hates sin. He does not tolerate it or accept it. Can we, then, have any other attitude towards iniquity?

Revelation 2:1-7 -The Ephesians hate the works of Nicolaitans, cannot bear those who are evil

Psalm 26:1-12 -David, a man after God’s won heart, hated sin

Patience

Matthew 910-13 -Jesus eats with sinners, not accepting sin, but teaching

II Peter 3:9-16 -God is patient, that we may have salvation

God does show patience towards men, giving all the opportunity to repent and turn to Him, and accepting them when they do. We must also have this attitude.

I Thessalonians 5:14-22 -Be patient towards all men

I Corinthians 13:4-7 -Love suffers long, does not rejoice in iniquity

James 5:19-20 -Turn back a sinner, cover a multitude of sins

Are You Prepared?

2010-07-19T11:29:00.000-07:00

Luke 12:13-21 -The parable of the rich fool

Luke 16:19-31 -The rich man and Lazarus

In both these passages, there was someone who was not prepared for the judgment. Their focus was elsewhere, and so when it came to give an account, they were left unprepared. Are you prepared for the end of your life? Are you prepared for judgment?

Amos 4:6-12 -Israel did not repent, prepare to meet your God

Prepare Yourself

Ezra 7:1-10 -God was with Ezra, who prepared his heart to seek the Lord

Hebrews 11:6 -Must have faith, bust diligently seek God

Acts 17:22-31 -He now commands all men everywhere to repent

I Peter 3:18-22 -Baptism, which now saves us

Matthew 10:27-33 -Teach others, confess Christ before men

I Timothy 6:11-16 -But you, O man of God, flee and pursue

II Timothy 2:22-26 -Flee and pursue

God Has Prepared

Galatians 3:26-4:7 -Christ came in the fullness of time

Matthew 25:31-46 -The kingdom prepared, the place prepared for the devil and his angels

Lifted Up

2010-07-12T12:23:00.001-07:00

Numbers 20:1-13 -Moses does not give the glory to God
Acts 12:20-23 -Herod accepts improper praise
Both of these passages deal with those who acted proudly. One took the glory belonging to God and attributed it to himself. The other accepted the glory given to him by others. Compare this attitude with the one shown by Paul and Barnabas.

Humble Yourself
We must humble ourselves. This is not a case of putting on a show of false humility, but truly recognizing our place. We must eagerly put others above self, be willing to listen to correction and instruction, and above all else, submit to God.
Acts 14:8-18 -Paul and Barnabas resist being called gods
Philippians 2:1-11 -Be humble like Christ
James 4:1-17 -Pride causes strife, God will lift up the humble
I Peter 5:5-7 -Humble yourselves, and God will lift you up

And Be Lifted Up
If we do so, we are told that we will be lifted up. This does not mean that we will be exalted in this life, but rather that we will receive the reward and position of being in god’s presence for all eternity.
Matthew 5:1-12 -The beatitudes
John 6:41-58 -He who eats and drinks Christ will be raised up

A Repentant Idolater

2010-07-12T12:22:00.001-07:00

II Chronicles 33:1-9 -The great sins of Manasseh

II Chronicles 33:10-13 -Manasseh repents, prays to God

II Chronicles 33:14-17 -Manasseh attempts to undo his sin

II Chronicles 33:18-20 -The death of Manasseh

II Chronicles 33:21-24 -Manasseh’s sinful son, Amon

When we consider Manasseh’s sinful depravity, we are repulsed. Yet when he turned and sought the Lord, he was forgiven. In Manasseh we have an extreme example of God’s forgiveness.

God Does Forgive the Penitent

God does forgive those who turn to Him, and away from their sins. As with Manasseh, He has done for many, and is willing to do for you

I Corinthians 6:9-11 -Such were some of you

Titus 3:1-7 -We ourselves were once foolish, disobedient

Colossians 3:1-11 -In which you once yourselves walked

I Peter 3:18-4:6 -For we have spent enough of our past lifetime

There in Sin God Does Not Forgive

There is, however, sin that God tells us He will not forgive. When our hearts are so hardened that we will not heed Him nor repent of our sins, asking for forgiveness, then He promises that forgiveness will not be granted.

Mark 3:20-30 -Blasphemy against he Holy Spirit

I John 5:14-17 -Sin leading to death: deliberate, unrepentant sin

Acts 22:1-23 -Paul relates his life, conversion, and teaching

The apostle Paul, who describes himself as the chief of sinners, listened to the Lord’s teaching, believed, repented of his sins, was baptized, and proceeded to teach others that they too could have forgiveness if they turn to the Lord and “do works befitting repentance.” Are you willing to repent and turn to the Lord? Or are you going to remain unrepentant and stand condemned before God on the day of Judgment?

What Can You Do?

2010-07-12T12:21:00.002-07:00

Exodus 4:1-17 -Moses makes excuses based on his ability

Moses offered excuses to God based on ability. It’s true, Moses may not have been the most eloquent man. It’s true, he may have been better at other things. Nonetheless, he could speak. He could do what was required of him.

Often we focus on using our talents for God. The fact is, we need to also consider using all our abilities to serve God. Not just what I’m good at, but what I’m able to do. I may not be the most eloquent of people, but I can preach. I am not the most melodious singer, but I can lead singing. And so can you.

Entrusted with Responsibility

Matthew 25:14-30 -The parable of the talents

I Peter 4:7-11 -With the ability God provides, as good stewards

I Corinthians 4:1-2 -Stewards of the mysteries of God

I Corinthians 9:16-18 -Entrusted with a stewardship

Christ’s Example: No Excuses

Christ offered no excuses for what was required of Him. And let’s face it, more was asked of him than has been asked of any of us. How then can we make excuses?

Did He say, “It’s too hard!”

Luke 22:39-46 -Not My will, but Yours

Did He say, “No one will listen!”

John 10:22-30 -Jesus teaches in the temple

Did He say, “I’ll do it later!”

Galatians 3:26-4:7 -The fullness of time

Did He say, “I’m too busy/tired!”

John 4:1-14 -The Samaritan woman at the well

If we are not doing what we can, if we are offering excuses, do you think we will be accepted by God?

Luke 14:16-24 -The parable of the great supper

Traditions of God and Man

2010-07-12T12:21:00.001-07:00

Traditions of God

Some traditions, that is, those thing which ought to be done, are given to us by God. These traditions are good. However, these good and important actions can be done in such a way as to make them displeasing in God’s sight. We cannot allow ourselves to offer service to God by empty rote.

The Good: That which God established and that is carefully kept

II Thessalonians 2:13-3:15 -Hold the traditions, withdraw from those who don’t

I Thessalonians 4:1-12 -The apostles’ teaching was from Christ

The “Bad“: That which God established and is kept by rote, ritual, or habit

Malachi 1:6-14 -Offerings given as a “weariness”

Matthew 6:1-21 -Do not do good to be seen by men

Traditions of Men

There are also traditions which are from men. Some of these are indifferent (meeting times, order of services, peripherals, seating, etc.) so long as we recognize that they are not from God and do not bind them on others. When we bind tradition on others, then the tradition is error, becoming a change or addition to God’s word.

The Indifferent: That which is established by men, but not made binding

I Corinthians 8:1-13 -The indifferent eating of meat

I Corinthians 14:40 -Decently and in order

The Bad: That which is established by men and made binding on others

Mark 7:1-13 -Commandment of God replaced with tradition of men

Colossians 2:20-23 -Appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion

The Wisdom From Above - 6/20/10am

2010-06-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

I Corinthians 1:17-2:8 -Not the wisdom of this world

James 3:13-18 -The wisdom that is from above

Wisdom that is from God

II Timothy 3:10-17 -The scriptures can make you wise to salvation

Psalm 19:1-14 -God’s law makes you wise

Proverbs 2:1-22 -God gives wisdom, wisdom is valuable, wisdom keeps you from temptation

Wisdom is necessary

Ephesians 5:15-21 -Walk as wise

Colossians 4:5-6 -Walk in wisdom

Luke 2:51-52 -Jesus grows in stature and wisdom

Wisdom in application

Many things not specifically mentioned in scripture are condemned by the simple fact that they are not wise. Social drinking, dancing, tobacco use, who one chooses to marry, and other such things easily and obviously fall into this category. Also, some things that are not in and of themselves sinful or wrong may be not wise at a particular occasion or place.

I Corinthians 10:23-33 -All things are lawful, not all things edify

Is it wise?

Will it help me be more like Christ?

Will it help others be more like Christ?

Will it be a stumbling block to me or others?

We must be spiritually wise if we are to please God.

The Hypocrisy of Saul - 6/6/10pm

2010-06-09T08:25:00.001-07:00

I Samuel 28:1-2 -The Philistines gather against Israel

I Samuel 28:3-7 -Saul searches for a medium

I Samuel 28:8-10 -Saul visits the medium, who fears for her life, since Saul had sought to get rid of mediums

I Samuel 28:11-15 -Samuel comes forth

I Samuel 28:16-19 -Samuel rebukes Saul, foretells his death

I Samuel 28:20-25 -Saul falls, eats, and leaves

Having followed the Lord’s command to outlaw mediums, now goes to consult one. This is obvious hypocrisy. Instead of doing as he ought, matching his words with righteous action, he acts the hypocrite when it is more convenient.

Matthew 23:1-4 -Do as the Pharisees teach, not as they do

Matthew 23:5-12 -The Pharisees sought praise of men

Matthew 23:13 -Pharisees shut the kingdom of heaven

Matthew 23:14 -Pharisees devour widows houses, make pretentious prayers

Matthew 23:15 -Pharisees convert others to sin

Matthew 23:16-22 -Pharisees seek ways to not consider oaths

Matthew 23:23-24 -Pharisees only keep the quantifiable parts of law

Matthew 23:25-28 -Pharisees keep up righteous appearance, while full of uncleanness

Matthew 23:29-36 -”We wouldn’t have done that!”

Romans 12:9-21 -Let love be without hypocrisy

I Peter 1:22-2:12 -Lay aside all hypocrisy, live properly

The Works of Your Father - 6/6/10am

2010-06-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

John 8:37-41a -They didn’t do the works of Abraham

John 8:37b-47 -They did the works of Satan, no God

Who our father is is determined by what works we do. If we do those things which are in accordance with God’s will, we are His children. If, however, we do those things which are in accordance with the devil’s will, we are his children. There are no other alternatives. Assuming that we want to be God’s children, how do we determine what works are godly?

I John 3:4-10 -Children of God practice righteousness

Good Works are Godly Works

Must be Good, that is, of God

Romans 8:1-8 -Live according to the Spirit, not flesh

Must be done in a godly way

Matthew 7:21-23 -Lord, Lord, did we not…?

Romans 3:5-8 -“Let us do evil that good may result”

Must be done for godly reasons

Matthew 6:1-18 -Do your works to please God, not man

When even one of these is not there, the work is not good.

II Samuel 6:1-9 -Uzzah killed for touching the ark in the cart

II Samuel 6:9-15 -David despairs, then eventually brings the ark

Everyone Should be Doing Good Works

I Peter 3:1-17 -Everyone is to do good

Revelation 2:8-11 -Christ knows Smyrna’s good works

John 6:28-33 -Faith is a work of God

Although some claim that we do not need to do good works in order to be saved, just faith, the Bible clearly states that even faith is a work. Are you willing to do the works of God? Are you willing to, in faith, be baptized that you can wash your sins away? Are you willing to put away the works of Satan and do the works of God, dedicating your life to Him?

Given to God - 5/30/10am

2010-05-31T11:39:00.001-07:00

Hebrews 11:32 -Heroes of faith, including Samson and Samuel

Samson is Given to God’s Service

Judges 13:1 -Israel’s oppression at the hands of the Philistines

Judges 13:2-5 -Manoah’s wife will have a son who must be a Nazarite

Judges 13:6-7 -She tells Manoah

Judges 13:8-14 -Manoah is given the same instruction

Judges 13:24-25 -Samson is born

Samuel is Given to God’s Service

I Samuel 1:1-7 -Elkanah’s two wives

I Samuel 1:8-18 -Hannah makes a vow while asking for a son

I Samuel 1:19-23 -Samuel is born and weaned

I Samuel 1:24-28 -Samuel is given into the Lord’s service for all his life

Numbers 6:1-8 -The vow of a Nazarite, to separate yourself to God

You Should Be Given to God’s Service

Genesis 1:26-28 -Man is made in man’s image

Mark 12:13-17 -Rendering to Caesar and God

Mark 12:28-34 -Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, strength

Romans 12:1-2 -Give your bodies to God

To Give Yourself to God

Hebrews 11:6 -Without faith it is impossible to please God

Romans 6:3-11 -In baptism, you are freed from sin, become dead to sin, and alive to Christ

Romans 6:12-23 -Continue to serve obediently to receive eternal life

Let Baal Contend - 5/23/10pm

2010-05-22T16:50:00.001-07:00

Called by God

Judges 6:11- 24 -God calls Gideon

Gideon was called by God. Gideon was not well known. He was not one of high status. Nonetheless, God called him for a purpose. So too are we called, by the gospel, for a purpose. And everyone, no matter what their position in life or what they once were, can answer that call.

I Corinthians 1:18-30 -God does not call many wise, mighty

I Corinthians 6:9-11 -Such were some of you

II Thessalonians 2:13-14 -Called by the gospel

A Good Name

Judges 6:25-35 -Gideon destroys the altar of Baal, is given the name Jerubbaal

Gideon was given a new name, reflective of the reputation he earned. Likewise, we are known for our actions and the example we set for others. Is our name one which is known for dedication to God, or are we giving others an opportunity to blaspheme against God?

I Timothy 3:1-7 -Elders are to have a good reputation

III John 9-12 -Two men, two different reputations

I Peter 2:11-12 -Conduct yourselves honorably to win souls

Romans 2:17-24 -Lawbreaking leads to blasphemy from unbelievers

Few, With God

Judges 7:1-25 -300 chosen by God to defeat the Midianites

God made His point: He did not require a great many soldiers for victory. Instead, those who are with God, regardless of number, have the victory. Those opposed to God, the defeat. With God, numbers do not matter, because God will grant victory. Without God, numbers do not matter, because God will grant destruction.

Matthew 7:13-14 -The narrow and wide gates

The Fervent Christian - 5/23/10am

2010-05-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

II Peter 3:10-13 -“Fervent heat”

We understand the difference between “fervent heat” and “heat.” When we speak of a Christian as one who is fervent or zealous, we are speaking of this same distinction. A fervent Christian is one who is enthusiastic and eager in doing the Lord’s will.

Fervent in Spirit

We must be zealous in spirit: we must be eager to do what we can in serving the Lord.

John 2:13-22 -Jesus clears the temple

Acts 18:24-28 -Apollos, being fervent in spirit

Fervent in Prayer

In our prayers, we must be fervent. Prayer cannot be empty or meaningless.

James 5:13-18 -The fervent prayer of a righteous man

Colossians 4:12-13 -Laboring fervently in prayer

Fervent in Love

In love towards one another we must be fervent. We cannot love each other just a little. We must seek opportunities to serve one another.

I Peter 1:13-25 -Love one another fervently

I Peter 4:7-11 -Fervent love for one another

John 13:31-35 -Love each other as Christ has loved us

Fervent in Good Works

Likewise, we must be fervent in good works. We cannot only occasionally do that which is in obedience to God. We cannot rarely do good to others. We must be eager and enthusiastic in our actions.

Titus 2:11-15 -Zealous for good works

I Timothy 6:17-19 -Rich in good works

Ephesians 2:4-10 -Walk in good works

If you choose to be zealous, your zeal will encourage others to be zealous. Zeal is contagious, and in choosing you be zealous, you build up the church.

II Corinthians 9:1-5 -Corinth’s zeal stirred up others

It is possible to be zealous and not be in a right relationship with God. Zeal is good and necessary, but it must be in accordance with God’s will.

Romans 10:1-17 -Zeal without knowledge and faith

Acts 2:36-47 -They believed, repented, were baptized, and continued daily

These Words Shall Be In Your Hearts - 5/9/10pm

2010-05-09T14:46:00.001-07:00

In Your Heart

Deuteronomy 6:1-3 -Observe all that the Lord has commanded

Deuteronomy 6:4-6 -The Lord is one, love the Lord

The Lord commanded the people of Israel to keep these words in their heart. When we think about what it means to have something in your heart, it is more than simply having a high regard or emotional attachment to something.

Matthew 5:21-26 -Murder and unrighteous anger in the heart

Matthew 5:27-30 -Adultery and lust in the heart

Matthew 15:10-20 -What comes out of the heart

Teaching your Children

Deuteronomy 6:7-9 -Teach these words, keep them ever present

The Israelites were not only to keep the word in their own hearts, but work to place it into the hearts of their children. Look at how prevalent God’s word was to be in their lives! Notice how many opportunities the parents were to take in instructing their children.

II Timothy 1:3-5 -The faith that is in Timothy, his mother and grandmother

II Timothy 3:10-17 -From your youth

Ephesians 6:1-4 -Bring up your children in the training and admonition of the Lord

Titus 2:1-8 -The older to teach the younger

Consequences of Keeping the Word

Deuteronomy 6:10-15 -Keep the word ever present to remain faithful

Deuteronomy 6:16-19 -Do what it right, do not tempt the Lord

Deuteronomy 6:20-25 -Your son will ask the meaning, and you will answer

The Lord then promised the children of Israel that there would be consequences, both for keeping and for ignoring His word. The consequences for not keeping the word would be bad (captivity, oppression). The consequences of keeping the word would be that they and their children would remain faithful.

Revelation 1:1-3 -Blessed is the one who hears and keeps these words

II Peter 1:5-11 -If you do these things, you will not stumble

John 12:42-50 -We will be judged by the word in the last day

Look to the Fields! - 5/9/10am

2010-05-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

John 4:35-38 -Look to the fields, they are ripe for harvest

Mark 16:14-20 -Go into all the world, and they went

I Corinthians 9:16-23 -Preach willingly, all things to all men

Look to God

We must be sure to always go to God in prayer before beginning any endeavor. There are several things in particular for which we ought to pray before striving to teach others, whether in private, in class, or from the pulpit.

Luke 10:1-2 -Pray for the Lord to send laborers

Acts 4:23-31 -The disciples pray for boldness in teaching

Look to the Bible

We must be certain to always turn to the Bible to teach others. Our opinions don’t really matter. God’s truth does. We are fortunate to live in a time and place where pocket sized Bibles, which can be easily carried and used in teaching others, are readily available and inexpensive.

Romans 1:16 -The gospel is God’s power unto salvation

II Timothy 4:1-5 -Preach the word!

Look for Opportunities

We need not pray for god to send us opportunities: He already does. Instead, we ought to look for the opportunities, whether to teach in word or writing (Perhaps leave a tract, bulletin, or article with your tip the next time you go to a restaurant?). The opportunities are there, it is up to us to make use of them in a way that God would approve of.

Acts 8:26-40 -Philip teaches the interested Ethiopian Eunuch

Acts 17:16-31 -Paul preaches at Athens, and is asked to speak further

Acts 2:1-39 -Peter preaches on Pentecost, after being mocked

Clean and Unclean - 4/25/10pm

2010-04-26T08:09:00.001-07:00

Unclean Animals
Much detail is given in the Law of Moses regarding which animals could be eaten, which could not be eaten, and what happened if you came in contact with an unclean animal. Think of the mindset you would have to have to carry out these commandments! Think of the diligence and effort you would have to put forward in following these instructions. It would be ever present in your mind, each and every day. You would have to remain focused on what is unclean.
Leviticus 11:1-3 -May eat animals with split hoof and that chew cud
Leviticus 11:4-8 -May not eat animals that meet only one criteria
Leviticus 11:9-12 -Some sea animals may be eaten
Leviticus 11:13-19 -Some birds may be eaten
Leviticus 11:20-23 -Some insects may be eaten
Leviticus 11:24-28 -Touching the carcass makes one unclean
Leviticus 11:29-31 -More unclean animals

Unclean Men?
The Lord uses the example of unclean animals to teach Peter something. Peter then takes that lesson, realizes that all people can be clean the sight of God, and teaches the first gentiles. It is a reversal of the mindset previously held by Peter and by the Jews in general: instead of having to work to remain apart from animals (and men) that would make one unclean, one was to teach everyone, no matter their background, race, or nationality, that all may be saved. Now we must not think of what is unclean, but remain focused on that all are “clean” and must be taught the gospel!
Acts 10:1-2 -Cornelius
Acts 10:3-8 -Cornelius’ vision, he sends men to Joppa (40+ miles)
Acts 10:9-16 -Peter’s surprising vision
Acts 10:17-23 -The men arrive to summon Peter
Acts 10:24-26 -Peter comes to Caesarea
Acts 10:27-29 -I should not call any man unclean
Acts 10:30-33 -Cornelius relates his vision
Acts 10:34-43 -Peter preaches to the gentiles
Acts 10:44-46 -The Holy Spirit comes upon the gentiles
Acts 10:47-48 -Peter commands baptism, stays with them some days
Galatians 2:11-13 -Peter condemned by Paul
James 2:1-8 -Do not show partiality, love your neighbor as yourself

God's Righteous Judgment - 4/25/10am

2010-04-26T08:08:00.001-07:00

Ecclesiastes 11:9-10 -Rejoice in your youth, but know God will judge
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -The whole of man, God will judge every work
Knowing then that God gives us the choice to act as we will and that God will judge those actions, lets us remember the Lord’s righteous judgment to come!

II Corinthians 5:1-11 -We must all appear before the judgment seat
Ezekiel 18:1-32 -Yet you say the way of the Lord is not just
We must all stand before God in judgment, and the Lord will look at our lives, and judge us by whether or not we have truly followed Him. What could be more fair than that? He has given us warning and the answer key to the “test” we must pass. Will we follow him?

Matthew 25:31-46 -Judging the sheep and the goats
Revelation 20:11-21:8 -Judgment and consequences
Mark 9:42-48 -Where the fire and worm do not die
There are two possible destinations. One is an eternity in the presence of God. The other is an eternity of pain and torment. Again, which direction are you headed? Know that the Lord will judge according to what you are doing, and whether your life is lived in accord with His word.

Mark 16:14-20 -He who believes and is baptized will be saved

Avoiding Golden Calves - 4/18/10pm

2010-04-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

Exodus 32:1-35 -Israel and the golden calf

Idolatry
While we may not every be tempted to literally bow down to an idol, we must be careful never to put anything ahead of God in our life! To do so is a form of idolatry, and such is condemned.
Isaiah 44:9-20 -The foolishness of Idolatry
Colossians 3:1-7 -Covetousness, which is idolatry
I Corinthians 6:9-11 -Idolaters will not inherit the kingdom

Wrong Worship and Service
The way the passage is worded, the Israelites believed themselves to be worshiping Jehovah while they bowed down to the golden calf. Obviously, this was not so! Their worship was not proper worship, accepted by God. In addition to the obvious idolatry, we must be cautious that the worship and service we render to God is in accordance with His will!
Colossians 2:8-10 -The basic principles of the world
Colossians 2:20-23 -The basic principles of the world
Romans 12:1-2 -Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, your reasonable service

Misuse of God’s Blessings
Genesis 15:12-14 -God promises Israel will leave with many possessions
Exodus 12:31-36 -Israel plunders Egypt in the exodus
How often do we and/or those around us make a misuse of God’s blessings in this life? How often do we take that which God has given us, whether it is material possessions, time, health, or whatever else, and use it to achieve ends which the Lord is not pleased with?
Ephesians 5:15-21 -Walk wisely, redeeming the time
Colossians 4:2-6 -Walk wisely, redeeming the time
I Timothy 6:17-19 -Instruct those who are rich
Galatians 5:13 -Do not use liberty as occasion for the flesh

Laying on Hands - 4/11/10am

2010-04-15T18:24:00.001-07:00

To Pass on Spiritual Gifts
Acts 8:4-24 -The Samaritans taught, the apostles lay on hands, Simon the sorcerer

To Use Spiritual Gifts
Acts 28:7-10 -Paul lays on hands to heal
John 4:46-54 -Jesus heals the son of an official
John 5:1-15 -Jesus heals a lame man at the Pool of Bethesda

The Purpose and Use of Spiritual Gifts
Mark 16:19-20 -The word was confirmed through signs
Hebrews 2:1-4 -Signs bore witness of the salvation spoken by the Lord
I Corinthians 13:1-13 -Spiritual gifts of limited value and will be done away with: they were the childish things
I Corinthians 14:1-25 -How they were properly to use spiritual gifts: for the benefit of others, not for own glory

The Childish Things (I Cor. 13:11) are Replaced
II Timothy 3:14-17 -All scripture, that the man of God may be complete
Romans 1:15-17 -The gospel is the power of God to salvation

Esau's Forgiveness - 4/4/10pm

2010-04-04T12:40:00.001-07:00

Genesis 32:1-5 -Jacob sends messengers to Esau
Genesis 32:6-8 -Esau comes to Jacob, making Jacob afraid

Why was Jacob afraid of his brother?
Genesis 25:29-34 -Esau sells his birthright for stew
Genesis 27:5-17 -Rebekah plots to have Jacob steal Esau’s blessing
Genesis 27:18-29 -Jacob steals Esau’s blessing
Genesis 27:41-43 -Esau hates Jacob and plans to kill him

What was Esau’s response to Jacob?
Genesis 32:9-12 -Jacob prays to God for deliverance
Genesis 32:13-21 -Jacob sends great presents to Esau
Genesis 33:1-3 -Esau arrives where Jacob is
Genesis 33:4-7 -Esau greets Jacob, his wives, and hi children
Genesis 33:8-11 -Esau wants to know why Jacob sent so much
Genesis 33:12-17 -Esau seeks to help Jacob finish his journey

How should we forgive?
Matthew 6:9-15 -God forgives those who forgive
Matthew 18:21-35 -How many times shall I forgive?
Luke 7:41-43 -Who has the greater debt?

The Doctrine of Baptism - 4/4/10am

2010-04-04T12:39:00.002-07:00

Taught by Peter
Acts 2:29-41 -Repent and be baptized for the remission of sins
Acts 10:24-48 -Cornelius receives a vision from God, gifts of the Holy Spirit, and still had to be baptized
I Peter 3:18-22 -Baptism, which now saves you

Taught by Paul
I Corinthians 1:10-17 -Paul baptized Crispus, Gaius, household of Stephanas
Galatians 3:26-29 -If you have been baptized, you have put on Christ
Colossians 2:11-15 -Buried with Him in baptism, the circumcision of Christ

Taught by Other Disciples
Acts 8:26-40 -Philip baptized the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 18:24-28 -Aquila and Priscilla more fully teach Apollos baptism
Acts 22:6-16 -Ananias told Paul to be baptized, washing away sins

Taught by Jesus Christ
Matthew 3:13-17 -The baptism of Jesus, to fulfill all righteousness
John 4:1-2 -Jesus’ approval of baptism
Matthew 28:18-20 -Go unto all the world, teaching and baptizing

The Apostles - 3/21/10pm

2010-04-04T12:39:00.001-07:00

Matthew 10:1-4 -The twelve apostles listed

Simon who is called Peter
Andrew, his brother
Matthew 4:18-20 -Fishermen
John 13:1-11 -Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, Peter refuses
These two men were fishermen. Notice how Peter leaps in headfirst, without really thinking. He is impulsive and zealous, but does not exercise thought.

James the son of Zebedee
John his brother
Matthew 4:21-22 -Fishermen
Luke 9:51-56 -Rebuked by Christ
Mark 3:17 -Given the name boanerges, meaning sons of thunder
James and John were also fishermen, and were apparently not quiet and meek individuals, but brash and quick to anger. Compare this with Philip’s reaction to Nathaniel.

Philip
John 1:43-51 -Philip brings Nathaniel to Christ
Philip eagerly teaches and seeks to bring others to Christ. We see him finding Nathaniel and taking him straight to the source, and not his own teaching.

Thomas
John 11:1-16 -Let us go, that we may die with him
John 20:24-31 -Thomas wants proof of the risen Christ
Thomas often gets a bad name as “doubting Thomas.” What we see in Thomas is someone who is loyal to Christ, and wants evidence that the risen Jesus is, in fact, Christ and not an impostor. His skeptical, evidence based approach is in great contrast to Peter.

Matthew the Tax Collector
Matthew 18:15-17 -The low regard for tax collectors
Matthew was a publican, a tax collector. His job was, working for the Romans, to go and collect taxes from people. We’ll see who this stands in contrast to in a moment.

James, the son of Alphaeus
Mark 15:40 -James the younger/less
Apparently younger than the other James. Notice we have a bit of difference in ages, apparently. At least enough to differentiate him in this way.

Simon the Zealot
Simon was a Zealot. Which means he was fanatic in his hatred of Roman rule and the Hellenization of Judea. He would have thought of himself as a true patriot. Contrast this with Matthew the tax collector, one who worked for the Roman government. Can you imagine two such individuals working together? Yet they did, for years!

Judas Iscariot
Christ’s betrayer. Even as one of Christ’s closest followers and friends, he still turned his back on Jesus. If he can do it, then so can we. It is something to be watchful for.

Paul
Acts 26:4-20 -Paul’s former life, conversion, and teaching
Paul was perhaps the most unlikely convert. He was a man who zealously persecuted the church. In his younger life he was trained as a Pharisee, was very knowledgeable of the law, and as is seen in other places, was educated in other ways as well. He was both a Jew and a Roman citizen.

I Corinthians 12:12-30 -A body has many parts
Just as with the apostles, we all have different backgrounds, different personalities, and different abilities. We can all serve and follow Christ, however. We must all turn to Him and properly serve our role in the body.

Saving Faith - 3/28/10am

2010-04-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

John 4:1-9 -Jesus travels, sits at a well in Samaria, asks a woman for a drink
John 4:10-15 -Jesus tells the woman of living water
John 4:16-19 -The woman’s husbands
John 4:20-24 -Worship in spirit and in truth
John 4:25-26 -Jesus is the Messiah
John 4:39-42 -The woman tells others, who come to Christ and believe
In this chapter, we learn much about the development of faith. We see a woman going from unbelief, not even following the law of Moses, to believing that Jesus is the Messiah. She then goes and teaches others, who, in order to fully develop their faith, are exposed to the Christ. We cannot have a faith built on the word of another, but our faith must be built on Christ.

So what must we believe to begin following God?
Hebrews 11:6 -Must believe that God is and rewards diligent seekers
Matthew 16:13-19 -Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God
I Corinthians 15:12-20 -If Christ has not risen, then our faith is empty

Is faith enough?
John 8:30-38 -They believe, are slaves of sin, not children of Abraham
John 8:39-41 -They do not do the works of Abraham
John 8:42-47 -They are sons of the devil, and do his desires
John 8:48-53 -The Jews are angry, accuse Christ of being demon- possessed
John 8:54-58 -Before Abraham was, I AM
John 8:59 -They take up stones to stone Jesus
If faith is enough to save you, then these men who took up stones to kill the Messiah, the Son of God, were saved in this action. Needless to say, their faith did not save them, but rather, they stood condemned by their actions. We must believe, this is absolutely true. But we must also act in accordance with God’s will, or else we too are sons of the devil.
James 2:14-26 -Faith without works

Do you believe? Act on it!
Mark 16:16 -Whoever believes and is baptized

Perfect Love - 3/14/10pm

2010-03-12T13:51:00.003-08:00

I John 4:7-19 -Perfect love drives out fear

God’s Love for Man
Freewill Ezekiel 18:19-29
Christ’s Sacrifice Romans 5:6-11
God’s Forgiveness I John 1:5-10
God’s Patience II Peter 3:1-9

Man’s Love for God
Keep Commands I John 4:20-5:5
Put His Will First Matthew 26:36-46

Man’s Love for Man
Don’t be a Stumbling Block I Corinthians 8:1-13
Submit to Others Ephesians 5:17-21

Luke 10:24-37 -The greatest commandment, good Samaritan

Run the Race - 3/14/10am

2010-03-12T13:51:00.001-08:00

Philippians 2:12-18 -Hold fast so Paul knows he hadn’t run in vain
Paul wrote to the church in Philippi, exhorting them to continue doing as they should so that Paul’s effort in teaching them would not have been futile.

Hebrews 12:1-2 -Run with endurance
I Corinthians 9:24-27 -Run in such a way as to receive the prize
We are exhorted to run with endurance, prepared to keep serving Christ, focused on Him. Likewise, we are exhorted to run the race, that is, live as a Christian, the best we possibly can.

Galatians 5:4-10 -You ran well, but became estranged from Christ
Galatians 1:11-2:5 -Paul talks to those of reputation, lest he run in vain
II Timothy 4:6-8 -I have finished the race
We can fail to properly run the race and find ourselves disqualified. We must make sure that we endure and continue to serve God, lest we become estranged from Christ.

Philippians 3:1-16 -Press towards the goal
I Thessalonians 4:1-8 -God called us not for uncleanness, but in holiness
Hebrews 11:6 -God rewards diligent seekers
Revelation 21:1-22:5 -The reward
We press on towards the goal, that we might receive the reward. Are you pressing on? Are you running the race with endurance and in such a way as to receive the prize of eternal life? How hard and how long are you willing to run?

Christ and Creation - 3/7/10pm

2010-03-12T13:50:00.002-08:00

John 1:1-5, 14-18 - Christ is God, was at creation
Colossians 1:13-20 - All things were created through, by, and for Christ
Genesis 1:1-2:3 - Creation

Christ's Authority and power over Creation
Mark 3:1-6 - Jesus heals on the Sabbath
Mark 6:30-44 - Jesus feeds the 5,000
Mark 6:45-52 - Jesus walks on water
Marks 16:1-13 - Jesus rises from the dead

John the Baptist - 3/7/10am

2010-03-12T13:50:00.001-08:00

Prophecies of:
Isiah 40:3-5 - A voice in the wildnerness
Malachi 3:1 - The messenger to be sent before the Messenger
Malachi 4:5-6 - Elijah the prophet

Life of:
Luke 1:5-25 - John's father is told that he will be born
Luke 1:57-66 - John is born
Luke 3:1-22 - John teaches and baptizes
Matthew 14:1-12 - John is executed

Daniel: A Ram, a Goat, and Two Kings - 2/28/10pm

2010-03-01T13:38:00.000-08:00

Daniel 8:1 -In the third year of Belshazzar
Daniel 8:2-4 -Vision of a ram
Daniel 8:5-7 -A goat tramples the ram
Daniel 8:8-14 -A little horn (Antiochus Epiphanes)
Daniel 8:15-17 -Beginning of an explanation of the vision
Daniel 8:18-27 -Medo-Persia and Greece
History Recap: The Persian Empire fell to the Macedonian Empire of Alexander the Great. After the death of Alexander, his empire was divided up into several smaller kingdoms, each ruled by one of his generals. Two of these kingdoms, the Selucid (Syria) and Ptolemaic (Egypt) are of particular interest to us.

Daniel 10:10-14 -What will happen to Daniel’s people in the latter days
Daniel 10:15-21 -Daniel is troubled
Daniel 11:1-4 -In the first year of Darius, a vision of 4 more kings od Persia and one mighty king (Alexander) after that
Daniel 11:5-8 -The king of the south (Ptolemaic/Egyptian kingdom)
Daniel 11:9-13 -King of the south will not prevail against the king of the north (Selucid/Syrian)
Daniel 11:14-16 -Men from among your own, rulership by king of the north
Daniel 11:17-28 -Kings of the North
Daniel 11:29-39 -A king of the north and abomination of desolation: Antiochus Epiphanes
Daniel 11:40-45 -Fall of the king of the south, later defeat of the king of the north
History Recap: After the division of Alexander’s empire, the kings of the Selucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms warred against each other, with Judea trading hands several times. Eventually, Antiochus Epiphanes led the northern Selucid kingdom to victory. He also established a fortress inside Jerusalem, forbid the worship of Jehovah, instituted the worship of Zeus in the temple, and massacred Jews who rose up against him. “Epiphanes” was a name he took for himself, proclaiming himself to be the epiphany, or manifestation, of a god. All of this led to the Maccabean revolt and a short period of Jewish independence before Roman governorship.

Not Talented, but Able - 2/28/10am

2010-03-01T13:36:00.000-08:00

I Corinthians 12:1-31 -Many members, one body
Ephesians 4:1-16 -The whole body, knit together
Matthew 25:14-30 -Parable of the talents
Often, we focus on finding ways to use our talents in the Lord’s service. Really, we should be going beyond this. As in the parable of the talents, we each have a responsibility to do as much as we are able, not just as much as we think we are really good at. There are a wide variety of things that need to be done, that nearly anyone is capable of, even without a lot of talent or skill.

I Peter 4:7-11 -With the ability God provides, as good stewards
I Corinthians 4:1-2 -Stewards of the mysteries of God
I Corinthians 9:16-18 -Entrusted with a stewardship
Titus 1:5-9 -Elders to be blameless, as a steward of God
Exodus 17:8-16 -Hur, holding up the arm of Moses

Are we each doing as much as we are able? Or do we make excuses about things because we lack “talent?” You don’t have to be the best teacher to reach a class or the best writer to send a card. You don’t have to have the best voice to lead singing or be the best speaker to preach. If you are able to do something…get to work!

Daniel: Four Beasts - 2/21/10pm

2010-02-21T11:56:00.001-08:00

In the second chapter of Daniel, we are presented with a situation where the king has a dream and wants to test his advisors by having them tell him the dream and its interpretation. Only Daniel is given this ability by God, and he does so. The dream is one we are probably familiar with, and has to do with the kingdoms which were to arise.
Daniel 2:1 -A dream in the second year of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign
Daniel 2:2-3 -Nebuchadnezzar summons the wise men
Daniel 2:4-13 -The wise men have no answer, the king grows angry
Daniel 2:14-23 -Daniel and his companions pray and are given the secret
Daniel 2:24-30 -Daniel comes to the king, giving the glory to God
Daniel 2:31-35 -Nebuchadnezzar’s dream
Daniel 2:36-45 -The explanation of the dream: the statue is four kingdoms
Head of Gold - Nebuchadnezzar/Babylonian Empire
Chest of silver - Medes and Persians/Persian Empire
Belly of Brass - Greek/Macedonian Empire
Legs of Iron, Mixed Feet - Roman Empire
Rock not cut with hands - Kingdom of God

In the 7th chapter of Daniel, Daniel is given a dream. This dream, like Nebuchadnezzar’s, had to do with four kingdoms and the Lord’s victory during the fourth kingdom.
Daniel 7:1 -Daniel’s dream in the first year of Belshazzar’s reign
Daniel 7:2-4 -The first beast, like a lion with eagle’s wings
Daniel 7:5 -The second beast, like a bear with ribs in its mouth
Daniel 7:6 -The third beast, like a 4-headed leopard with 4 wings
Daniel 7:7-8 -The fourth beast, different, with 10 horns and iron teeth. A little horn displaces 3 horns, speaking pompous words
Daniel 7:9-14 -The fourth beast is slain, the kingdom belongs to the Lord
Daniel 7:15-18 -The beasts are kingdoms, saints will receive the kingdom
Daniel 7:19-20 -What about the fourth beast and the little horn?
Daniel 7:21-28 -The fourth beast is a kingdom (Rome) which will rule the earth, one of the kings of which will persecute the saints for 3 ½ “times.” Then his kingdom will be removed and given to the saints.

In the book of Revelation, we see a beast that matches the fourth beast of Daniel 7 (Rome). The meaning of this passage is made more clear, having examined Daniel’s words.
Revelation 13:1-4 -The beast from the sea, possessing traits of the beasts from Daniel 7, particularly the fourth beast
Revelation 13:5-10 -The beast speaks blasphemies and persecutes the saints for 42 months (3 ½ years)
The Lord is victorious. The Lord’s prophecies have been fulfilled, save that we wait for Christ’s return. Are you prepared? Are you with the victorious Christ or against Him?

David's Great-Grandmother - 2/21/10am

2010-02-21T11:55:00.000-08:00

Ruth 1:1-4 -Naomi and her family move to Moab
Ruth 1:5-7 -Naomi’s sons die, she decides to return from Moab
Ruth 1:8-13 -Naomi tells her daughters-in-law to stay
Ruth 1:14-22 -Ruth returns with Naomi
Ruth 2:1-3 -Ruth gleans in Boaz’s field
Ruth 2:4-14 -Boaz notices Ruth, notes her good deeds, treats her well
Ruth 2:15-18 -Ruth gleans and is protected by Boaz
Ruth 2:19-23 -Naomi encourages Ruth to continue gleaning in Boaz’s field
Ruth 3:1-5 -Naomi instructs Ruth in order to find her rest
Ruth 3:6-9 -Ruth obeys Naomi’s instructions
Ruth 3:10-13 -Boaz agrees to redeem Ruth
Ruth 3:14-18 -Boaz gives Ruth grain, who takes it to Naomi
Ruth 4:1-6 -Boaz offers the right of redemption to the closer relative
Ruth 4:7-12 -Boaz redeems Ruth
Ruth 4:13-22 -Ruth gives birth to Obed, father of Jesse, father of David

Daniel: Context 2/14/10pm

2010-02-14T13:16:00.001-08:00

In the Days of Nebuchadnezzar (beginning 586 BC)
In his youth, Nebuchadnezzar defeated Jerusalem and carried the city’s inhabitants into captivity. This was done in accordance with God’s will as punishment for the sins of Judah.
Daniel 1:1-2 -Nebuchadnezzar captures Jerusalem
Daniel 1:3-7 -Noble young Hebrews are gathered
Daniel 1:8-14 -Daniel and his friends refuse to eat the king’s delicacies
Daniel 1:15-16 -Daniel and his friends are in better condition than the others
Daniel 1:17-21 -Daniel and his friends are blessed and given high position

In the Days of Belshazzar (ending 539BC)
Daniel remained in captivity with the rest of Israel, continuing until the reign of Belshazzar, son of Nabonidus and grandson of Nebuchadnezzar. It was in Belshazzar’s reign that Babylon was defeated on the night of October 29, 539.
Daniel 5:1-4 -Belshazzar uses the temple vessels for a party
Daniel 5:5-9 -The writing on the wall
Daniel 5:10-12 -The queen remembers Daniel
Daniel 5:13-16 -Daniel asked for the interpretation
Daniel 5:17-29 -Daniel gives the interpretation and condemnation of Belshazzar
Daniel 5:30-31 -Babylon falls to the Medes and Persians

And in the Days of Darius the Mede and Cyrus the Persian (about 536BC)
After the Babylonian empire fell, the Medo-Persian empire (often also referred to as simply the Persian Empire) “inherited” the captive Hebrews. Daniel, as before, was granted high position into the reign of Cyrus.
Daniel 6:1-3 -Daniel given high position
Daniel 6:4-9 -Daniel is plotted against, Darius signs the law against prayer/petition to any but himself for 30 days
Daniel 6:10 -Daniel continues to pray
Daniel 6:11-13 -Daniel is reported to Darius
Daniel 6:14-17 -Darius orders Daniel to the lion’s den
Daniel 6:18-23 -Daniel is kept save from the lions
Daniel 6:24 -The conspirators are cast into the lion’s den
Daniel 6:25-27 -Darius issues a decree
Daniel 6:28 -Daniel prospered in the days of Darius and Cyrus
Ezra 1:1-4 -Cyrus ends the captivity

Fear God - 2/14/10am

2010-02-14T13:15:00.000-08:00

Sodom’s Example
Genesis 19:1-26 -The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah
Jude 5-15 -These are an example, the Lord comes to execute judgment

Fear the Lord
Proverbs 1:7 -Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
Proverbs 9:10 -Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
Proverbs 15:33 -Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom
Psalm 36:1-12 -The sins of those who do not fear God, God’s loving kindness for those who know Him

Fear and Obedience
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -Fear God and keep His commandments
II Chronicles 19:4-7 -Fear the Lord, be careful of what you do
Philippians 2:12-13 -Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling

Judgment
Matthew 25:31-46 -Judgment
Hebrews 10:23-31 -Vengeance is mine, it is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God
II Corinthians 5:10-11 -We will all be judged, therefore knowing the fear of the Lord we persuade men
Matthew 10:28 -Fear the one who can destroy body and soul
II Thessalonians 1:5-10 -Those who do not know God or obey will be punished
Revelation 21:8 -The second death
Galatians 5:19-21 -Works of the flesh
Mark 9:42-48 -Where the worm and fire do not die

Bible Study - 2/7/10pm

2010-02-09T14:17:00.001-08:00

Psalm 19:1-14 -The law of the Lord

Preparing to Study
Ezra 7:1-10 -Ezra prepared his heart to study
Colossians 1:9-12 -Pray for you, asking that you may be filled with knowledge
Philippians 1:9-11 -Pray that your love may abound in real knowledge
James 1:5-8 -Pray to God for wisdom
II Chronicles 1:7-12 -Solomon asks for wisdom, pleasing God

A Habit of Study
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 -You shall teach them diligently
II Timothy 3:14-17 -Timothy knew the scriptures from youth
I Timothy 4:12-16 -Give attention to reading
Acts 17:10-12 -The Bereans daily searched the scriptures
Hebrews 5:11-6:3 -Solid food is for the mature, because of their constant use

Deuteronomy 8:1-3 -Man does not live by bread alone

Application of Study
James 1:21-25 -Be doers, not only hearers
Matthew 7:24-27 -The wise and foolish builders
Luke 8:19-21 -Jesus’ brothers and sisters are those who hear and do

Acts 8:26-39 -The Ethiopian eunuch

Be Reconciled to God - 2/7/10am

2010-02-09T14:16:00.000-08:00

Ecclesiastes 7:29 -God made man upright, but men have sought out many inventions
Isaiah 59:1-8 -Sin separates men from God

Reconciliation through Christ
Though we have all sinned and separated ourselves from God, we can be reconciled to Him through Christ.
Zechariah 1:1-4 -Return to God and He will return to you
II Corinthians 5:12-21 -Reconciled to God by Christ Jesus
Romans 5:6-11 -Reconciliation by Christ’s death and resurrection
Colossians 1:19-23 -Once enemies, we are now reconciled
Ephesians 2:14-18 -Both Jews and Gentiles can be reconciled together
Luke 15:11-32 -The parable of the prodigal son

Repentance
To be reconciled we must repent and turn back to serving Him. A change from following after sin to following after Christ must b made.
II Corinthians 7:8-12 -The repentance of the Corinthians
II Timothy 2:11-26 -Repentance of those who acknowledge the truth
Hebrews 6:4-6 -If someone falls away, how can we return them to repentance?
Luke 13:1-5 -Repent or you shall also perish

Bringing Up the Gospel - 1/31/10pm

2010-01-30T09:04:00.003-08:00

Matthew 13:44 -A treasure hidden in a field
Matthew 13:45-46 -A merchant seeking pearls
Luke 8:4-15 -The parable of the sower
I Corinthians 9:16-23 -Preach willingly, all things to all men

When an Opening is Provided
Sometimes, a clear and obvious opening to teach the Bible is provided. Perhaps someone asks you a question. Perhaps someone is reading their Bible and you see it. Perhaps someone begins talking about religious matters. Perhaps it is someone commenting on a magazine article on religion/Bible/Christianity. Whatever it may be, we must take advantage of it.
I Peter 3:15 -Always ready to give a defense
Ephesians 6:15 -Feet shod with the preparation of the gospel
Matthew 19:16-22 -The rich young ruler
Acts 8:26-39 -The Ethiopian eunuch

By Creating Opportunity
Sometimes, the opening is not as clear or seems not to be there at all. Nonetheless, we must bring up the gospel to others. Finding some place to begin is often the difficult task in this, but if we look hard enough, we will find the best place from which to begin teaching the gospel.
Matthew 22:46-23:12 -Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes
Acts 14:1-7 -Paul and Barnabas go to the synagogue to teach
Acts 17:16-31 -Paul preaches at Athens

The Role of Prayer
Prayer plays an important role in this, as in anything. It is not a mater of asking for opportunities, so much as asking for boldness and wisdom. The opportunities are there, we just need help in seeing and using them.
Acts 4:23-31 -Prayer for boldness in speaking the word

God Promised Abraham - 1/31/10am

2010-01-30T09:04:00.001-08:00

Genesis 12:1-3 -God promises Abraham land, nation, and seed
Genesis 15:1-6 -God reaffirms the promise of a great nation
Genesis 15:7-21 -God reaffirms the promise of land

Nation Promise
When the Israelites leave Egypt, we see that indeed the promise to Abraham that a nation would descend from him had been fulfilled.
Exodus 1:1-14 -The multitude of the nation of Israel
Exodus 12:31-39 -The multitude of the nation of Israel
Exodus 19:3-6 -God describes the Israelites as a nation

Land Promise
In the days of Joshua, the promise of the land was fulfilled. However, we see that there is a warning: if they fail to continue to following the Lord, they will be destroyed and removed from the land. They failed, and several hundred years later, they were carried into captivity.
Joshua 11:16-23 -Joshua conquers the land as God had promised
Joshua 23:14-16 -When you have transgressed the covenant
Deuteronomy 30:11-20 -But if Israel does not obey...

Seed Promise
And of course, most importantly of all, the Seed promise was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, and through Him we can have forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
Matthew 5:17 -Christ came to fulfill the covenant
Galatians 3:5-9 -Gentiles blessed through promise to Abraham
I Timothy 2:1-7 -Christ wants, and was ransom for, all men to be saved

God made promises to Abraham. God kept His promises to Abraham. He will likewise keep His promises that He has made through the Scriptures to us.
II Corinthians 6:14-7:1 -Having these promises, be cleansed

Testing the Spirits: The Prayer Rug - 1/24/10pm

2010-01-23T09:57:00.001-08:00

I John 4:1 -Test the spirits to see if they are from God

My parents received this in the mail from “St. Matthew’s Churches," and I thought it would provide an opportunity to test the spirits and be reminded of why it is important to always compare everything to God’s word.

The Letter, side A
“They are receiving divine help in the form of answered prayer. Some are seeing loved ones saved, and many of them are receiving spiritual, physical, and financial blessings of all types - better jobs, raises in salaries, being able to buy and sell homes, buying new cars, and so on (III John 2, Philippians 4:19). Actually these dear people are receiving so many blessings that it is impossible to mention them all in a letter”
III John 2 -John prays that Gaius might prosper in all things as his soul prospers
Philippians 4:10-20 -The Lord provides needs, but be content in all circumstances

The Letter, side B
“Let us ask you: Would you like to have God’s blessings upon your home, your family, and your finances? Say, “Yes, Lord Jesus, I do need Your financial blessings upon me and my family’s finances” (Deuteronomy 28:6).”
Deuteronomy 28:1-8, 15-25 -God’s promises to Israel for obedience and disobedience when they enter Canaan

“P.S. Read the enclosed sealed prophecy, only after you have mailed this Prayer Rug back to the church for your free, blessed, Deuteronomy 8:18 Prosperity Cross.”
Deuteronomy 8:11-20 -Remember God, that you are not “self made”

At the bottom of the page, after the prayer check list, the verse Matthew 9:29 is partially provided.
Matthew 9:27-31 -Jesus rewards the faith of two blind men

The “Prophetic Word”
“Christ died on the cross for our sins (St. John 3:16)”
John 3:14-17 -The Son of Man will be lifted up

“Most of your battles will be fought inside your head. This is why your thoughts must be focused on God’s new future for you. Think ahead...not behind. God said, “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing” (Isaiah 43:18).”
Isaiah 43:14-21 -God will bring down Babylon

“So we have heard the spoken word of the Spirit, and it is very powerful. This is what we are led to relate to you, through the “word of knowledge” (I Corinthians12:8)”
I Corinthians 12:4-11, 14:8-12 -The word of knowledge gift of the Spirit which has passed away

The Testimonial, side A
Psalm 55:17 is quoted independently of other paragraphs, but in conjunction with God answering prayers for wealth
Psalm 55:12-19 -David, abandoned and betrayed, turns to the Lord
Also briefly mentioned is part of Matthew 19:26, in the same context.
Matthew 19:23-26 -It is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of
heaven
Side B of the testimonial contains “testimonials” of receiving money after using the “prayer rug.”

The Testimonial, side C
“This 2-¼ by 1-½ inch beautiful, blessed Prosperity Cross is a symbol of the power of faith and prayer, and it is yours for free, as the church’s gift to you. You may wear it, carry it or keep it in your wallet as your point of faith contact with your Heavenly Father for His spiritual, physical, emotional and financial blessings (III John 2, Philippians 4:19, Galatians 6:7, Deuteronomy 8:18, Malachi 3:10,11).”
Galatians 6:7-10 -Sowing to the flesh and to the Spirit
Malachi 3:8-12 -Israel is told to stop robbing God and they will be blessed instead of cursed

Apart from other context, Philippians 4:6 is partially quoted.
Philippians 4:4-7 -The peace of God, a result of prayer

Side D of the testimonial quotes, again, Philippians 4:6 and Deuteronomy 8:18, surrounded by “testimony” of financial improvements from use of the “prayer rug.”

Some of the Errors
James 4:1-6 -Ask, but do not receive because you ask amiss
Colossians 2:20-23 -The appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion
Hebrews 2:3-4 -Signs bore witness of the message
Matthew 6:19-20 -Do not lay up for yourself treasures on earth
Acts 2:36-42 -Salvation

Victory and Defeat, Jericho and Ai - 1/24/10am

2010-01-23T09:55:00.000-08:00

The Victory at Jericho
God gives Jericho to the Israelites, who do exactly as they are told. In the obedience, victory is given to them.
Joshua 6:1-5 -God gives instructions to Joshua
Joshua 6:6-11 -Joshua gives the instructions to the Israelites
Joshua 6:12-21 -The people obey, Jericho falls
Joshua 6:22-25 -Rahab and her family is spared
Joshua 6:26-27 -The curse on rebuilding Jericho

The Defeat at Ai
One person had sinned in looting Jericho. Because of his sin, victory was lost and severe consequences took place, both for Achan and for others.
Joshua 7:1 -Achan’s sin
Joshua 7:2-5 -Israel is defeated and flees at Ai
Joshua 7:6-9 -Joshua laments and cries out to God
Joshua 7:10-15 -God tells Joshua that Israel has sinned
Joshua 7:16-19 -Achan is found out
Joshua 7:20-21 -Achan confesses his sin
Joshua 7:22-26 -Achan is stoned and burned

The Victory at Ai
When Israel had chosen to once more fully obey the Lord, He again grants them victory.
Joshua 8:1-2 -The Lord tells Joshua to go and attack Ai
Joshua 8:3-8 -Joshua divides his force and prepares an ambush
Joshua 8:9-13 -Joshua marches the rest of his army towards Ai
Joshua 8:14-20 -The soldiers of Ai leave the city, which is sacked
Joshua 8:21-23 -The army of Ai is defeated
Joshua 8:24-29 -The city is destroyed, the people killed, and spoil is taken

Though Achan’s sin seemed such a small things, it cost Israel the victory, and brought about the end of his own life. If we choose to sin and not obey the Lord, even in something that seems small, we can influence others in such a way as to lose their souls, and we will ultimately have to pay the price of the second death. If, however, we do as the Lord says, we will have our victory.
Hebrews 5:5-11 -Christ, the author of eternal salvation to those who obey Him

Casting Lots - 1/17/10pm

2010-01-16T11:16:00.001-08:00

Proverbs 16:33 -Casting lots, the decision is God’s

In the Old Testament
It seems that exactly what form casting lots took in the Old Testament is unclear. Evidently, some small objects, such as pebbles, were marked in some way and then thrown in some way as to differentiate the two. The idea was to remove the human element and choices and depend solely on the Lord.
Leviticus 16:7-10 -The sin offering and the scapegoat
Joshua 18:3-10 -The dividing of the promised land by lot
Jonah 1:1-16 -Jonah is chosen by lot as the cause of the storm
Psalm 22:14-18 -They cast lots for my clothing

In the New Testament
In the New Testament we are shown that not only those who followed the Lord cast lots in order to turn the decision over to the Lord, but it was also used by pagans to determine according to “fate,” “luck,” or the perceived will of other “gods.” It seems to have taken the form of small pieces of wood or stone that were marked, placed in a bag, and the thrown out. The first one out of the bag was what was chosen.
John 19:23-25 -Soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ clothing
Acts 1:15-26 -Lots are cast, Matthias is chosen to replace Judas

Submission to God
The casting of lots was done in submission to God. Whatever the Lord decided, the one casting lots had determined to do, no matter the outcome. We should have this same humility and attitude of obedience to the Lord in every aspect of our lives.
James 4:1-17 -Submit yourselves to the Lord
Hebrews 12:7-11 -Submit to the Father
Isaiah 53:1-12 -The submission and humility of the Christ
Philippians 2:5-8 -Be like Christ in humble submission to the Father

Failing to Listen - 1/17/10am

2010-01-16T11:15:00.000-08:00

Deuteronomy 18:15-20 -The Lord judges those who do not listen to Him
I Kings 22:1-5 -Ahab wants to fight Syria, asks Jehoshaphat to join him
I Kings 22:6 -Ahab asks his 400 prophets
I Kings 22:7-9 -Jehosphaphat wants to ask a prophet of God, and Micaiah is called
I Kings 22:10-14 -Zedekiah prophecies victory, Micaiah is told to say the same
I Kings 22:15-18 -Micaiah speaks the word of the Lord: Ahab will lose
I Kings 22:19-23 -Micaiah condemns the false prophets
I Kings 22:24-28 -Micaiah is imprisoned
I Kings 22:29-30 -Ahab and Jehoshaphat go to Ramoth Gilead
I Kings 22:31-40 -Ahab is killed and his army is scattered

How often do we see those who are of the same mindset as Ahab? They don’t want to hear what the Lord says, unless it happens to be in accordance with their own wishes. If the Bible says otherwise, it will be ignored. It is an attitude we must be willing to avoid. If we do not listen to what the Lord says in His scriptures, then we will be punished.

Luke 8:4-10 -Hearing they may not understand
I Thessalonians 4:3-8 -Whoever rejects this rejects God
Acts 3:11-26 -Christ, the prophet raised up by God
Romans 2:1-11 -God’s judgment, including of those who reject truth and believe a lie

Are you heeding the Word of God? Or are you ignoring it except when convenient? Are you following the pattern laid down in the Bible? Or are you rejecting God?

A Letter from Jerusalem - 1/3/10pm

2010-01-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

Acts 15:1-2 -Debate over circumcision arises
Acts 15:3-6 -The apostles and elders in Jerusalem discuss the matter
Acts 15:7-11 -Peter speaks
Acts 15:12 -Barnabas and Paul speak
Acts 15:13-21 -James speaks
Acts 15:22 -Word is sent from Jerusalem
Acts 15:23-29 -The letter sent from Jerusalem
Acts 15:30-32 -The letter is received and confirmed

Abstain from meat offered to idols
I Corinthians 8:1-13 -Eating of meat sacrificed to idols
I Corinthians 10:14-30 -Food offered to idols and idolatry

Abstain from blood, Abstain from strangled animals
Leviticus 17:10-14 -Life is in the blood
Hebrews 9:11-28 -The blood of bulls and goats, the blood of Christ

Abstain from fornication
Galatians 5:19-21 -The works of the flesh
I Corinthians 6:12-20 -The body is nor for sexual immorality, but for the Lord

Born Again - 1/3/10am

2010-01-01T13:47:00.000-08:00

I Peter 1:1-2 -Addressed to Christians
I Peter 1:3-5 -Born again to
-A living hope through Christ’s resurrection
-An incorruptible inheritance
I Peter 1:6-9 -Rejoice in salvation, even through persecution
I Peter 1:10-12 -Salvation preached by the Holy Spirit through the prophets
I Peter 1:13-21 -Therefore:
-Gird up the loins of your mind
-Be sober
-Rest your hope on the grace
-As obedient children
-Be holy
-Conduct yourself in fear
-Know you are redeemed with Christ’s blood
I Peter 1:22-25 -Purified souls in obeying is equal to born again through the word of God
I Peter 2:1-3 -Therefore:
-Lay aside
-Malice (badness in quality, viciousness)
-Deceit (bait, crafty guile)
-Hypocrisy (like a stage actor)
-Envy (displeasure at another’s prosperity)
-Evil speaking (backbiting)
-Desire the word and grow

John 3:1-2 -Nicodemus comes to Jesus
John 3:3 -Man must be born again
John 3:4-8 -Man must be born of water and the Spirit
John 3:9-12 -Nicodemus does not understand
John 3:13-17 -Christ to be lifted up, that men might be saved
John 3:18-21 -Belief and works

I Corinthians 15:1-8 -Faith in Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection
Hebrews 11:1, 6 -Faith is necessary, as is seeking God
Titus 1:10-16 -Disqualified for every good work
Titus 2:11-14 -Zealous for good works
Acts 2:32-39 -Baptism (water) and receive gift of the Holy Spirit
II Peter 1:19-21 -All prophecy came from the Holy Spirit
Galatians 3:1-14 -The Holy Spirit indwells through faith

The Day of the Lord - 12/27/09pm

2009-12-28T07:18:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 13:1-22
The word of the Lord against Babylon, who would conquer Judah
The day of the Lord was the punishment of Babylon’s sins by the hand of the Medes

Zephaniah 1:1-2:3
The day of the Lord was to be the Lord’s punishment of Judah (specifically mentioned is Jerusalem) for their sins
The people are called to repent

Malachi 3:1-3
Malachi 4:1-6
The day of the Lord appears to be referring to the coming of the Messiah
The Messiah not only brought hope, but also condemnation

Joel 2:28-32
Acts 2:14-21
The day of the Lord in Joel is stated as being a reference to the day of Pentecost and following period of time: the New Covenant
This time period to come before a day of the Lord.

I Thessalonians 5:1-11
The day of the Lord being referred to here is final judgment at the end of the world
The day of the Lord should bring us comfort, if we have been living as we should

II Peter 3:1-18
Again, we see referenced the final day of the Lord: judgment at Christ’s return
Because of this, we should be living in a way that is upright and steadfast

Saved from What? - 12/27/09am

2009-12-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

II Peter 3:8-9 -That all should come to repentance
I Timothy 2:3-7 -God wants all to be saved

Matthew 18:1-5 -Become as little children
Ecclesiastes 7:29 -God made man upright, but men have searched out many schemes
Romans 3:23 -All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

Saved from the Consequences of Our Actions
Romans 6:20-23 -The wages of sin is death
II Thessalonians 1:1-10 -Punished with everlasting destruction
Revelation 19:19-21 -The beast and false prophet cast to the lake of fire
Revelation 20:7-10 -Satan is cast into the lake of fire
Revelation 20:11-21:8 -The sinful are cast into the lake of fire
I Thessalonians 1:6-10 -Christ delivers us from wrath

We Must Follow Directions
I John 3:16-23 -Command to believe and love
John 6:28-40 -Belief is a work, Christ did the Father’s work
Acts 2:38-42 -Repent and be baptized
Ephesians 6:5-8 -Serve in sincerity of heart
Revelation 2:18-29 -Corrupt Thyatira, but he who keeps Christ’s words to the end receive the reward

Jephthah - 12/20/09pm

2009-12-19T13:08:00.000-08:00

Hebrews 11:32-34 -Jephthah among the heroes of faith
I Samuel 12:6-12 -Jephthah among those raised up by God to lead Israel

The Judges Cycle
In the second chapter of Judges, we learn of the spiritual state of Israel during the time when Jephthah lived. It was one of constant apostasy, followed by brief periods of repentance when God punished His people for their sin and unfaithfulness.
Judges 2:7-9 -The death of Joshua
Judges 2:10-15 -Israel sins and is punished by God
Judges 2:16-18 -The people cry to God, and God raises up a savior
Judges 2:19-23 -Israel sins again, and God punishes them again

Jephthah and the Ammonites
In the tenth and eleventh chapters of Judges, we are introduced to Jephthah, who is cast out of his family and then later turned to as a savior. We see his fight against the Ammonites who had been sent as punishment on unfaithful Israel.
Judges 10:6-17 -After Jair, Israel is oppressed by the Philistines and Ammonites
Judges 11:1-3 -Jephthah, son of a harlot, expelled by his brothers
Judges 11:4-11 -The people promise Jepthah will be leader if he saves them
Judges 11:12-28 -Jephthah tries diplomacy with the people of Ammon
Judges 11:29-33 -Jephthah makes a vow to God and defeats the Ammonites
Judges 11:34-40 -Jephthah’s daughter

Jephthah and the Ephraimites
In the beginning of the twelfth chapter, Jephthah struggles against the jealous Ephraimites, who were angry that Jephthah had gone to war, and succeeded, without them. Sadly, sometimes one must struggle not only those outside of God's people, but those who should be living and doing as they ought.
Judges 12:1-7 -Jephthah fights against Ephraim

Paul's Last Letter - 12/20/09am

2009-12-19T13:07:00.001-08:00

II Timothy 1:1-2 -A fatherly greeting, his care for Timothy
II Timothy 1:3-7 -Timothy’s faith, and who taught him
II Timothy 1:8-12 -Do not be ashamed of the gospel
II Timothy 1:13-18 -Hold fast the pattern of sound words and an example

II Timothy 2:1-7 -Stay focused
II Timothy 2:8-13 -A faithful saying of consequence
II Timothy 2:14-15 -Be diligent and remind them
II Timothy 2:16-19 -Shun babbling, and the firm foundation remains
II Timothy 2:20-23 -Flee and pursue
II Timothy 2:24-26 -A servant of the Lord

II Timothy 3:1-9 -Turn away from such
II Timothy 3:10-15 -Continue in the doctrine and work
II Timothy 3:16-17 -All scripture is from God

II Timothy 4:1-5 -Preach the word
II Timothy 4:6-8 -Paul’s work and reward
II Timothy 4:9-13 -Paul’s companions
II Timothy 4:14-18 -The Lord stood by Paul
II Timothy 4:19-22 -Hurry

On Dry Land - 12/13/09pm

2009-12-12T19:22:00.001-08:00

Exodus 14:14 -Israel camped before the sea
Exodus 14:5-9 -Pharaoh gathered chariots to pursue Israel
Exodus 14:10-12 -The people cry out against Moses
Exodus 14:13-14 -Moses tells the people the Lord will fight for them
Exodus 14:15-18 -God instructs Moses
Exodus 14:19-20 -The pillar of cloud moved between the Egyptians and Israel
Exodus 14:21-22 -God divides the waters of the Red Sea
Exodus 14:23-25 -The Lord causes trouble for the Egyptians
Exodus 14:26-28 -The waters move back, drowning Pharaoh’s army
Exodus 14:29-31 -Israel was saved, and believed the Lord and Moses

Murmuring and Complaining
We must be careful not to murmur, complain, and cry out against God as the people did when they saw the Egyptian army coming. Such shows a lack of faith and is displeasing to God.
Jude 12-19 -These are grumblers, complainers
I Corinthians 10:1-11 -Nor complain as some of them also complained

The Lord Provides
When it looked like there was no way for them to survive, God provided a way. It was not a way that they perhaps looked for or that seemed best to the people, but God provided what was necessary.
Matthew 6:25-34 -Do not worry
Acts 8:26-29, 35-39 -In desert, God provided water for baptism

Belief is Found and Lost
The believed enough to camp where God told them, but then lost that faith. They rebuilt their faith after being saved from the Egyptian army by God, but would lose their faith again. We must be sure not to have a faith as wavering and weak as theirs!
Numbers 13:26-33 -The spies say that they land is too strong to take
Numbers 14:1-4, 11-19 -The people heed the 10 spies, angering God
John 8:30-31, 33, 39, 41, 57-79 -Those who believed tried to stone Christ

The Whole Armor of God - 12/13/09am

2009-12-12T19:21:00.000-08:00

II Timothy 2:1-4 -Directions to Timothy as a soldier of Christ
II Corinthians 10:3-6 -Our war is not a physical war

Ephesians 6:10-19 -The whole armor of God

Girded waist with Truth (v14)
John 14:6 -I am the way, the truth, and the life
Colossians 1:3-8 -The word of truth of the gospel
John 7:25-29 -The Father and the Son are true

Breastplate of Righteousness (v14)
I John 3:4-9 -He who practices righteousness is righteous
I Peter 3:16 -That they may be ashamed when they defame

Feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel (v15)
I Peter 3:15 -Be prepared to give a defense
II Timothy 4:1-5 -Preach in season and out

Shield of Faith (v16)
II Samuel 22:29-31 -He is a shield to all who trust in Him
II Timothy 1:12 -I know whom I have believed
II Corinthians 4:7-15 -Though hard pressed, not crushed; I believe, so I speak

Helmet of Salvation (v17)
Galatians 3:26-29 -Put on Christ in baptism

Sword of the Spirit (v17)
Hebrews 4:12 -Word of God is sharper than a two edged sword
Revelation 2:12-16 -He would come and fight with the sword of His mouth
Revelation 19:11-16 -Out of His mouth goes a sharp sword

Watchful Prayer (v18)
I Peter 5:8-9 -Be sober and vigilant
I Peter 4:7 -Be serious and watchful in your prayers
I Corinthians 16:13 -Watch, stand fast, be brave, be strong

I Corinthians 15 - 12/6/09pm

2009-12-04T17:36:00.001-08:00

Hebrews 5:12-6:3 -First principles, including the resurrection and judgment

I Corinthians 15:1-2
The same gospel was taught by Paul both in word and in writing
If we hold fast to the gospel, we are saved by it
It is possible to believe in vain

I Corinthians 15:3-8
Evidence provided of Christ’s resurrection
Acts 1:1-3 -Infallible proofs of Christ’s resurrection
Other evidence provided that God can raise the dead:
The starving widow’s son, through Elijah -I Kings 17
The Shunammite’s (replenishing oil) Son, through Elisha -II Kings 4
A dead man, through Elisha’s body -II Kings 13
The widow of Nain’s son, by Jesus -Luke 7
The ruler’s daughter, by Jesus -Matthew 9
Lazarus, by Jesus -John 11
Many saints, at crucifixion -Matthew 27
Dorcas, through Peter -Acts 9
Eutychus, through Paul -Acts 20

I Corinthians 15:9-11
Unity of teaching among the apostles

I Corinthians 15:12-19
Christ’s resurrection is of first importance in Christianity
Belief in the resurrection is necessary

I Corinthians 15:20-28
We are currently under Christ’s reign - the kingdom is now
Acts 1:4-8 -Disciples ask if Christ is to restore the kingdom
Acts 2:1-4 -The kingdom comes with power
Christ, by the resurrection, brings the end of death as brought by Adam
Genesis 3:15 -Seed of woman will crush the serpent’s head

I Corinthians 15:29-32
Without the resurrection, there is no point to following Christ

I Corinthians 15:33-34
Evil company corrupts the faith and actions of the good

I Corinthians 15:35-49
We will rise and be changed from physical and earthly to spiritual and heavenly
The kingdom is not a physical earthly kingdom, but a heavenly, spiritual, and eternal kingdom

I Corinthians 15:50-57
All the dead shall rise at the same time
Acts 24:14-15 -Resurrection of the just and the unjust
John 5:28-29 - One resurrection
Physical death will be defeated
Hebrews 9:27 -It is appointed to man once to die, then judgment
Revelation 21:6-8 -The second death

I Corinthians 15:58
Because of all this, we must life for Christ, in faithful obedience
There is purpose to laboring for God, it is not in vain (vv. 1-2)

I Peter 1:1-3 -A living hope through Christ’s resurrection
Romans 6:3-9 -United through baptism to His death, burial, and resurrection

Faith is the Victory 0 12/6/09am

2009-12-04T17:35:00.001-08:00

I John 5:1-5 -This is the victory that has overcome the world

The Example of Noah
In Noah we see an example of one who lived by faith, and so was victorious and overcame the world. Because of his faith and his obedient adherence to that faith, he and his family alone were saved from destruction.
II Peter 2:4-5 -Noah, a preacher of righteousness
I Peter 3:18-20 -Christ preached through Noah
Genesis 6:1-8 -The wicked world to be destroyed, but Noah found favor with God
Genesis 6:9-22 -Noah receives directions to build the ark and obeys
Genesis 7:1-16 -Noah, his family, and the animals get on the ark
Genesis 7:17-24 -All creatures were destroyed save those on the ark
Genesis 8:1-5 -The ark comes to rest on Ararat
Genesis 8:6-19 -The earth is dried, and Noah, his family, and the animals leave the ark
Hebrews 11:7 -Noah, by faith, did these things

The Reward for Overcoming
Revelation 21:1-8 -He who overcomes shall inherit all things

Stephen's Sermon - 11/29/09pm

2009-11-29T11:22:00.000-08:00

Acts 6:1-7 -Stephen is one of seven chosen to oversee the distribution
Acts 6:8-10 -Stephen disputes with unbelievers
Acts 6:11-15 -Stephen is falsely accused of blasphemy and brought to trial

Acts 7:1-8 -The history of Abraham
Acts 7:9-16 -Joseph, and his family, in Egypt
Acts 7:17-22 -The enslavement of the Israelites by Egypt
Acts 7:23-29 -Moses leaves Egypt for Midian
Acts 7:30-36 -God speaks to Moses, who leads the people from slavery
Acts 7:37 -Moses’ prophecy of the Messiah
Acts 7:38-43 -Israel’s rejection of God’s word
Acts 7:44-50 -The tabernacle and presence of God
Acts 7:51-53 -Stephen convicts them of resisting the Holy Spirit and killing the Messiah

Acts 7:54-60 -Stephen is killed by stoning
I Peter 2:18-24 -Be like Christ, enduring suffering and persecution

A Description of Christians - 11/29/09am

2009-11-29T11:21:00.000-08:00

Romans 1:1-7 -Paul’s introduction to the Roman letter

Being Called
II Thessalonians 2:13-15 -To which He called you by the gospel
Acts 2:36-42 -As many as our Lord God will call
II Peter 1:2-4 -Given us all things through knowledge of Him who called us
Philippians 3:8-16 -Press on to the goal of the for the prize of the upward high calling

Separated to the Gospel / Saints
II Corinthians 6:14-18 -Come out and be separate
Hebrews 10:1-18 -Sanctified by Christ

Jesus Christ our Lord
Matthew 22:41-46 -The Lord said to my Lord

Receive Grace for Obedience to the Faith
James 2:14-26 -Faith without works

Beloved of God
I John 4:7-11 -God loved us and sent His Son
I John 2:3-6 -God’s love is perfected in word keepers
Jude 20-21 -Keep yourself in God’s love
Romans 8:38-39 -No external force can separate us from God’s love

Grace and Peace
Philippians 4:4-7 -The peace of God
Colossians 3:12-17 -Let the peace of God rule in your hearts

A Cheerful Giver - 11/22/09pm

2009-11-22T12:11:00.001-08:00

Mark 12:41-44 -The widow’s mite

In the Old Testament
Exodus 35:4-9 -Israelites to give from a willing heart
Exodus 36:2-7 -The Israelites had brought too much
Deuteronomy 15:7-11 -Generosity to the poor

The Collection
Acts 4:32-37 -Laying money at the apostles’ feet
I Corinthians 16:1-4 -1st day of the week, as you have prospered
II Corinthians 8:1-7 -The generosity of the Macedonian churches
II Corinthians 9:1-15 -For ministering to the saints, a cheerful giver

General Generosity
Matthew 6:1-4 -Don’t give to be seen by others
Acts 10:1-4 -Cornelius’ alms and prayers
Romans 12:6-8 -He who gives, with liberality
Galatians 6:7-10 -Do good to all, especially to Christians
I Timothy 6:17-19 -Ready to give, willing to share

Not Giving
I John 3:10-23 -Love one another, shutting up the heart against a brother in need is not love
Matthew 6:19-21 -Do not lay up treasure on earth
Colossians 3:5-7 -Greed/covetousness, which is idolatry
I Timothy 6:6-10 -The love of money

Denying Christ - 11/22/09am

2009-11-22T12:10:00.000-08:00

Matthew 26:31-35 -Christ foretells Peter’s denial
John 18:15-27 -Peter denies Christ
Luke 22:54-62 -Peter denies Christ, then weeps

Peter’s Teaching on Denying Christ
Acts 3:11-26 -The Jews had denies the Holy One (Christ)
I Peter 3:13-17 -Sanctify Christ in your heart, be ready to give an answer
II Peter 2:1-17 -False teachers, denying the Lord

Denying Christ in Word
Matthew 10:32-33 -Whoever denies Christ, Christ will deny
Romans 10:8-13 -With the mouth, one confesses unto salvation

Denying Christ in Action
Titus 1:15-16 -Deny God through works
Jude 3-19 -Ungodly men who deny God and Christ
I Timothy 5:3-8 -Those who don’t provide for family deny the faith
I John 2:18-23 -Antichrists deny the Father and Son

Run Away! - 11/15/09pm

2009-11-18T10:48:00.001-08:00

I Timothy 6:6-11 -Flee these things
II Timothy 2:22 -Flee youthful lusts
I Corinthians 6:18-20 -Flee sexual immorality
Sometimes Christians do not flee sin. Perhaps it is because they assume that this is strictly something to be done mentally (which is sometimes the case). But it is also something that must be done physically. When you find yourself in a situation or around people that brings temptation, run away! Literally! Even better, think ahead and as much as possible do not allow yourself to be placed in that situation or around those people.

If you find yourself tempted by people to speak foul language, gossip, or tell obscene jokes, get away from them! If you find yourself tempted by the people you around to drink, get away from them! Or, as in the example that we are about to look at, if you are tempted towards fornication, run away! Remove yourself far from the temptation.

Genesis 39:1-23 -Joseph and Potipher’s wife
Genesis 41:1-57 -Joseph released and promoted
Genesis 42:1-7 -Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt for food
Genesis 46:1-7 -Israel moves to Egypt
It’s worth noting that because Joseph chose to flee from sin, salvation was obtained. In this case, literal salvation for his family. When we choose to flee from sin, salvation is there.

But when you flee, where do you go?
Hebrews 6:17-20 -Flee to God for refuge

The Weightier Matters - 11/15/09am

2009-11-18T10:47:00.000-08:00

John 5:1-15 -Jesus heals a man at the pool of Bethesda
Matthew 23:23-24 -The weightier matters, without leaving the other undone

Justice
Colossians 4:1 -Masters, treat servants with justice and fairness
John 7:21-24 -Jesus healed on the Sabbath, and is judged unrighteously
James 2:1-13 -Do not show favoritism

Mercy
Matthew 5:7 -Blessed are the merciful, they shall receive mercy
Luke 6:27-36 -Love your enemies, show mercy
Luke 10:25-37 -The good Samaritan

Faith
Hebrews 11:6 -That God is, and the He rewards those who seek Him
Matthew 16:13-16 -Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God
I Corinthians 15:3-17 -If Jesus was not raised, our faith is in vain
II Corinthians 5:7 -We walk by faith
Hebrews 11:4-12, 17-31 -Men and women who acted by faith

You've Got to Crucify Somebody - 11/8/09pm

2009-11-07T08:41:00.000-08:00

Matthew 27:15-50 -Christ’s crucifixion
We are all familiar with the crucifixion of our Lord, and of what it means to us. We are aware of the pain and agony and of the burden Christ bore that we might be forgiven of our sins and have the hope of eternal life. As we will see, there are two options available to us. Either we can crucify Christ, or we can crucify self.

Crucifying the Son of God
Acts 2:14-41 -Peter’s sermon on Pentecost
Acts 3:12-26 -Sermon to the Jews, convicting them of crucifying Christ
Hebrews 6:4-6 -They crucify for themselves the Son of God
If we choose to sin, we choose to crucify Christ, for we have made it necessary. When you sin, you crucify and shame the Son of God.

Crucifying Self
If we do not wish to crucify Christ, we must instead crucify self. We must put our own desires, self-will, and sin to death and shame, and live as a new man, alive to Christ.
Galatians 2:20 -Crucified with Christ
Galatians 5:19-25 -Crucified the flesh with its passions and desires
Romans 6:5-14 -The old man is crucified, dead to sin, alive to Christ

In Remembrance of Me - 11/8/09am

2009-11-07T08:40:00.000-08:00

Luke 22:7-23 -The Lord’ Supper is instituted

Manner and Means of Partaking
It is, of course, worth calling to attention what the Bible has to say about what the Lord’s Supper consists of, how often we are to partake of it, and in what manner we should do so.
Exodus 12:14-20 -The feast of unleavened bread, no leaven
Exodus 13:3-10 -The feast of unleavened bread, no leaven, remember
Acts 20:7-12 -The first day of the week
I Corinthians 11:17-34 -Properly partake of the Lord’s Supper

Examine Self
The Lord’s Supper is an opportunity to examine ourselves and see where we need to make corrections in our life. We should, at that moment, be careful to consider where our minds are, that we may be properly focused on Christ and His will. And we must look at whether our own lives are in line with Christ’s.
Galatians 6:1-5 -Each should examine his own work

Remembrance of Christ
We, as people, tend to forget things, don’t we? We have many holidays in this country, and most of them people don’t know why it is we celebrate them. Thus, Christ, in His Divine wisdom, established opportunity to be continually reminded.
II Timothy 2:8 -Remember
II Peter 3:1-2 -Bring to remembrance

Proclaim the Lord’s Death until He Comes
Each time we partake of the Lord’s Supper, we declare our faith that the Lord was crucified for our sins, was buried, rose again the third day, ascended to heaven, and will at some point return, that we may all face judgment.
Mark 15:22-37 -The crucifixion
Hebrews 9:16-28 -Christ’s sacrifice
Acts 1:9-11 -Christ will return
I Thessalonians 4:13-18 -Christ will return

God's Promises - 10/25/19pm

2009-10-24T13:25:00.001-07:00

God Does Not Promise Good Health
Some believe that God promises good health and long life to those who follow Him. While faithfully serving God does remove many things that cause life to be shortened, there is no promise that those who are faithful will enjoy good health all their life.
I Timothy 5:23 -Timothy’s frequent illnesses
I Corinthians 12:7-12 -Paul’s thorn in the flesh
Galatians 4:12-14 -Paul’s sickness when preaching to the Galatians
James 5:13-18 -Prayer for the sick

God Does Not Promise Wealth
Some believe that God promises great wealth to those who follow Him. Some even put a specific amount on it (7, 10, 100, etc. times what is contributed). God makes no such promise to Christians. Much to the contrary, what we are shown is poverty.
II Corinthians 8:1-5 -The great poverty of the Macedonians
Romans 15:26-27 -The poor among the saints of Jerusalem
Matthew 19:23-26 -A camel through the eye of a needle
Matthew 6:19-34 -Needs (not wants) will be met

God Does Promise Persecution
God does not promise an easy life if you choose to follow Him. Quite the contrary, He promises persecution. You can expect to suffer various forms of persecution as a Christian.
Revelation 2:8-11 -The poverty and persecution of the church in Smyrna
II Timothy 3:1-13 -All who want to live a godly life will be persecuted
II Corinthians 4:7-11 -Persecuted and being delivered over to death
II Thessalonians 1:1-5 -Their persecution was as sign of their worthiness

God Does Promise Eternal Life
God does promise eternal life to those who follow Him. This is surely a greater promise than any promise of temporary health, wealth that is easily consumed or lost, or status among the world.
James 1:12 -Endure, for the Lord has promised a crown
Titus 1:1-4 -God, who cannot lie, has promised eternal life
II Peter 1:1-11 -Great and precious promises if we add these qualities
Revelation 21:1-8 -The one who overcomes shall inherit

What Must I Do? - 10/25/09am

2009-10-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

Mark 10:17-22 -The rich young ruler
This man asks a question which is a familiar one that has been asked many times. He asks the question of what a person’s duty is in order to receive salvation and eternal life.
Acts 2:37-41 -What shall we do?
Acts 16:25-34 -What must I do to be saved?

Question Denotes a Degree of Faith
…That God has made salvation available
Titus 2:11-14 -Grace has appeared, bringing salvation to all men
I Timothy 2:1-6 -God our Saviors wants all men to be saved

…That Jesus is the Christ
I John 5:1-5 -Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
John 6:66-69 -Christ, the Holy One of God, has words of eternal life

The Answer Requires Obedient Action
We see that Christ’s response to the rich young ruler began with reminding him of the commandments that had been given. The meaning is clear: if we wish to receive eternal life, we must do what the Lord has said to do, and avoid those things which the Lord forbids.
I John 2:1-6 -We know Him if we keep His commandments
Acts 3:17-21 -Repent and convert, that yours sins may be removed
Romans 10:5-13 -Confess with the mouth
Galatians 3:23-29 -As many as have been baptized

The Answer Requires Focus
The rich young man went away sad because he lacked the proper focus. His wealth was more important to him than was eternal life. We must be diligent to always have the proper focus and priorities in our life. We must be focused on Christ.
Mark 10:23-31 -Leave all for Christ to receive the reward
Matthew 10:32-39 -Love Christ more than family or life
Hebrews 12:1-2 -Cast off every weight, looking unto Jesus
Hebrews 11:17-19 -Abraham loved God more than he loved Isaac
Hebrews 11:24-29 -Moses loved God more than Egypt’s riches
Matthew 6:33 -Seek first the kingdom and His righteousness

Gideon: Let Baal Contend - 10/18/09pm

2009-10-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 11:32-34 -Heroes of faith, including Gideon

Judges 6:11-16 -Gideon was among the least of Israel
Social standing is not a barrier to serving God: everyone can.

Judges 6:17-21 -Gideon asks for a sign as proof
Judges 6:22-27 -Gideon accepts the sign and obeys the Lord
God provides proof and evidence for many things. When we see it, we should accept it and follow it.

Judges 6:28-30 -The men seek to kill Gideon
Judges 6:31-32 -Gideon’s father speaks, and Gideon is given the name Jerubbaal
The importance of a good name/reputation: we should be known for standing for truth and contending against sin.

Judges 6:33-35 -Gideon gathers Israel to oppose the Midianites
Judges 6:36-40 -Gideon asks for, and receives, two more signs
Judges 7:1-3 -God tells Gideon he has too many men, and that the glory should obviously be the Lords. 22,000 men leave, 10,000 remain
Judges 7:4-8 -The Lord narrows down to 300 men
The glory always should go to God. God’s will will be done, even if it seems impossible.

Judges 7:9-14 -Gideon, afraid to go into the Midianite camp, hears a man telling of a dream and finds courage
Sometimes we are afraid to do as the Lord would want. We must have courage and confidence in God.

Judges 7:15-18 -The plan
Judges 7:19-22 -The Midianite are routed
Judges 7:23-25 -The Israelites pursue the Midianites and capture two princes
Consider what the Lord did for Israel! The Lord is not limited: we can have confidence that He will overcome and the He will help when we pray for it.

Judges 8:1-3 -The men of Ephraim are upset they weren’t “invited along”
Judges 8:4-9 -Gideon asks for supplies for his men, and it is not provided
Judges 8:10-17 -Gideon captures the kings of Midian and punishes those that refused to aid the Israel army
When our assistance is needed, how do we respond? Do we want to help? Do we seek excuse not to help?

Judges 8:18-21 -Zebah and Zalmunna are executed
Judges 8:22-23 -Gideon refuses to be made king
Gideon here shows proper understanding: God rules in the kingdoms of men. When Israel eventually was given the king they asked for, think of how well that went.

Judges 8:24-27 -Gideon makes a golden ephod, which serves as an idol and becomes a snare to Gideon and his house
And yet we see that Gideon takes action which results in idolatry, although not to the Baals. We must be careful not to cause others, or ourselves, to sin.

Judges 8:28-35 -Gideon dies, and Israel turns back to the Baals
And after all of Gideon’s work, people still turned back. We cannot force others to choose to follow the Lord. But like Gideon, we must work diligently.

Working in the Vineyard - 10/18/09am

2009-10-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

Matthew 20:1-16 -Parable of the workers in the vineyard

The Promise
Each worker was made a promise of a denarius for their labor. We have a promise for our labor. Our promise, however, is far greater than a day’s worth of pay. Our promise is of Christ’s return and of eternal life to follow.
I Timothy 4:1-11 -Godliness holds the promise of life
II Peter 3:1-13 -The promise of His coming
I John 2:25 -The Lord has promised eternal life
Luke 14:25-33 -Count the cost...is the promise worth the work?

The Work
In order to carry out their part of the arrangement, the hired men had to spend the rest of the day working. The same is very much true for us. We must spend our time working if we wish to receive what has been promised. The promise is conditional.
Matthew 9:35-38 -The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few
I Timothy 3:1-5 -Timothy, the fellow worker
Ephesians 4:11-16 -Prepared for works of service, each does his own work
Titus 2:1-15 -Instruction on good works

The Payment
It is not too late to begin working. It is not to late to start serving the Lord, carrying out His will. Whether you have never obeyed the gospel or whether you have obeyed but have not been a diligent worker, it is not too late to start...if you start now. You are not guaranteed a later. But if we are His workers, we will receive what He has promised.
Hebrews 11:6 -He rewards those who seek Him
James 1:12 -Receive the crown of life that God has promised
I Thessalonians 4:13-18 -Meet the Lord in the air and be with Him forever
Hebrews 10:19-25 -He who promised is faithful

A Corrupt Priesthood - 10/11/09pm

2009-10-10T21:12:00.001-07:00

Malachi 1:6-8 -The vain offering of the priests
Malachi 2:1-9 -The sins of the priests

The priesthood in the days of Malachi had become corrupt. Sadly, this had often been the case for the priesthood. Let us take a few moments and consider some of the times in scripture where God’s priests had chosen to stray.

Leviticus 10:1-7 -Nadab and Abihu offer strange fire
I Samuel 2:12-25, 34 -Eli’s sinful sons
Micah 3:1-12 -The priests teach for pay
Nehemiah 13:28-31 -The defiled priesthood
Matthew 26:1-5 -The chef priests plot to kill Jesus
Matthew 27:15-26 -The chief priests ask for Jesus’ crucifixion and Barabbas’ release
Acts 26:9-13 -The priests send Paul to persecute the church

So what is the lesson in this for us?

I Peter 2:1-10 -You are a holy priesthood
Revelation 1:4-6 -You are kings and priests

Under the new covenant, all Christians are priests. All Christians have that obligation to God and to man. If we grow corrupt, if we choose not to fulfill our responsibilities, we include ourselves among those that we just read of a few minutes ago. We must each remain pure, blameless, and undefiled before God. We must serve God, we must teach, we must be dedicated and offer ourselves up as an offering to Him.

You Owe Him - 10/11/09am

2009-10-10T21:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes people feel that God requires too much, or that simply assembling is enough, or that they’ve already done enough for God. When we examine the scriptures we see that we owe God everything, and should be spending our lives dedicated to His service.

Because He Created You
God created you. Not only that, but everything you have enjoyed in this life, He created. Everything you have needed in this life is there by His Hand. Ever enjoy a day at an outdoor barbeque with family and loved ones? The sunshine you enjoyed, the food you ate, the people you were around, the ground you stood on, the air you breathed…all there because God created it.
Genesis 1:1-31 -Creation

Because His Son Died for You
Not only did God create all things, but He put in motion a plan by which men can be saved. He sacrificed His Son that we might have salvation. The cost was paid for our sin with the blood of God’s only begotten.
Romans 5:6-11 -While we were sinners, Christ died for us, allowing for reconciliation
Luke 23:26-46 -Crucifixion

Because He has Blessed Us in Life
In this life God has given us each many blessings and gifts. There are many nonessentials that we enjoy. There are also spiritual blessings, such as the word of God that have been provided for us.
James 1:16-18 -Every good and perfect gift is from God
II Peter 1:2-4 -God has given us all things pertaining to life and godliness

Because He Has Given Us Hope
Lastly, because of the sacrifice made by His Son, we can have hope of eternal life. Not that we deserve it or have earned it (or ever can earn it), but we owe God a great deal for making such a thing available to us.
Revelation 21:1-22:5 -The eternal reward

The Running Man - 10/4/09pm

2009-10-02T14:01:00.000-07:00

Running from a Task
Jonah 1:1-2 -God gives directions to Jonah
Jonah 1:3 -Jonah chooses to flee to avoid the task God had given him
Jonah 1:4-8 -God sends a storm
Jonah 1:9-16 -Jonah is thrown overboard to quiet the storm
Jonah 1:17 -Jonah is swallowed by a great fish
I Corinthians 3:1-15 -Each has a task to carry out, one should neither be proud about or avoid theirs

Running back to God
Jonah 2:1 -Jonah prays to God
Jonah 2:2-9 -Jonah’s prayer
Jonah 2:10 -Jonah is saved from the great fish
Acts 8:18-24 -Simon is told to repent and pray

Running to Condemn
Jonah 3:1-5 -Jonah preaches Nineveh’s punishment
Jonah 3:6-9 -The people of Nineveh repent, hoping for God’s mercy
Jonah 3:10 -The Lord relents against Nineveh
Philippians 1:12-18 -Teaching done form good and wrong motives

Running from Love
Jonah 4:1-4 -Jonah is angry that the Lord relented against Nineveh
Jonah 4:5-11 -Jonah is provided an example of God’s compassion
I John 4:7-21 -God’s love, our love for Him, our love for one another

Demonic Faith - 10/4/09am

2009-10-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

James 2:19 -Even the demons believe that there is one God

Demons Believe in Christ

Matthew 8:28-33 -Jesus is recognized as the Son of God by demons
Mark 1:32-34 -The demons knew who Jesus was
Luke 4:31-37 -Jesus is called the Holy One of God by a demon

Demons Believe and Submit to Christ’s Authority

Matthew 8:16-17 -Jesus casts out demons
Matthew 5:13-19 -Apostles given authority to cast out demons
Luke 11:14-26 -Jesus was using the authority of God, which the demons heeded because it was stronger

Faith that is in Common with Demonic Faith

James 2:14-26 -Faith without works is dead

Profitless Faith (v 16)
Matthew 25:14-30 -The unprofitable servant

Dead Faith (v 17)
Romans 6:1-22 -Must be dead to sin, alive to God

Unseen Faith (v 18)
Matthew 7:15-20 -By their fruits you shall know them

Unperfected Faith (v 22)
Hebrews 5:12-6:3 -Go on to perfection

Unjustifiable Faith (v 24)
Galatians 2:6-17 -A faith in Christ that justifies

Two Kings' Pride - 9/27/09pm

2009-10-02T13:59:00.001-07:00

Proverbs 11:2 -Pride brings disgrace, humility brings wisdom
Proverbs 16:18 -Pride goes before a fall

Nebuchadnezzar
Daniel 4:1-37 -Nebuchadnezzar is full of pride, but is humbled

Belshazzar
Daniel 5:1-31 -Belshazzar is proud, and does not humble himself

James 4:6-10 -Humble yourself
I Peter 5:1-9 -Humble yourself

The Prince of this World - 9/27/09am

2009-10-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

John 16:5-11 -The prince of this world stands condemned
These three passages speak of the prince of this world in relation to Christ’s crucifixion. It is at this time that prince of this world will be defeated. And the fulfillment of the first prophecy of Christ will be fulfilled (Genesis 3:15).

II Corinthians 4:3-6 -The god of this age has blinded unbelievers’
Minds

Satan is not only the prince of this world, but its god. It is he that so many follow, even without realizing it. We must be aware of what it means to make Satan your king.

What can we learn about Satan from scripture?

It is easy to follow him
It is easy to follow Satan. All you have to do is…nothing. Do whatever you want, whatever seems good to you, and you are following him. He doesn’t ask anything of you, except that you do what it easiest, and ignore whether it is right or wrong. You don’t have to actively follow him, you can passively serve him if you choose.
Romans 6:12-23 -Slave to sin = serve sin = serve Satan
James 4:17 -Not doing the good you should be doing is sin
I John 3:8 -He who does what is sinful is of the devil

He constantly seeks new subjects
Satan is always on the lookout for more people to serve under him. He’s always looking for people to convert to his banner.
I Peter 5:8 -Like a roaring lion, seeking who he can devour
-He is always prowling, looking for someone new
Luke 4:2 -Satan even tempted the Christ
-If he was tempted God‘s Son, he’ll tempt us
Luke 8:12 -Takes the word from their hearts
-He will do what it takes to make people ignore
the word of God

He is crafty
While he is looking for new subjects, he is crafty and deceptive. He will lie and disguise himself, doing whatever it takes to gain followers.
Matthew 13:37-39 -Satan places his followers among the good
Ephesians 6:11 -The devil schemes
Matthew 4:1-11 -Satan twists the word of God to his own ends
Genesis 3 -Adam, Eve, the serpent, and the fruit

He is deceptive
Satan is a liar. He lies about what it means to serve him, he lies about what is good and righteous, he lies about eternity, he lies about who is saved and who is not. Those who follow him are deceived, and we must be careful to not be so deceived!
II Corinthians 11:14-15 -Satan disguises himself as an angel of light
John 8:44 -He is a liar and the father of lies
II Timothy 3:12-14 -Evil men and imposters deceive and are
Deceived

He is limited in power
For a prince, a king, he is limited in power. He does not possess the power and might of the Lord God, but is hampered in what he does. He is not omnipotent, omniscient, or omnipresent. Would you want to serve a king who is so weakened?
Job 1-2 -Satan is limited in what harm he can cause

The reward for following him will be to spend eternity with him
We are promised that if we live according to what he wants, if we serve him in this life, if we follow him as our king, that we will be rewarded with spending eternity with him, in the place prepared for him.
Revelation 20:10-15 -Those not written in the book of life are thrown
into the lake of fire
Matthew 25:41-43 -Those who sinned through omission sent to the
eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels

The Holy Spirit - 9/20/09pm

2009-09-19T15:49:00.000-07:00

This sermon will hardly be all-inclusive or exhaustive on speaking of the Holy Spirit. Nor do I claim to perfectly understand Him and His work. But the Holy Spirit is a subject worth studying, so let us consult the scriptures!

The Holy Spirit is a Person of God
The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force that emanates from God. The Holy Spirit is one of the three Persons of Deity.
Acts 5:1-11 -Holy Spirit and God are used interchangeably
Matthew 3:13-17 -The Son, the Father, and the Holy Spirit
Matthew 28:18-20 -Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit and the Bible
The scriptures are give to us by the Holy Spirit, working through men. The Bible is not a book of stories that men came up with, but given by God.
John 14:25-26 -The comforter, the Holy Spirit, will teach the apostles
I Peter 1:10-12 -The Gospel was taught by those who preached by the Holy Spirit
II Peter 1:19-21 -All prophecy came from the Holy Spirit
II Timothy 3:16-17 -All scripture is God-breathed

The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
Much confusion exists when speaking on the subject of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. That the Holy Spirit dwells in the Christian is simple Biblical truth. The means by which He does so is sometimes more difficult to understand. To this purpose, it becomes useful to see consider the indwelling of the Father and the Son.
Ephesians 3:14-19 -Christ dwells in the Christian’s heart by faith
John 14:19-24 -The indwelling of the Son and Father through faithful obedience
Galatians 3:1-14 -The Spirit dwells in us by faith
Romans 10:17 -Faith comes by hearing the word of God
Acts 5:26-32 -The Holy Spirit given to those who obey
Galatians 3:26-4:7 -The Spirit dwells in those who are sons (those who have been baptized)
What we see then is that the Holy Spirit dwells in us by faith, through the word of God. It is not a personal literal indwelling anymore than the indwelling of the Father and of the Son. It is also worth noting that everything that the Holy Spirit does for us is also stated as the word of God doing for us, showing the means by which the Holy Spirit has chosen to operate.

(The Power Point chart showing the verses correlating the Holy Spirit to the Bible are available upon request)

The Holy Spirit and Salvation
The Holy Spirit is involved in our salvation. Not by a miraculous event, but in our faithful obedience to the will of Christ, we are washed by the Spirit of God.
I Corinthians 6:9-11 -Washed, sanctified, and justified by the name of Christ and by the Spirit of God
Titus 3:1-8 -Salvation by Christ and the Holy Spirit
Matthew 28:18-20 -Be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

God's Watchman - 9/20/09am

2009-09-19T15:48:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 33:1-6 -The responsibility of a watchman
Ezekiel 33:7-9 -Ezekiel made God’s watchman to Israel
Colossians 1:24-29 -Warning every man and teaching

A Watchman’s Warnings
God, through Ezekiel, warns that He “has no pleasure,” that is, He is displeased. This is a dire warning, as God’s displeasure has been made known to men in the past. Just Israel should have been striving to avoid God’s displeasure, we must as well. We must aim to be pleasing to the Lord.
Ezekiel 33:10-11 -Ezekiel is to warn that God is displeased
Numbers 11:1-3 -God is displeased and brings fire on the Israelites
II Samuel 11:26-12:15 -David displeased the Lord by sinning with Bathsheba, and God punishes David

Ezekiel warns that God will punish those who are guilty and reward those who are righteous. In this is both a warning and an encouragement. First, a warning against sin. Second, an encouragement to live upright and blameless. And just as the Lord did then, we know that we will be judged by our actions and hearts.
Ezekiel 33:12-16 -Ezekiel is to warn that God will punish the guilty but save the righteous
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -The Lord judges all by their actions
Revelation 20:11-15 -All will be judged by their actions
John 5:24-30 -Christ judges justly

A People’s Response
Ezekiel 33:17-20 -The people complain that God’s way is “unfair”
Does this sound familiar? God has made the same promise: obey and be rewarded or disobey and punished. It’s reasonable, yet many call it unfair or unloving.

Ezekiel 33:21-22 -God’s judgment on Jerusalem is carried out
Ezekiel 33:23-29 -The reason Jerusalem feel was because of their wickedness
The judgment God had promised was carried out because of the sins of the people. Though they were warned clearly and plainly, the warning was not heeded, and destruction came.

Ezekiel 33:30-33 -The people hear, but do not obey God’s will
James 1:19-27 -Be doers, not only hearers of the word, deceiving yourselves
Just as they “listened” to Ezekiel, many “listen” to God today. It is essential that we do not be like the people in that day, but rather that we hear and faithfully obey the Lord.
I Corinthians 10:1-22 -Pay attention to Israel’s poor example, follow the Lord, do not turn aside to Idolatry and sin

God's Patience - 9/13/09pm

2009-09-10T11:02:00.001-07:00

Ezekiel 20:1-4 -The elders of Israel seek the Lord
Ezekiel 20:5-9 -Israel’s unfaithfulness when coming out of Egypt
Ezekiel 20:10-17 -Israel’s unfaithfulness on the way to Canaan
Ezekiel 20:18-24 -Israel’s unfaithfulness when wandering in the wilderness
Ezekiel 20:25-26 -The depths of Israel’s depravity
Ezekiel 20:27-32 -Israel’s unfaithfulness in the promised land

Romans 9:18-33 -God’s patience had a purpose: it was for those who were obedient, and those to come who would be obedient
Israel had been rebellious against God, yet the Lord did not destroy them. Why? Because there were those that would come later that would serve the Lord, and by patiently enduring those who rebelled, He could show mercy on those who did not. In short, that God was patient with rebellious Israel so that we today might be saved.

Romans 2:1-11 -Do not despise God’s patience, leading to repentance
Some in Rome had been unrighteous judging others of the same thing they themselves had been doing. Paul here makes a point: God has shown patience to those that sin that they might repent of what they are doing and turn back to following Him. We too should have this attitude. Not to tolerate and accept the sin, but to patiently strive to turn the sinner back to God and to give opportunity and time for such to happen.

I Timothy 1:12-17 -Paul is an example of God’s patience
Paul serves as an example of God’s patience. The Lord did not destroy Paul when he blasphemed and persecuted the Lord’s church. Instead, opportunity was provided for Paul to repent and obey the Lord.

I Peter 3:18-22 -God’s patience in the days of Noah led to salvation
Christ, through Noah, preached what men must do. They rejected the word of God and continued in their sin, leading to their “imprisonment.” Nonetheless, eight were saved by the Lord’s patience. Instead of immediately destroying all, he gave opportunity for salvation.

II Peter 3:1-18 -”The longsuffering of our Lord is salvation”
The Lord has not destroyed the earth, giving opportunity for all men to obey the gospel and have eternal salvation. Will you not obey the gospel? Or will you delay until God’s patience has reached its end and it is too late?